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DND Plans to Purchase Indonesian Spy Plane

11 September 2012

Naval version of CN-235MPA (photo : Stanthefan)

MANILA, Philippines – The government plans to procure a spy plane from Indonesia and a troop transport aircraft from Italy, the Department of National Defense (DND) said yesterday.

Peter Paul Galvez, DND spokesman, said the long-range maritime patrol and surveillance plane is manufactured in Indonesia under a joint venture agreement with Spain.

“On our shortlist is the Indonesian aircraft,” he said. “The long-range patrol aircraft would be devoted solely to conducting maritime surveillance.”

The DND is also scouting for a medium lift aircraft from other European countries at a lower cost, Galvez said.

BN-2 Islander (photo : Militaryphotos)

Once President Aquino approves the acquisition, the spy plane would strengthen the country’s maritime domain awareness.

For a long time, the Armed Forces has been relying mainly on a small number of Islander planes for maritime and territorial patrol.

The spy plane is the CASA/IPTN CN-235. The CN-235 surveillance aircraft can double as a military transport plane. Its largest user is Turkeywith 61 aircraft.

The surveillance plane has a crew of two, a pilot and co-pilot, and can carry 44 passengers and a payload of 13,120 pounds with a cruising speed of 454 kilometers per hour and a range of 2,730 nautical miles.

(PhilStar)

Upgraded Orion Transition Course Starts Flying

31 August 2012

The P-3K2 Orion Transition Course ready for flight! (all photos : NZDF)

A significant milestone has been passed in the P-3K2 Orion Introduction Into Service process—on 17 August the first Transition Course sortie was flown. Training sorties are now being flown frequently from Whenuapai.

Flying training on the newly upgraded Orions is an important step for the operational test and evaluation of the upgraded aircraft, one of the major projects undertaken by the RNZAF and the Ministry of Defence.

Group Captain Kevin McEvoy, the Officer Commanding 485 Wing, said

‘I was delighted that we have accomplished this major advance in training for the aircraft’s improved capability. The initial aim of our test and evaluation programme is to release the Search and Rescue and Maritime Surveillance capabilities of the upgraded aircraft. The flying phase of the aircrew training marks a step change in our work towards that aim.”

Squadron Leader Bill Rowling, the P-3K2 Introduction Into Service Manager explained that another two aircraft should be joining the sole P-3K2 in the upgraded fleet by the end of September.

- NZ4205, the second production aircraft, is under going acceptance testing at RNZAF Base Woodbourne.

- NZ4201, the first production aircraft, is undergoing its scheduled Depot Servicing, also at Woodbourne.

When these two aircraft reach Whenuapai, they will bring the P-3K2 fleet up to three.

Steve Smyth, HQ NZDF Capability Branch Manager Air Introduction Into Service, acknowleged the reality of managing a complex project such as the Orion upgrade: “The reality is that we have had un-forecast, but necessary, additional airframe testing and a few ‘legacy’ issues with temperamental engines and propellers.

“None-the-less, the P-3K2 capability delivery team within the Joint Project Office, across Capability Branch, Ministry of Defence, 485 Wing, No.5 Squadron and in the RNZAF Directorate of Project Engineering and Certification [who lead the technical airworthiness delivery and engineering support] have been incredibly resilient.

“Our first Transition Course is primed to graduate at the end of October, allowing capability development and operational test and evaluation on the upgraded Orions to commence soon after.”

(NZDF)

Air Force Surveillance Planes for South

10 Agustus 2012

Fairchild Au-23 Peacemaker (photo : sakpinit promthep)

The air force is set to deploy a special task force to the far South to support the military's anti-insurgency operations on the ground.

Camera mounted under the fuselage of Au-23 Peacemaker (photo : skyman)

Air force chief ACM Itthiporn Supawong said the unit would use Au-23 Peacemakers, a single-engined highwing plane, for aerial surveillance and C-130s for transportation and military deployments in the area.

He said the air force will also deploy a twin engined DA-42 to support the surveillance missions. It is more more advanced aircraft and equipped with real-time cameras. Its surveillance systems could operate during the day and at night and it is suited for reconnaissance over forests.

Diamond DA-42 aerial surveillance support (photo : abpic)

Air force chief said he had discussed the matter with Defence Minister Sukumpol Suwanatat.

The unit had been trained to co-ordinate with ground forces and was ready to deploy as soon the Ministry gives the green light, ACM Itthiporn said.

( BangkokPost)

Airbus Military C295 Carries Marte Mk2/SAnti-Ship Missile for First Time

12 Juli 2012

C-295 maritime patrol aircraft with Marte MK2/S anti ship missile (photo : Airbus Military)

Airbus Military and MBDA have successfully completed the first flight of the C295 maritime patrol aircraft with an instrumented Marte MK2/S anti-ship inert missile installed under the wing. The flight was the first of a series of trials planned in a joint Airbus Military – MBDA collaboration to validate the aerodynamic integration of Marte on the C295. Subsequent flights will include handling qualities tests and aircraft flight performance tests.

This initiative successfully aligns with the defence industry strategy shared by MBDA in Spain and Airbus Military.

The MBDA Marte MK2/S missile is a fire-and-forget, all-weather, medium-range sea-skimming anti-ship weapon system, equipped with inertial mid-course guidance and radar homing terminal guidance, and capable of destroying small vessels and heavily damaging major vessels. The missile has a weight of 310 Kg and is 3.85 m long.

In the anti-submarine warfare (ASW) role, the C295 is already in-service carrying the MK46 torpedo.

The Marte Mk2/S is already integrated on the AW-101 and the NFH-90 naval helicopters.

(Airbus Military)

TUDM Tidak Terima Kelulusan Beli AEW&C

10 Juni 2012

Pesawat AEW&C yang diinginkan TUDM adalah Saab 340 AEW&C (photo : KGG1951)

KUALA LUMPUR - Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia (TUDM) berminat untuk memiliki Pesawat Kawalan dan Amaran Awal (AE&C) tetapi tidak mendapat peruntukan kerajaan, kata Panglima TUDM, Jen. Tan Sri Rodzali Daud.

