DEFENSE STUDIES

20 Juni 2020

KAL Rajegwesi dan KAL Anyer (photo : TNI AL)

Danlantamal XII Lapas Keberangkatan KAL Rajegwesi dan KAL Anyer di Dermaga Satrol antamal XII

Komandan Lantamal XII, Laksamana Pertama TNI Agus Hariadi, melepas keberangkatan KAL Rajegwesi II-5-40 menuju Lanal Banyuwangi dan KAL Anyer I-3-64 menuju Lanal Banten, bertempat di Dermaga Satrol Lantamal XII, Kamis (11/06/2020).

KAL Anyer (photo : narasipos)

Kedua kapal tersebut merupakan buatan PT Steadfast Marine Tbk yang ada di Kota Pontianak, tepatnya yang ada di Jalan Khatulistiwa, Batulayang-Pontianak Kalbar, dimana pada senin (16/12/2019), Kepala Staf TNI AL Laksamana TNI Siwi Sukma Adji, S.E., M.M. pada saat itu, telah menyaksikan langsung penandatanganan Berita Acara serah terima kapal perang sebanyak dua unit Kapal Angkatan Laut (KAL) 28 M, dari Direktur PT. Steadfast Marine kepada TNI AL.

Adapun kedua kapal tersebut memiliki spesifikasi panjang 28,98 meter, lebar 6,2 meter, dengan berat 90 ton. Kapal tersebut memiliki kecepatan maksimal 28 knots, kecepatan jelajah 18 knots, dengan jumlah ABK sebanyak 15 orang, serta mampu berlayar dengan endurance selama tiga hari.

KAL Rajegwesi (photo : Berita Jatim)

Keberadaan kedua kapal ini merupakan penambahan perkuatan dalam rangka untuk keperluan melaksanakan tugas, yaitu penegakan kedaulatan dan hukum serta keamanan di laut Indonesia, secara khusus untuk KAL Rajegwesi dibawah kendali operasi Lanal Banyuwangi, sedangkan KAL Anyer dibawah kendali operasi Lanal Banten.

Sebelum meninggalkan Dermaga Satrol Lantamal XII, masing masing Komandan Kapal Laporan terhadap Komandan Lantamal XII, dilanjutkan peran operatif, persiapan kapal Berlayar dan Bertempur, Kemudian Komandan Kapal mengambil alih Komando, dan memimpin doa, selanjutnya Kapal meninggalkan Dermaga Satrol Lantamal XII.

KAL Rajegwesi dan KAL Anyer (photo : TimesIndonesia)

Dalam kegiatan tersebut, dihadiri seluruh Pejabat Utama Lantamal XII, Wadan lantamal XII, Kolonel Marinir Bambang Hadi Suseno, S.E., beserta para Asisten Danlantamal XII dan Kadis/Kasatker serta prajurit Lantamal XII.

(TNI AL)

20 Juni 2020

Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton HALE drone (photo : RAAF)

Australia commits to next generation Triton Remotely Piloted Aircraft

Australia’s maritime approaches will be further strengthened with the purchase of an additional Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton Remotely Piloted Aircraft System, bringing Australia’s Triton fleet to three.

Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC said the Triton acquisition is an important part of protecting Australia’s borders and making the region more secure.

“Once in service, this capability will significantly enhance our ability to persistently patrol Australia’s maritime approaches from the North, in the South West Pacific and down to Antarctica,” Minister Reynolds said.

“The fleet is being developed and purchased through a Cooperative Program with the US Navy. This Program strengthens our ability to develop advanced maritime surveillance capability and ensure our capabilities remain complementary with our security partners, while sharing in the benefits of their technical expertise and project costs.

“Our membership of the Cooperative Program gives us the confidence to acquire our third Triton. We will continue to work closely with the United States to assure our future capability.

“Together we are developing this cutting edge military technology to the highest standards. This work will help ensure Australia’s maritime region is secure well into the future.”

The US Navy’s Triton aircraft have commenced operations in our region and are already demonstrating their operational value.

The project provides significant opportunities for Australian defence industry including the construction of facilities in South Australia and the Northern Territory, software integration, engineering, logistics and manufacturing of components.

“Over $475 million is set to be spent locally, with several Australian companies already completing Triton production work for Northrop Grumman Corporation,” Minister Reynolds said.

The Triton and P-8A Poseidon capabilities will operate in a complementary way to deliver a comprehensive Maritime Patrol and Response capability.

Australia’s 12th Poseidon aircraft was delivered in December 2019.

The Poseidon aircraft have since been deployed on several overseas operations and have performed to a very high standard.

Triton and Poseidon will also provide support to national security response activities, both domestically and abroad.

(Aus DoD)

20 Juni 2020

BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16) and BRP Davao del Sur (LD-602) (all photos : Philippine Navy)

MANILA, Philippines—A Philippine Navy contingent is back home in Manila after five months of overseas deployment, regarded as the Navy’s farthest and longest voyage so far.

The Naval Task Force 82, composed of sailors, Marines and reservists of BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16) and BRP Davao del Sur (LD-602), was welcomed by top military officials in a simple ceremony on Tuesday (June 16) at the South Harbor in Manila.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, the guest of honor, was joined by Armed Forces chief Gen. Felimon Santos Jr., AFP Vice Chief and commander of Joint Task Force Pagpauli Vice Admiral Gaudencio Collado Jr. and Navy chief Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo.

The Philippine government deployed the two ships to Oman last January to help repatriate overseas Filipino workers, who would want to return home or be evacuated to safer areas following the assassination by the United States of top Iranian general Qasem Soleimani, which drove tensions close to a full-blown war in the Middle East.

Tensions have eased after a few weeks and OFWs have opted not to return to the Philippines. The ships, however, stayed put in Oman upon the orders of the Philippine government.

While in Oman, the Navy opened its ships to the Filipino community as part of a mission that it calls show-the-flag. The Philippine Navy contingent officials also paid a courtesy call on the Royal Navy of Oman chief Rear Admiral Abdullah Bin Khasim Al Raisi.

The Philippine Navy contingent left Oman on April 21.

The BRP Ramon Alcaraz and BRP Davao del Sur were supposed to be sailing back to the Philippines on May 7 after making a short stop in India to pick up stranded tourists and donations of personal protective equipment.

But fire broke out at the main engine room of BRP Ramon Alcaraz five hours after it left port, forcing it to return to India with BRP Davao del Sur.

As the fire-damaged ship was being repaired, BRP Davao del Sur sailed alone on May 9, but a brewing storm, Amphan, forced her to go back to Cochin, India on May 11.

