Hawkei Passes Blast Test Milestone

26 November 2009

Thales Hawkei (all photos Thalesgroup)

Thales Australia's groundbreaking Hawkei Australian Light Protected Vehicle has passed a significant milestone with the successful completion of the first series of mine blast tests on the passenger compartment.

Conducted on a full monocoque hull prototype, the test involved a high level blast beneath the centre of the vehicle, representing the type of detonation that occurs when a vehicle passes directly over a land mine.

The Hawkei's hull has also recently been successfully tested against IED fragments, another key operational threat.

These tests are part of a series designed to ensure that the Australian designed and built Hawkei provides the highest possible protection for Australian soldiers.

"These latest successes demonstrate the rapid progress being made in Australian industry's drive to deliver a truly Manufactured and Supported in Australia solution for the Department of Defence's LAND 121 Phase 4 program said Ian Irving, Thales Australia's Vice President for Land & Joint Systems.

"We believe that Team Thales is the only team able to deliver an Australian solution specifically tailored for the unique requirements of the Defence Materiel Organisation and the Australian Defence Force.

"This capability is backed by years of experience with the Bushmaster program, which has given us a real understanding of the ADF's needs, both now and into the future."

The data gathered during the blast testing from full anthropomorphic dummies will be used to further refine the blast management system used in the vehicle.

Achieving the highest levels of protection in the light vehicle class is one of the primary goals for the Hawkei design team, which includes Plasan Sasa, one of the world's foremost armour solutions companies.

"Plasan's vast international experience, including on major US programs, brings unrivalled expertise to Team Thales and to the Australian solution for LAND 121/4," Mr Irving concluded.

(Thales Group)

RSAF's F-15SG and AIM-120 AMRAAM Used for Weapons Loading Competition

30 November 2009

PC V FLC MSG Gene Tan guiding the AIM-120 AMRAAM onto the F-15SG aircraft during the Quarterly Weapons Loading Competition at MHAFB. (photo : Mindef)

Top Honours for F-15SG Detachment in Weapons Loading Competition

The Republic of Singapore Air Force's (RSAF) F-15SG fighter aircraft detachment in US, Peace Carvin V (PC V), came up tops in its maiden participation in the Quarterly Weapons Loading Competition at the Mountain Home Air Force Base (MHAFB) in Idaho, on 2 Oct.

Each Aircraft Maintenance Unit (AMU) located on the base would send their best load crew to participate in the competition that comes round once every three months.

The servicemen have to undergo a series of challenges comprising a theory test, uniform inspection, timed weapons loading and composite tool kit inspection.

(From left to right) MSG Sivakumar, MSG Gene Tan and SSG George Ng guiding the AIM-9X Sidewinder onto the F-15SG aircraft during the Weapons Loading Competition on 2 Oct. (photo : Mindef)

The PC V Flight Line Crews (FLC) - Master Sergeant (MSG) Gene Tan, MSG Sivakumar and Staff Sergeant (SSG) George Ng - from the F-15SG squadron competed against the more experienced United States Air Force AMUs' Weapon Load Crews (WLC) teams.

The PC V FLC team emerged winners of the competition with zero safety and reliability discrepancies, and also achieved the fastest weapons loading time on record. The most challenging part of the competition was the loading of weapons, which the team accomplished in front of a cheering crowd.

The PC V FLC team completed the aircraft preparation, weapons pre-load inspection, weapons loading, post-loading inspection and tools checks flawlessly in less than half the time required by MHAFB standards, and two minutes ahead of their competitors.

(Mindef)

LPD ke-4 Akan Lebih Besar dari KRI Banjarmasin

28 November 2009

LPD ke-4 dalam pembangunan (photo : Cakrabyuha-ARC)

Dephan Tak Akan Gegabah Beli Kapal Selam

Surabaya - Departemen Pertahanan (Dephan) tidak akan gegabah membeli kapal selam untuk memenuhi kebutuhan alat utama sistem pertahanan TNI Angkatan Laut.

"Pengadaan kapal selam, kami siap. Tapi kami pelajari dulu," kata Menteri Pertahanan (Menhan) Purnomo Yusgiantoro, di Surabaya, Sabtu.

Pihaknya menyatakan tidak akan terburu-buru dalam membeli alutsista yang menggunakan uang rakyat dalam jumlah besar itu.

"Kami tidak ingin membeli sesuatu tanpa perhitungan yang cermat. Sudah ada beberapa negara yang menawarkan kapal selam," katanya saat ditemui usai meresmikan penggunaan Kapal perang Republik Indonesia (KRI) Banjarmasin-592 di Dermaga Ujung itu.

LPD ke-4

KRI Banjarmasin mempunyai panjang 125m dan berat 7.300 ton (image : PAL)

Sementara itu, Dephan dan industri kapal PT PAL Indonesia sedang merancang pembangunan kapal yang bentuk fisiknya lebih besar dibandingkan KRI Banjarmasin-592 yang juga diproduksi PT PAL.

"Kapal itu lebih besar dari kapal korvet jenis Sigma. Sedang kami rencang bersama PT PAL," kata dia.

Direktur Utama PT PAL, Harsusanto, mengatakan, kapal pesanan TNI AL tersebut diperkirakan sudah selesai pada Juni atau Juli 2010.

"Bentuknya lebih sempurna lagi dibandingkan KRI Banjarmasin, terutama pada mekanisme kerja kapal, pengendapan air, dan alat kontrol di anjungan," katanya.