Katanya, hasrat TUDM untuk memperoleh pesawat AEW&C bernilai bilion ringgit itu telah dibentangkan dalam Rancangan Malaysia Ketujuh (RMK-7) namun tidak diluluskan oleh kerajaan.

Katanya, mereka masih memerlukan pesawat AEW&C untuk memenuhi jurang keupayaan walaupun pesawat TUDM sekarang dilengkapi ciri-ciri persenjataan, sensor serta sistem kawal dan perintah.

"Hasrat TUDM ini tidak ada kena mengena dengan negara lain, apa yang penting adalah untuk negara kita dilengkapi dengan aset pertahanan," katanya selepas merasmikan Amal Shoppe Bakat (Badan Amal, Kebajikan Angkatan Tentera Udara) di Kem TUDM Sungai Besi di sini semalam.

(Kosmo)

Sixth Wedgetail Aircraft Arrives

04 Juni 2012

The sixth Wedgetail for RAAF (photo : Aus DoD)

The sixth and final Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft has been delivered and is now at its home base RAAF Williamtown.

The delivery of the sixth aircraft is a significant milestone for this important project, which delivers a world-class air battle management capability.

Wedgetail will provide Defence with an Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) capability comprising of six aircraft and associated supplies and support.

Each of the aircraft is fitted with a highly advanced multipurpose radar system, which provides our Defence forces with greater situational awareness.

The Wedgetail aircraft will be a critical part for Australia’s Air Defence System and will enhance surveillance, air defence, fleet support and force coordination operations.

The delivery of the sixth aircraft reflects the combined efforts of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) and contracted suppliers including Boeing.

The Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft will be operated by No. 2 Squadron from RAAF Base Williamtown, near Newcastle.

(Aus DoD)

Progress of Aircraft Ordered by Thailand

01 Juni 2012

Progress of Second Saab 340 AEW ordered by Thailand (photo : RTAF)

Air Chief Marshall Ittaporn Supawong visit to Linkoping Swedento look at the progress of the manufacture of Saab 340 AEW control and early warning aircraft.

Previously ACM Supawong have also seen progress in the manufacture of Saab Gripen C/D fighter.

Thailand

in the second batch has been ordered 6 Gripen C/D fighter aircraft and an Saab 340 AEW early warning and control aircraft.

(RT AF)

RSAF's Gulfstream 550 Airborne Early Warning Aircraft is Fully Operational

14 April 2012

Four RSAF's G550 have serial numbered 010, 016. 017, and 018 (photo : Airfighters)

Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen officiated at a ceremony to mark the achievement of Full Operational Capability (FOC) status by the Republic of Singapore Air Force's (RSAF) Gulfstream 550 Airborne Early Warning (G550-AEW) aircraft at Tengah Air Base this afternoon. Prior to the ceremony, the RSAF's 111 Squadron, which operates the G550-AEW aircraft, hosted Dr Ng to a familiarisation flight to observe a training mission.

The G550-AEW aircraft has a detection range of more than 200 nautical miles or 370km (photo : Mindef)

Speaking at the FOC ceremony, Dr Ng highlighted the significance of employing advanced AEW technology to enhance Singapore's networked air defence capabilities. He said, "The G550-AEW together with the RSAF's fighter squadrons and ground-based Air Defence units, are a powerful network that represents a quantum jump in the SAF's ability to identify potential aerial threats early and respond decisively, in peace or in war." Dr Ng also commended the men and women of 111 Squadron for their hard work in operationalising the capability. He said, "Today's parade to mark the full operational capability of the aircraft, just six months after the delivery of the fourth G550-AEW last October, shows the rapid progress achieved through hard work. It is a positive testament to the adaptability and professionalism of our people to master sophisticated systems systematically within a short span of time."

RSAF acquired four G550-AEW in 2007 to replace the RSAF's E-2C AEW that had served the Air Force for more than 20 years (photo : clubsnap)

With a detection range of more than 200 nautical miles, the G550-AEW aircraft allows the RSAF to see farther, and respond more effectively to aerial threats in various operational situations. Since the arrival of the first G550-AEW aircraft in Feb 2009, pilots, air warfare officers and maintenance crew of 111 Squadron have undergone intensive training to operate and maintain the aircraft, as well as to integrate the aircraft to support the Singapore Armed Forces' round-the-clock operations. During this period, the squadron also participated in major exercises such as Exercise Cope Tiger and Exercise Bersama Lima.

Also present at the ceremony were Minister of State for Defence and Education Mr Lawrence Wong, Chief of Air Force Major-General Ng Chee Meng as well as other senior officers from the SAF.

(Mindef)

PT DI Delivers Last CN-235 to Korea Coast Guard

09 Maret 2012

CN-235 Korea Coast Guard (photo : Taegu Lee)

State-owned aircraft maker PT Dirgantara Indonesia (DI) dispatched on Friday the fourth CN-235 maritime patrol aircraft for the Korean Coast Guard (KCG) from its plant at the Husein Sastranegara International Airport in Bandung.

The aircraft is making a ferry flight from Bandung to Kimpo Airport in Seoul after a ceremony attended by, among others, Defense Deputy Minister Lt. Gen. Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, Industry Deputy Minister Alex Retraubun and South Korean Ambassador to Jakarta Kim Young-sun.

Sjafrie said the delivery proved that Indonesian defense production, especially aircraft, had been accepted at a regional level and was preparing to gain acceptance at an international level.

“The airplane delivery is part of mutual-benefit cooperation between the two countries. We expect this reciprocal relationship to keep improving,” he said in his speech.

Meanwhile, Kim told the attendees that he was pleased and grateful that PT DI had finally delivered the fourth and last CN-235 for the KCG.