Both ships left India on May 27 and then dropped anchor at the Port of Colombo in Sri Lanka to pick up stranded tourists. It finally arrived in Manila on June 12.

Task Force 82 commander, Col. Noel Beleran, described the deployment as “historic” and “an all time first for the Philippine Navy.”

It was the Navy’s first time to cross Indian Ocean and to sail through Andaman Sea, Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman.

It also marked the first time for the Navy to make a port call at Sultan Qaboos Port in Oman, Colombo, Sri Lanka and Cochin, India.

Unfortunately, one of the Navy’s sailors had to be left behind in India for treatment of injuries suffered during the fire in the Alcaraz’s engine room, according to Beleran.

He said it was quite a challenge to keep troop and civilian morale up “after having been in lockdown and confined within ship’s limits for almost three months.” Beleran said he was able to get through with the help of his staff.

(Inquirer)

21 Juni 2020

Fregat ocean going Iver Huitfeldt class (photo : Morten Rene)

Akhirnya, Indonesia Bakal Punya Dua Kapal Fregat Raksasa Kelas Gahar untuk Jaga Natuna dari Gangguan China

Sosok.ID - Perairan Natuna yang kian panas gegara aksi slonong boy pihak militer China membuat Indonesia pasang kuda-kuda perang.

Ya siapa yang tak gentar, China mengerahkan Fregat Jiangkai II Class beberapa waktu lalu di Natuna Utara.

Sebenarnya Indonesia sudah punya Martadinata Class untuk mengimbangi Jiangkai II.

Namun saat itu Martadinata Class belum sepenuhnya beroperasi 100 persen dan sebagai gantinya dikerahkan Korvet KRI Usman Harun di Natuna Utara.

Maka pihak TNI merasa perlu menambah kekuatan laut di Natuna Utara.

Gayung bersambut, Indonesia kini bakal punya dua kapal fregat kelas gahar dari Denmark, yakni Iver Huitfeldt class.

Laporan navalnews.com, Selasa (16/6/2020) mengatakan jika Indonesia kekurangan kapal Ocean Going untuk mengimbangi agresivitas China di Natuna Utara.

Maka Kementerian Pertahanan mencanangkan pembuatan fregat baru untuk menjaga Natuna agar lebih aman dari gangguan asing.

Pada Maret 2020 PT PAL Indonesia ditugaskan untuk mengembangkan desain untuk 2 kapal selama 5 tahun seharga USD720 juta (Rp1,1 triliun) bekerja sama dengan Denmark tentunya untuk membuatkan kapal fregat bagi TNI AL.

Denmark sendiri nantinya akan diwakili oleh galangan kapalnya Odense Maritime Technology (OMT) yang akan melakukan Transfer of Technology kepada PT PAL Indonesia.

Bahkan Direktur Pelaksana Tim Angkatan Laut Denmark dan mantan Kepala Angkatan Laut Denmark Laksamana Muda (Purn) Nils Wang mengatakan Indonesia sudah menunjukkan minat kuat untuk akuisisi Iver Huitfeldt class.

Martadinata class dan Diponegoro class (photo : Putut Reza)

"Tim Angkatan Laut Denmark dapat mengkonfirmasi bahwa Indonesia - di antara negara-negara lain - telah menunjukkan minat untuk frigat Denmark Iver Huitfeldt."

"Namun, saya tidak dapat mengomentari pertanyaan spesifik Anda," ujar Nils seperti dikutip dari Naval News.

Bukan hanya itu saja seorang peneliti di Program Keamanan Maritim, Sekolah Studi Internasional S. Rajaratnam, Singapura, Collin Koh malah membuat pernyataan lebih gila lagi.

Collin menyebutkan jika Indonesia tidak akan bisa mempertahankan Natuna Utara jika hanya dibekali dengan dua Fregat kelas berat saja.

Indonesia perlu membangun fregat sekelas Iver Huitfeldt lebih banyak lagi dan lagi ditambah kapal Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) untuk menjaga wilayah lautnya yang luas terutama di Natuna karena lawannya China.

"Dua fregat besar tidak cukup untuk menutupi perairan Natuna, di mana serangan China sering terjadi."

"Paling-paling, di setiap titik waktu, 1 dari pasangan fregat baru ini akan ada di pangkalan, meskipun untuk jangka waktu terbatas dan menyediakan perawatan yang tepat, jadwal perbaikan."

"Tentu saja, dengan anggaran yang sama, lebih banyak OPV yang lebih kecil dapat diperoleh. Namun, saya menduga beberapa alasan di balik pencarian untuk kelas Iver Huitfeldt," ujar Collin.

"Dan menambahkan bahwa Iver Huitfeldt juga lebih besar, dan mewakili desain yang sepenuhnya baru yang harus ditangani oleh PT PAL. Dengan transfer teknologi yang tepat di bawah bimbingan rekan-rekan mereka dari Denmark, dan tentu saja dengan komitmen Jakarta terhadap program ini, adalah mungkin bagi PT PAL untuk mengatasi masalah awal dari kurva pembelajaran dan secara bertahap menjadi mampu membangun kapal secara mandiri."

"Kita bisa mengambil contoh dari kolaborasi PT PAL dengan DSME dalam pembangunan lisensi kapal selam. Ada cegukan awal, terutama karena transfer teknologi, tetapi ini kemudian diatasi dan Indonesia akhirnya berhasil membangun kapal selam kelas Nagapasa ketiga, dan menjadi negara pertama di Asia Tenggara yang membangun kapal selam secara lokal," tambah Collin.

Nah, sekarang tinggal tunggu tanggal mainnya dimana Indonesia bakal mempunyai kekuatan angkatan bersenjata yang sangat diperhitungkan di kawasan.

(Sosok)

21 Juni 2020

Modernized armored reconnaissance and patrol vehicle BRDM-2MB Bekas developed by B-ARMS LLC during a demonstration in the Ruzsky district of the Moscow region (all photos : TASS and Sergey Bulkin)

On June 9, 2020, the first closed display of the upgraded version of the BRDM-2 armored reconnaissance and patrol vehicle designated the Bekas BRDM-2MB, organized by the Military-Technical Society Interregional Public Organization for the Promotion of the Study and Operation of Military Equipment, was held in Ruzsky District of the Moscow Region together with enterprise "B-ARMS" LLC (Limited Liability Companies).

At this event, the B-ARMS LLC presented a deeply modernized version of the BRDM-2MB Bekas armored reconnaissance and patrol vehicle, work on which began in 2016, said project chief designer Alexei Butrimov.

