DEFENSE STUDIES

01 Juli 2020

Philippine Navy seeks to acquire eight fast-attack interdictor craft-missile (FAIC-M) project (photo : MilitaryLeak)

MANILA – The Philippine Navy on Monday said its fast-attack interdictor craft-missile (FAIC-M) project, which seeks to acquire eight ships to replace its medium-sized patrol craft, or the force of patrol killer medium (PKM), will push through amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, said the project was approved for inclusion in the Horizon 2 project list of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program and has a budget of PHP10 billion.

"FAIC-M is an acquisition project of the PN that was approved for inclusion in the Horizon 2 Projects List of Revised AFP Modernization Program with ABC (approved budget for contract) of PHP10 billion and for Multi-Year Contracting," Roxas said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.

Four of the FAIC-Ms will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy with a range of 25 kilometers while the other four will be armed with machine guns and light automatic cannons.

"The MYOA (Multi-Year Obligational Authority) requested is for four years with payment spread by 10 percent, 20 percent, 30 percent, and 40 percent each year starting 2020 and end(ing) 2023. Hence, the 10 percent (PHP1 billion) is already programmed by the DND (Department of National Defense) in the Financial Schedule for FY (Fiscal Year) 2020," Roxas said.

She added that procurement activities will start immediately after the MYOA is approved by the Department of Budget and Management.

Earlier, PN flag-officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo confirmed that the FAIC-M project is already included in the 2020 budget.

He added that the procurement process would have been on schedule without the Covid-19 pandemic.

Former Navy spokesperson, Capt. Jonathan Zata, said that with the FAIC-M, the PN shall have the capability to defend the key sea lines of communications (SLOCs), such as Mindoro, Balabac, Sibutu and Basilan Straits against conventional threats.

"Operating in restricted waters, the FAIC-Ms can interdict surface threats and launch NLOS missiles safely using the surrounding littoral areas as maneuver space and cover," he added.

Earlier, former PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad said the Navy is eyeing to acquire eight Israeli Shipyard Ltd "Shaldag"-class patrol boats to replace the PKMs it is using for maritime interdiction operations.

"These eight 'Shaldags' will replace our PKMs (acquired from South Korea in 1995) which we are now starting to retire. The last PKM we retired was PKM 112 (BRP Bienvenido Salting)," Empedrad said in Filipino.

He added that four of the "Shaldag" patrol boats will be built in Israel while the remaining four will be constructed in the PN Cavite Naval Yard in Sangley Point, Cavite City.

(PNA)

01 Juli 2020

Singapore's Type 218SG (Invincible-class) submarine (image : Sing MoD)

Aster-30 Missile System

The RSAF's Aster-30 missile system will be stood up for 24/7 operations in the coming months. The Aster-30 missile system is a Medium-range Surface-to-Air Missile (MSAM) system capable of engaging and intercepting a wide spectrum of air threats ranging from fighter aircraft to UAVs and precision-guided munitions. It will replace the I-HAWK system and strengthen our Island Air Defence system.

A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport

The A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), the RSAF's next generation tanker aircraft, is set to achieve Full Operational Capability in the next few months. Besides providing air-to-air refuelling capabilities, the MRTT can airlift cargo loads and also be equipped with medical equipment for aero-medical evacuation missions.

F-35 Joint Strike Fighter

The Letter of Offer and Acceptance for the acquisition of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighters (JSFs) was signed in March 2020. The four F-35Bs are still expected to be delivered around 2026 and will be deployed in continental US for training and in-depth evaluation. The F-35 JSF will replace the F-16 fighter aircraft, which will be progressively retired post-2030. MINDEF will evaluate the F-35 JSF fully before deciding to commit on a further eight.

H225M Medium Lift Helicopter and CH-47F Heavy Lift Helicopter

Due to supply chain disruptions arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, the H225M Medium Lift Helicopter and the CH-47F Heavy Lift Helicopter will be delivered from early 2021 onwards instead of the previously projected end-2020. The H225M and CH-47F helicopters will replace the existing Super Pumas and older Chinooks which are facing obsolescence. Both helicopters possess better lift and reach capabilities, and will enable the RSAF to meet the SAF's lift requirements more efficiently with fewer helicopters and less manpower.

Invincible-Class Submarines

Due to supply chain disruptions arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, the first Invincible-class submarine is expected to be delivered to Singapore by 2022, instead of the previously projected 2021. The Invincible-class submarines are designed for operations in Singapore's shallow and busy tropical waters. Customised to Singapore's needs, the new submarines possess longer endurance and can carry higher payloads.

Multi-Role Combat Vessel

The replacement of the RSN's Victory-class Missile Corvettes with the Multi-Role Combat Vessels (MRCVs) is proceeding as planned, with six MRCVs expected to be delivered by 2030. The MRCV employs key technologies such as configurable modular payloads and unmanned systems, allowing the vessel to function as a "mothership" for unmanned drones and vessels to conduct a range of missions from peace to war.

Training Projects

Fighter Training Detachment in Guam

The establishment of an RSAF Fighter Training Detachment (FTD) at Andersen Air Force Base in Guam is progressing well with no major delays expected. The FTD, expected to be completed by 2029, will allow the RSAF to conduct larger scale, more complex and realistic training to hone its operational capabilities.

