DEFENSE STUDIES

04 Juli 2014

Kapal Cepat Rudal ketiga buatan PT PAL (photo : Kelana Kota)

PT PAL Rampungkan Pembangunan Kapal Cepat Rudal

suarasurabaya.net - PT PAL Indonesia kembali rampungkan sebuah kapal perang jenis Kapal Cepat Rudal (KCR) 60 meter. Kapal ini melengkapi dua kapal sebelumnya yang juga telah rampung dibangun. Bahkan satu KCR 60 meter juga telah diserah terimakan ke TNI Angkatan Laut pada 28 Juni 2014 dan diberi nama KRI Sampari.

Untuk Kapal kedua, saat ini dalam tahap uji coba dan diberinama KRI Tombak, sementara kapal ke-tiga yang bernama KRI Halasan, Jumat (4/7/2014) secara resmi diluncurkan menandai rampungnya pembuatan. Peluncuran ditandai dengan memasukkan kapal untuk pertama kalinya ke lautan yang berada di Dermaga Ujung, PT PAL Surabaya.

Peluncuran kapal ke-tiga kali ini dilakukan oleh jajaran Dewan Komisaris PT PAL dan jajaran petinggi TNI AL. "Setelah hari ini peluncuran, mungkin bulan depan KCR ini juga kami serah terimakan," kata Syaiful Anwar, Direktur Desain dan Teknologi PT PAL.

KCR-60 KRI Halasan 630 (photo : Suara Surabaya)

KCR 60 meter produksi PT PAL ini memiliki spesifikasi :
- Panjang keseluruhan (LOA) : 60 M
- Panjang garis air (LWL) : 54.82 M
- Lebar (B) : 8.10 M
- Tinggi pada tengah kapal (T) : 4.85 M
- Berat muatan penuh (Displacement) : 460 Ton
- Kecepatan : berlayar 15 Knot, Jelajah 20 Knot dan max 28 Knot.
- Dilengkapi persenjataan canggih, berupa Meriam dan Peluncur Rudal seri C705 dan 802
- Jumlah penumpang 55 Orang- Ketahanan berlayar 9 Hari- Mesin pendorong 2 x 2880 kw

Selain produksi KCR, PT PAL sebenarnya juga telah berhasil memproduksi 43 kapal patroli, baik berukuran 28 meter hingga 57 meter pesanan Kementerian Pertahanan.

Sementara itu, Laksamana Muda TNI Suyitno, Aslog KASAL mengatakan tiga kapal KCR 60 ini bukanlah yang terakhir di pesan di PT PAL. "Kami saat ini masih pesan lagi dengan total nanti ada 16 KCR 60 meter pesan di PT PAL serta 16 KCR 40 meter," kata Suyitno.

Pembangunan KCR ini, kata dia, merupakan langkah awal untuk kemandirian alutsista khususnya bagi TNI AL. Harapannya pada tahun 2024 mendatang, TNI benar-benar sudah mandiri dalam membangun seluruh persenjataannya.

(Suara Surabaya)

04 Juli 2014

Malaysian made speedboat for PMC donated by Government of Sulu (photo : provice of Sulu)

THE Second Marine Brigade command has received a 32-footer speedboat from the Provincial Government of Sulu, a top military official said Friday.

The 600-horsepower speedboat, which is powered by three outboard motors, is a Malaysian-made watercraft.

“This is a welcome move by the provincial government, a manifestation of the strong partnership and collaboration of the local government and the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Second Marine Brigade commander Brigadier General Martin Pinto said.

Pinto said the speedboat as capable of conducting maritime patrols to intercept and apprehend lawless elements engaged in illegal activities particularly to the series of kidnapping activities within the area of responsibility of his command.

He said the speedboat will enhance their capability in maritime law enforcement operations within the waters of Sulu and nearby island municipalities.

(SunStar)

05 Juli 2014

Merkava Mk IV MBT (photo : Military Today)

Source IntelligenceOnline.com reports that Singapore will be the first foreign buyer of major Israeli tanks series Merkava. According to these reports, Singapore signed a contract for the purchase of 50 tanks Merkava Mk 4 new construction. According to the resource, the transaction amount reaches $ 500 million

Earlier, at the beginning of June 2014, the Israeli newspaper "Yediot Ahronot", citing a source in the Israeli Defense Ministry announced the signing of export agency of the Ministry of Defence Shibata first export contract for the Merkava Mk 4 tanks, without naming the customer and saying only that it is a country, "related long-term relationships with Israel in the field of security. "Also does not provide any details, except that the amount of the contract is "several hundred million dollars."

Merkava tanks series produced in the Israeli public a tank factory in Tel Hashomer in 1979, however, despite the considerable interest shown in him at different times by different potential foreign customers, never exported. This let low rates of production of tanks Merkava, their high cost, as well as export restrictions by both the U.S. (acting supplier significant portion of the tank units and systems and provide partial funding for the program of the issue), and most of the Israeli Ministry of Defense. Now, for reasons mainly economic plan, Israel's Defense Ministry has issued export permits Merkava Mk 4.

Singapore since 2007 acquired are considered 182 Leopard 2A4 tanks from the German Bundeswehr presence (part of them for use on parts and conversion into special machines), and is currently carrying out a program of modernization.

(BMPD)

05 Juli 2014

F-16C TNI AU (photo : TNI AU)

Penerbangan Uji Fungsi F-16 Peace Bima Sena II Berhasil

Pelaksanaan Functional Check Flight atau Uji Fungsi pesawat F16C-52ID ber nomor ekor TS 1625 telah sukses dilaksanakan pada tanggal 21 April 2014. Pesawat berkursi tunggal ini merupakan pesawat pertama yang telah selesai melaksanakan program regenerisasi di Depo Regenerisasi Hill AFB. Proyek yang dinamakan Peace Bima sena II yang memakan waktu hampir 14 bulan ini dimulai sejak bulan April 2013. Penerbangan Uji Fungsi dilaksanakan untuk memastikan semua sistem yang terintregrasi bisa beroperasi dengan baik.