“Today we present the modernization of the BRDM-2MB Bekas, which we started back in 2016. The first BRDM-2MS Swift car was made, which you could see at the parade in Laos, Kyrgyzstan and other countries when transferring cars. In the process of manufacturing the first car kits, we made the second modernization, ”TASS agency reports.

He noted that this version of the car is distinguished by improved characteristics, additional reservation, an anti-mine complex, and is also equipped with a new air conditioning system. Improved performance of the brake and fuel system. A 136 hp diesel engine is installed (BMPD)

B-Arms presents BRDM-2MB Bekas reconnaissance vehicle

Russian company B-Arms presented the upgraded BRDM-2MB Bekas 4×4 armoured reconnaissance vehicle during a demonstration at a range in Ruza near Moscow on 9 June.

Chief designer Alexey Butrimov said the deeply modernised Bekas features 6 mm applique armour plates over the most vulnerable points, anti-blast seats, a mine-protected floor, air conditioning, a modernised braking system, a situational awareness system, a new 136 hp diesel engine, and a more ergonomic dashboard.

The BRDM-2MB retains the KPVT 14.5 mm heavy machine gun and Kalashnikov PKT medium machine gun in a protected turret. It has a crew of three and can carry two passengers.

Its hull’s sloped armour protects against 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm bullets, while the frontal arc is designed to withstand KPVT 14.5 mm heavy rounds fired at a range of 300 m. (Jane's)

21 Juni 2020

Bushmaster protected vehicle of the Jamaica Defence Force (photo : Thales)

The Jamaica Defence Force has bolstered and upgraded its fleet of Thales Bushmaster Protected Vehicles.

The purchase of 6 additional Bushmasters, 3 troops carrier and 3 ambulance versions, brings its fleet to 18.

The new vehicles for Jamaica offer special features including fully integrated Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) that provide power and supplementary air conditioning when the engine is off. This allows static vehicles to maintain a comfortable temperature in the hot Jamaican climate.

The ambulance variants will give soldiers the ability to evacuate and treat injured police officers under the protection of the Bushmaster rather than having to deploy vulnerable unarmored vehicles into dangerous situations.

The contract comes two months after Thales announced an export of an additional six Bushmasters to the Netherlands under a $14 million contract that will involve more than 60 Australian businesses to design and deliver a new, bespoke Dutch medevac vehicle variant.

(ADM)

22 Juni 2020

VN-16 with 105mm tank cannon (photo : Army Recognition)

The Navy provided budget for 3 Amphibious Assault Vehicles of the 1st Phase, worth 405 million baht. It is not yet known what type of vehicle it will be. But expected to be a Chinese VN-16/18 vehicle with news that the Navy has been interested in procuring for a long time.

The Navy which has already sent people to see while also supplying Chinese landing craft.

VN-16 is a 105 mm tank cannon and the VN-18 is a 30 mm gun carrier. Which, if the procurement should make the Navy has more firepower, but have to exchange with spare parts and all new training.

Other options are AAV-7 from the United States and KAAV-7A1 from South Korea. United States is ready to sell the AAV (2nd hand) to the Navy at a special price. In addition, the Navy is still active with this family of vehicles.

(TAF)

22 Juni 2020

Pangkalan udara Letung di Anambas akan mendukung kegiatan Penerbal TNI AL (photo : Bimo Raul Saputro)

TRIBUNBATAM.id, ANAMBAS - Pemerintah Daerah Kabupaten Kepulauan Anambas menghibahkan lahan untuk pembangunan perpanjangan landasan bandara pangkalan udara.

Adapun lahan yang dihibahkan seluas 26.922 meter persegi.

Saat melakukan kunjungan kerja ke Anambas, Jumat (19/6/2020) lalu, Panglima Komando Armada I Laksamana Muda TNI Ahmadi Heri Purwono, SE,. M.M mengapresiasi dan mengucapkan terima kasih kepada Pemerintah Daerah Anambas.

Mengingat Kabupaten Kepulauan Anambas merupakan wilayah perbatasan.

Banyak sekali kegiatan yang perlu mendapatkan perhatian terkait adanya ilegal fishing atau banyak kapal ikan asing yang masuk, pelanggaran wilayah, dan pelanggaran klaim kedaulatan wilayah.

"Sehingga saat ini operasi udara sangat dibutuhkan," ucap Ahmadi.

Adapun pembangunan perpanjangan landasan bandara pangkalan udara lokasinya berada di Letung, Kecamatan Jemaja.

Melihat beberapa berita yang beredar, cukup banyak konflik di Laut China Selatan.

Maka dari itu kehadiran Angkatan Laut sebagai bentuk klaim tentang wilayah tersebut.

Dikatakan sebelumnya, akan ada 16 operasi kapal yang secara fokus pengoperasiannya berada di Kepulauan Anambas.

Nantinya 16 kapal ini akan melakukan patroli secara bergilir sehingga tidak ada kekosongan unsur di laut.

Kapal yang akan beroperasi nanti ini adalah kapal dengan kapasitas besar dan terbaru seperti Multi Role Light Frigates (MRLF).

Letung terletak di Kabupaten Kepulauan Anambas, Provinsi Kepulauan Riau (image : GoogleMaps)

Kunjungi Pangkalan Laut dan Udara

Panglima Komando Armada I Laksamana Muda TNI Ahmadi Heri Purwono ,S.E, M.M mengunjungi Lanudal Matak, Jumat (19/6/2020).

Rombongan tiba di Bandara Matak, Kecamatan Kute Siantan menggunakan pesawat Casa TNI AL U-6211, mendarat pada pukul 09.15 WIB.

Saat ini seluruh personil TNI Angkatan Laut bersama TNI Angkatan Udara, sudah menunggu kedatangan rombongan dengan semangat yang membara.

Terlihat sejak pagi para anggota TNI menyiapkan yel-yel untuk menyambut kedatangan Panglima Komando Armada I Laksamana Muda TNI Ahmadi Heru Purwono ,S.E, M.M.

Penyambutan rombongan Paglima Komando Armada I disuguhi dengan tepung tawar dari Lembaga Adat Melayu (LAM), kemudian dilanjutkan dengan penyerahan cinderamata oleh Pemerintah Daerah.

Komandan Pangkalan Angkatan Udara (Danlanudal) Matak Mayor Laut (T) Arief Gunawan mengatakan kunjungan Panglima Komando Armada I ini sekaligus memberi pengarahan serta bantuan kepada prajurit TNI Angkatan Laut dan TNI Angkatan Udara.