Joint Development of Training Areas and Training Facilities in Queensland, Australia

Major construction for the expanded Shoalwater Bay Training Area (SWBTA), including for key training facilities such as the Combined Arms Air-Land Ranges and the Urban Operations Live-Firing Facilities, is on track to commence later this year. Under the Singapore-Australia Treaty on Military Training and Training Area Development in Australia, both countries will jointly develop military training areas and facilities in an expanded SWBTA and the new Greenvale Training Area (GVTA) in Queensland, Australia. The expanded SWBTA and the GVTA are expected to be completed by 2024 and 2028 respectively.

SAFTI City

Construction of SAFTI City was suspended during the circuit breaker period. This will result in an estimated six to nine months delay, with expected completion of the project pushed to 2024 from the earlier projected 2023. SAFTI City, jointly developed by the Singapore Army and the Defence Science and Technology Agency, will provide a realistic urban environment for soldiers to train for homeland security and urban operations when completed. SAFTI City will also be a smart facility, leveraging smart technologies to enhance training effectiveness and solders' learning experience.

(Sing Mindef)

01 Juli 2020

Kementerian Pertahanan mengajukan anggaran Rp 129,3 triliun (photo : Chris Cavas)

Menteri Pertahanan Prabowo Subianto mengajukan anggaran sebesar Rp 129,3 triliun pada anggaran tahun 2021 mendatang. Hal itu berdasarkan dokumen Kerangka Ekonomi Makro dan Pokok Kebijakan Fiskal tahun 2021 yang diterima kumparan, Rabu (1/7).

Alokasi anggaran Kemhan yang mencapai Rp 129,3 triliun itu berasal dari dari rupiah murni Rp 113,1 triliun (87,5 persen), pagu penggunaan PNBP Rp 2,1 triliun (1,6 persen), pagu penggunaan BLU Rp 3,1 triliun (2,4 persen), dan SBSN Rp 0,9 triliun (0,7 persen).

Rencananya, dana ratusan triliun itu akan digunakan untuk mendukung pencapaian target prioritas pembangunan nasional bidang pertahanan. Kemhan sendiri sudah menyusun empat program untuk mencapai target prioritas pembangunan nasional bidang pertahanan, termasuk pengadaan alat tempur.

Rincian empat program itu yakni; Program Penggunaan Kekuatan, Program Modernisasi Alutsista dan Non Alutsista dan Sarana dan Prasarana Pertahanan, Program Pembinaan Sumber Daya Pertahanan, dan Program Profesionalisme dan Kesejahteraan Prajurit.
Anggaran Rp 129,3 triliun juga akan digunakan untuk memenuhi sasaran output strategis Kemhan pada tahun 2021 yakni pengadaan alutsista baru. Hanya saja tidak jelaskan secara rinci jenis alutsista yang akan dibeli oleh Kemhan.

Terkait hal ini, tertulis dalam dokumen itu sebagai berikut:
Adapun beberapa sasaran output strategis Kementerian Pertahanan pada tahun 2021 antara lain:
(1) dukungan pengadaan alutsista sebanyak 5 paket;
(2) dukungan pengadaan munisi kaliber kecil sebanyak 1 kegiatan;
(3) dukungan pengadaan/penggantian kendaraan tempur sebanyak 12 unit;
(4) KRI, KAL, Alpung dan Ranpur/Rantis Matra Laut sebanyak 14 unit;
(5) Dukungan pengadaan/penggantian pesawat udara dan lainnya sebanyak 4 unit.

Alokasi rupiah murni juga ditujukan untuk penyelesaian proyek/kegiatan yang ditunda/terhambat akibat adanya pandemi COVID-19 di tahun anggaran 2020.

(Kumparan)

01 Juli 2020

Latihan penembakan udara ke darat pada malam hari (all photos : TNI AU)

TNI AU. Lanud Iswahjudi kembali menggelar latihan guna meningkatkan kemampuan para penerbang tempur di jajarannya. Saat ini, para penerbang tempur Skadron Udara 3 dan Skadron Udara 15 mengikuti latihan penembakan udara ke darat di malam hari atau Night Air to Ground dan latihan Night Vision Goggles (NVG).

Latihan yang direncanakan berlangsung selama satu minggu ini dilaksanakan di Pulung AWR (Air Weapon Range) yang berada di Kabupaten Ponorogo.

Latihan Night Air to Ground bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan para penerbang dalam melaksanakan penembakan dari udara ke sasaran yang ada di daratan pada malam hari. Pada latihan ini, para penerbang dilatihkan beberapa profile penembakan yang nantinya akan digunakan dalam melaksanakan misi-misi operasi TNI Angkatan Udara.

Sementara latihan NVG bertujuan meningkatkan kemampuan para penerbang dalam menggunakan peralatan Night Vision Goggles (NVG). NVG adalah peralatan yang mampu menangkap thermal imaging yaitu objek yang terlihat memancarkan sinar infra red. NVG dapat membantu para penerbang untuk melihat permukaan (surface) pada saat malam hari, sehingga dapat meningkatkan situational awareness bagi penerbang dalam melaksanakan operasi pada malam hari.

Selain bertujuan meningkatkan kemampuan para penerbang, latihan ini juga melatih ground crew dalam menyiapkan pesawat maupun armament yang akan digunakan untuk latihan Night Air to Ground.

(TNI AU)

02 Juli 2020

M1A2 Abrams of ADF (photo : Australian Army)

The Australian Department of Defense has announced the start of the search for a supplier of simulators (Immersive Tactical Trainer) for M1A2 Abrams tanks. The request for quotation was published by the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG) within the department.