Sebelumnya Kepala Staf Angkatan Udara (Kasau), Marsekal TNI I.B Putu Dunia didampingi Atase Udara RI di Washington DC, Kol Pnb Benedictus B Koessetianto dan Technical Liaison Officer Mayor Tek. Subagyo telah melaksanakan kunjungan kerja selama 2 hari di Depo Regenerasi Hill AFB, Utah pada tanggal 4-5 April 2014. Dalam kunjungan tersebut Kasau menerima laporan dari Maj Gen Brent Baker, Komandan Kompleks Logistik tentang pelaksanaan regenerasi F-16 C/D-52ID dalam Proyek Peace Bima Sena II di Hill AFB. Dalam kesempatan tersebut Kasau melaksanakan inspeksi ke hangar tempat regenerasi pesawat dilaksanakan. Kasau juga melihat langsung pesawat pertama (TS 1625) yang telah selesai melaksanakan upgrade dan modifikasi. Kasau menyampaikan harapan agar regenerasi dapat dilaksanakan secara optimal sesuai jadwal yang telah direncanakan.

TS-1625, pesawat F-16C Block 52ID yang selesai pertama (photo : Agus Dwi Aryanto)

Pengadaan 24 pesawat F16 C/D-52ID merupakan kerjasama antara Pemerintah AS dan Indonesia berdasarkan kontrak yang ditandatangani pada tanggal 17 Januri 2012. Pelaksanaan regenerasi meliputi structural/airframe upgrade 24 pesawat Block 25 agar mempunyai usia pakai lebih lama, serta modernisasi sistem avionic dan engine. Diharapkan program regenerasi akan meningkatkan kemampuan struktur pesawat sehingga dapat dioperasikan hingga mencapai masa usia pakai (service life) optimal. Disisi lain modernisasi avionic dan engine pesawat akan memiliki kemampuan tempur yang setara dengan F-16 block 52.

Selain pengadaan 24 pesawat F-16, kontrak kerjasama juga meliputi pengadaan spare parts, support equipment, training, JMPS (Joint Mission Planning System), RIAIS (Rackmont Improve Aivonic Intermediate System ), AME (Alternate Mission Equipment) dan PMEL (Precision Measurment Equipment Laboratory). Dua puluh pesawat F-16 C/D-52ID yang terdiri dari lima pesawat F-16 D berkursi ganda dan 19 pesawat F-16 C berkursi tunggal akan dikirimkan secara bertahap ke Indonesia. Enam orang penerbang Skadron Udara 3 sudah mulai melaksanakan pelatihan “Differential Training” di Tucson Arizona mulai tanggal 30 Juni-14 Juli 2014. Selanjutnya dua penerbang akan ikut ferry flight tiga pesawat pertama dari Utah-Alaska–Guam–Madiun dengan air refueling sepanjang perjalanan yang direncanakan berangkat tanggal 15 Juli hingga tanggal 20 Juli 2014 tiba di Lanud Iswahjudi, Madiun Jawa Timur.

Pengadaan 24 F-16 C/D-52ID tersebut akan melengkapi Skadron Udara 3 Lanud Iswahjudi dan Skadron Udara 16 Lanud Rusmin Nuryadin untuk menambah kekuatan tempur TNI Angkatan Udara sebagai tulang punggung kekuatan dirgantara (Air Power) kita demi menjaga Keamanan Nasional Indonesia.

(TNI AU)

07 Juli 2014

HTMS Naresuan FFG-421 and HTMS Taksin FFG-422 is a modified version of the Chinese-made Type 053 frigate, cooperatively designed by the Royal Thai Navy and China but built by the China State Shipbuilding Corporation in Shanghai (photo : Thai Defense News)

The combat system features a modern Saab aboard the guided missile Eastern Gate of the Royal Thai Navy's fleet. Royal Navy HTMS Naresuan and Taksin has made the defense of the fleet Thailand has stepped to the next level and stepped to the forefront of the fleet in the region.

Royal Navy HTMS Naresuan and Taksin has been installed at the battle system (CMS), SAAB 9LV Mk4 with the latest technology. And fire control system (FCS) CEROS 200/EOS 500 for subsequent contracts for equipment visibility and communication procedures. Sabrina was selected to install the director of Battle (CS) on board both ships Eastern Gate.

SAAB 9LV Mk4 Combat Management System (photo : SaabGroup)

The modernization of the CS to ship with each other, both ships have been equipped with a tactical data network (TDL's) so that the two can share tactical ship between them. And share information with Grip Payne and planes with radar to Thailand a month in advance of the Air Force. This will improve the effectiveness of the assets of both the Navy and Air Force as well.

The battle system director of SAAB 9LV to integrate sensors, weapons and data networks. Ship with each other, which makes the fight against modern threats in a variety of formats including. The Strategic Missile Threat to the surface and small surface.

EOS 500 Electro-Optical Fire Control and Observation Director (photo : Saab Group)

Accessibility Battle (CMS) model 9LV Mk4 consists of a series of console function (MFC) to the display and facilitate input for control of the system, including sensors and weapons that have been integrated. in the CMS system is the core of CS in the ship's Gate to perform command and control, identification, tracking and fighting with weapons.

Also, the TDL's also ship with each other to exchange data with the ship - to - ship. With expertise As well as the ability to monitor (AEW) in the range widened. And the ability to fight a range of expanded through the control of air combat grip Payne.