“It is particularly encouraging to know that the defense-industry cooperation has grown steadily and expanded considerably in recent years. I believe our defense-industry cooperation is characterized by mutual benefit based on mutual trust through win-win cooperation,” he said.

The ambassador pointed out that Indonesia had ordered a number of South Korean-made aircraft such as the KT-1 Wong Bee trainer and T-50 advanced jet trainer.

Indonesia has also signed a contract to buy three submarines from South Korea and both countries are currently developing a new jet fighter codenamed KFX/IFX.

PT DI president director Budi Santoso said the last aircraft should have been delivered in December 2011 but there was a technical problem with the radar delivery.

“The radar was ordered by the Koreans and the delivery was late. So it was not our fault and no penalties were imposed,” he told reporters on the sidelines of the ceremony.

Budi said the company received non-cash assistance of US$100 million from state lender Bank BNI. A loan of similar value had been secured from another state lender Bank BRI to work on nine C-295 medium transport airplanes procured by the Defense Ministry.

The C-295 is a larger derivative, developed by Spain, of the CN-235 which is jointly designed and jointly produced by both Spain and Indonesia.

Sjafrie expected two C-295s could be delivered before October this year.

PT DI aircraft integration director Budiman Saleh said the contract for the four aircraft was signed in December 2008 in Seoul. The first two aircraft were delivered in 2011 on March 7 and 13 respectively while the third aircraft was delivered on Dec. 23.

He said the aircraft was designed for maritime surveillance and SAR missions, being equipped with various features and instruments such as search radar, forward looking infra red (FLIR), IFF interrogator, tactical navigation, tactical computer system, camera and bubble windows.

Budiman and 10 technicians are on board the airplane during the ferry flight to demonstrate PT DI’s commitment to its customers. Capt. Adi Budi Atmoko is the pilot with Capt. Esther Gayatri Saleh as co-pilot.

Esther said the aircraft would first fly to Tarakan in East Kalimantan in a five-hour flight and rest overnight (RON) there. From Tarakan, the airplane will fly for about four hours to Clark Base in the Philippines for refueling before continuing the journey to Taipei in a three-and-a-half hour flight.

After another RON in Taipei, the aircraft is expected to arrive in Gimpo airport in Seoul on Sunday after flying for about four hours from Taipei.

South Korea is a potential market for PT DI as the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) currently operates six CN-235s for transport missions and two airplanes for VVIP transport. ROKAF also operates 12 CN-235s made in Spain. PT DI spokesman Sonny Saleh Ibrahim told The Jakarta Post that South Korea still had an option for another eight CN-235s.

“We will start negotiations in 2013 to convert this option into a firm order,” he said, adding that the option was for both the KCG and ROKAF.

(The Jakarta Post)

Puspenerbal Akan Tambah 10 Helikopter dan 3 Pesawat

26 Februari 2012

Pesawat CN-235 pesanan TNI AL per Januari 2012 (photo : Indonesia Raya)

TRIBUNJATIM.COM,SURABAYA- Program pembangunan kekuatan unsur udara untuk mengantisipasi potensi ancaman dari laut dalam tahun ini Pusat Penerbangan Angkatan Laut (Puspenerbal) TNI AL akan menambah 10 Helikopter dan tiga pesawat patroli maritim (Patmar).

KSAL Laksamana TNI Soeparno mengatakan, kebutuhan Helikopter dan Patmar tersebut adalah tuntutan mengimbangi kekuatan lawan, terutama Helikopter yang memiliki kemampuan Anti Kapal Permukaan (AKPA) dan Anti Kapal Selam (AKS).

“Ini adalah Prioritas teutama Helikopter dengan kemampuan AKS yang paling ditakuti oleh kapal selam lawan yang disinyalir sering melakukan kegiatan spionase melalui perairan teritorial maupun alur laut,” papar Soeparno usai menjadi Irup Sertijab Komandan Puspenerbal di Apron Hanggar Lanudal Juanda, Jumat (23/2/2012).

Heli Anti Kapal Selam dan Anti Kpal Permukaan akan melengkapi arsenal TNI AL (photo : ADF)

Selain Helikopter AKPA dan AKS pihaknya juga memesan jenis Helikopter angkut taktis. Untuk pesawat terbang, Puspenerbal dalam tahun ini juga akan menambah tiga pesawat Patroli Maritim (Patmar).

“Satu pesawat sudah selesai dan akan diserahkan tanggal 28 nanti,” jelasnya.

Sementara untuk pesawat lama seperti jenis pesawat Nomad, kata Soeparno jika masih bisa dirawat, pesawat tersebut tetap akan dipakai.

“Akan dipelajari lagi rencana grounded, kalau bisa dipertahankan akan dipakai,” pungkasnya.

(TribunNews)

South East Asian Nations Seek Improved ASW, AEW

18 Februari 2012

Indonesia - The air chief of Indonesia says the country would be looking for a larger system than the AEW concept put forward by Airbus Military. The AEW aircraft will need more endurance than the C-295 can deliver, he notes. (photo : Jetphotos)

Concerns over China’s claims to the South China Sea are sparking an arms race among its Southeast Asian neighbors, some of which have maritime patrol, airborne early warning and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) aircraft high on their priority lists.

China has laid claim to most of the South China Sea, a body of water that includes vital sea lanes and under which lie rich deposits of oil and gas.

In May of last year, Chinese ships reportedly cut the cables of Binh Minh 02, an oil-surveying vessel within Vietnam’s 200-nm exclusive economic zone and operated by the Vietnam Oil & Gas Group. In the same month, two Chinese fighters allegedly entered Philippine airspace, an intrusion related to the disputed Spratly Islands. The Philippine navy also found wooden posts erected on Amy Douglas Bank, Reed Bank and Boxall Reef—all within Philippine-claimed waters. The navy, which promptly removed the posts, accused China of placing them there.