The acquisition plan for the M1A2 tank simulators is part of the LAND 907 Phase 2 program. Australians are looking for a training system supplier that meets the requirements of Immersive Tactical Training and Procedural Gunnery Training. The devices are to enable the training of tank crews to Army Training Level 6.

Two subsets of simulators will be acquired. One of them will include Immersive Tactical Trainer - Fixed (ITT-F) devices enabling training of four tank crews. ITT-F is to be placed in the building. The second subset of the Immersive Tactical Trainer - Containerised (ITT-C) simulators concerns the delivery of three container sets. Each ITT-C set will have four containers, which will allow the simulation of four tank crews. ITT-C are to be placed in 20-foot ISO containers. Deliveries of simulators are to be made by the first quarter of 2024 for ITT-F and by the third quarter of 2024 for ITT-C.

The purchase of tank simulators will enable Australian Land Forces to reduce training costs while maintaining a high degree of realism and diversification of ongoing training projects.

Australians will acquire M1A2 tank simulators. This variant is currently not included in the armament of Australian ground troops. As part of the LAND 907 Phase 2 program, it is planned to upgrade the 59 M1A1 tanks to the M1A2 variant. M88A2 technical security vehicles will also be modernized to the M88A3 variant. The estimated budget for the implementation of the entire program will be USD 0.75-1 billion. The modernization is to be completed by 2025.

(Altair)

02 Juli 2020

Sepanjang 2019 Len berhasil membukukan total nilai kontrak sebesar Rp8,1 triliun, atau 9,34 persen lebih besar dari tahun sebelumnya (photo : Len)

Bisnis.com, BANDUNG - Tahun 2019, PT Len Industri sukses membukukan pendapatan sebesar Rp4,2 triliun dan NPM (Net Profit Margin) mencapai Rp42,6 miliar.

Direktur Utama PT Len Industri, Zakky Gamal Yasin menuturkan, sepanjang 2019 Len berhasil membukukan total nilai kontrak sebesar Rp8,1 triliun, atau 9,34 persen lebih besar dari tahun sebelumnya. Dimana Rp6 triliun diantaranya merupakan kontrak baru 2019, atau 27,7 persen lebih tinggi dari targetnya.

Artinya, Rp3,9 triliun dari total nilai kontrak di antaranya menjadi carry over yang akan dikerjakan pada tahun 2020, karena sebagian kontrak baru bisa didapatkan pada akhir tahun 2019.

"Ada beberapa langkah yang harus dilakukan untuk memperbaiki kinerja perusahaan agar meningkatkan profitabilitas dan efisiensi biaya-biaya. Antara lain dengan menurunkan beban bunga, menjaga arus kas operasi, dan mengurangi pokok hutang berbunga. Meski kinerja Len menurun pada tahun 2019, sebenarnya perusahaan sudah memperbaiki presentase atau margin laba bruto dan EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization), serta perolehan kontrak kerja yang signifikan," kata dia, dalam rilis yang diterima Bisnis, Senin (29/6/2020).

Asisten Deputi Bidang Industri Pertahanan dan Manufaktur Kementerian BUMN, Liliek Mayasari menyebutkan bahwa pihaknya tetap memberikan apresiasi kepada Direksi dan Dewan Komisaris yang masih bisa membawa perusahaan meraih laba positif, dengan beberapa catatan yang harus terus diperhatikan dan juga segera diperbaiki. Strategic lesson yang disampaikan juga harus benar-benar dilaksanakan agar kinerja perusahaan semakin baik.

Selanjutnya, Komisaris Utama PT Len Industri, Leonardi juga menyampaikan bahwa tahun ini pihaknya akan semakin intens dalam mengawasi perusahaan. Dewan komisaris selaku perpanjangan tangan pemegang saham, mendapat tugas pengawasan terhadap kinerja anak perusahaan agar tetap in-line dengan core business dan road-map induk perusahaan serta bisa memberikan kontribusi maksimal.

Sementara itu, pada usahanya, lini bisnis Sistem Transportasi masih menjadi yang paling dominan menyumbangkan 37,7 persen dari total pendapatan perusahaan. Diikuti oleh Lini Bisnis Elektronika Pertahanan sebesar 24,5 persen, Renewable Energy sebesar 12,0 persen, ICT sebesar 11,3 persen, serta Sistem Navigasi sebesar 10,9 persen.

Untuk pertama kalinya, lini Bisnis Pertahanan berhasil membukukan pendapatan Rp1 triliun dan diprediksi akan kembali berkinerja lebih baik pada tahun 2020. Tahun ini tercatat, Len sudah menandatangani proyek strategis pekerjaan modernisasi MRLF MLM (Multi Role Light Frigate - Mid Life Modernization) KRI Usman Harun, joint produk drone MALE (Black Eagle), dan pengadaan Radar Pertahanan 3D Medium Range untuk TNI AU.

Kontribusi pendapatan konsolidasian tahun 2019 berasal dari proyek multiyears tahun sebelumnya serta proyek baru, seperti Light Rail Transit (LRT) Jabodebek, Sistem Pertahanan Udara Starstreak, Tactical Data Link, PLTS BTS (Pembangkit Listrik Tenaga Surya), Stasiun Seismic BMKG, serta Managed Service Partner BRIBox.

"Diharapkan, usaha PT Len Industri dalam mengembangkan pasar ke regional atau global beberapa tahun terakhir segera membuahkan hasil positif untuk mengimbangi fluktuasi pasar domestik yang rentan terhadap situasi politik nasional," katanya.