Ceros 200 fire control radar (photo : Saab Group)

Radar CEROS 200 of Sabrina, the number two engine and tracking system visual and tracking system visual EOS 500 is the heart of the ability to control the firing of the ship's Gate and have been integrated into the barrel of the gun. small and large As well as a surface to surface missile system (SSM) and surface-to-air (SAM) to provide self-protection capabilities like never before from a modern threats both symmetric and asymmetric.

Ship with each 2,900 t of the HTMS Naresuan is fashioned after the system is installed at the battle (CMS) of SAAB 9LV Mk4, FCS, SG AMB 3D radar, TDL's radar and aerial surveillance long haul. Fall, a new sonar and ESM systems with each new ship is 120 m long, 13 m long beam is capable of carrying a crew of 150 people and a series of weapons including guns, a comprehensive model. Mk45 Mod2 5 ", guns, 30mm double cylinder, air release liners three-tube model Mk32 Mod5 two machines, anti-ship missiles harpoon model RGM-84 eight, the emissions vertically for rockets against air an Evolved Sea Sparrowone. The Mk41 is Jive target system and one 48-hose system.

AMB 3D radar (photo : Saab Group)

After the contract for the ship HTMS Naresuan Eastern Gate set date. Sabrina has elected to contract for accessibility improvements Battle (CMS) on board the Royal Chakri king, who is a Royal Navy aircraft carrier. Navy with Thailand The aircraft has been installed at the battle (CMS), the latest version of Sabrina 9LV Mk4 and a set of TDL's the same set installed on the ship's Gate. HTMS Naresuan series

In 2013, Saab has signed a contract with Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) in Korea for the delivery of which is the heart of a battle (CS) for a ship with each new ship of the fleet, Thailand. The order includes the delivery of a combat system (CMS) of SAAB 9LV Mk4, FCS and radar systems. As well as responsible for supplying other manufacturers. In part as a component of a battle. (CS) is the number of the lot. And Sabrina is also the director of systems integration for ship roadways Eastern Gate of DSME, with responsibility for integrating direct combat (CS) to complete.

(SaabGroup)

07 Juli 2014

Two armed AW-109Es are expected to be delivered within the third quarter of 2014 (photo : thepeakorp)

MANILA (PNA) -- The Philippine Navy (PN) announced that training of pilots and flight crew of the armed AgustaWestland AW-109Es "Power" helicopters will be largely determined by the aircraft supplier.

This was disclosed by Navy public affairs office chief Cmdr. Gregory Fabic in a message to the PNA.

"We are still awaiting for the advise coming from AgustaWestland (manufacturer of the AW-109s), they are the ones determining the (training) schedule," he added.

Training is expected to take place in Cesto Calende, Italy, Fabic said.

The two armed AW-109Es are expected to be delivered within the third quarter of this year, he said.

This is part of the five helicopter order from AgustaWestland inked by the Department of National Defense last year.

Three of the planes were delivered on Dec. 8 and were commissioned on Dec. 20 last year.

The contract is worth P1.33 billion.

The AW-109 "Power" helicopter is a three-ton class eight seat helicopter powered by two Pratt and Whitney PW206C engines.

The spacious cabin is designed to be fitted with a number of modular equipment packages for quick and easy conversion between roles.

The aircraft’s safety features include a fully separated fuel system, dual hydraulic boost system, dual electrical systems and redundant lubrication and cooling systems for the main transmission and engines.

The AW-109 has established itself as the world’s best selling light-twin helicopter for maritime missions.

It's superior speed, capacity and productivity combined with reliability and ease of maintenance make it the most cost effective maritime helicopter in its class.

For shipboard operations the aircraft has a reinforced-wheeled landing gear and deck mooring points as well as extensive corrosion protection measures.

The ability to operate from small ships in high sea state enables the AW-109 to perform its mission when many other helicopters would be confined to the ship’s hangar.

Over 550 AW-109 "Power" and AW-109 light utility helicopters have been ordered for commercial, parapublic and military applications by customers in almost 50 countries.

(PNA)

08 Juli 2014

Adelaide class FFG (photo : Aus DoD)

Adelaide Class Frigate maintenance contract signed

Minister for Defence David Johnston today announced that Thales Australia Ltd has been awarded the Navy’s Adelaide Class guided missile frigate’s (FFG) Group Maintenance Contract.

Senator Johnston said the contract will be for an initial period of four and half years with the potential for contract extensions to an anticipated value of $130 million.

“If contracted quality and service level requirements are met and efficiencies are achieved, the contract can be extended to the ship’s withdrawal from service dates,” Senator Johnston said.

Senator Johnston said this was the second of the grouped-asset, long-term, performance-based contracts for the repair and maintenance of the Navy’s major surface ships.

Planned work on the frigates will be undertaken at Navy’s GardenIsland facility in Sydney.

“It demonstrates the Government’s commitment, through the Defence Materiel Organisation to apply innovative contracting practices to get the best outcome for the Navy, for industry and for every Australian taxpayer.”

“We have always recognised that the grouping of ship repair and maintenance work offers the potential for real savings by reducing the administrative burden of per-event tender contracting, providing greater certainty of revenue streams and work effort, and promoting better planning.”

Senator Johnston said the design of the contract will provide both industry and Navy with greater certainty and stability in the repair and maintenance of the guided missile frigates.

(Aus DoD)

08 Juli 2014

PF-16 BRP Ramon Alcaraz (photo : Skyscrapercity)

MANILA (PNA) -- The Philippine Navy (PN) announced that the secondary armament of the BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16), the country's most modern warship, will be installed and completed within the year.

Cmdr. Gregory Fabic, Navy public affairs office chief, confirmed this in a message to the PNA.

"The weapons (are here) but not installed yet. Our timeline for the installation of her secondary armament is within the year," he added.

Fabic is referring to the two Mark 38 Model 2 25mm "Bushmaster" automatic cannon.