Vietnam

P-3C Orion (photo : Airliners)

Vietnam’s foreign minister, Pham Binh Minh, and the Philippines foreign minister, Albert del Rosario, met in Hanoi last year to discuss implementation of a defense cooperation agreement.
The dispute with China has led the Philippines and Vietnam to seek closer defense ties with the U.S., a remarkable development in terms of U.S.-Vietnam relations considering their history. It seems that memories of the Vietnam War are no longer a stumbling block. On Sept. 19, Vietnam’s deputy defense minister, Nguyen Chi Vinh, and the U.S. deputy assistant secretary of defense, Robert Scher, signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at boosting military cooperation.

Sources say the Vietnamese are seeking to buy ASW aircraft and have shown interest in the Lockheed Martin P-3. The Southeast Asian nation wants the P-3s to protect its exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea and to help stop Chinese submarines from entering Vietnamese waters. China’s largest submarine base is on the southern tip of Hainan Island, just off the northern Vietnam coast.

C-295 ASW (photo : Airbus Military)

Vietnam has a 3,444-km (2,135-mi.) coastline, so it needs long-range aircraft. Advanced sonar-detection equipment also is required to combat China’s increasingly advanced submarines. For ASW, Vietnam has been using four Beriev Be-12 amphibious aircraft that it received in 1981, as well as dozens of Kamov Ka-25/-27 helicopters.

When the P-3s last operated in Vietnam during the war, Cam Ranh Bay coincidentally was their main base. The U.S. Navy used P-3As to patrol the coastline in search of gunboats and Chinese trawlers providing supplies to the Vietcong hiding in South Vietnam.

The other contender for Vietnam’s ASW requirement is the Airbus Military C295. The Spaniards have already developed a relationship there, having sold three Airbus Military C212 maritime patrol aircraft to the Vietnam marine police. The first aircraft was delivered late last year.

Philippine

CN-235 ASW (photo : Militaryphotos)

The Philippine air force is also seeking to buy maritime patrol aircraft. Some of the models being considered include the Alenia ATR 42MP, Hawker Beechcraft King Air 350ER, Airbus CN235, Viking Air Twin Otter and Bombardier Q-series.

The country’s leaders have also talked up the prospect of the Philippines once again procuring fighter aircraft. The Philippines has had no fighter aircraft since 2005 when it retired its last Northrop F-5.

ATR-42MP (photo : Alessandro Buffa)

Philippines President Benigno Aquino, 3rd, disclosed in December that he will be visiting the U.S. early this year and plans to ask U.S. President Barack Obama for military assistance. “I will meet President Obama next year, perhaps by April. I will remind him of our strategic partnership and he might remember that we don’t have a fighter [jet],” Aquino said in a speech to Philippine air force personnel late in 2011. He added that he will ask the U.S. to donate used fighter aircraft to the Philippines, under an arrangement similar to that between the U.S. and Indonesia. The U.S. last year agreed to donate 24 second-hand Lockheed Martin F-16A/Bs to Indonesia, which could then pay to upgrade them to the C/D standard.

Malaysia

Saab Eriye (image : Saab)

Malaysia also has a requirement for fighters and is seeking to buy 18 new aircraft to replace its MiG-29s. The contenders are the Boeing F/A-18E/F, Saab Gripen, Dassault Rafale, Sukhoi Su-30, Sukhoi Su-35 and Eurofighter Typhoon.

The MiG-29s are stationed at Kuantan AFB, in West Malaysia overlooking the South China Sea. If Malaysia ever has an armed conflict with China, it is likely that the fighter squadron at Kuantan will be at the front line. East and West Malaysia are separated by the South China Sea, and Malaysia has a requirement for maritime patrol and airborne early warning (AEW) aircraft to monitor its exclusive maritime economic zone. Malaysia’s defense minister, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, says Malaysia has a requirement for three AEW aircraft, one each to be stationed in East and West Malaysia and one standby.

Northrop Grumman is proposing to sell the E-2D, Saab is promoting its Saab Erieye radar mounted on an Embraer EMB-145, and Airbus Military is pushing the C295 AEW. Lockheed Martin U.K. and Thales, meanwhile, are each proposing that Malaysia use one of the air force’s existing aircraft, such as a Lockheed Martin C-130, and upgrade it with AEW capabilities using roll-on, roll-off mission systems.

Malaysia’s air force chief, Gen. Rodzali bin Daud, says “It is important to maintain a high degree of situational awareness and central to this is AEW.” Malaysia is relying on ground-based radar supplemented by some Beechcraft King Air 350s fitted with Thales radar, but these small aircraft have limited flying range. Rodzali also says: “Land-based radar’s lack of mobility puts it second to airborne systems.”

AW-159 Lynx Wildcat (photo : All Britain)

Malaysia has a requirement for ASW aircraft as well. Its navy has stated it wants to buy six ASW helicopters. It is considering the Sikorsky MH-60R and the AgustaWestland AW159. Defense Minister Ahmad told DTI’s sister publication Aviation Week & Space Technology in December that “the project is in our pipeline, but because of budget constraints, it hasn’t been given a priority [go-ahead] yet.” Industry executives say the government may be waiting until after the next national election, expected sometime in 2012, before moving ahead with this procurement.

In fact, this is the case with all the other requirements. Malaysia will only allocate a budget and select a winner for its AEW and fighter requirements after the elections.

Malaysia’s Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) is also still waiting for a budget for the five maritime patrol aircraft it plans to acquire on long-term wet leases. Three types are in the running—the RUAG 228NG, Cessna Grand Caravan and Alenia ATR 42MP.

Singapore

G-550 CAEW (image : FlightGlobal)

Singapore uses Fokker 50s for maritime patrol and has one of the most advanced AEW capabilities in the region, thanks to its Gulfstream G550s fitted with AEW mission equipment from Israel Aerospace Industries’ Elta Systems. For ASW, it has Sikorsky S-70Bs, but industry executives say is also planning to buy fixed-wing ASW aircraft.