(Bisnis)

02 Juli 2020

Thailand is preparing to set up its first defence industry estate, with the aim to support local programmes such as the upgrade of Royal Thai Air Force Northrop F-5 fighter aircraft (photo : Jane's)

Thailand’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) is pushing ahead with plans to establish the country’s first defence industrial estate with the aim to boost self-sufficiency.

The MoD aims to develop the estate through a public-private partnership through which the government will collaborate with local and foreign companies in investing in infrastructure and facilities.

As part of the plan, the MoD will also relocate elements of the country’s extensive network of military-owned defence industrial facilities within the estate.

The new defence industry estate – once operational - will be positioned to meet the requirements of the Royal Thai Armed Forces in terms of manufacturing and related services such as maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO). It is hoped that the estate would also meet regional requirements in Southeast Asia.

In recent months, the government has been reviewing two sites for the proposed estate: one in Kanchanaburi, 150 km west of Bangkok, and one in Chonburi, about 100 km east.

Kanchanaburi is the more favoured of the two. Janes understands that government ministries recently started a feasibility study with a view to setting up the estate on military-owned land within the province. The study is expected to be complete in August.

“Kanchanaburi is most suitable for the defence industrial estate because the province is one of the special economic zones set by the government,” said General Naphon Sangsomwong, deputy permanent secretary for defence, in comments reported by the Bangkok Post newspaper on 24 June.

(Jane's)

02 Juli 2020

KAL Talise II-6-65 dan KAL Manakarra II-6-66 (all photos : TNI AL)

Makassar, Dua kapal perang baru Kapal Angkatan Laut (KAL) Talise II-6-65 dan KAL Manakarra II-6-66 perkuat patroli keamanan laut di jajaran Pangkalan Utama TNI AL VI (Lantamal VI) Makassar. Penyambutan dua KAL) tersebut dilaksanakan di dermaga Layang Mako Lantamal VI , Selasa, (30/06/2020).

Tampak Komandan Lantamal VI Laksamana Pertama TNI Hanarko Djodi Pamungkas bersama sejumlah pejabat Lantamal VI menyambut kedatangan dua kapal perang tersebut .

Menurut Komandan Lantamal VI dua Kapal perang ini merupakan produksi dalam negeri .
” 2 Unit Kapal perang yaitu KAL Talise II-6-65 untuk Lanal Palu dan KAL Manakarra II-6-66 untuk Lanal Mamuju tersebut merupakan buatan dalam negeri dari PT. Palindo Marine Shipyard Batam” ujar Komandan Lantamal VI.

Lebih lanjut dikatakan dua KAL 28 M ini, memiliki spesifikasi panjang 28,98 meter, lebar 6,20 meter, dengan berat 90 ton. Kapal tersebut memiliki kecepatan maksimal 28 knots, dengan kecepatan jelajah 18 knots, dan membawa ABK sebanyak 15 orang, serta mampu berlayar selama 3 hari

Sedangkan untuk persenjataan dua kapal perang tersebut dilengkapi meriam Rheinmetal 20 MM 1 pucuk di haluan dan meriam 12,7 MM 2 pucuk di geladak isyarat, jelas Komandan Lantamal VI.

KAL Talise II-6-65 yang dikomandani Lettu Laut (P) Feriyanto akan memperkuat Lanal Palu dan KAL Manakarra II-6-66 yang dikomandani Kapten Laut (P) B.Wiratama akan bertugas di Lanal Mamuju yang merupakan Pangkalan TNI AL jajaran Lantamal VI Makassar, pungkasnya.

Turut hadir dalam penyambutan 2 KAL tersebut, Wadan Lantamal VI, Para Asisten Danlantamal VI, Dansatrol Lantamal VI serta sejumlah Kadis dan Kasatker Lantamal VI.

(Koarmada 2)

03 Juli 2020

First AESA radar for KF-X will be publicly unveiled on August 12th (all photos : ROK Armed Forces)

The domestic defense industry has completed the production of a radar prototype for the multi-function phased array (AESA) of the core equipment of the Korean Fighter Aircraft (KFX), which was once even evaluated that it would not be possible to develop with domestic technology. It was confirmed.

According to government sources on the 2nd, the government and military authorities recently produced prototypes of the final AESA radar before and after August 12, and the Defense Science Research Institute researchers and Hanwha Systems, which contributed to the development of the finished domestic AESA radar products. The event will be held by inviting officials.

Previously, the researchers challenged and evaluated the performance evaluation in Israel, which has internationally recognized radar technology with the core functional parts of AESA Radar. The Israeli radar industry is said to have praised the performance of radar functional parts that Korea first developed with its own technology, exceeding expectations.

An official from the government said, “The ceremony scheduled for next month is particularly meaningful in that we have finally done the development of the AESA radar, which was considered to be 'impossible'.” I said.”

AESA Radar is a 'fighter's eye' that tracks and detects over 1,000 targets, and its long-range precision strike ability plays a key role in the concept of modern air combat where victory or defeat is the key.

The military authorities and the defense industry, which had been pursuing the KFX project, planned to complete the technology of developing AESA radar, which the world's leading fighter development and manufacturing companies are exposing to the top, through technology transfer from overseas leading companies.

The Defense Ministry and the Defense Acquisition Program Administration selected the F-35 from two aircraft, the F-35 stealth fighter from Lockheed Martin of the United States and the F-15 Silent Eagle from Boeing of the United States, which bid for the 2014 Air Force Next Generation Fighter Project (FX). We have been promised to transfer the four core technologies (AESA radar, infrared search tracking equipment, electro-optical target tracking equipment, and electromagnetic interference equipment).