Installation will be done by a US Coast Guard team, he added.

The "Bushmaster" automatic cannons will be fitted to BRP Ramon Alcaraz's port (left) and starboard (right) side and will act as the ship's secondary armament.

The decision to seek US Coast Guard aid in installing these automatic cannons came in wake of the high cost of having the guns installed by a private shipyard.

The guns were supposed to be installed before BRP Ramon Alcaraz's Nov. 22 commissioning but the cost of having it done here was just to expensive for the Navy.

The weapon was commissioned by the US Navy following the terrorist attack on the USS Cole in 2000. It was designed to counter high-speed maneuvering surface targets and will be installed in almost all US surface ships by 2015.

The remotely controlled chain gun system can fire as many as 180 25m rounds per minute at targets as far as two kilometers.

(PNA)

08 Juli 2014

Instructor, Mr Williams explains the features of the Operator Control Device onboard HMAS Newcastle. (photo : RAN)

HMAS Newcastle is the first Adelaide Class Frigate and the second Royal Australian Navy ship to be fitted with new equipment specifically designed to interface with the night vision equipment worn by crews of Navy helicopters.

The Aeronautical and General Instruments Visual Landing Aid equipment was fitted during Newcastle’s recent Docking Selected Refit Availability at Garden Island, Sydney.

The new externally fitted equipment includes a Pilot Information Display, Advanced Stabilised Glide Slope Indicator, modified Stabilised Horizon Reference Bar lighting, Obstruction lights and Helicopter In-flight Refuelling lights. The new internal equipment consists of an Operator Control Device to provide the interface between the Helicopter Control Officers and external equipment, as well as the remote panels the operations room, bridge and RAST (Recovery Assist Secure Transverse) control room.

Newcastle's Flight Control Officer, Lieutenant Commander Chris Mitchell said its is a great piece of kit.

"It will provide all users in key positions with an indication of the deck status and control of the wave-off lights, in the event that approval to land is revoked due to a safety or operational requirement.

"Current night flying operations require aircrew to ‘de-goggle’ prior to recovery due to the type of lighting and visual landing aids ships currently have.

HMAS Newcastle FFG-06 (photo : Sean)

"It is envisaged that the enhanced capability will enable Navy pilots to conduct night launch, recovery and transfer operations whilst utilising night vision goggles.

"The landing phase during helicopter operations is often the most challenging element of night flying and the having the ability to remain ‘on goggles’ will ultimately increase safety for all involved in embarked aviation operations," Lieutenant Commander Mitchell said.

Members of the ship’s company including Helicopter Control Officers, Landing Safety Officers, Flight Deck Marshallers, Flight Deck Team and a number of Marine Engineering maintenance personnel completed the two day Guided Missile Frigate Visual Landing Aids Operator and Maintainer Training course to become proficient in the use and maintenance of the new equipment.

The training was delivered by Mr Madoc Williams, Technical Support Supervisor of Naval Aviation Systems for AGI who flew out from London to specifically delivery the training.

“The equipment is very intuitive and easy to operate and maintain,” Mr Williams said.

Members of 816 Squadron, Aviation Maintenance and Flight Test Unit, Fleet Aviation and Fleet Engineering Division also completed the training.

The Aviation Maintenance and Flight Test Unit will conduct flight trials with the new equipment in June concurrent with Newcastle completing an Aviation Sea Safety Assessment. Following the trials, there will also be an opportunity for ship’s company and the embarked Flight to consolidate training and increase systems knowledge of this new equipment during the Sea Qualification Period and Work-up Period over the next two months.

(RAN)

08 Juli 2014

Elbit will upgrade APC and equipped them with 25 mm unmanned turrets, 12.7 mm remote controlled weapon stations (RCWS) and fire control systems (FCS) for 90 mm turrets. (photo : LightAJ)

MANILA (PNA) -- The Department of National Defense (DND) announced that the payment for the P882 million upgraded armored personnel carrier (APC), bagged by Israeli defense manufacturer Elbit Systems Ltd., will be done in three tranches.

Dr. Peter Paul Galvez, Defense spokesperson, said first payment will be pegged at P405 million, the second will be P335 million and the third at P142 million.

Elbit Systems Ltd., formally announced the signing of the P882 million deal (roughly USD20 million) last June 22.

Upgrades include 25 mm unmanned turrets, 12.7 mm remote controlled weapon stations (RCWS) and fire control systems (FCS) for 90 mm turrets.

The APCs, which are 28 in number, will be supplied over a one-year period.

The contract marks a significant breakthrough for Elbit Systems, as it is the first one awarded to the company in the Philippines.

"We are very pleased to be awarded our first contract for the Philippines Armed Forces, which we hope will be followed by others. Our extensive portfolio and our vast experience enable us to offer our customers advanced solutions, answering the specific requirements of various combat vehicles, and this award further positions us as world leaders in the field of ground vehicle upgrades," Elbit Systems' Land and C41 general manager Udi Vered said.

The APCs are for the use of the Philippine Army.

The latter operates around 343 AFVs (armored fighting vehicles) and APCs.

Around 85 percent of these AFVs are on green status (fully mission capable) while another 10 percent are on yellow status (undergoing repair) and five percent are on red (beyond repair)

150 of these are the United Kingdom-built GKN "Simba" with the remaining AFVs consisting of US designed V-150 and V-200 APCs, M-113 "Bradley", Turkish made ACV-300s and British Scorpion CVRTs.

These vehicles give the PA its armor capability and are organized into a 14-vehicle mechanized infantry companion for deployment with regular units.