"Nanti akan dilaksanakan juga penyerahan bantuan kepada seluruh prajurit, ini juga merupakan kunjungan perdana beliau ke daerah kita,"katanya.

Kapal MRLF dipilih TNI AL untuk menjaga Natuna (photo : TNI AL)

Siapkan 16 Kapal

Panglima Komando Armada I Laksamana Muda TNI Ahmadi Heri Purwono, SE,. M.M ke Kabupaten Kepulauan Anambas mengecek kondisi perbatasan, Jumat (19/6/2020).

Kunjungan berlangsung di Pangkalan Angkatan Udara (Laundal) Matak, Kecamatan Kute Siantan.

Kabupaten Kepulauan Anambas yang merupakan wilayah yang berbatasan dengan negara lain.

Perairan Anambas juga berada di wilayah Laut China Selatan.

Panglima Komando Armada I Laksamana Muda TNI Ahmadi Heri Purwono dalam menyikapi langkah yang perlu dilakukan dalam meningkatkan keamanan dan pertahanan di kawasan perbatasan perlu adanya operasi udara di Lanudal.

"Saat ini operasi udara ataupun pesawat udara sangat dibutuhkan dalam pengoperasian angkatan laut, perpanjangan tangan kapal kita ini ya udara, patroli maritim melaukan protap kapal-kapal kami akan siap," ujar Ahmadi, Jumat (19/6/2020).

Selanjutnya ia juga tekankan langkah Armada I dalam pengoperasian ini sediakan 16 kapal di wilayah Armada I.

"Nanti akan kita gilir dan kita pilih spot yang paling rawan nanti akan kita tambah kapal di daerah itu," ungkapnya.

Lebih lanjut ia katakan nanti setiap harinya akan ada banya kapal untuk mengantisipasi kegiatan-kegiatan yang berkenaan dengan ilegal.

Beberapa kegiatan ilegal yang sering terjadi di kawasan perbatasan khususnya perairan adalah ilegal fishing, pelanggaran wilayah, klaim kedaulatan negara dan beberapa pelanggaran ilegal lainnya.

(TribunNews)

22 Juni 2020

Mock up of a Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) (photo : PA)

The Philippine Army’s Artillery Regiment’s (AAR) celebrated its 13th Founding Anniversary at Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija today, June 17.

The said regiment recently activated units for upcoming new equipment like Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), Land Based Missile System, Air Defense Artillery, and Field Artillery.

In line with this, the AAR displayed an MLRS. The Philippine Army is poised to receive K136 Kooryong MLRS.

Looks like the Army Artillery Regiment now also has a mock-up of a vehicle-mounted man-portable air defense system (MANPADS) (photo : MaxDefense)

“As former CGPA and Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Gen. Eduardo Año once said, ‘Filipinos are considered as one of the best fighters in the world because we have the values and resolve,’ kahit parating pa lang ang mga kagamitan, parang sinasabi ni General Año na tayo ay panalo na sa laban. At yan ay makikita natin sa mga cañoneros,” Army chief Lieutenant General Gilbert I. Gapay said for the occasion.

“Sa mga sundalo at kawani ng AAR, panatilihin natin ang kagalingan at propersyonalismo sa pagganap ng tungkulin. Pagtibayin pa ninyo ang mga inisyatiba tungo sa pagiging isang modernong artilyero. Ang Headquarters of the Philippine Army ay laging nakasuporta sa mga adhikaing ito,” Lieutenant General Gapay said.

(Mintfo)

23 Juni 2020

Overhaul KRI Cakra 401 (photo : Setkab)

KONTAN.CO.ID - JAKARTA. PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) di tengah pandemi Covid-19 tetap menjalankan produksi dan proyek-proyek yang sedang berjalan. Perusahaan optimistis dengan prospek bisnis galangan kapal, sebab selain fokus di kapal pertahanan perseroan juga membidik proyek lainnya

Adapun saat ini produksi dan pengerjaan proyek di PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) mengacu pada protokol kesehatan yang berlaku. Beberapa pengerjaan proyek strategis berasal dari pembangunan kapal seperti Kapal Cepat Rudal 60 Meter (KCR) kelima dan keenam pesanan Kementerian Pertahanan.

Serta kapal Bantu Rumah Sakit (BRS) pertama TNI AL serta produk-produk sektor energi dan rekayasa umum seperti Dual Fuel Barge Mounted Power Plant (BMPP) 150 MW. Selain pembangunan proyek baru, PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) juga memastikan proyek-proyek strategis lainnya.

"Seperti pemeliharaan dan perbaikan kapal kombatan, kapal niaga, maupun produk offshore seperti Single Point Mooring (SPM) tetap berjalan," terang Utario Esna Putra, Kepala Departemen Humas PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) kepada Kontan.co.id, Kamis (18/6).

Utario menjabarkan selama ini komposisi pendapatan perusahaan berasal dari produk Alutsista sebesar 77% dan produk non Alutsista sebesar 23% dalam lima tahun terakhir. Sejak berdiri sampai dengan tahun 2019 PAL telah membangun total 232 unit kapal, 86 unit diantaranya merupakan produk kapal perang.

Sedangkan untuk tahun 2020 ini manajemen mencatat, perusahaan tengah mengerjakan beberapa proyek pembangunan kapal diantaranya adalah Joint Section Kapal Selam-3, Overhaul KRI Cakra-401, Sewaco Kapal Cepat Rudal (KCR) 60 M Kapal Ke-3 dan Ke-4, Platform dan Sewaco Kapal Cepat Rudal (KCR) 60 M Kapal Ke-5 dan Ke-6, Kapal Bantu Rumah Sakit (BRS) dan juga pada sektor energi sedang membangun Dual Fuel Barge Mounted Power Plant 60 MW.

KCR-60 class (photo : PAL)

"Industri galangan kapal saat ini terus berkembang selaras dengan program pemerintah untuk menjadikan Indonesia sebagai poros maritim dunia," sebut Utario. Sejalan dengan kebijakan pemerintah mengenai Poros Maritim, kata Utario, perseroan akan berkembang secara signifikan dalam beberapa tahun ke belakang.

Lebih lanjut ia bilang, perusahaan juga menjalankan bisnis pembangunan dan MRO tidak hanya pada produk kapal namun juga sektor energi dan offshore. Meskipun saat ini PAL memang fokus dalam pemenuhan pesanan Kapal Kombatan baik dari Kementerian Pertahanan RI maupun TNI AL karena dari lima tahun terakhir kontribusi segmen kapal pertahanan cukup besar bagi pendapatan perseroan.