However, the domestic defense industry, which suddenly faced a challenge by banning the transfer of the technology by the US Congress, decided to directly develop the four core technologies centered on the Defense Science Research Center, and has concentrated all available resources in this field.

In order to develop prototypes of KFX fighters, it is necessary to pass the basic design (PDR) and detailed design (CDR) stages. Passing the CDR means that you can produce the real thing with all the theoretical and technical skills necessary for KFX production.

The Agency announced that it had passed the CDR on September 26 of last year, but it was reported that the research and development team did not slow down the tension until the final stage of the production of the prototype AESA radar was completed. The military plans to produce a prototype KFX prototype that integrates AESA Radar with a KFX aircraft in the future.

(HeraldCorp)

03 Juli 2020

Royal Thai Armed Forces (photo : Sompong Nondhasa)

The Thai government has proposed a 2021 defence budget of THB223.4 billion (USD7.2 billion). Budgetary documents show that the figure represents a decline of 3.6% against the original 2020 military expenditure of THB231.7 billion.

The documents indicated that the decline is linked to economic constraints stemming from Covid-19.

In an initial reading of the 2021 budget bill in Parliament on 1 July, Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha – who is also the country’s defence minister – said the new defence expenditure would support the modernisation of the Royal Thai Armed Forces.

“We have not received a lot of funds lately to buy new weapons and other military hardware [and] about 70% to 80% of existing [equipment] is old and needs to be replaced,” Prayut told Parliament.

“Our mission is to protect the country’s sovereignty along the borders, and we have to be prepared for any new skirmishes or conflict, no matter if they happen or not.”

The 2021 budget bill will have several readings in Parliament before being submitted to the Senate for approval. Thailand’s fiscal year starts in October.

The defence budget for 2021 was proposed about two months after the government cut the original 2020 military expenditure down to THB213.7 billion, with funding reappropriated in support of a national Covid-19 stimulus package.

The 2020 cuts are expected to affect several procurement projects.

(Jane's)

03 Juli 2020

Australian defense funding will grow over the next ten years to A$73.7 billion by 2029-30 with total estimated funding of $575 billion over the decade (Graphic : Aus DoD)

Defending Australia and Its Interests

The Morrison Government will invest $270 billion over the next 10 years to upgrade the capability and potency of the Australian Defence Force to keep Australians safe while protecting the country’s interests in a changing global environment.

In its 2020 Defence Strategic Update, released today, the Morrison Government will signal a key change in Australia's defence posture, as it prioritises the Indo-Pacific region.

The update provides a new plan to tackle Australia’s defence challenges while increasing investment and personnel across the entire ADF.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the Strategic Update would also mean more job opportunities as Australia’s increasingly capable and sovereign defence industry grows.

“My first priority is keeping Australians safe,” the Prime Minister said.

“The Federal Government is committed to ensuring the Australian Defence Force is equipped to meet our growing regional challenges in the Indo-Pacific, and to achieve our goals of regional stability, peace and security.

“Whether it’s our Pacific Step Up, our engagement with regional neighbours, or our deepening cooperation with partners new and old, our focus must be on the Indo-Pacific – it’s where we live and where our interests are.

“Our new strategic defence policy ensures that the Indo-Pacific is front of mind for our ADF and is prioritised in the decisions we make on our deployments and our force structure and capabilities.

“We are also providing Defence with the funding certainty it needs to deliver on our new strategic defence policy.

“This will ensure we are able to shape our environment, deter actions against our interests and, if required, respond with military force.

“More broadly, we are ensuring Defence has more durable supply chains, while further strengthening Australia’s sovereign defence industry to create more high-tech Australian jobs and enhance the ADF’s self-reliance.”

These new policy settings will be a long-term undertaking for Defence with implementation underway.

Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC said the recent bushfire season and the COVID-19 pandemic has introduced a further dimension to what national defence entails, now and into the future.

“Defence thinking, strategy and planning have shifted gears to respond to our constantly changing and deteriorating strategic and defence environment,” Minister Reynolds said.

“Australia’s security environment is changing quickly, with militarisation, disruptive technological change and new grey zone threats making our region less safe.

“That’s why this Government will invest in more lethal and long-range capabilities to hold adversary forces and infrastructure at risk further from Australia, including longer-range strike weapons, offensive cyber capabilities and area denial capabilities.

“We will also invest in capabilities to give Australia better awareness of our region and to support regional engagement, while substantially increasing our air and sea lift capability to ensure we can rapidly respond to events across our region.

“These investments will provide significantly increased opportunity for Australia’s Defence industry, which the Morrison Government is committed to further strengthening.”

Australia’s defence industry is growing with over 4,000 businesses employing approximately 30,000 staff. An additional 11,000 Australian companies directly benefit from Defence investment and, when further downstream suppliers are included, the benefits flow to approximately 70,000 workers.

Defence planning will prioritise Australia’s immediate region – ranging from the north-eastern Indian Ocean, through maritime and mainland South East Asia to Papua New Guinea and the South West Pacific.

As a result, the new strategic policy will require force structure and capability adjustments, which are focused on the region, responding to grey-zone challenges that threaten our national interests, the possibility of high-intensity conflict and domestic crises.

The long-term implications for Defence capability and force structure are outlined in the 2020 Force Structure Plan, which has also been released.