Selama ini dia mengaku mendapatkan kendala dari produk penunjang lokal.

"Industri penunjang perkapalan di Indonesia belum tumbuh. Komponen lokal kapal yang kami produksi masih berkisar 40 persen," katanya.

Harsusanto berharap, pemerintah mendorong industri penunjang perkapalan sehingga nantinya kandungan lokal kapal akan semakin banyak.

Dalam kesempatan itu dia mengemukakan, harga KRI Banjarmasin sekitar 30 juta dolar AS.

"Namun kami hanya perlu investasi sekitar 15,8 juta dolar AS karena mesin kami dapatkan secara utuh dari Korea Selatan. Kalau dihitung semuanya kapal ini harganya 30 juta dolar AS," katanya.

Dibandingkan dengan KRI lainnya, KRI Banjarmasin-592 memiliki kelebihan, di antaranya kemampuan mengangkut lima unit helikopter, kecepatan 15,4 knot, bentuk bangunan atas "stealth design" yang dapat mengurangi "radar cross section". Sehingga tidak mudah ditangkap radar kapal musuh, getaran kapal sangat rendah sehingga menambah kenyamanan kru kapal dalam pelayaran, dan dapat mengangkut 562 personel.

(Antara)

KRI Banjarmasin Resmi Perkuat TNI AL

28 November 2009

KRI Banjarmasin 592, kapal LPD ketiga milik TNI-AL (photo : Detik)

Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Kapal jenis Landing Platform Dock (LPD) buatan PT PAL yang diberi nama KRI Banjarmasin-592 resmi memperkuat TNI Angkatan Laut, sejak 28 November 2009.

Peresmian dilakukan setelah penyerahan kapal tersebut dari PT PAL ke Departemen Pertahanan untuk selanjutnya diserahkan kepada TNI Angkatan Laut dalam sebuah upacara militer di Surabaya, Sabtu.

Upacara peresmian dihadiri Menteri Pertahanan Purnomo Yusgiantoro, Kepala Staf Umum Laksamana Madya TNI Didik Heru Purnomo dan Kepala Staf Angkatan Laut Laksamana Madya TNI Agus Suhartono.

KRI Banjarmasin salah satu dari dua unit kapal jenis landing platform dock 125 meter, yang dibangun di galangan pembuatan kapal milik PT PAL, Surabaya, Jawa Timur.

Kepala Dinas Penerangan TNI Angkatan Laut, Laksamana Pertama TNI Iskandar Sitompul kepada ANTARA News mengatakan, kapal buatan PT PAL tersebut menjadi kapal LPD ketiga yang masuk jajaran TNI AL. Dua kapal LPD pertama dibuat pabrik Korea Selatan, Daewoo International Corporation, dan diserahkan kepada TNI AL tahun silam.

Dibandingkan dengan dua LPD pertama, alat utama sistem persenjataan TNI AL yang dibangun di PT PAL ini mengalami sejumlah penyempurnaan mengikuti keinginan TNI AL.

Penyempurnaan itu antara lain daya angkut helikopter ditambah dari tiga menjadi lima, kecepatan kapal ditingkatkan dari 15 knot menjadi 15,4 knot, dan bentuk bangunan atas mengurangi penampang radar ("radar cross section") sehingga membuat kapal lebih sulit ditangkap radar musuh.

Selain itu, kapal LPD tersebut juga dirancang untuk bisa dipasangi senjata 100 mm dan dilengkapi ruang khusus untuk sistem kendali senjata (fire control system), yang memungkinkan kapal mampu melaksanakan pertahanan diri.

Kapal yang dibeli dengan fasilitas pembiayaan kredit ekspor ini berfungsi sebagai pengangkut kapal pendarat pasukan, operasi amfibi, pengangkut tank, pengangkut personel, juga untuk operasi kemanusiaan dan penanggulangan bencana serta pengangkut helikopter.

PT PAL sejak tahun 1980 telah menyelesaikan lebih dari 150 kapal aneka jenis.

(Antara)

Aircraft Shortlist 'To Be Finalised Soon'

28 November 2009

Russia's Su-35 (photo : krblog)

KUALA LUMPUR: With the days of the Royal Malaysian Air Force's MiG-29N Fulcrum jets numbered, a procurement shortlist for multi-role combat aircraft (MRCA) is expected to be finalised soon.

Defence industry players expect a shortlist to be made during the Langkawi International Maritime and Aero-space 2009 exhibition.Among the bidders for the MRCA deal are companies reportedly from the United States, France, Sweden, Britain, Russia and China.

The shopping list is said to include, among others, the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and F-16 Fighting Falcons from the US, France's Dassault Rafale and Dassault Mirage 2000, Saab JAS 39 Grippen of Sweden, Panavia Tornado from Britain, Europe's Eurofighter Typhoon, Russia's Sukhoi Su-30 and Su-35, and China's Chengu J-7 and J-10, Shenyang J-8 and J-11 and JF-17 Thunder.

An MRCA is the aircraft of choice as it can be used as both a fighter and a ground attack aircraft.Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi hinted that a firm decision might be made soon, probably utilising the budget under the 10th Malaysia Plan (2011-2015) or from the 11th Malaysia Plan.

He said this in reference to a projected procurement and development funding of RM7 billion for the entire defence and security sector under the 10th Malaysia Plan, for which more than RM5 billion is being sought for the defence industry proper.

Part of the budget is expected to be used to buy replacements for the S-61 Nuri helicopters for the air force, multi-role supply ships for the navy; and 8x8 heavy vehicles, armoured personnel carriers and missiles for the army.