Soal target di tahun ini, menurut catatan Kontan.co.id, perusahaan pelat merah ini sempat memperkirakan pendapatan di tahun ini bisa mencapai Rp 2 triliun hingga Rp 2,3 triliun. Manajemen saat ini belum dapat membeberkan target dan proyeksi bisnis untuk tahun 2020 di tengah kondisi pandemi ini.

Utario memaparkan, tentunya pasti ada penyesuaian target pendapatan dikarenakan pandemi ini, dimana melalui mekanisme revisi RKAP yang tentunya nanti akan melalui persetujuan Kementerian BUMN. Sekadar catatan pada 2019 lalu, perusahaan ini sudah mengantongi kontrak pembangunan kapal baru senilai Rp 6 triliun.

"Pada intinya, kami tetap konsisten mengerjakan target pekerjaan yang ada dengan tepat waktu," sebut Untario. Soal investasi atau anggaran belanja perusahaan di tahun ini, manajemen bilang akan diprioritaskan pada persiapan new normal.

Langkah-langkah taktis dan efisiensi juga akan diambil oleh PAL guna menyikapi tantangan pada masa pandemi, namun tidak akan berdampak pada proses produksi pembangunan kapal maupun energi yang ada.

(Kontan)

23 Juni 2020

In a short run, the Army should look at the possibility of leasing four Mil Mi-8/17 (NATO Reporting Name: Hip) helicopters (photo : Fahmun)

When the 882nd Regiment of the Malaysian Army Aviation Force (Pasukan Udara Tentera Darat – PUTD) was officially established on March 2015, it was supposed to operate 12 Sikorsky S-61A-4 Nuri helicopters with standard configurations such as limited digital flight instruments including GPS and the famous nose one that houses the Doppler radar.

To distinguish the Army and Air Force’s Nuris, the former has adopted two pixelleted digital pattern colour schemes worn by all four helicopters that were handed over by the latter.

Despite the Army Aviators have proved their capabilities of operating such helicopters without any serious incidents in the short operational span of five years, eventually they too had to relent and retire the Nuris by January 2020.

Rej 882 PUTD currently does not have any helicopters to fly with but there has been plan to lease four helicopters as replacements to the veteran Nuris.

To make things worst, while no immediate replacement are in sight, the country was hit by coronavirus pandemic outbreak which prompted the Government to enforce Movement Control Order (MCO) to break the chain of infection.

MCO has put the Army on immense operational strain as it has to deploy its troops nationwide to participate in Ops Penawar (by enforcing the Enhanced MCO as well as manning the road blocks) and Ops Benteng, where the existing border protection operations such as Ops Merpati, Ops PASIR, Ops Sanggah and Ops Kota were integrated to ensure no importation infection of the coronavirus could happen due to smuggling of illegal immigrants from virus hit countries.

Kazan Helicopter Plant (KHP) Mi-172 civil version helicopter (photo : Huy Do)

In Sarawak, the Army had to rely on the two Eurocopter (now Airbus Helicopters) EC-135 helicopters operated by State owned Hornbill Skyways to carry much needed aids and reliefs to people in the remote areas.

In Peninsular Malaysia, transport operations were assumed by the 881st Regiment with their AgustaWestland A-109LUH light utility helicopter in place of the retired Nuri. During a recent high level visit to the border, the regiment’s Agusta were deployed simultaneously to fly in the Chief of the Army, his commanders as well as members of the delegation to Banding Lake in Perak near to the Thai border.

Such task was usually undertaken by Rej 882’s Nuri in one flight using a single helicopter, rather than multiple helicopters with multiple flights.

In a short run, the Army should look at the possibility of leasing four Mil Mi-8/17 (NATO Reporting Name: Hip) helicopters. With similar capacity and capability like the Nuris, the Mi-17s would not only able to perform effective troop lift and resupply mission but also special operations and heliborne air assault operations in support of the GGK commandos and the paratroopers from the 10th Parachute Brigade.

Last December 2018, the Army was offered with KHP built Russian Helicopters Mi-172 helicopters. Despite the lack of ramp door, the Mi-172 is able to assume all the roles left behind by the Nuris.

But the Mi-172 is a civilian helicopter hence would only be able to be used in non combat operations such as SAR, MEDEVAC/CASEVAC, RESUP, trooplift, VIP support and HADR operations. Then again, having able to regain these capabilities would be much appreciated by the Army especially in the aftermath of MCO and coronavirus outbreak.

(MFH)

23 Juni 2020

Lieutenant General Hun Manet said the GENLYON vehicles were purchased to strengthen the armed forces (all photos : Khmer Times)

Very successful drive: PM held fundraiser to buy Chinese military trucks

Royal Cambodian Army Commander Lieutenant General Hun Manet yesterday defended the purchase of nearly 300 military trucks from China, saying the government did not use “a single riel” from the national budget.

A total of 290 military trucks arrived in the Kingdom on a cargo ship from China last week. The vehicles were handed over to the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces’ units and the National Police yesterday.

Speaking during the handover ceremony in Phnom Penh’s Olympic Stadium, Lt Gen Manet who is also RCAF’s deputy commander-in-chief, said the vehicles were purchased to strengthen the armed forces so it can serve the people and the nation’s interests better.

He said the trucks were purchased by the Kingdom through a fundraising effort initiated by Prime Minister Hun Sen. He said the money was donated by Cambodian companies and Cambodian people.

“I wish to clarify that we did not use even a single riel of the national budget, but used money from the fundraising with local charities,” he said. “The initiative by Samdech Decho [Mr Hun Sen] to appeal to generous people to support the army is nothing new. He has been doing this for many years.”

The order to purchase the trucks was made mid last year and they were expected to arrive early this year. They only arrived this month due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Lt Gen Manet also denied reports that the vehicles were donated by the Chinese government. He said China has regularly helped the Kingdom even during the COVID-19 outbreak, including sending medical experts and donating medical supplies, but not the military trucks.

“We do not need to lie, If they were donated by China, then we will say it is a Chinese donation,” Lt Gen Manet said. “If it was a Chinese donation and we said we purchased the truck, would they agree?”

See full article KhmerTimes

24 Juni 2020

KT-1B trainer of the Indonesian Air Force (photo : Flightzona)

KAI hotdogs for diplomats to sell choppers abroad

KAI exports to 7 countries, including Turkey, Iraq, Thailand and Senegal, but no overseas sales yet involve helicopters. During the Wednesday event, some countries expressed interest, but in buying the KT-1 basic trainer instead of helicopters.