See full article Aus Gov

03 Juli 2020

Kasau di hangar pesawat Sukhoi (all photos : TNI AU)

Kasau Kunjungi Simulator Sukhoi Hingga Hanggar Hercules

TNI AU. MAKASSAR, DISPENAU. Kunjungan kerja (kunker) Kepala Staf Angkatan Udara Marsekal TNI Fadjar Prasetyo, S.E., M.P.P. di Lanud Sultan Hasanuddin, Makassar, diisi dengan meninjau proyek pembangunan simulator pesawat tempur Sukhoi di Skadron Udara 11, armada pesawat Boeing intai strategis di Skadron Udara 5, dan pembangunan hanggar Hercules di Skadron Udara 33, Rabu (1/7/2020).

Pembangunan fasilitas simulator pesawat Sukhoi di Makassar diharapkan Kasau mampu meningkatkan kemampuan dan profesionalisme para penerbang Skadron Udara 11 karena pelatihan dapat dilakukan di dalam negeri yang sebelumnya selalu dilaksanakan di negara lain.

“Simulator ini buatan Rusia dan total yang akan kita miliki ada 10 unit, terdiri dari 8 unit FTD (Flight Training Device) dan 2 unit FMS (Full Mission Simulator) sehingga saya berharap fasilitas ini dapat lebih meningkatkan kemampuan para penerbang tempur kita,” ujar Kasau.

Pada kunjungannya ke Skadron Udara 5 dan 33, Kasau menyampaikan terima kasih kepada seluruh personel yang telah melaksanakan tugas dengan baik dengan kondisi sarana dan prasarana yang belum sepenuhnya ideal. Hingga saat ini, pembangunan hanggar Skadron Udara 33 masih terus berlangsung dan untuk sementara menempati salah satu bangunan yang terdapat di Lanud Sultan Hasanuddin Makassar.

Kasau berpesan untuk tetap semangat dalam menjalankan tugas di tengah kondisi keterbatasan. “Meskipun saat ini sarana, prasarana, dan personel masih minim, namun jangan menyurutkan tekad dan semangat kalian untuk memberikan yang terbaik bagi bangsa dan negara,” tegas Kasau.

Kedatangan Kasau beserta rombongan disambut Komandan Lanud Sultan Hasanuddin Marsma TNI H. Haris Haryanto, S.I.P., dan pasukan jajar kehormatan. Pangkoopsau II, Kaskoopsau II, Pangkosekhanudnas II, beserta para pejabat Koopsau II dan Kosekhanudnas II turut menyambut kunnjungan kerja Kasau di Makassar.

Turut hadir mendampingi Kasau, Asrena Kasau, Aslog Kasau, Pangkohanudnas, Danpuspomau, Kadisopslatau, Kadiswatpersau, dan Kasubdisfasdukbang Diskonsau.

(TNI AU)

04 Juli 2020

PAF S-70i Blackhawk helicopter (photo : Kępanowski)

One of the soon to be delivered S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters (CUHs) of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) was spotted sitting on a trailer truck by Tomasz Kępanowski who is part of EPRZ Spotting Team.

Information on when the photo was taken was not specified, but the photo was uploaded by Kępanowski on Instagram, July 1, 2020.

Both Republic of Poland Ambassador to the Philippines Jarosław Szczepankiewicz and PAF have confirmed that around 6 of 16 ordered S-70i Black Hawk CUHs will be delivered before 2020 ends.

“The purchase of 16 S-70i combat-utility helicopters manufactured by the Polish Aviation Works-Mielec (PZL-Mielec) is an excellent example of cooperation between our two countries,” Ambassador Szczepankiewicz said in June. “By the end of 2020, PZL-Mielec will hand over the first six units of S-70i Black Hawk helicopters to the PAF under a contract signed in 2019.”

“On Combat Utility Helicopters, the delivery of 5 to 6 Blackhawk S70i is expected before the year ends,” PAF also said in June.

Ambassador Szczepankiewicz also noted that an armed version of S-70i Black Hawk is also being offered.

“A fully armed version of the S-70i matches the needs of the PAF expressed in its program,” the envoy said. “The commonality between the armed Black Hawk and the already contracted 16 S-70is for the PAF combat-utility helicopter program will further enhance sustained cost-efficiencies between the two fleets. Armed S-70is are already in commission in three countries: the United States, the United Arab Emirates, and Colombia.”

(Mintfo)

04 Juli 2020

Scania tank transporter (all photos : Kostrad)

(Penkostrad) - Satuan Yonif Mekanis Raider 413 Kostrad merupakan salah satu satuan dibawah Brigif Mekanis Raider 6 Kostrad yang bermarkas di wilayah Kabupaten Sukoharjo. Beberapa tahun terakhir satuan ini dibekali dengan Tank Tempur M113, kini kembali di diberikan suatu kepercayaan besar oleh komando atas, dengan didatangkannya Alutsista baru berupa Transporter Pengangkut Tank.

Kedatangan Alutsista baru ini tiba di Markas Yonif Mekanis Raider 413 Bremoro Divif 2 Kostrad, berupa 3 (Tiga) unit kendaraan Angkut Transporter untuk pendistribusian Ranpur M113 ke daerah latihan maupun daerah penugasan.

Alutsista yang dikirim dari Direktorat Peralatan Angkatan Darat (Dirpalad) tersebut diterima langsung oleh Komandan Yonif Mekanis Raider 413 Kostrad, Mayor Inf Anggun Wuriyanto, S.H., M.Han.