Chinese J-10 (photo : China Defense Mashup)

"We are evaluating several MRCA makes that will best suit our needs, not only in terms of operations but other aspects like transfer of technology, trade spin-offs and cost-effectiveness."Zahid said to date, only 16 of the 18 MiG-29N delivered to the RMAF since 1995 under a RM1.3 billion package, were operational.

"By month end, six of the jets will be phased out. Another eight will be decommissioned by mid next year, with the remaining two phased out at the end of next year."

The two MiG-29N squadrons are being replaced by the 18 newly procured Sukhoi Su-30MKM interceptors. The deal was inked in 2003 for US$900 million (RM304.8 million).

Russia's state arms exporter Rosoboronexport reportedly offered to trade in the remaining 16 MiG-29Ns for an additional six Su-30MKMs.

The MiG-29N purchase made Malaysia the first non-Soviet block country to acquire Russian combat aircraft.However, rising operational and maintenance costs, to the tune of RM260 million a year, as the jets exceeded their life-span limit of 10 years is becoming too much to bear.

Two MiG-29Ns crashed in 1998 and 2005, respectively.

Apart from heavy wear and tear on spare parts, the MiG-29Ns have to undergo preventive and restoration work costing between RM7 million and RM10 million for engine overhaul every year for each cycle of between 1,000 and 4,000 flight hours.

(New Straits Times)

Australian MRH-90 Completes Maritime Trials

27 November 2009

Australia has become the first NH90 operator to certify the aircraft for service at sea. Above is an MRH90 during the naval trials on the amphibious ship HMAS Manoora. (photo : RAN)

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) conducts the world’s first maritime trials of the innovative MRH90 helicopter off HMAS Manoora [a Landing Platform Amphibious ship].

The month-long testing regime gauged the aircraft’s capabilities at sea through takeoffs, landings, munitions transfers and weight load carries.

The Aircraft Maintenance and Flight Trials Unit (AMAFTU), comprised of Navy’s elite test pilots, aero-systems specialists and aviation engineers, is the Australian Defence Force’s leading authority in First of Class Flight Trials (FOCFT).

Forty six MRH90’s are expected to enter service by mid 2010.

(Defense Aerospace)

L-CAT: Admiral Boarded

27 November 2009

L-CAT at the Mistral (all photos : mer et marine)

The prototype of the new landing gear designed by CNIM continues its testing Toulon harbor. On board, the delegations will succeed, including visitors from foreign navies interested in the concept of Landing Catamaran.

L-CAT has max speed (empty) 25 knots and full loaded 18 knots.

On Monday, the L-CAT has produced a new demonstration of plageage St. Mandrier with carrying the Vice Admiral Yann Tainguy, prefect of the Mediterranean Sea. The Navy is the first customer for the new gear.

The cockpit on the starboard.

On 15 June, CNIM was rewarded the contract for the acquisition of four amphibious landing gear fast (EDA-R), with option for four more units.

L-CAT when landing.

Intended to equip the buildings Projection and Command (BPC) Mistral type, the top four EDA-R, built by shipyards Socarenam Saint-Malo, will be delivered in 2011 and 2012. 30 meters long with a width of 12 meters, they can carry a load of 80 tons at a speed of 18 knots (the maximum payload capacity is 100 tons). An empty, they must be capable of speed over 25 knots.

(Mer et Marine)

Indonesian Navy to Order Three CN-235 Maritime Patrol Aircraft

26 Januari 2009

CN-235 for Navy : one CN-235 MP is expected to be stationed on western Indonesia's Sumatra island, and two in eastern Indonesia. (photo : TAI )

Indonesia's navy plans to order three new maritime patrol aircraft next month, with the Indonesian Aerospace CN-235 twin turboprop understood to be the front-runner.

The country's navy and defence ministry are negotiating for three CN-235 MPAs, and plan to sign a deal in December, say well-placed sources. One of the aircraft is expected to be stationed on western Indonesia's Sumatra island, and two in eastern Indonesia.

The defence ministry plans to order another three aircraft at the end of 2010, according to one source. The Indonesian navy had also approached several Western manufacturers in its search for a new MPA.

Indonesia's air force already operates one CN-235 in the maritime patrol role, while its navy has three C-212s supporting the nation's "eye in the sky" joint patrol mission from Tanjung Pinang in Indonesia's Riau province near the Malacca Strait, say industry sources. The CN-235 is fitted with the Thales's Amascos mission system.

Piracy in the Malacca Straits has decreased substantially in recent years, thanks to more co-ordinated patrols by Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. But governments in the region are still under pressure to further their efforts.

(Flight International)

Malaysia's Air Force Revives Competition for Maritime Patrol Aircraft

26 November 2009

CN-235 MPA (photo : Kaskus Militer)

Malaysia is resuming its efforts to buy maritime patrol aircraft, but this time with a greatly reduced budget, say industry sources.

In 2005, Fokker Services and Malaysian maintenance, repair and overhaul firm Airod won a pitch to supply Fokker 50 maritime patrol aircraft to the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA). But the deal never went through because the agency failed to get the funding.

Fokker-50 MP (photo : Airliners)

This time, the Royal Malaysian Air Force is spearheading the campaign, and is initially seeking four aircraft, say industry sources.

Malaysia has been relying largely on four Beechcraft Super King Air aircraft that it received in 1994 for maritime patrol duties, while the MMEA ordered two Bombardier 415 multipurpose amphibious aircraft last year.