The island nation, unlike other countries in Southeast Asia, has no territorial disputes with China. But Singapore, which is dependent on sea trade for its livelihood, can ill afford to have submarines blocking its sea lanes.

China has been adding Shang-class nuclear-powered subs, while India has announced that it plans to buy six more diesel-electric models. (Russia’s arms export agency, Rosoboronexport, disclosed that it will be proposing Russian-built Amur 650-class subs.) Six French Scorpene vessels from an earlier tender are under construction in India.

Singapore’s closest neighbors have also been adding submarines, largely in response to China’s submarine buildup.

Vietnam’s defense minister, Gen. Phung Quang Thanh, says his country has six Kilo-class diesel-powered subs on order from Russia. Malaysia recently added three submarines: two new Scorpene-class subs jointly built by French and Spanish companies, and one reconditioned ex-French navy Agosta-class vessel. Indonesia has two German-built Cakra-class subs and in December ordered three submarines from South Korea’s Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering. Thailand’s navy is eyeing second-hand Type U206As from Germany, according to local news reports.

(Aviation Week)

Singapore Seeks Tankers, Tranports, ASW

13 Februari 2012

A330 MRTT tanker aircraft (photo : Le Bourget)

Airbus Military could be one of the main beneficiaries of the Singapore air force’s next round of procurements. Singapore has at the top of its procurement list aerial refueling tankers, strategic airlifters and anti-submarine warfare fixed-wing aircraft, purchases that will see that the island continues to be, for the next few years at least, the biggest spender on new defense equipment in Southeast Asia.

The 2011 defense budget was SG$12.1 billion ($9.6 billion), accounting for 26% of the government budget and about 5% of gross domestic product (GDP). Some analysts estimate that Singapore, with a population of about five million, spends more on defense per capita than any country but Israel.

KC-46A tanker aircraft (photo : Flight Global)

Defense has always been a top priority, ever since Singapore gained independence in 1965. The nation’s founder, Lee Kwan Yew, recently said in the book Hard Truths, that “without a strong defense, there will be no Singapore. It will become a satellite, cowed and intimidated by its neighbors.”

Singapore has close defense ties with Israel, a point that is downplayed—because it is politically sensitive—but one that is important to remember because it explains why Israeli companies are short-listed by the Singaporeans for upcoming defense purchases. The Israelis are in the running to supply aerial refueling tankers and anti-submarine warfare fixed-wing aircraft.

A400M airlifter (photo : Key Aero)

Aerial refueling tankers are at the top of the list because the air force needs to replace its four Boeing KC-135Rs. An important requirement is that the new tankers be able to assist the air force’s Boeing F-15SGs flying between Singapore and its overseas detachment at Mountain Home AFB, Idaho.

The Boeing KC-46A would ordinarily be the front-runner but Boeing may have to struggle to win the Singapore contract. The manufacturer is already committed to deliver 18 KC-46As to the U.S. Air Force by 2017, leaving no early delivery slots for foreign customers. A Boeing official told Aviation Week in July 2011 that it can deliver KC-46As to foreign customers as early as 2018. But that may be too late for Singapore. Industry executives say Singapore’s air force has been complaining about the difficulty and cost of maintaining the aging KC-135Rs. But the need to secure aerial refueling tankers sooner rather than later creates an opportunity for Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), which converts 767s to tankers.

C-17 airlifter (photo : FlightGlobal)

However, industry executives familiar with the situation say the front-runner in this competition is the Airbus Military A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT). Australian air force officials told DTI at the LIMA air show in Malaysia in December that the Singapore air force was interested in the A330MRTT and that the organizers of the Singapore air show were pushing to have a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) tanker on display there. The RAAF, however, has declined the request. They say the only reason the A330MRTT was brought to LIMA was because it had to be in Malaysia for a joint military exercise.

Singapore Technologies Aerospace, the Singapore government-linked company that maintains many of the air force’s aircraft, is also familiar with the A330, because it does the heavy maintenance work on Singapore Airlines’ (SIA) fleet of leased A330 passenger aircraft.

P-8A maritime patrol aircraft (photo : Key Aero)

The A330MRTT’s 111,000 kg (245,000 lb.) of fuel is stored in the wings and horizontal stabilizer, leaving the main fuselage for a passenger cabin that can seat up to 380 people. In terms of air cargo, it can transport up to 26 military cargo pallets.

Having the ability to transport passengers and cargo on a longer-range aircraft, such as the A330MRTT, would certainly be useful. Airlift is one of the other requirements Singapore lists. Presently the air force operates five Lockheed Martin C-130Hs, aircraft that only have the range to travel within Southeast Asia. But Singapore’s military needs to carry personnel and equipment farther afield to places where it does training, namely: Australia, Taiwan, France and the U.S. Singapore’s military has been chartering commercial aircraft from SIA and for military equipment it has been chartering Antonov heavy-lift aircraft. It is understood that Singapore is also considering the Airbus Military A400M and the Boeing C-17.

P-3C maritime patrol aircraft (photo : Tom Turner)

Besides strategic airlift and aerial refueling tankers, Singapore has a requirement for fixed-wing aircraft for anti-submarine warfare (ASW). These may end up replacing the air force’s nine Fokker 50 maritime patrol aircraft, according to some industry executives. This procurement is in response to the growth of submarine fleets among Singapore’s neighbors. ASW contenders include the Alenia ATR 42MP, Boeing P-8A Poseidon and an IAI/Elta Systems offering, which uses a Bombardier Q400. The Lockheed Martin P-3C was being considered but is no longer in the running.