We have already been in touch with KAI [to discuss the purchase of] KT-1,” Abida Islam, the ambassador of Bangladesh told Korea JoongAng Daily on June 17. She wasn't sure about the purchase of helicopters yet, but said that she could “recommend to the government” after being introduced to the helicopters because KAI has “quality products” and she has “full confidence” in the company.

The ambassador declined to provide the exact number of KT-1s the country is considering, but said it will “depend on the price.” The deal is scheduled to be finalized in August, when a delegation visits Korea.

Christian L. De Jesus, the Philippines’ chargé d’affaires, refused to deliver his thoughts on additional imports from KAI, but the company is currently in talks with the Philippines over the purchase of KT-1, according to Kim Sang-eung from KAI’s marketing department.

Indonesia, Malaysia, Peru and Columbia are some other countries that are interested in KAI products, according to company adviser Lee Bong-keun.

“Export strategies before and following the coronavirus will vary largely,” said Lee. “From now on, exports should be prepared in a total package. Instead of just providing high quality and good priced aircrafts, [KAI will] provide others additionally like the industrial revolution package and educational training.”

Lee added, “Our brand [KAI] isn't yet widely known. We plan to utilize the reputation Korea earned from the coronavirus to explain the brand value.”

See full article Korea JoongAngDaily

24 Juni 2020

Latihan peperangan laut Khusus oleh Kopaska TNI AL (all photos : Tirto)

6 Momen Seru Latihan Tempur Komando Pasukan Katak TNI AL

VIVAnews – Sekelompok prajurit dengan bersenjata tempur ringan bergerak senyap di bawah air. Target di darat sudah mereka kunci dan siap menembak.

Tak jauh dari sana, rekan mereka menjaga perimeter tempur untuk mengantisipasi gerakan musuh. Di lokasi yang berbeda, sejumlah tentara pun mendarat di lokasi sasaran dengan tejun payung free fall.

Demikian simulasi Latihan Peperangan Laut Khusus oleh para prajurit Satuan Komando Pasukan Katak (Sat Kopaska) TNI Angkatan Laut. Latihan berlangsung di Kompleks Dermaga Pondok Dayung Koarmada I, Jakarta, Selasa 23 Juni 2020.

Latihan tempur itu diawasi langsung oleh Panglima Koarmada I, Laksamana Muda TNI Ahmadi Heri Purwono. Dia didampingi oleh Komandan Satuan Komando Pasukan Katak (Sat Kopaska) Kolonel Laut (P) Johan Wahyudi.

Menurut Panglima Koarmada I, latihan ini guna meningkatkan profesionalisme prajurit Satkopaska Koarmada I dalam menjaga NKRI.

"Tentunya kami memiliki tanggungjawab untuk memelihara kemampuan tempur pasukan kami. Komando pasukan katak ini dituntut mempunyai kemampuan spesial, di antaranya kemampuan anti-teror, kemampuan demolisi atau anti-demolisi, pertempuran jarak dekat, kemampuan pertemuan permukaan dengan menggunakan sekoci karet, dan kemampuan sabotase bawah air," ungkap Ahmadi.

Pelatihan khusus ini berlangsung dari 23 Juni hingga 30 Juni 2020 dan diikuti 156 prajurit Kopaska. Mereka menjalani sejumlah program latihan, seperti terjun payung hingga combat diver.

(VivaNews)

24 Juni 2020

Phalanx CIWS of the RAN (photo : ADM)

The Royal Australian Navy’s latest upgrade of the Mark 15 Phalanx Close-in Weapon System (CIWS) has reached a major milestone by achieving Initial Operating Capability.

Delivered on schedule, the upgraded capability is being progressively rolled out until late 2023 across Navy’s Destroyers, Amphibious Ships and new Supply Class Tankers.

Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC said the upgraded system delivers improved lethality and a broader range of protection for Navy ships in fast-moving combat situations.

“The first system, which incorporates the upgrade to Block 1B Baseline 2 of the Phalanx system, has already been installed into HMAS Sydney which will ensure she enters service as Australia’s most potent and capable warship,” Minister Reynolds said.

“The system significantly boosts HMAS Sydney’s self defence capability, providing new generation technology to Navy vessels and ensuring the highest levels of protection from modern systems.

“Achieving this important milestone reflects Australia’s world-class shipbuilding capability and demonstrates the success of the Morrison Government’s Naval Shipbuilding Plan.”

The upgraded system will create opportunities for Australian businesses to benefit from the Morrison Government’s investment in a sovereign shipbuilding capability.

The second unit of the upgraded system was delivered in 2019 and will be used to provide comprehensive training in Australia, supported by local industry and increasing self-reliance in the training pipeline.

(Aus DoD)

24 Juni 2020

Kunjungan KBRI Afrika Selatan ke Denel di Pretoria (photo : KBRI Pretoria)

Kedutaan Besar Republik Indonesia (KBRI) untuk Afrika Selatan di Pretoria melaporkan bahwa pada tanggal 12 Maret 2020 lalu delegasi Indonesia mengunjungi perusahaan Denel SOC Ltd di Pretoria.

Denel adalah perusahaan milik pemerintah Afrika Selatan yang bergerak dalam bidang pertahanan, keamanan dan teknologi yang terkait. Denel menyatakan bahwa sanggup menyediakan solusi peralatan pertahanan untuk kustomernya dengan merancang, mengembangkan, mengintegrasikan dan mendukung produk artileri, amunisi, rudal, aerostruktur, pemeliharaan pesawat, sistem kendaraan udara tak berawak dan muatan optik berdasarkan teknologi terkini.

Pertemuan KBRI Afrika Selatan ke Denel di Pretoria (photo : KBRI Pretoria)

Delegasi Indonesia terdiri dari Duta Besar Indonesia untuk Afrika Selatan bersama dengan Atase Pertahanan KBRI Pretoria diterima langsung oleh CEO Denel Mike Kgobe beserta para pejabat Denel lainnya, kemudian dilanjutkan dengan melihat produksi helikopter serang Rooivalk dan presentasi produk-produk pertahanan udara Denel.

Pertemuan ini mendiskusikan potensi kerjasama di sektor industri pertahanan udara, transfer teknologi dan pengembangan kapasitas personel untuk militer. Dari jumlah delegasi Indonesia yang datang maka dapat ditebak bahwa kunjungan ini baru tahap awal untuk dapat dilaporkan ke Jakarta untuk dapat ditindak-lanjuti oleh Kementerian Pertahanan dan industri terkait. Namun karena menyangkut transfer teknologi, kunjungan ini pasti berkaitan erat dengan industri pertahanan.