Danyon mengatakan, bahwa dengan adanya kendaraan Transporter tersebut maka menambah kekuatan Alutsista Yonif Mekanis Raider 413 Kostrad. Namun dengan datangnya Alutsista ini berarti tugas dan tanggung jawab kita juga semakin bertambah, seluruh prajurit dituntut lebih professional dan berbuat semaksimal mungkin, guna kepentingan pertahanan dan keamanan Bangsa.

(Kostrad)

04 Juli 2020

AES 212 electronic intelligent system (image : Elbit)

HAIFA, Israel (NASDAQ: ESLT) (TASE: ESLT) ("Elbit Systems" or "the Company") announced today that it was awarded a contract valued at approximately $53 million to provide and integrate intelligence suites onboard vessels of the Navy of a country in Southeast Asia. The contract will be performed over a two-year period.

Under the contract Elbit Systems will equip several vessels with suites that provide the capability to perform complex reconnaissance missions, generating an operational picture of the air, surface and underwater domains.

Elbit Systems will supply and integrate comprehensive suites comprised of an array of systems from across the Company's maritime portfolio, including: AES-212 electronic intelligence systems, NATACS naval tactical communication intelligence systems and jamming capabilities, SPECTRO XR™ electro-optical payloads, M670 hull mounted sonars, TRAPS towed reel-able active/passive sonars, underwater communication systems and combat management systems. The program also includes maritime radars and satellite communication capabilities. In addition, the Company will provide training services.

Elad Aharonson, General Manager of Elbit Systems ISTAR Division, said: "There is growing demand for our maritime solutions. I believe that the unique combination of a diverse portfolio of operational systems and groundbreaking technological innovation enables us to effectively address the evolving needs of maritime forces."

(Elbit Systems)

04 Juli 2020

F/A-18E/F with LRASM (photo : US Navy)

Long-range strike capabilities to maintain regional security

Australia will invest in new long-range strike capabilities to maintain regional security and deter or respond to aggression in the Indo-Pacific, as part of the 2020 Defence Strategic Update and Force Structure Plan.

The new investments will be made across the air, maritime and land assets to give the Australian Defence Force more options to protect Australia’s interests.

“The challenges and changing nature in the Indo-Pacific have meant we need a new approach and one that actively seeks to deter actions that are against our interests,” the Prime Minister said.

“These new capabilities will provide a strong credible deterrent in our region that will help provide the stability and security we need.

“We are committed to peace and stability in the region, and an open, inclusive, prosperous and sovereign Indo-Pacific.”

Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC, said military capability in our region is modernising rapidly and we need to maintain a regional capability edge.

“It is essential that we have the capabilities that can hold forces and infrastructure at risk from a greater distance, to influence decision-making of those who may seek to threaten our national interests,” Minister Reynolds said.

The Morrison Government’s commitment to this new strategic policy setting is demonstrated with the decision to acquire an advanced maritime strike capability, the AGM-158C Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM), from the United States Navy (USN), at an estimated cost of around $800 million.

The new missile is a significant upgrade from our current AGM-84 air-launched Harpoon anti-ship missile, which was introduced in the early 1980s, with a range of 124 kilometres. The LRASM has a range in excess of 370 kilometres.

LRASM will initially be used on the F/A-18F Super Hornets and has the flexibility to be integrated onto other Defence aircraft. Training on the weapon system is set to commence in 2021.

LRASM will be another fifth-generation capability added to the Air Force inventory to protect Australia’s maritime region, including our sea lines of communication and helping ensure regional maritime security.

This is the first in a long-term plan to procure advanced longer-range strike weapon systems for our combat aircraft to allow Air Force to operate at greater range and avoid increasingly sophisticated air defences.

To enhance the strike capability of the ADF across all domains, the Government has also put in place plans to invest in:

-advanced naval strike capabilities, including long-range anti-ship and land strike weapons
-the acquisition of long-range rocket artillery and missile systems to give the Army an operational strike capability
-the development, test and evaluation of high-speed long range strike, including hypersonic weapons.

Over the decade to 2029-30, investment in the acquisition of new capability will grow from $14.4 billion (34 per cent of the budget) to $29.2 billion (40 per cent of the budget).

The Government will also consider further force structure adjustments over the medium to longer term, which could involve the introduction of additional, longer-range weapon systems, which will be critical for the ADF to be able to continue to deliver credible deterrent effects.

(Aus DoD)

05 Juli 2020

While Australia originally said it would pick an in-service design for its new frigates, it finally selected the Type 26 design, whose Australian variant has now reportedly grown from 8,800 to 10,000 tonnes, sparking concerns over its cost and performance (image : BAE)

Frigate Heads Back to Drawing Board

The [Australian] navy's A$35 billion fleet of new frigates is undergoing design changes because they have become too heavy, risking a cost blowout for taxpayers and potentially compromising their performance.

The Defence Department confirmed BAE System's Hunter class frigate has become longer, while its weight has increased.

BAE Systems conceded the frigate may have to swell in size but insisted it would still meet the navy's requirements.

The Australian Financial Review understands senior naval officers are beginning to have misgivings, although the relationship is nowhere near as strained as it is with the French submarine designer Naval Group.

The government selected BAE Systems in June 2018 to build nine frigates in Adelaide, ahead of Spanish shipbuilder Navantia and Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri.

Both European shipbuilders had put forward designs based on ships already in service with their respective navies, but BAE's Type 26 was a new design and at that stage only had one ship under construction for the Royal Navy.

The initial design, as pitched to the government, gave the frigate a weight of 8800 tonnes when fully loaded and length of 149.9 metres.