Not to be forgotten among the airlift, aerial refueling and anti-sub acquisition extravaganza are fighters. Singapore is expected to take interest in Tokyo’s recent decision to choose the Lockheed F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. Like Israel, Singapore and the U.S. enjoy close military relations. Indeed, according to a December 2011 report by the Congressional Research Service on U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS), Singapore’s agreement for $530 million worth of FMS placed it in the top 10 leading purchasers of U.S. defense articles and services in 2010 worldwide.

And Singapore’s interests extend elsewhere, too. It has explored the option of using the smaller catapult-launched Boeing ScanEagle UAV on-board its vessels. Anti-piracy concerns remain another driving force behind military acquisitions.

(Aviation Week)

RUAG is Hopeful that Malaysia will Order Five Dornier 228 NG

11 Februari 2012

Dornier 228 NG maritime air patrol (image : forceindia)

RUAG Aerospace Plans to Set MRO Partnership in Malaysia

Ruag Aviation is hopeful that Malaysia will order up to five new generation Dornier 228 New Generations for maritime patrol purposes, and is in talks about setting up an MRO partnership in Malaysia.

A decision could even be announced at the Singapore Air Show. “We are about to set up a global services network,” says Alexander Mueller, managing director of Ruag. “We will have at least one located in Malaysia, and are also looking at other options. Possibly the southern Pacific.”

The company already has a presence in Malaysia covering the radar system for the F/A-18 radar – Ruag Malaysia. But Mueller says Ruag is looking at a number of options in the country. “We like to be close to our customer,” says Klaus-Peter Leinauer, VP sales & business development.

The possibility of Malaysia buying up to five Dornier 228 New Generations is one of the drivers behind the search. Mueller points to the relatively new design (dating back to the early eighties) of the original aircraft, particularly in areas such as the wing profile, and also points out that unlike some older designs, the 228 has FAR Part 23, making it safer to operate if case of engine failure, amongst other things. Mueller also says that the relatively small design of the aircraft is an advantage.

In Asia, there is already one Dornier 228 New Generation operating on commuter services in Japan, while the Bangladeshi coast guard recently ordered two units.

The Bangladesh Navy has purchased two modern Dornier 228 New Generation turboprop aircraft from Ruag for maritime air patrol and rescue mission along the countries’ coastline.

The two Dornier 228 New Generations are the first fixed wing aircraft to be purchased by the Bangladesh Navy for patrolling its coast line. Both aircraft are being equipped with special equipment for maritime air patrol operations. This includes radio and navigation aid and other selected systems as well as rescue equipment.

“The cost-effectiveness and, despite its sophisticated technology, ease of use sealed the decision in favour of the Dornier 228 New Generation,” Mueller added. In addition to the two aircraft, the contract includes comprehensive pilot and aircraft maintenance training for the Navy ground crew on location. Delivery of both aircraft is scheduled for early summer 2013.

The Bangladeshi order adds to a customer list that includes Japan, Norway and Germany.

(ADD SA-2012 DailyNews)

BAE Systems Awarded Wedgetail Electronic Warfare Support Contract

07 Februari 2012

RAAF Boeing 737 AEW&C Wedgetail (photo : Airliners)

ADELAIDE, South Australia --– BAE Systems has been awarded a contract from The Boeing Company for In-Service Support (ISS) of the Electronic Warfare (EW) system on the Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning & Control aircraft.

The AUD $40 million order covers maintenance, engineering and supply support services and builds on an earlier AUD $22 million contract for long-lead spares and support infrastructure.

Director Land and Integrated Systems Kim Scott said “The In-Service Support contract award represents a significant milestone in our journey on the Wedgetail project and builds on BAE Systems’ experience as Australia’s predominant supplier of integrated EW systems.”

EW is recognised by the Commonwealth as a Priority Industry Capability (PIC), that would significantly erode defence self-reliance if not available in country. This contract helps support the EW PIC by providing ongoing work for a team of 25 specialist engineering, technical trades, and supplier management staff in Australia.

The Wedgetail EW system, comprising integrated Electronic Support Measures (ESM) and EW Self-Protection (EWSP) subsystems, developed by BAE Systems Australia over the past decade, is recognised for its exceptional capabilities.

(BAE Systems Australia)

CN-235 Ketiga Korean National Guard Diserahkan

23 Desember 2011

CN-235 versi Maritime Patrol untuk Korean Coast Guard (photo : Kaksus Militer)

Bandung (ANTARA News) - Korean National Guard menerima pesawat CN-235 Maritme Patrol Aircraft ketiga dari hanggar produksi PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI), di Bandung, Jumat. Total pesanan pesawat intai maritim menengah dari Korea Selatan itu sebanyak empat unit dengan total nilai kontrak sekitar 94 juta dolar Amerika Serikat.

"Sebelum pesawat CN-235 MPA yang ketiga ini diterbangkan ke Korea Selatan, pesawat telah menjalani serangkaian pengujian sesuai prosedur yang berlaku serta telah menjalani uji penerimaan," kata Direktur Aircraft Integration PTDI, Budiman Saleh.

Korea Selatan sebetulnya memiliki sendiri industri pesawat terbang yang cukup mumpuni di kelas dunia. Namun telah beberapa kali negara itu mempercayakan keperluan pesawat terbangnya kepada PT Dirgantara Indonesia. Ini menjadi bukti keampuhan produk dalam negeri Indonesia dengan harga bersaing di tingkat internasional.

Korea Selatan sejak 1994 tercatat telah menggunakan dua skuadron pesawat CN-235 untuk memperkuat angkatan udaranya.

"Kepercayaan ini tentu harus dipelihara terus agar PTDI memperoleh kontrak-kontrak berikutnya, bukan hanya dari Pemerintah Korea Selatan, melainkan juga dari pelanggan-pelanggan lain yang memang membutuhkan pesawat sekelas CN-235," ujarnya.

Saleh menjelaskan, pesawat CN-235 MPA untuk Korean National Guard pertama dan ke dua telah diserahkan pada Mei 2011, sedangkan untuk pesawat yang keempat akan diserahkan pada kuartal pertama tahun 2012. Kontrak jual beli pesawat KCG ini ditandatangani pada Desember 2008 lalu.