ATR-72 Surveilance MP (photo : Defense Industry Daily)

The air force is seeking an MPA fleet because it wants to eventually phase out the King Airs, widen its operations and have an aircraft with better payload performance, the industry sources say.

Malaysia is likely to issue a request for proposals in next year's first quarter, and finalise a deal in time for delivery in 2010-12, says one source.

Saab 2000 MP (photo : Flight Global)

Aircraft-makers that may look to pitch for the business include Alenia Aeronautica, with its ATR 42 Surveyor MP, Indonesian Aerospace, with its CN-235 MPA, Fokker Services again, with the Fokker 50, and Saab with its Saab 340 or Saab 2000.

(Flight International)

Australia Received Two Wedgetail

26 November 2009

Two Wedgetail AEW&C for RAAF (photo : seattlepi)

Initial Delivery of Wedgetail Aircraf

The Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) has today taken initial delivery of two Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft from Boeing.

AEW&C Program Manager, Air Vice Marshal Chris Deeble said the aircraft – known as ‘Wedgetail’ – is critical to Australia’s Air Combat Capability and will play a key role in achieving the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) network-enabled war fighting capability.

“The Wedgetail aircraft is a ‘first of type’ development and extremely complex, given the range of cutting-edge radar technology and sensors that will be incorporated into each aircraft.

“Development, test and evaluation are still ongoing with many hurdles still to be overcome, particularly with respect to radar, electronic support measures and integrated system performance and stability.

Boeing Wedgetail cutaway (image : Defense Industry Daily)

“However with the initial delivery of two aircraft, Defence will now be able to conduct familiarisation training while Boeing completes the remaining test program and acceptance activities,” AVM Deeble said.

“When fully operational, Wedgetail will enhance surveillance, air defence, fleet support and force coordination operations.”

Boeing has currently scheduled initial acceptance of the first two aircraft for the first quarter 2010 when the aircraft will come into Commonwealth ownership.

The Commonwealth will eventually acquire six Wedgetail aircraft at a cost of more than (AUS) $4 billion.

(DefenceGovAu)

Germany to Speed up Australian Helicopter Deliveries

25 November 2009

MRH-90 of the ADF (photo : DefenceGovAu)

Two of the 46 aircraft Eurocopter-Australian Aerospace MRH-90 helicopters ordered by Australia will be manufactured in Germany to cut delivery delays.

The company proposed using the German facilities after delays at the Australian Aerospace Brisbane facility resulted in four aircraft being delayed to the end of 2011, a six-month delay over the originally scheduled date.

According to Australia's latest defence annual report, two aircraft will be assembled in Germany and delivered to Australia to recover scheduled delays in the Australian assembly line. The remaining 40 MRH-90 will be assembled at the Australian Aerospace Brisbane facility.

By 31 August 2009, seven MRH-90 helicopters have been delivered, and are already in operational service with the Australian Army 5th Aviation Regiment in Townsville. A total of nine MRH-90 are expected to be delivered by the end of June 2010.

The MRH90 helicopters are the Australian variants of NH-90 which is a medium sized, twin-engine, multirole military helicopter.

Of the 46 ordered Eurocopter-Australian Aerospace aircraft, 40 are meant for the Australian Army and the rest for Australian Navy.

(Army Technology)

Cougar Deal Buzz

25 November 2009

THE COUGAR: The deal to buy this Eurocopter is likely to be signed next week (photo : Flightglobal)

THE local defence industry is abuzz with speculation that the procurement of the Eurocopter EC725 Cougar medium-utility helicopters will be inked at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace 2009 (Lima 2009), in Langkawi next week.

The Defence Ministry has remained tight-lipped on speculation about the RM1.604 billion deal, nixed last year by then Prime Minister and Defence Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi due to the global economic crisis.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, when contacted by Malay Mail, declined to confirm or deny speculation that the government will sign a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) with Eurocopter Malaysia Sdn Bhd, the Malaysian-based subsidiary of the pan-European helicopter manufacturer, Eurocopter.

He also dismissed reports by the Indonesian media that the Malaysian government had agreed to purchase some 30 Panser Pindad APS-3 armoured personnel carriers developed by the republic's State-owned arms maker, PT Pindad.

Ahmad Zahid said the ministry was only conducting an evaluation of the Panser as part of its planned purchase of APCs for the Malaysian contingent in Lebanon and the Army’s wheeled APCs requirements.“We have not concluded the deal,” he said.

Malay Mail was informed that the government was concluding its negotiations with Renault Defence Trucks of France for the procurement of the Vehicule de l’Avant Binde (VAB) — a French-designed APC — for the Lebanon mission.

Malay Mail was further informed that French Defence Minister Herve Morin was expected in Langkawi to witness the signing of the LOA.

Another deal expected to be signed at the Lima show is the RM500 million for the Intergrated In-Service Support agreement with the government and Boustead DCNS Naval Corporation Sdn Bhd for the maintenance and support of the two Tunku Abdul Rahman class submarines purchased from DCNS and Izar.

French embassy officials in Kuala Lumpur, when contacted, also declined to comment on the issue. But they confirmed that Morin was expected to be in Langkawi for Lima 2009.

Local defence analyst Benjamin Mahmud said he had also heard the speculation which he described as “good news”. He, however, said he was not “totally” convinced that the Cougar deal would be finalised at Lima 2009.

“I heard the same thing, the good news. But even I am not 100 per cent sure it will happen. Some are saying that the government and Eurocopter will only sign an extension to the Letter of Intent (LOI), which was issued to Eurocopter Malaysia when the ministry decided to procure the Cougar for the Nuri replacement programme.”