(PNA)

08 Juli 2014

The Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) is a guidance kit developed by Boeing which converts an unguided bomb into an accurately-guided and all-weather "smart" munition that can be launched 15 nautical miles from its target. The kit consists of a Global Positioning System and Inertial Navigation System fitted at the tail end of a bomb body, as well as aerodynamic body strakes to provide additional stability and lift. The Laser JDAM (LJDAM) is a JDAM guidance kit enhanced with a laser seeker that provides terminal guidance and improves precision accuracy. (photo : Sing Mindef)

WASHINGTON – The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to Singapore for Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) kits and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $63 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on July 3, 2014.

The Government of Singapore has requested a possible sale of 913 KMU-556B/B Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) kits for Mk-84 2000 lb bombs, 100 FMU-152A/B fuzes, and 300 DSU-40 Precision Laser Guidance Sets. Also included are containers, munition trailers, support equipment, spare and repair parts, test equipment, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor engineering and technical support, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $63 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy objectives and strategic national security objectives of the United States by supporting Singapore as a key regional partner in counter-terrorism and an important force for political stability and economic progress in South East Asia.

Singapore is requesting these guidance sets, services and equipment to sustain its air-to-ground weapons stockpiles and to accommodate training expenditures. This sale will enable the Republic of Singapore Air Force to sustain mission-ready status to ensure it can contribute to coalition operations and meet its national defense requirements. Singapore maintains a large CONUS F-15SG training presence at Mountain Home AFB. A portion of these munitions are anticipated for use at this CONUS training facility, and will enable RSAF pilots to practice using GPS-guided munitions that will further refine their combat capability. Singapore should have no difficulty absorbing these additional munitions into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of these munitions and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractor will be the Boeing Defense, Space and Security in St. Louis, Missouri. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives to Singapore.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.

(DSCA)

09 Juli 2014

The headquarters building of Royal Thai Navy’s Submarine Squadron (photo : TAF)

The Royal Thai Navy’s Submarine Squadron was officially launched at Sattahip naval base in Chon Buri province yesterday. Navy chief ADM Narong Pipattanasai presided over the ceremony.

The squadron also has a training centre for a submarine command team, which is intended to compile knowledge on submarine operations. The centre, which is equipped with a German-made submarine simulator, provides navy personnel with training, such as how to operate the sonar system.

The submarine simulator is also linked to the anti-submarine simulator currently operated by the navy’s Fleet Training Command.

The navy has also sent 18 navy officers to receive training in submarine technology in Germany and another 10 officers to South Korea to attend a training course on international diesel submarines.

The squadron underscores the Royal Thai Navy’s push to get submarines added to its fleet. The navy has pressed governments for years to buy submarines to help navy ships protect the Gulf of Thailand.

In 2010, then navy commander Kamthorn Phumhiran approved a plan to set up the squadron, with expectations of having second-hand submarines from Germany. But it never passed the planning stage.

In 2012, then navy chief Surasak Rounroengrom approved guidelines for equipping navy personnel with training on submarines, which led to navy personnel studying submarines with the help of countries who have had them for a long time.

"Although the navy has not had submarines for 62 years, submarines are still important as a strategic and irreplaceable tool to make up for the geographical limitations of Thailand,’’ the navy said in an article to promote the underwater craft.

(Bangkok Post)

09 Juli 2014

Australia’s first cooperative defence science and technology project with Japan is the Marine Hydrodynamics Project. (image : Aus DoD)

Defence Minister David Johnston hails defence science and technology accord with Japan

Defence Minister David Johnston has hailed as “an important milestone” the signing today of an agreement with Japan deepening bilateral defence science and technology cooperation.

Australia’s Prime Minister, the Honourable Tony Abbott MP, and Japan’s Prime Minister, His Excellency Mr Shinzo Abe, signed the Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of Japan Concerning the Transfer of Defence Equipment and Technology at a ceremony in Canberra today, attended by the Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon. David Johnston.

“This is an important milestone in the Australia-Japan defence relationship, and an integral part of the broader efforts to strengthen our strategic partnership,” Senator Johnston said.

The Agreement will facilitate deeper bilateral defence science, technology and materiel cooperation, allowing Australia and Japan to work together more closely to identify potential areas of future research interest and mutual benefit.

The Australia-Japan defence relationship, which is based on shared values and interests, continues to represent an important contribution to peace and stability in the Asia Pacific. Security and defence ties between Australia and Japan have grown considerably since the 2007 signing of the Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation.

“This Agreement is an important milestone in Australia’s defence relationship with Japan and will underpin broader efforts to deepen our practical defence engagement,” Prime Minister Abbott said at the signing ceremony at Parliament House.

Australia’s first cooperative defence science and technology project with Japan is the Marine Hydrodynamics Project. The main work on this project will be conducted by Australia’s Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) and Japan’s Technical Research and Development Institute (TRDI).

“Japan is a country world renowned for its defence science and technology capabilities,” Senator Johnston said, adding: “The Marine Hydrodynamics Project is a welcome first step in defence science, technology and materiel cooperation for Australia and Japan.”

(Aus DoD)

09 Juli 2014

Two F/A-50 jet aircraft are expected to be delivered within 18 months (photo : KAI)

MANILA (PNA) --- The letter of credit (LOC) for the purchase of the South Korean F/A-50 "Fighting Eagle" will be opened within seven days, Defense Undersecretary for Finance, Modernization, Installation and Munitions Fernando Manalo said Tuesday.

"The LOC will be opened within seven days starting today (Tuesday)," Manalo added, without giving further details.

An LOC is a document issued by a financial institution, or a similar party, assuring payment to a seller of goods and/or services provided certain documents have been presented to the bank.

Contract for the Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) jet aircraft, of which the Philippines has ordered 12 units for P18 billion, was signed last March 28.

Upon opening of the LOC, two F/A-50 jet aircraft are expected to be delivered within 18 months.

The next two units will be delivered 12 months later and the remaining eight jet planes in staggered basis within eight months.