Spesifikasi khusus CN-235 MPA antara lain dilengkapi instrumen radar khusus, forward looking infra red (FLIR-penjejak berbasis infra merah tinjauan bawah), ESM, instrumen identification friend or foe (IFF-pengenal wahana kawan atau musuh), navigasi taktik, sistem komputer taktis, kamera pengintai udara, dan beberapa yang lain. Dua mesin CT7-9C yang masing-masing berkekuatan 1.750 daya kuda dipasang di kedua pilon mesin di bentang sayapnya.

Secara fisik, CN-235 MPA ini berukuran lebih panjang dan memiliki struktur lebih kuat ketimbang seri sipil CN-235. Di bagian hidung di bawah jendela kokpit, terdapat tonjolan berisikan berbagai instrumen khusus itu. Struktur pesawat terbang juga diperkuat karena operasionalisasi CN-235 MPA lebih dominan di wilayah maritim yang berpotensi korosif terhadap metal penyusun pesawat terbang itu.

Secara khusus, Saleh bersyukur dan gembira bahwa restrukturisasi bisnis di lingkungan PTDI terus berjalan. Program restrukturisasi bisnis tersebut bertujuan untuk meningkatkan nilai ekonomi perusahaan.

Melalui upaya restrukturisasi itu PTDI terus mengembangkan dan mempertahankan lini CN-235, kelompok Aircraft Services, dan kelompok Manufacturing Services.

Selain itu PTDI juga terus mencari mitra strategis untuk lini N250, NC-212, Helikopter, dan kelompok Engineering Services, sementara lini usaha pertahanan keamanan dan Advanced Technology Education Center (ATEC) diupayakan agar mampu mandiri. (ANT).

(Antara)

Lanud Medan akan Ditempati Skadron Intai dan Skadron Angkut

15 Oktober 2011

Pesawat intai CN-235MPA TNI Angkatan Udara (photo : FighterControl)

KSAU Resmikan Markas Lanud Medan

Jurnas.com | KEPALA Staf TNI Angkatan Udara (KSAU), Marsekal TNI Imam Sufaat meresmikan Markas Komando Pangkalan Udara (Mako Lanud) Medan, Selasa (13/12).

Menurut KSAU, Lanud Medan mempunyai arti yang sangat strategis untuk Sumatera bagian utara. Karena itu, keberadaannya akan dipertahankan sesuai kebijakan dari Presiden RI.

Menurutnya, beberapa pertimbangan bahwa Mako Lanud akan dipindahkan kedalam pangkalan, namun untuk mempertahankan sejarah yang cukup panjang dimana Lanud sebelumnya adalah kantor Pangkodau I (Panglima Komando Daerah Udara) yang waktu itu membawahi wilayah Sumatra.

Dengan adanya Minimum Essensial Force (MEF) sampai tahun 2024, kata KSAU, kedepan Lanud Medan akan ditingkatkan menjadi pangkalan operasi yang akan ditempati Skadron Pengintai atau Skadron Angkut. Sehinggga keberadaan Malanud dan fasilitasnya sangat diperlukan. “Seperti di Amerika Serikat dan Rusia, keberadaan landasan di tengah kota sangat diperlukan untuk kebutuhan dalam keadaan-keadaan tertentu seperti VVIP atau keadaan darurat,” ungkap KSAU seperti dilansir dalam Kepala Dinas Penerangan Angkatan Udara, Marsma TNI Azman Yunus yang diterima Jurnal Nasional, Rabu (14/12).

Dikatakannya, jika Bandara Internasional Polonia sudah pindah ke Kuala Namu, maka Polonia operasionalnya akan berpindah ke TNI Angkatan Udara, sehingga operasi-operasi yang penuh kerahasiaan dan keluasan bergerak, maka Lanud ini dapat mendukung apa yang diinginkan.

Ia menjelaskan, pada peristiwa Tsunami di Aceh dan Padang Sumatra Barat beberapa waktu lalu, keberadaan Lanud Medan sangat penting untuk keadaan darurat di daerah tersebut. Sebab seluruh pergerakan pesawat bantuan dari negara-negara sahabat dilaksanakan melalui Lanud Medan.

(Jurnal Nasional)

Saab and DRB HICOM Sign Industrial Cooperation Teaming Agreement

08 Desember 2011

Erieye AEW&C (photo : quintinsmith_ip)

Defence and security company Saab has signed an Industrial Cooperation teaming agreement with DRB-HICOM. The purpose is to offer the most competitive and attractive proposal to the Government of Malaysia regarding delivery of a high performance and cost efficient Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading solutions, products and services ranging from military defence to civil security. DRB-HICOM is a leading company in the Malaysian automotive and defence industry. The companies combined competencies and capabilities will ensure that the most cost efficient solution will be offered to the Government of Malaysia.

The agreement between Saab and DRB-HICOM will include offering of technology transfer, bringing employment and expertise to Malaysia.

Malaysian Defence Minister Dato’ Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi witnessed the signing of the teaming agreement at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) in Malaysia. The agreement was signed by Gunilla Fransson of Saab and DRB-HICOM’s Abdul Harith Abdullah.

"I'm delighted that we today are formalizing our long lasting relationship. With this teaming agreement, Saab is further reinforcing its long term commitment to the Malaysian defence and civil security market", says Gunilla Fransson, Senior Vice President and head of Saab business area Security and Defence Solutions.

Saab has a long history of supplying high performance, cost efficient defence systems to the Malaysian Armed Forces. Systems like navy and army radar systems, airborne self-protection systems for helicopters and fighters, naval command and control systems and army support weapons, including anti-tank weapons.

Saab's world class, long range Erieye AEW&C system have the capability of early detection of air and sea objects. The sophisticated Erieye radar can also detect and track small objects. This includes unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles, as well as wooden fishing vessels and jet skies.