If indeed the speculated signing is for the extension of the LOI, he did not expect the procurement to be finalised within the next two years.

After the deal was suspended, the government and Eurocopter signed an extension agreement to guarantee that the price of the Cougars will be fixed at RM1.604 billion as when the original LOI was issued.

Another extension to the LOI was signed in June during the Paris Air Show. It is expected to expire next year.Meanwhile, due to operational commitments, the French Air Force was unable to sent a Cougar to be displayed at this year's show. The Cougar was at the previous Lima show two years ago.

The Cougar saga began when the Cabinet decided that the Nuri helicopters operated by the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) should be replaced, following a fatal crash near Genting Sempah near Genting Highlands on July 13, 2007.

The Nuri replacement programme (NRO) tender was floated in the search for 12 medium-utility helicopters to be delivered to RMAF, starting in 2010.

Four helicopters — namely the Cougar, Agusta-Westland AW101; Mil Mi-17 and the Sikorsky S-92 — were offered to fulfil the requirement.

RMAF operates some 30 Nuri helicopters and ministry officials have cited on various occasions that the helicopters would remain in service until 2015.

On Sept 26 last year, Abdullah announced that the ministry had chosen the Cougar to meet the NRP — and the LOI had been issued to Eurocopter Malaysia.

The announcement created a big controversy, with the Opposition charging that the deal was highly irregular.

They also claimed that Malaysia was paying a much higher price for the Cougars compared with the deal obtained by Brazil.

Several reports were also lodged with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, citing irregularities in the award of the LOI. One of the notable complaints was made by the local agent for the Mi-17 helicopters, a former Umno politician who has since crossed over to the Opposition.

(MMail)

Govt Approves First Batch of 14 JSFs for RAAF

25 November 2009

F-35 in the RAAF colour scheme (image : Australian Aviation)

Australia has committed to buy a first batch of 14 Lockheed Martin F-35A Joint Strike Fighters (JSFs) and associated training and support infrastructure for the RAAF at an estimated cost of $3.2 billion, Defence Minister Senator John Faulkner announced today, after cabinet’s National Security Committee granted second pass approval for the purchase.

The announcement sees the RAAF’s planned JSF buy split into three tranches. The first 14 aircraft will equip an initial training and testing unit; a second buy of at least 58 F-35As will then allow the RAAF to equip three combat squadrons; and possibly a final buy of 28 JSFs would replace the ‘bridging’ F/A-18F Super Hornets in the early-mid 2020s.

“Approval of this first batch of JSF aircraft is evidence of the Rudd government’s strong commitment to defence and our commitment to implementing the Defence White Paper,” Defence Minister Senator John Faulkner said in a November 25 statement. “By 2012, Defence will have much firmer cost estimates for the remaining aircraft and necessary support and enabling capabilities as part of the planned first multi-year buy that is expected to comprise over 1000 aircraft for the US, Australia and other partners. This will allow for much more effective planning of the final JSF acquisition in the context of the overall Defence Capability Plan.”

The first 14 aircraft will come from Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) lots, and will be delivered in 2014, while the second and third tranches will come from the planned multi-year production which begins in 2015.

The first unit is expected to initially convert to the aircraft and be based at Eglin AFB in Florida before bringing the aircraft home to RAAF Williamtown, which is unlikely to occur before 2017. It will be “ready for operations” in 2018, while all three operational squadrons “are planned to be in service” in 2021, according to the minister’s statement.

The initial outlay will likely include the establishment of new compartmentalised squadron and basing infrastructure at RAAF Williamtown for the first squadron, as well as training and maintenance manuals, ground support equipment, and possibly synthetic and maintenance training devices.

Despite being foreshadowed in the 2009 Defence White paper, many commentators had expected the decision to acquire the JSF to be delayed by at least six months to mid 2010 due to forward funding uncertainties in the Defence budget at home and in the JSF development program in the US.

(Australian Aviation)

Navy Orders Add More C-802

25 November 2009

Installment of C-802 missile on the KRI Layang (photo : TNI-AL)

Navy to Beef up Fleet’s Arsenal

Navy Chief of Staff Vice Adm. Agus Suhartono said Tuesday the Navy would strengthen the warfare capabilities of its fleet with assistance from state shipbuilding firm PT PAL.

Agus said PT PAL would upgrade the weapons on some warships that conduct routine patrols in border areas and along remote islands. The vessels will be armed with torpedoes.

“We can not yet manufacture torpedoes, but PT PAL can integrate them into our warships,” Agus told Antara news agency.

Navy spokesman Commodore Iskandar Sitompul said the Indonesian Navy had ordered a number of C-802 cruise missiles from China for its patrol boats.

“We have conducted several test fires and were satisfied with the results. We are therefore planning to buy a number of C-802 missiles,” Iskandar said.

The Chinese-made missile is used by the naval forces of Iran, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Thailand and Myanmar.

(The Jakarta Post)

SeeAlso :

TNI AL Tingkatkan Sistem Tempur Kapal Perang

JAKARTA--Kepala Staf Angkatan Laut (Kasal), Laksamana Madya TNI Agus Suhartono, mengatakan, pihaknya akan meningkatkan sistem tempur sejumlah kapal perangnya, untuk meningkatkan daya tempur dan efek tangkal.