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

The F/A-50 will act as the country's interim fighter aircraft until the Philippines get enough experience of operating fast jet assets and money to fund the acquisition of more capable fighter planes.

The F/A-50 design is largely derived from the F-16 "Fighting Falcon" and they have many similarities: use of a single engine, speed, size, cost, and the range of weapons.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The F/A-50 "Fighting Eagle" uses a single General Electric F404-102 turbofan engine license-produced by Samsung Techwin, upgraded with a full authority digital engine control system jointly developed by General Electric and KAI.

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

The aircraft has a maximum speed of Mach 1.4-1.5. Its engine produces a maximum of 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) of thrust with afterburner.

(PNA)

09 Juli 2014

Skema warna F-16 C/D TNI AU (image : Angkasa)

Pesawat tempur F-16 C/D yang saat ini sedang di-upgrade di Hill AFB memiliki nama resmi F-16 C/D k 52 ID, memang akan memiliki kemampuan dalam banyak hal setara F-16 Block 52, khususnya kecanggihan avionik, kemampuan tempur, dan jenis persenjataannya. Seluruh pesawat hibah sebelumnya digunakan AU AS dan sudah disimpan dengan baik di Davis Monthan AFB/AMARG (Aerospace Maintenance & Regeneration Group) di gurun yang sangat kering sehingga sangat ideal sebagai tempat penyimpanan pesawat AU AS. Sementara seluruh mesin pesawat F-16 C/D 52ID yaitu F100-PW-220/E menjalani upgrade di pabrik Pratt & Whitney di Old Kelly AFB, sehingga memiliki umur komponen dua kali lebih lama dari mesin standar.

Sebetulnya F-16 C/D 52ID F-16 berdasarkan F-16 C/D Block 25 yang memiliki bentuk fisik dan berat kotor maksimum serta tipe mesin yang sama dengan F-16 Block 15 A/B OCU yang kita miliki. F-16 C/D 52ID memiliki berat kotor maksimum 37.500 lbs dan mesin jet turbo fan yang sama yaitu Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-220/E dengan daya dorong 24.000 lbs sehingga memiliki thrust to weight ratio 0,64. Beda dengan F-16 C/D Block 52 yang mempunyai berat kotor maksimum 52.000 lbs dan didorong mesin F100-PW-229 dengan daya dorong 29.000 lbs yang memiliki T/W ratio 0,56. Dalam close combat atau pertempuran udara jarak pendek, F-16 TNI AU dengan T/W ratio lebih besar memiliki kelincahan lebih baik dari F-16 Block 52.

Selanjutnya pesawat menjalani upgrading dan refurbished rangka serta sistem avionik dan persenjataan di Ogden Air Logistics Center di Hill AFB, Odgen, Utah. Rangka pesawat diperkuat, jaringan kabel dan elektronik baru dipasang, semua sistem lama direkondisi menjadi baru dan sistem baru ditambahkan agar pesawat lahir kembali, siap menjadi pesawat baru dengan kemampuan jauh lebih hebat dari saat kelahirannya.

Menyangkut peningkatan kemampuan memang F-16 C/D Block 52 dengan daya dorong lebih besar mampu mengangkut senjata lebih berat dan bisa dipasang Conformal Fuel Tank di punggung dan menggotong drop tank 600 gallon sehingga bisa terbang lebih jauh. Namun untuk urusan pertempuran udara, dengan rudal jarak pendek AIM-9 Sidewinder P-4/L/M dan IRIS-T (NATO) serta rudal jarak sedang AIM-120 AMRAAM-C, jelas F-16 C/D 52ID TNI AU tidak kalah dengan Block 50/52.

Bahkan dipastikan dalam duel jarak dekat, F-16 C/D 52ID TNI AU mampu mengungguli Block 50/52 soal kelincahan.Untuk serangan permukaan darat dan perairan, F-16 ID juga mampu menggotong persenjataan kanon 20mm, bomb standar MK 81/82/83/84, Laser Guided Bomb, rudal AGM-65 Maverick, AGM-84 Harpoon antikapal, AGM-88 HARM antiradar, ACMI Pod serta mampu menggunakan navigation dan targeting pod untuk operasi malam hari serta misi Suppression Of Enemy Air Defence (SEAD), yaitu menghancurkan pertahanan udara musuh. Improved data modem memungkinkan penerbang melakukan komunikasi tanpa suara hanya menggunakan komunikasi data dengan pesawat lain dan radar darat, radar laut atau radar terbang.

Upgrade F-16 C/D 52ID tidak main-main karena mengejar kemampuan setara dengan Block 52, di antaranya memasang Mission Computer MMC-7000A versi M-5 yang dipakai Block 52+ dan bahkan F-22, dilengkapi komputer sistem kemudi (FLCS) digital, sepasang Multifunction Displays Berwarna block-52, HUD lebar block-52 dengan kemampuan night vision, digital terrain system & Digital Moving Map block 52, color cockpit camera block-52, throttle grip & side stick controller Block-52, countermeasures management switch to control ALE-47, voice message unit untuk collision avoidance system dan ground avoidance advisory function Block-52.

Pemindahan landing/taxi lights ke nose landing gear door untuk memberi tempat pada targeting pod, improved data modem link 16 Block-52, embedded GPS INS (EGI) block-52 yang menggabungkan fungsi GPS dan INS, common data entry electronics unit Block-52, AN/ALQ-213 electronic warfare management system, ALR-69 Class IV radar warning receiver, ALE-47 countermeasures dispenser set untuk melepaskan chaff/flare serta pemasangan instalasi drag chute Block-52 yang akan dipasang di Indonesia.