These capabilities give authorities full control of military and civilian airspace and movements at sea. The Erieye system further enhances the possibilities to monitor activities on the sea such as illegal fishery, illegal immigration, smuggling, piracy and also protection of oil and gas installations.

(Saab Group)

Lockheed Martin UK Offers Vigilance AEW System to Malaysia

25 November 2011

The pod-housed system has already undergone a trial fit on an AW101 Merlin helicopter (photo : Lockheed Martin)

Malaysia's long-held requirement to field an airborne early warning (AEW) capability will see Lockheed Martin UK Integrated Systems formally launch a product in the country in December.

Dubbed "Vigilance", the system combines mission equipment developed for the UK Royal Navy's AgustaWestland AW101 Merlin HM2 multi-role helicopter upgrade with active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar technology provided by Northrop Grumman.

The latter draws on the company's APG-80 radar developed for the Lockheed F-16 Block 60 fighter and the APG-81 scaleable agile beam radar, being offered as an upgrade option for earlier versions of the type.

"We bring the same performance as a fighter radar, although it will be an APY- [AEW sensor] in function" said George Riley, Northrop's manager for surveillance systems business development.

Vigilance sensors will be mounted in self-contained pods and be capable of supporting tasks such as AEW, fighter control, and maritime and border surveillance, said Neil Morphett, system solutions engineering group manager for Lockheed Martin UK.

LM Vigilance PodLM Vigilance Pod on AgustaWestland AW101 Merlin HM2 multi-role helicopter (photo : Lockheed Martin)

"We are aiming to be as minimally disruptive to the aircraft as possible. We just need power on the aircraft and a hard point for mounting the sensor," he added.

Each pod will contain its own cooling system and other equipment, while a system interface panel will allow for the rapid integration of additional sensors, such as an electro-optical/infrared camera. Pod installation should take less than 4h, Morphett said.

Carrying one pod mounted on either side of its fuselage, a medium utility helicopter such as the Mil Mi-17 would be able to provide 360° radar coverage, with each AESA sensor's field of regard being expanded by the use of using a mechanical positioner.

The Vigilance Pod contains a Northrop Grumman AN/APG 81 active electronically scanned array (AESA), missions can include airborne early warning and control, anti-surface warfare, battlefield surveillance and search-and-rescue. (photo : Northrop Grumman)

Other potential host platforms could include the Airbus Military CN-235 and Lockheed C-130 transports, with these to be equipped with roll-on, roll-off mission stations for up to four operators. Rotorcraft are likely to be equipped with one operator station, and the ability to downlink data to analysts or commanders on the ground.

One radar has recently undergone vibration testing at Northrop's Baltimore site in Maryland, with this to undergo three months of industry-funded flight trials in the UK from the first quarter of 2012, using a prototype pod installed on a "medium-size" helicopter.

The first production-standard system is now in manufacture, and customer deliveries could commence within two years, said Younus Mustafa, Lockheed's capture manager for the Vigilance product. The company will launch the Vigilance product at a Tangent Link conference in Malaysia in late November, before promoting the system at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace exhibition.

(FlightGlobal)

Russia’s New AWACS Plane Enters Service

01 November 2011

Russia’s new AWACS plane enters service (photo : Osdu)

A modernized A-50U airborne warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft entered service with the Russian Air Force on Monday, an AF spokesman said.

The aircraft has an advanced onboard computer, satellite communication and radar systems, Col. Vladimir Drik said.

It now has the capability to detect various types of flying targets, including helicopters, cruise missiles and supersonic aircraft, he said.

The Beriev A-50, based on the Ilyushin Il-76 transport, first flew in 1978. It entered service in 1984, with about 40 produced by 1992.

The A-50 can track up to 10 fighter aircraft for either air-to-air intercept or air-to-ground attack missions.

(RIA Novosti)

South Korea Receives First 737 AEW&C Peace Eye Aircraft

03 Agustus 2011

Boeing 737-700 Peace Eye AEW&C (photo : Airliners)

South Korea has received the first of four Boeing 737-700 Peace Eye airborne early warning & control (AEW&C) aircraft.

The aircraft was delivered to Gimhae air force base, 450km (250 miles) southeast of Seoul, after a flight fromBoeing's production facility in Seattle, said the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA).

DAPA will conduct flight tests on the aircraft before passing it to the Republic of Korea Air Force in September.

The aircraft has already undergone mission system flight testing in the US. The remaining three aircraft are being modified by Korea Aerospace Industries at its Sacheon facility. They will be delivered in 2012.

"The 737 AEW&C gives Korea a powerful capability for airborne surveillance, communications and battle management," said Boeing. "It also provides increased security for the Korean peninsula against today's threats and threats in the future."

The 737 AEW&C features Northrop Grumman's unique approach to achieving 360° radar coverage. The multi-role electronically scanned array (MESA) radar includes two side-looking arrays, as well as a top-hat array that uses "endfire" techniques to steer the radar beam forward and aft of the aircraft.

"The so-called 'top hat' portion of the MESA radar provides a practical solution for fore and aft coverage, while maintaining the low drag profile of the dorsal array system," said Boeing. "This allows the system to be installed on the mid-size 737-700 platform, without significant impact on aircraft performance."

According to DAPA, a single Peace Eye can monitor the entire Korean peninsula. It can track up to 1,000 airborne or surface targets simultaneously, while also directing combat operations. It carries a flight crew of two and a mission crew of six to 10.

Seoul signed a $1.6 billion deal for the four aircraft in 2006. It is the second customer for the AEW&C variant of the 737-700 commercial airliner in the Asia Pacific region, after Australia.

Australia obtained four of the type under its Wedgetail programme, with initial operating capability expected in December.

Turkey has also purchased four of the aircraft under its Peace Eagle programme.

(FlightGlobal)

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