"Peningkatan sistem tempur atau daya tempur sejumlah kapal perang TNI Angkatan Laut itu, akan dilakukan bersama dengan PT PAL," katanya, ketika dikonfirmasi ANTARA di Jakarta, Selasa (24/11).

Ditemui di sela-sela seminar nasional "Pelestarian Lingkungan Laut", ia mengatakan, sejumlah kapal perang jenis 'van speijk' dan kapal patroli cepat 57mm, akan ditingkatkan daya tempur dengan mengintegrasikan kembali seluruh sistem tempur dengan persenjataan dan peluru kendali yang akan ditempelkan.

"Untuk membuat peluru kendali, kita belum mampu. Masih harus mengandalkan dari luar negeri. Tetapi kalau mengintegrasikan sistem tempur kapal-kapal perang kita, PT PAL sudah mampu," ujar Agus.

Kasal mengatakan, dengan keterbatasan anggaran pihaknya terus melakukan skala prioritas dalam pengadaan dan operasional alat utama sistem senjata. "Prioritas kami antara lain, pengamanan wilayah perbatasan maritim dan pulau-pulau terluar," kata Agus.

Ia mengemukakan, pihaknya masih melakukan pemetaan persenjataan dan perlengkapan apa saja yang dapat diserahkan pengadaan dan penanganannya kepada PT PAL.

Pada kesempatan yang sama, Kepala Dinas Penerangan TNI Angkatan Laut Laksamana Pertama TNI Iskandar Sitompul mengatakan, Mabes TNI Angkatan Laut telah memesan sejumlah rudal jenis C-802 dari Cina untuk dipasang di sejumlah kapal perang.

"Kami telah melakukan ujicoba beberapa kali rudal C-802, dan hasilnya cukup memuaskan. Sehingga, ke depan kita akan melakukan pembelian sejumlah rudal C-802," ungkapnya. ant/itz

(Republika)

Japan to Build New Helicopter Destroyer

25 November 2009

The DDH will has 248m length and 19.500 tons (image : forum keypublishing)

The Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force (MSDF) has said it will build a helicopter destroyer that is able to defend China's naval build-up and enhance responses for contingencies.

The 248m-long helicopter destroyer will have a displacement of 19,500t and a capability to transport up to 14 helicopters, 4,000 people and 50 trucks, according to asahi.com.

As the largest ship in the MSDF fleet, the destroyer will also be able to refuel other ships.

In October 2009, the country's new budget requests for defence capabilities included 118.1bn yen for the construction of a helicopter destroyer to replace the destroyer Shirane that is scheduled to be decommissioned in the 2014 fiscal year.

The helicopter carrier will allow up to five surveillance helicopters to land and take-off simultaneously.

The MSDF's latest helicopter destroyer, the Hyuga, was commissioned in March 2008 and has a length of 197m and a width of 33m.

(Naval Technology)

PT PAL Mendapatkan Banyak Prospek Kontrak dari Dephan

25 November 2009

LPD ke 3 KRI Banjarmasin (photo : Google Earth)

PT PAL segera Luncurkan Kapal Baru TNI AL

JAKARTA-MI: PT PAL segera meluncurkan kapal baru jenis Landing Platform Dock (LPD) untuk TNI Angkatan Laut.

"Rencananya kapal diresmikan pada akhir pekan ini," kata Direktur Utama PT PAL Harsusanto di sela-sela Seminar Nasional Revitalisasi Industri Pertahanan yang digagas Departemen Pertahanan, di Jakarta, Selasa (24/11).

Harsusanto mengatakan, kapal baru jenis LPD itu akan dinamai KRI Banjarmasin dan merupakan kapal LPD ketiga dari empat LPD yang dipesan untuk TNI Angkatan Laut. LPD pertama dan kedua, dibuat di Korea Selatan sedangkan LPD ketiga dan keempat dilakukan PT PAL.

Ia mengatakan, hingga 2014 PT PAL telah mendapat kontrak dari Departemen Pertahanan dan TNI Angkatan Laut yakni dua kapal selam, dua kapal perusak kawal rudal (PKR), 11 unit KCR-40, tujuh unit kapal angkut tank (AT), 17 unit tank amfibi, dan 25 unit peningkatan kemampuan kapal-kapal perang TNI Angkatan Laut.

"Untuk kapal selam, masih dalam perencanaan. Sedangkan untuk PKR dalam proses tender atau menunggu Tim Evaluasi Pengadaan Dephan. Dan bagi kapal angkut tank kini dalam pembahasan dengan Dislitbang TNI Angkatan Laut," ujar Harsusanto.

Sementara untuk peningkatan kemampuan kapal perang, TNI Angkatan Laut akan melaksanakan antara lain pemasangan rudal, sonar dan pengalihan fungsi.

Pada kesempatan terpisah, Kepala Staf Angkatan Laut Laksamana Madya TNI Agus Suhartono mengatakan, pihaknya telah melakukan pemetaan kebutuhan kekuatan pokok minimum TNI Angkatan Laut 2010-2019 disesuaikan dengan kemampuan PT PAL.

"Kami telah lama berkomitmen untuk mendukung revitalisasi industri pertahanan nasional, dan sebagian telah berjalan. Seperti pengadaan kapal patroli cepat 57 mm dan LPD yang telah selesai satu kapal lagi," tuturnya.