Sementara radar AN/APG-68 (V) di-upgrade software agar meningkat kemampuannya sesuai mission computer 7000A. Prinsipnya F-16 C/D 52ID TNI AU menjalani program The Common Configuration Implementation Program (CCIP) seperti yang dilakukan pada F-16 CD Blok 40/42 AU AS agar meningkat menjadi standar Blok-50/52.

Semua F-16 C/D 52ID TNI AU juga menjalani modifikasi struktur rangka pesawat dengan program Falcon STAR (Structural Augmentation Roadmap) sehingga umur rangka pesawat menjadi lebih dari 10.000 jam. Hal ini memungkinkan pesawat dipakai 10 tahun lagi sebelum menjalani Dervice Life Extension Program (SLEP) yang mampu menambah umur rangka pesawat sekitar 2.000 jam atau 10 tahun masa pakai.

Pada saat usia pakai F-16 C/D 52 ID berakhir maka diharapkan Indonesia sudah memiliki armada pesawat tempur modern masa depan generasi 4,5 atau generasi 5. F-16 C/D 52ID ini merupakan jembatan yang sangat baik untuk membawa Indonesia selangkah lebih maju, tidak hanya menghasilkan penerbang dan teknisi yang mahir, namun juga membawa kita untuk bersama-sama menguasai teknologi, manajemen, dan taktik pertempuran udara modern, khususnya dalam operasi gabungan dengan alutsista lain di darat, laut dan udara. Sehingga tahu apa yang diperlukan Indonesia untuk membangun air power yang kuat.

(Angkasa)

09 Juli 2014

MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (MDA) to continue surveillance service for Australian Defence Force (photo : network54)

The Royal Australian Air Force’s Heron Remotely Piloted Aircraft mission in Afghanistan has been extended to the end of 2014 following a request from the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

The extension supports ISAF’s requirement to maintain information, surveillance and reconnaissance capability during the traditional fighting season.

Operated from Kandahar Airfield in southern Afghanistan, Australia’s three unarmed Heron Remotely Piloted Aircraft provide real-time situational awareness of the battlefield.

The current rotation of personnel which was scheduled to return to Australia in mid-2014 will be extended for up to six weeks to allow an additional rotation of personnel to be prepared and deployed.

Australia’s Heron detachment has played an integral role in supporting the ISAF mission in Afghanistan and ISAF’s request to Australia is testament to the capability’s strong reputation.

The detachment comprises Air Force, Army and Navy personnel and civilian contractors.

(Aus DoD)

10 Juli 2014

Vietnamese government outlined a plan to purchase patrol vessels funded by Japan's official development assistance (ODA) programme (photo : Wiki)

The Japanese government is preparing to offer financial assistance to Vietnam to support the construction of new patrol vessels for the country's coast guard, the Vietnam government announced on 8 July.

Following meetings in Hanoi between Vietnamese Deputy Defence Minister Nguyen Chi Vinh and his visiting counterpart Akinori Eto, the Vietnamese government outlined a plan to purchase patrol vessels funded by Japan's official development assistance (ODA) programme.

The ODA, Japan's official aid policy since 1992, is aimed at enhancing international security.

The government statement said: "Japan is completing the legal procedures to provide ODA for the Vietnam government [and the programme] to build patrol boats for the law enforcement forces of Vietnam."

(Jane's)

10 Juli 2014

Bunga Mas 5 auxillary vessel (photo : Naim Qlate)

PUTRAJAYA (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak today announced a restructuring of the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom) with the setting up of two major components - security and defence management as well as enforcement and public action.

He said the security and defence management component was aimed at pooling the resources of security agencies to enhance operational effectiveness.

This component would be led by an ESSCom commander who heads three special divisions, namely intelligence, security and defence as well as operations, he told a press conference at the Perdana Putra building here.

Najib also announced the appointment of ESSCom Security and Public Order Division director DCP Datuk Abd Rashid Harun as the ESSCom commander in charge of the intelligence, security and defence as well as operations division in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone) effective July 15.

"It is hoped that the restructuring of ESSCom and other measures taken and being taken will enhance the security in the Sabah east coast.

"The government hopes that the people, particularly those in the Sabah east coast, will always extend their full cooperation to strengthen security there.

"The support and cooperation of the people of Sabah will enable the security forces and others to maintain and strengthen security in the Sabah east coast," he said.

It was also aimed at enhancing and ensuring total engagement of the people at all levels with the security agencies in keeping the Sabah east coast free of intrusion and crime, he said.

He also said that it would lead to a common direction and concerted action by security personnel in ensuring safety and harmony in the Sabah east coast.

Najib said that besides restructuring ESSCom, three measures were also taken to enhance security in the Sabah east coast, one of which was enforcement of designated routes for boats entering Sabah waters.

"This measure will provide for more effective enforcement of security control and monitoring of boats in waters off the Sabah east coast.

"Boats which do not adhere to the rules will be detained and face action from the enforcement agencies based on the existing laws," he added.

Najib said the Bunga Mas 5 vessel would be used for sea basing or as a forward operations base as an interim measure pending the construction of a permanent sea basing structure.

It would take about six months for a permanent sea basing structure to be ready, he added.

Sea basing concept (photo : Zahid Hamidi)

He said the sea basing platform would also be equipped with a radar for wider coverage to detect the presence of boats in international waters.

In a move to further enhance security in the east coast of Sabah, 30 units of rigid hull fender boats (RHFB) were handed over to the Royal Malaysia Police, the Malaysian Armed Forces and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency on May 29.

The government established ESSZone on March 24 last year to prevent a recurrence of the intrusion by armed Sulu terrorists in Kampung Tanduo, Lahad Datu, on Feb 12 and safeguard the country's sovereignty as well as maintain public order.

ESSCom serves as a security enforcement agent for ESSZone which comprises 10 districts in eastern Sabah, namely Kudat, Kota Marudu, Pitas, Beluran, Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Lahad Datu, Kunak, Semporna and Tawau.