UAV dan target drone buatan Denel (photo : Denel, Army Recognition)

Sebagaimana diketahui, Indonesia mencanangkan tujuh program prioritas industri pertahanan nasional yaitu Propelan, Roket, Rudal, Medium Tank, Radar, Kapal Selam dan Pesawat Tempur, sejak tahun lalu ditambah satu dengan MALE UAV. Road Map penguasaan Industri Pertahanan ini dibagi dalam tiga phase yakni Phase 1 Penguasaan Desain 2010-2014, Phase 2 Penguasaan Teknologi 2015-2019 dan Phase 3 Pengembangan Baru 2020-2024.

Dari ke delapan prioritas tersebut, yang sudah menghasilkan produk adalah empat yaitu Roket (Rhan-122), Tank (Harimau Hitam), Kapal Selam (KRI Nagapasa), dan MALE UAV (Elang Hitam), Dua lagi sedang dalam proses akhir yaitu Propelan (pabrik propelan Dahana-Eurenco-Roxel), dan Pesawat Tempur (KFX-IFX). Masih ada dua lagi yang masih berproses dan membutuhkan mitra yaitu Radar (radar GCI ditargetkan selesai 2024) dan Rudal (rudal permukaan ke permukaan proses Reverse Engineering).

Rudal buatan Denel (photo : Denel, Deagel, Craig Nailor, Deagel, Wiki, Reddit)

Dari beberapa produk pertahanan udara Denel yang cocok dengan kebutuhan 7+1 prioritas industri pertahanan Indonesia kemungkinan adalah rudal. Saat ini Indonesia telah menetapkan jalan untuk menguasai teknologi rudal permukaan ke permukaan (SSM) serta melakukan ujicoba rudal anti tank dan rudal panggul anti pesawat terbang, dua yang terakhir ini masih membutuhkan mitra.

Jika Kementerian Pertahanan menjajagi kerjasama dengan Denel, maka ada beberapa produk rudal udara dan munisi udara buatan Denel sebagai berikut :

-A Darter : adalah rudal udara ke udara jarak pendek hingga 22 km, rudal berpemandu infared homing (pencari panas) ini disebut mempunyai kecepatan Mach 3, saat ini dipakai sebagai rudal pesawat Hawk 100, JAS-39 Gripen, bahkan dapat dipakai untuk pesawat buatan AS F-5 Tiger II. Denel sedang dalam proses pengembangan rudal A Darter menjadi R Darter sebagai rudal BVR.

-Umkhonto : adalah rudal permukaan ke udara (SAM) jarak pendek hingga sedang dengan jarak jangkau 20km (Umkontho IR) hingga 60km (Umkontho R), dapat digunakan di kapal atau sistem pertahanan udara berbasis darat (GBAD). Rudal berkecepatan Mach 2 ini menggunakan pemandu infra red. Rudal ini digunakan untuk fregat Valour class Afrika Selatan, fregat Meko 200 Aljazair, dan KCR Hamina class Finlandia.

-Mokopa : semula adalah rudal anti tank udara ke darat yang diluncurkan dari pesawat dan helikopter dengan jangkauan 10km, namun dalam perkembangannya rudal berpemandu laser semi-aktif ini dapat diluncurkan dari kendaraan tempur dan kapal. Rudal ini dipakai pada helikoper Super Lynx Aljazair.

-Ingwe : adalah rudal anti-tank berpemandu laser sehingga kemampuan tahan jammingnya tinggi, dapat diluncurkan dari udara (helikopter) dan darat (kendaraan tempur), dan mempunyai jangkauan 250m hingga 5km. Rudal ini dipakai untuk helikopter Mi-24, Fennec dan Rooivalk, juga pada kendaraan Ratel dan Badger IFV Afrika Selatan serta AV-8 Malaysia.

-Umbani (Al Tariq) : adalah kit bom pandu untuk bom Mk81, Mk82 atau Mk83, dengan memakai kit ini maka bom jatuh bebas (free fall) dapat diubah menjadi bom luncur berpemandu (guided glide bombs). Dengan kit standar saja bom dapat mencapai jarak 40km, dengan folding kit dapat meningkat hingga 120km dan bahkan 200km.

-Raptor II : adalah bom luncur presisi berpemandu jarak jauh dengan jangkauan hingga 200 km dan berpemandu infrared homing seeker. Menariknya produk ini dapat dipakai untuk pesawat buatan non AS termasuk Su-27/30.

(Defense Studies)

25 Juni 2020

BRP Gabriela Silang 8301 (photo : PCG)

“Nagsimula na kami makipagusap sa French government at sa US kung pwede,” Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) commandant Vice Admiral George V. Ursabia Jr. said over DZBB on June 21 when asked if the PCG is looking into acquiring more ships like the BRP Gabriela Silang.

“We are thinking of getting more like the BRP Gabriela Silang,” Vice Admiral Ursabia said. “We are thinking of getting two more of which.”

BRP Gabriela Silang, an offshore patrol vessel, is currently being used as transport ship amid government’s COVID-19 efforts.

Vice Admiral Ursabia said that BRP Gabriela Silang is really intended for patrolling West Philippine Sea.

“Iniisip na rin namin dapat meron na rin kaming RO-RO type na barko, katulad ng sa commercial [shipping] para naman ‘pag meron tayong mga krisis o pandemic na kailangan natin magtransport hindi lamang tao pati rin mga relief goods at medisina, at least mayroon tayong sariling barko sa gobyerno tulad ng Coast Guard para mag-transport kaagad-agad pag mayroong mga krisis,” the PCG commandant added.

(Mintfo)

25 Juni 2020

Indonesia has proposed a strong increase in defence spending for 2021, with procurement identified as a priority. The country’s modernisation targets include the acquisition of the Harimau medium tank developed by PT Pindad and FNSS (photo : Miliyet)

Indonesia could be in line for a record-high expenditure of nearly IDR150 trillion (USD10.6 billion) for fiscal year 2021 if recently submitted budgetary proposals are approved by parliament later this year.

The proposed expenditure suggests the Southeast Asian country might be in a more robust position to respond to the Covid-19 pandemic than was previously thought.

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) said in a fiscal policy report recently presented to parliament that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has indicated a ceiling requirement of IDR129.3 trillion for 2021.