Dalam waktu dekat TNI Angkatan Laut juga akan meminta PT PAL untuk melakukan peningkatan kemampuan kapal-kapal perang TNI Angkatan Laut kelas van speijk dan kapal patroli cepat 57 mm. "Ini sejalan dengan kebutuhan TNI Angkatan Laut yang kini memprioritaskan pengaman wilayah perbatasan maritim dan pulau-pulau terdepan," kata Kasal Agus. (Ant/OL-7)

(Antara)

1 Skadron Heli AD Akan Dibentuk di Kalimantan Timur

24 November 2009

Bell 412 milik TNI-AD (photo : Defense Studies)

Korem Dapat 16 Heli Tempur

SAMARINDA, - Tak hanya memiliki helikopter senilai Rp 120 miliar yang diberikan oleh Pemprov Kaltim, Komando Resort Militer (Korem) ASN/091 Kaltim tak lama lagi juga bakal diperalati 16 helikopter khusus tempur. Pengadaan helikopter ini dikhususkan untuk mengamankan kawasan perbatasan di Kaltim yang meliputi Kabupaten Nunukan, Malinau dan Kutai Barat (Kubar).

Hal itu dikemukakan Komandan Korem ASN/091 Kolonel Inf Musa Bangun. Menurutnya, saat ini pihaknya tengah mempersiapkan kawasan untuk landasan ke 16 helikopter tersebut, yakni di Kabupaten Berau. Dan untuk kali ini pengadaan helikopter langsung dari Pusat.

"Kami menyebutnya dengan satu Skuadron helikopter khusus tempur. Jadi nanti, kami tidak ada kekhawatiran lagi terhadap bahaya-bahaya yang kerap dilakukan oleh Negara tentangga di perbatasan. Karena kita sudah punya helikopter khusus tempur yang bisa setiap saat untuk mengamankan kawasan perbatasan kita," kata Musa, Kamis (19/11) kemarin.

Menurutnya, harus diakui Korem ASN/091 saat ini hanya memiliki satu unit helikopter khusus tempur. Itupun, selain kondisinya sudah sangat memprihatinkan, tak bisa standby setiap saat, karena juga dipergunakan oleh Korem lainnya yang berada dibawah Komando Domestik Militer (Kodam) IV TPR, yakni daerah Kalimantan.

"Sangat sulit mengutarakan bagaimana kondisi helikopter yang kita punya sekarang ini, tapi yang jelas sudah sangat memprihatinkan sekali," ujarnya dengan tegas.

Keberadaan 16 helikopter itu nantinya, dikatakan Musa, akan sangat berfungsi sekali. Sebab selain untuk tempur dan pengamanan, juga bisa dipergunakan untuk pengawasan secara rutin dibeberapa titik perbatasan.

"Artinya tidak hanya untuk bertempur melawan musuh yang datangnya dari luar, tapi juga untuk di dalam. Misalnya nanti, kita bisa memantau illegal logging atau illegal mining di kawasan perbatasan. Karena dari pengamatan sementara kami, karena minim dan sulitnya pengawasan di perbatasan itu, banyak sekali praktek-praktek illegal logging atau illegal mining dilakukan oleh oknum," terang Musa.

Sekedar diketahui, Pemprov Kaltim telah menghibahkan satu unit helikopter type bell-412 EP kepada Korem/ASN 091 Kaltim, Kamis (19/11) kemarin. Hibah helikopter senilai Rp 120 miliar tersebut untuk operasional TNI dalam mengawal kawasan perbatasan yang dikhususkan untuk operasional sosial.

Proses pemberian hibah dilakukan dengan penandatanganan naskah perjanjian antara Gubernur Kaltim Awang Faroek Ishak dengan Komandan Korem Kolonel Inf Musa Bangun di Kantor Gubernur. (aid)

(Tribun Kaltim)

First Pakistan-Made JF-17 Roll Out

24 November 2009

JF-17 Thunder of the PAF (photo: top81)

JF-17 Thunder : PAF Gets Indigenously Manufactured Fighter Aircraft

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Monday formally joined the international community of fighter aircraft manufacturers as JF 17 Thunder, the first ever multi role state of the art rolled out of Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, Kamra and was included to the fleet of Pakistan Air Force.

Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani was the chief guest at the ceremony that marked a milestone in the Sino Pak joint venture in air defence system. Senate Chairman Farooq H. Naik, Federal Minister for Information Qamar Zaman Kaira, Defence Minister Ch Ahmed Mukhtar, Chinese ambassador to Pakistan Luo Zhaohui, Pakistan ambassador to China Masood Khan and three services chiefs attended the ceremony.

The sophisticated JF 17 Thunder, painted green in the colour scheme of national flag appeared with grandeur as the Prime Minister unveiled the fighter jet before the audience. Manufactured with the cooperation of China, the event has been termed as a beginning of new era of Pak China friendship.

Addressing a select gathering of local and foreign dignitaries and PAF officials, the Prime Minister said the goals of progress and prosperity could not be achieved without achieving self reliance in the defence production. He termed the manufacturing of JF 17 Thunder aircraft as the - achievement of an important milestone - in the government’s ongoing efforts to attain self reliance.

The Prime Minister assured full cooperation, support and patronage to the PAF in its projects and congratulated the entire nation, adding the national project would be remembered as a landmark in the country’s history.

Referring to present challenges, the Prime Minister said the fast changing technology intensive battle arena required intense involvement of air power which had emerged as a major player in conflict scenarios.He said the role of air force also becomes vital in tackling the threat posed by the forces of extremism and militancy.

Under these circumstances, he said, a modern air force was a national requirement adding the government was making sincere efforts for a strong and well equipped Pakistan Air Force. He said the PAF had repeatedly proved equal to the task even in most challenging times, measuring up to the expectations of the nation in safeguarding the sacred soil and skies of the country.