Although ESSCom had been able to prevent fresh intrusions, abduction remains a security threat.

Abductions reported in the east coast of Sabah this year include one on June 15 where a cage-fish breeder, Chan Sai Chiun, 32, and a worker known only as Mazlan, in his 20s, were kidnapped by two armed men from a fish farm.

Another incident happened on May 6 when six armed men abducted the Chinese national manager of a fish-breeding company from Pulau Baik in Lahad Datu.

This happened a month after a female tourist from China was kidnapped, together with a resort employee, by a group or armed men at a resort in Semporna.

Replying to a question on the cases of abduction, Najib said the vast area and the free mobility of the people leaving and entering the area were among the factors that contributed to the kidnappings.

"Due to the existence of a complex community, the action to combat abduction was heavily dependent on information. We want cooperation from the local people.

For example, resort owners, by way of helping the security forces, should not employ non-citizens as their workers," he added.

Najib also said that other measures, such as installing of closed circuit television cameras and deployment of security personnel at suitable locations, were important to enhance security in Sabah waters.

Asked whether the post of the ESSCom commander would be rotated, Najib said it would depend on the situation.

"For now, we appoint the police to lead," he added.

Also present at the press conference were Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar and Chief of Defence Forces Gen Tan Sri Zulkifeli Mohd Zin.

(Bernama)

10 Juli 2014

BRP Gregorio del Pilar and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (photo : US Navy)

MANILA, Philippines—A total of 36 modernization projects worth P41.2 billion have been so far completed and awarded under the leadership of President Benigno Aquino III as part of the military’s modernization upgrade.

“We are steadily addressing our Armed Forces’ capability upgrade. Our bids and awards committees at the DND are doing their best to fast-track our acquisitions, while fully adhering to the established rules and procedures set by law,” Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said in a statement.

In 1995, then President Fidel Ramos signed the AFP Modernization Act, intended for 15 years, in a bid to develop a credible armed forces, but was not given priority in the succeeding administrations because of the Asian financial crisis in 1997 and had been neglected since.

The revised modernization act was signed for another 15 years in 2012 under the Aquino administration to modernize the armed forces, with an allocation of P75 billion for the first five years of implementation.

Funding of the modernization programs will come from general appropriations, proceeds from the Malampaya gas project, remittance from the Bases Conversion and Development Authority and Aquino’s pledge to provide P632.18 million annually until 2015.

The first half of Aquino’s term saw the acquisition of two US Coast Guard Hamilton ships for the Philippine Navy—the BRP Gregorio del Pilar and the BRP Ramon Alcaraz. Both four decades old, the weather high endurance cutters are now deployed to the contested waters of the West Philippine Sea.

Three brand new navy helicopters were also commissioned to service last December.

A total of sixteen projects were completed for the Navy worth P5.3 billion. It is expecting the delivery of P6.4 billion worth in projects, including the acquisition of strategic sea-lift vessels, additional naval helicopters and amphibious vehicles, the DND said.

For the Philippine Army, there were 12 projects completed amounting to P2.8 billion. It includes trucks, field ambulances. Awaiting delivery in the next two years are trucks, armored vehicles and assault rifles.

18 brand new SF-260 trainer aircraft (photo : timawa)

Four projects worth P3.7 billion have been completed for the Air Force. It includes the acquisiton of 18 units of basic trainer aircraft worth P621.67 million and eight combat utility helicopers worth P2.86 billion.

Awaiting in the pipeline are P5.6 billion worth in projects, including the acquisition of light-lift aircraft and attack helicopters for delivery in the next two years.

Twenty-one units of Huey helicopters are for delivery within the first semester of the year, the DND said.

Two projects were also completed for the AFP General Headquarters worth P445 million. These include the upgrade of the operating rooms of the AFP Medical Center and the acquisition of the GHQ fixed communication system.

The government arsenal, meanwhile, also had two completed projects which include the acquisition of raw and input materials for the GA bullet assembly machine worth P130.9 million.

This year will be the delivery of equipment for the manufacture of ammunition worth P335 million.

The DND said that under the revised AFP modernization program, there is a budget of P85.3 billion for 2013-2017. The Army will be allocated P8.6 billion, the Air Force will have P43.3 billion, the Navy will have P28.2 billion and the General Headquarters will have P5.2 billion.

(Inquirer)

10 Juli 2014

RNZN Endeavour replenishment oiler ship (photo : pinterest)

Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman says the Government has given approval for the NZDF to seek a replacement for the naval tanker HMNZS Endeavour.

“To operate effectively the NZDF needs to provide fuel and logistical support to its deployed ships, helicopters and vehicles,” says Dr Coleman.

“This capability is crucial given New Zealand’s vast maritime area, and our security and disaster relief responsibilities in the South Pacific. Without it NZDF operations would be limited in duration or dependent on our partners.

“The new tanker will be a significant enhancement in capability. It will increase the NZDF’s ability to support and sustain Navy, Army and Air Force operations at home and further afield.

“The tanker will be able to store a large amount of fuel, including aviation fuel, store supplies and ammunition, and accommodate an NH90 or Seasprite helicopter.

“This capability is needed as the NZDF has more ships which can embark new helicopters, and it is crucial that the tanker can support the Joint Task Force as set out in the 2010 Defence White Paper.

“Possible winterisation features will also be considered which could enable the tanker to resupply bases in Antarctica.”

HMNZS Endeavour will reach the end of her service life in 2018. Maintenance costs are increasing, and the vessel will face non-compliance issues with new international maritime regulations.

The request for tender is expected to be issued by the Ministry of Defence in early 2015. A final recommendation will be made to Cabinet in mid-2016.

(NZDF)

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