See full article Financial Review

05 Juli 2020

Kapal selam KRI Nagapasa 403 melaksanakan docking (photo : PAL)

Surabaya - Kapal Selam Nagapasa Class Melaksanakan #DryDocking di Dok Irian PT PAL Indonesia (Persero). Kapal Selam Nagapasa Class akan melaksanakan docking selama 25 hari untuk maintenance dan perawatan rutin.
..
Saat ini Indonesia memiliki 3 unit kapal selam Nagapasa Class, dua diantaranya telah dioperasikan oleh TNI AL dan satu unit masih dalam tahap pengujian oleh PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) sebagai pembangun dan TNI AL yang dijalankan oleh Satgas Kapal Selam Alugoro.

(PAL)

05 Juli 2020

SPYDER Ground based air defence (photo : Rafael)

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) approved a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) with amount of PHP 2,396,362,500.00 for the Department of National Defense (DND)’s Ground-Based Air Defense System (GBADS) Acquisition Project under the Revised AFP Modernization Program on June 9, 2020.

The SARO (SARO-BMB-D-20-0011482) was released June 11, 2020. SARO is an authorization issued by DBM to an agency allowing to incur obligation for specified amounts contained in a legislative appropriation.

DBM first released a SARO related to the GBADS Acquisition Project for Philippine Air Force (PAF) on June 6, 2019 to “cover the FY 2019 cost for the implementation of Ground-Based Air Defense System Acquisition Project under the Revised AFP Modernization Program.”

In July 2019, former PAF commander commanding general Lieutenant General Rozzano D. Briguez said that Secretary of National Defense (SND) Delfin Lorenzana has approved the Notice of Award (NOA) for the GBADS Acquisition Project.

In January 2019, Secretary Lorenzana confirmed to state-run news agency PNA that Philippines will acquire the SPYDER (Surface-to-air PYthon and DERby) air defense system developed by Israeli Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.

In December 2018, former PAF commanding general Lieutenant General Galileo Gerard Kintanar Jr. said that the deal for acquisition of 3 GBADS from Israel is nearing conclusion.

(Mintfo)

05 Juli 2020

Hawkei with RWS (photo : Contact)

New weapons boost Army capability and secure jobs

The Morrison Government will acquire 251 Remote Weapon Stations that will better protect Army personnel on operations while boosting Australian jobs and opportunities for small businesses.

The Remote Weapon Stations, which allow a gunner to operate a weaponised system from a protected position, will be added to the Army’s Bushmaster and Hawkei protected mobility vehicles.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the new weapons were part of the $270 billion capability upgrade for the Australian Defence Force, under the new 2020 Force Structure Plan.

“The Federal Government is committed to ensuring Australian Defence Force personnel have the tools they need to protect themselves and keep Australians safe,” the Prime Minister said.

“At the same time we must have a robust and resilient defence industry that maximises opportunities for small businesses and supports Australian jobs and local investment.”

Minister for Defence Senator Linda Reynolds CSC said the 2020 Defence Strategic Update and the 2020 Force Structure Plan would strengthen the ADF’s capabilities to respond to an increasingly challenging strategic environment.

“The Morrison Government is investing a record $270 billion in Defence capability and infrastructure over the next decade,” Minister Reynolds said.

“Investments such as the acquisition of Remote Weapon Stations will make the ADF more capable for the wide range of potential scenarios and threats Australia will face in the future.”

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the investment in new remote weapon stations would provide job stability for over 200 of Electro Optic Systems’ workforce directly involved in engineering and support.

“This investment not only secures local jobs but it also provides certainty for over 100 supply chain businesses across Australia,” Minister Price said.

“More than 80 per cent of the parts that Electro Optic Systems use for these weapons are sourced through the Australian supply chain and that’s good for jobs and small businesses.

“While the Federal Government’s focus is on keeping Australians safe, our investments in Defence have a significant benefit for Australian businesses and workers – around 15,000 businesses and 70,000 workers benefit from our investments and that’s set to grow.”

(Aus DoD)

Missile Boats Project to Push Thru amid Covid-19: Navy

Progress of Key Singapore Armed Forces Projects

Menhan Prabowo Ajukan Anggaran Rp 129,3 Triliun, Termasuk untuk Beli Alat Tempur

Lanud Iswahjudi Gelar Latihan Night Air to Ground dan NVG Training

Australia is Looking for Tank Simulators

PT Len Bukukan Pendapatan Tahun 2019 Rp 4,2 Triliun

Thailand Plans New ‘Defence Industry Estate'

Dua Kapal Patroli Baru Perkuat Patroli Keamanan Laut di Jajaran Lantamal VI

AESA Radar Prototype Production for KF-X Fighter Completed

Thailand Proposes 2021 Defence Budget Reduction

Australia Launches 10-Year, A$270Bn Defense Upgrade

Kasau Melihat Progres Fasilitas Simulator Sukhoi

PHL Air Force’s Ordered S-70i Black Hawk Helicopter Spotted

3 Unit Transporter untuk Yonif Mekanis Raider 413/Divif 2 Kostrad

Elbit Systems Awarded $53 Million Contract to Supply and Integrate Intelligence Suites to a Navy in Southeast Asia

Australia to Buy LRASM, Boost Long-Range Strike Capabilities

Overweight, Australian Frigate Design Heads Back to Drawing Board

Kapal Selam Nagapasa Class Laksanakan Dry Docking di PT PAL

P2.39 Billion SARO Released for Acquisition of Israeli Air Defense System

Australia will Acquire 251 Remote Weapon Stations for Bushmaster and Hawkei