In the recent drive against militants, PAF side by side with Pak Army was endeavouring to root out terrorism from the country, he added. The Prime Minister said; The PAF has been able to achieve, both in the form of meeting its operational requirement by co developing a fighter aircraft and developing Pakistan’s Aviation Industry.

He said following the example of Kamra, there should be more similar centres of excellence in other fields, to attract youth towards a more constructive approach to life that leads to a better and more prosperous future. He appreciated that the JF 17 programme had provided employment to about 5,000 people.

The Prime Minister also reiterated the government’s firm resolve in eradicating ignorance, illiteracy and backwardness to carve a respectable place for the country in the comity of nations.

JF-17 in a Pakistan's colour scheme (photo : Defencetalk)

Referring to long and trust worthy relations between Pakistan and China, the Prime Minister said, It is not trade or economics that we collaborate and cooperate for, but our association and fraternal ties bind us in the everlasting embrace of friendship. He said; China has always stood by us in our hour of need its unflinching support and willingness, to go an extra mile for Pakistan, has been a source of great strength for the people of Pakistan.

The Prime Minister said there has been significant contribution by China towards the socio economic development of the country. Gilani thanked the Chinese friends for providing PAF the required technical assistance for the programme.

The Prime Minister said the Chinese calm sagacity, futuristic thinking and willingness to stand by its friends, even in the era of terrorism and extremism promised not only hope and stability but also acted as an example for others.He also mentioned the Chinese cooperation in many other projects in the country and said it was a pride for the nation.

He especially highlighted the projects including Gwadar Deep Sea Port, Korakoram Highway, Heavy Mechanical Complex, Heavy Electrical Complex and Saindak Copper Project where China is helping the country.He lauded the PAF’s initiative for appreciating and putting to use the tremendous potential of Pakistan and jointly developing the industrial infrastructure.

Chief of the Air Staff Rao Qamar Suleman highlighted the efforts of Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Kamra in establishing itself as a hub of aviation industry.He lauded the support of Chinese government and Aviation Industries of China without which, he said the project would not have succeeded.

He said that 40 JF 17 Thunder aircraft would be produced by PAC Kamra within next three years and would be inducted in PAF replacing the existing aircraft. He added that the first JF 17 Squadron would be established shortly.

China’s ambassador Luo Zhaohui on behalf on the Chinese government appreciated the technical acumen of PAC Kamra in acquiring complex skills and expertise in fighter aircraft manufacturing.He said the collaboration between the two peace loving countries in air defence was a major step for the regional peace.

Earlier Air Marshal Farhat Hussain Khan, Chairman PAC Board Kamra in his welcome address gave an overview of the JF 17 project and highlighted the benefits of co production in terms of incorporation of modern technologies of manufacturing and skill enhancement of personnel.

The Prime Minister was presented two souvenirs, including a painting of JF 17 Thunder made by Squadron Leader Adnan Siraj and a handmade carpet weaved with the impression of the same fighter aircraft.

In visitors remarks, Gilani termed the production of the aircraft as - a testimony of the time tested all weather Pakistan China friendship.

The JF 17 Thunder, the light weight and low cost multi role fighter aircraft has high maneuverability and BVR capability. It has advanced aerodynamics configuration and high thrust. The JF 17 Thunder will replace the ageing fleets of A 5s, F 7Ps and the Mirages in the PAF inventory thus fulfilling a multi role task.

(Pakistan Times)

Seea Also :

Pakistan Receives First Block 52 F-16s
14 Oktober 2009

F-16D block 52 of the PAF (photo : Lockheed Martin)

Pakistan received its first Block 52 F-16D yesterday as part of ambitious plans to refurbish its air force's fighter fleet.

The PAF, however, is doing this with a combination of both western fighters, and help from its traditional supplier China through the JF-17 and potentially the J-10B.

J-10B (photo : pakdef)

Tactically, that will be facinating in the future - using both Chinese and US fighters in tandem is gonna be interesting and I am sure there will be be many people watching the service closely in the coming years.

Politically, is this a case of keeping your friends close and enemies closer? If so, who is who in this instance? Your guess is as good as mine.

The bigger question, however, is where this leaves Lockheed Martin in India's $12 billion 126-fighter medium multi-role combat aircraft competition. New Delhi has never been happy about the sale of the F-16 to Pakistan, and this will not help Lockheed's cause in that lucrative competition. Watch this space.

(Flight International)

RTA & RTAF Firepower Demonstration

23 November 2009

TPQ-36 Firefinding locating radar (all photos : TAF)

During the year every year Army and Air Force will have to demonstrate within each of these troops to be. The opportunity for the general public have the opportunity to watch the operations of each army, which is a different opportunity in a single year only. TAF team is three people Skyman, Somserj and Nemesis have the opportunity to visit demonstration of Air Force operations strategist at field training. Demo Center artillery fire artillery at military training field artillery, shooting his output alone. And demonstrate the operation of a shooting gallery horse camps tanks Adisorn Saraburi. Marks and store photos and stories to leave all together.

M-41A3

M-48A5

M-60A1
V-150
Scorpion
Type 85

Tipe-69 II

Stingray

M-109A5

M-113

Caesar 155mm
Type-59-1 130mm
M-101 105mm

GHN-45 155mm

F-16 with GBU-12 bomb
F-5 Tiger

Blackhawk

UH-1 Huey

AH-1 Cobra

(TAF)