The MoD also said in information presented in a meeting with the House of Representative’s defence commission that additional funding of IDR19 trillion is required to support a range of initiatives including military procurement.

If approved, the proposals would provide the MoD with IDR148.3 trillion for 2021. This would represent an increase of IDR25.9 trillion – or 21% – over the revised allocation of IDR122.4 trillion for 2020. The original 2020 appropriation was IDR131.2 trillion but this was cut through a presidential regulation issued in April in response to the impact of Covid-19.

According to the MoF fiscal policy report, funding priorities for the MoD in 2021 include the procurement of munitions, armoured vehicles, and naval vessels, and the support and replacement of military aircraft. In addition, funding is required to complete “projects and activity” that were postponed due to budgetary restrictions imposed in the wake of Covid-19, it said.

(Jane's)

25 Juni 2020

T-Eagle Eye III Mini UAS (all photos : Komchadluek)

Nawaminthasatiyathirat Research and development of prototype small unmanned aircraft systems hand-delivered version of the T-Eagle Eye III, a very small unmanned aircraft system or Mini UAS responds to the use of the Army. By designing to be lightweight easy to carry and move (Manned Pad or Manned Portable). Driven by electric motor. Resulting in a low, low noise makes it difficult to detect (Low Noise Signature) with no complicated mechanism to work. Suitable for infantry units especially news patrols, such as remote reconnaissance corps or other units can be applied to help with the Target Acquisition, Battle Damage Assessment, and access to dangerous areas where military personnel cannot be used to perform missions.

With outstanding features, can take pictures and tell near real time near target in the form of military coordinate units (UTM units) with GPS Which provides accuracy in the level of (+, - 2 square meters) in terms of operating time and operating radius Can take off using hand-held landing and land-based landing systems, or land on a plow, install a Stabilized Gimbal Payload (camera stabilization system standard), rotate 360 degrees with the program Control the Target Tracking camera with a 10x optical daytime camera (E Optical Zoom 10X) and thermal camera night detection (Thermal Camera).

Spesification of T-Eagle Eye III Mini UAS :
-Operational Range 10 kilometers
-The maximum flight duration is 90 minutes. Maximum Endurance
-Maximum Take-off Weight 3 kg.
-Wing Span wing length 1.9 meters
-Maximum speed 90 km / hour
-Maximum ceiling ceiling 3,000 feet
-The communication system can be connected to the internet communication system or -other existing communication systems so that the command or related departments that are located in other areas can view the actual events that are happening.
-With an antenna turned on automatically controlled
-The software and hardware of the Flight Control System and the Ground Control Station system were invented and developed by the Research Institute of Thailand, which can fly both the user mode (Manual Mode) or by using the automatic flight system (Fully Autonomous Mode) by setting the flight program in advance and can change the flight coordinates set at any time Even if the device is already operating.

The Office of the National Defense Service delivered 4 prototypes of the Mini UAS system and personnel training for Army users and the use of the T-Eagle Eye III Mini UAS prototype for testing in the field. And evaluation summary from the Army Test and Evaluation Committee on 19 October 2015 at the Infantry Center.

See full article Komchadluek

25 Juni 2020

BRP Davao del Sur LD-602 (photo : Aris Refugio)

MANILA – The acquisition process for the Philippine Navy's two more strategic sealift vessels has been temporarily halted due to the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

"Due to Covid-19, the bidding process was temporarily stopped. It is currently on the post-qualification period of the lowest calculated bidder. If the bidder passed, NOA (Notice of Award) and NTP (Notice to Proceed) will be subsequently issued," Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Wednesday night when asked for an update on the project.

Roxas said these ships will act as reinforcements of the two Tarlac-class strategic sealift vessels, the BRP Tarlac (LD-601) and the BRP Davao del Sur (LD-602), that were acquired during the project's Horizon 1.

"The PN Landing Dock Acquisition Project is included in the Horizon 2 project of the revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program in the amount of PHP5.56 billion for the two LDs (landing docks)," she added.

The project's Horizon 1 ran from 2013 to 2017 while Horizon 2 will run from 2018 to 2022.

Roxas added that the two Tarlac-class strategic sealift vessels, which were acquired from Indonesian shipbuilder PT PAL for PHP4 billion, have proven very effective especially at the time of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"It provides humanitarian assistance serving as a sealift and transport vessel," she added.

Meanwhile, PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, in a phone interview, said plans to acquire additional landing docks or strategic sealift vessels are ongoing projects of the Navy.

While the Tarlac-class strategic sealift vessels will be the basis of the additional ships, there will be some improvements that will be made to these landing docks, he added.

Bacordo said the improvements were recommended by the crews of two ships.

Early this week, BRP Davao del Sur, which arrived in the Philippines last June 12 after a five-month deployment in the Middle East, was ordered to transport some 402 locally stranded individuals and three Filipino expatriates from India and Sri Lanka, to Iloilo.

Aside from this, the ship also delivered 32,000 personal protection equipment sets and other medical supplies to the Office of Civil Defense-Western Visayas (Region 6) and has sailed to Cebu City to deliver another 16,000 PPE sets and other items to the OCD headquarters there.

(PNA)

KAL Rajegwesi dan KAL Anyer Mulai Bertugas

Australia Orders Third MQ-4C Triton

‘Farthest, Longest’ Voyage by PH Navy Ends

Pengamat Asing : 2 Iver Huitfeldt class Belum Cukup

Upgraded of Armored Reconnaissance and Patrol Vehicle BRDM-2MB "Bekas"

Jamaica Adds Six New Bushmasters

Royal Thai Navy to Procures Three Amphibious Assault Vehicle

Pemda Anambas Hibahkan Lahan Seluas 2,6 Hektare untuk Pangkalan Udara TNI AL di Letung

Army Artillery Regiment Displays Rocket System Mock Up

Ini Strategi Bisnis PT PAL Tahun 2020 dalam Kapal Perang

Looking At Army’ Nuri Replacement and the Proposed Leasing Options

Cambodia Received 290 Chinese Military Trucks

KAI in Talks with Philppines on KT-1 Trainer Aircraft

Melihat Kopaska TNI AL Gelar Latihan Peperangan Laut Khusus

Upgraded Phalanx Close-in Weapon System Enters service

Delegasi Indonesia Kunjungi Denel Afrika Selatan

PHL Coast Guard Eyeing 2 More Ships Like BRP Gabriela Silang

Indonesia Signals Potential Major Increase in Defence Spending

Mini UAS T-Eagle Eye III Achieves Certification

Acquisition of 2 More Landing Docks Halted Due to Covid-19: Navy