30 April 2014

Lockheed Martin Wins Sensor Contract for Indonesian Apaches

30 April 2014


M-TADS/PNVS (photo : Lockheed Martin)

Lockheed Martin has secured an USD80 million contract to supply fire-control sensors to be fitted to Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters ordered by Indonesia in 2013.

A US Department of Defense notice on 29 April said Lockheed Martin had been contracted to supply Indonesia with eight Lot 9 Modernized Target Acquisition Designations/Sight Pilot Night Vision Sensors (M-TADS/PNVS), as well as spares.

The contract progresses as a Foreign Military Sale (FMS), with deliveries estimated to be complete by 2018.

Washington confirmed in August 2013 that it had agreed to sell eight Apache helicopters to Indonesia. The FMS deal is costed at USD500 million.

(Jane's)

Vertical Launch System Installed in First Destroyer

30 April 2014


VLS MK41 modules (image : turbosquid)

Six strike-length missile modules for the Hobart Class Vertical Launch System (VLS) were this week installed into Ship 1 Hobart, marking a significant Combat System load out achievement for the Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) project.

The VLS MK41 modules are a critical part of the Hobart Class Combat System which will enable the Navy’s new DDG guided missile destroyers to execute air warfare and ship self-defence tasks. It is the first major Combat System element to be loaded into the ship following consolidation.

Each ship will be fitted with six VLS modules, each containing eight cells, giving a total of 48 cells per ship.  Each cell is capable of accepting, storing, preparing for launch, and launching either a single SM-2 Missile or four Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles.

AWD Alliance CEO Rod Equid said the VLS load out is the first multi-module VLS load out and has built on the in-country expertise developed through the Navy’s FFG Upgrade Project which involved installing a single-module VLS.

“Whilst the Anzac Class and Adelaide Class frigates have a single-module Vertical Launch System, the new Hobart Class destroyers will have a multi-module configuration that will provide more capacity for air warfare.  It will also be the first configured to fire SM-2 medium range weapons and has the flexibility to support multiple missile types within a single weapon launching system,” said Mr Equid.

“Complex installation work, such as VLS, involves different groups working together to get the job done and has drawn on the technical expertise of the Commonwealth of Australia, United States Navy and Thales.  It has been a true representation of how the Alliance operates.”

“The installation has been a coordinated activity between the AWD Alliance’s Production and Test and Activation teams for the preparation of the VLS compartment and providing the subject matter expertise for pre-staging work.” 

The modules were taken out of storage from an Adelaide warehouse facility earlier this year and moved into the purpose-built Mobile Staging Platform located alongside the ship on the Common User Facility at Osborne for pre-staging work prior to installation.  Following installation, the system will be operationally tested during the upcoming Combat System Light Off period.

The acquisition of the VLS modules was made by the Commonwealth of Australia, through the United States Foreign Military Sales program.

The AWD Alliance is made up of the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) representing the Australian Government, ASC as the lead shipbuilder and Raytheon Australia as the mission systems integrator. The AWD Alliance is responsible for delivering three world-class destroyers to the Royal Australian Navy. The AWDs are being built for Australia’s specific defence needs and will provide a significant increase in Australia’s defence capabilities.

(Aus AWD)

TNI AD Luncurkan Kapal Motor Komando Buatan Dalam Negeri

30 April 2014


TNI AD meluncurkan kapal motor cepat Komando di Pantai ABC, Ancol, Jakarta. Kapal ini dilengkapi dengan sistem persenjataan otomatis kaliber 17,5 milimeter. Kapasitas muatnya 31 orang dengan dioperasikan oleh tiga orang anak buah kapal. Ia mampu berlayar terus menerus sejauh 250 Nautical Mile, dan kecepatan maksimum 35 knot (photos : Kompas, Viva, TNI AD)

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - TNI Angkatan Darat meluncurkan kapal motor cepat (KMC) Komando. Kapal yang diproduksi di dalam negeri ini dilengkapi dengan sistem teknologi persenjataan mutakhir.


Kepala Staf TNI AD Jenderal Budiman mengatakan, kapal ini merupakan hasil pengembangan yang dilakukan Direktorat Perbengkalan Angkutan (Ditbekang) TNI AD dan tim ahli Institut Teknologi Surabaya (ITS). Dalam pembangunannya, TNI AD menggandeng PT Tesco Indomaritim. "Tahun ini kita produksi 10 unit, tetapi yang baru jadi dua unit," kata Budiman di sela-sela kegiatan uji coba Komando di Pantai ABC Ancol, Jakarta, Selasa (29/4/2014).


Budiman menuturkan, biaya pengembangan serta produksi kapal tersebut sebesar Rp 12 miliar per unit. Harga tersebut 50 persen lebih murah daripada kapal sejenis yang diproduksi di Finlandia.


Dari segi kemampuan, kata Budiman, kecepatan maksimum KMC Komando mampu mencapai 35 knot dengan daya angkut maksimal 31 penumpang dan tiga orang anak buah kapal (ABK). Kapal ini juga dilengkapi dengan sistem senjata mesin berat (SMB) 12,7 milimeter. Senjata tersebut dapat menembak dengan jarak sampai enam kilometer. Namun, jarak efektif tembakan 2 kilometer.



Persenjataan tersebut dibekali sistem tracking and locking target. Sistem tersebut mengatur penggunaan senjata secara otomatis yang dikendalikan oleh seorang penembak dari dalam ruang kemudi. "Dengan demikian penembak dapat lebih aman," ujarnya.


Budiman menambahkan, kapal ini nantinya akan didistribusikan ke sembilan komando daerah militer (kodam), yakni Kodam Iskandar Muda, Kodam Bukit Barisan, Kodam Sriwijaya, Kodam Mulawarman, Kodam Wirabuana, Kodam Udayana, Kodam Tanjungpura, Kodam Patimura dan Kodam Cendrawasih.

(Kompas)

MLRS of the Myanmar at Anawyahtar Exercise 2014

30 April 2014


 Type 90B MLRS (photo : MDW)

Myanmar Defence Weapons published data on the state of the defense capability of the army of Burma (Myanmar). They pointed out that in recent years the Burmese army's defense budget increases. In this article we will focus on the state of the rocket artillery southeastern state.

2014 is significant for the armed forces of Burma. One of the newly acquired 1995 types of weapons, demonstrated during a military exercise Anawyahtar, was fighting machine Type 81 MLRS calibre 122mm at a range of 8 to 20 km, with the ability to launch 40 rounds singly or a burst sequence.


Type 81 122mm MLRS (photo : MDW)

Burma army has modernized combat vehicles are Type 81. Combat vehicle Type 81 is a Chinese version of the Russian war machine BM-21 field rocket system (MLRS "Grad"). Due to the works to modernize the opportunity to carry out firing rockets 122mm at a range of 8 to 30 km.

Also, the Burma Army has North Korean combat vehicles M-1985 to launch up to 12 rockets caliber 240 mm in one salvo and Chinese fighting vehicles Type 90B to start rocket calibre 122mm.


M-1985 240mm MLRS (photo : KBS)

According to military sources, combat vehicles M-1985 deployed on the Burmese army bases in northern, eastern and central parts of the country.

According to some sources, at least 14 units of multiple rocket launchers for launching rockets caliber 240 mm were taken on board of North Korean ship Kang Nam I in 2008 in the port Tkhilava (Thilawa), located near Yangon (Rangoon). Some reports have indicated that Burma purchased 30 units MRLS of North Korea for launching rockets caliber 240 mm.

Anawyahtar Exercise 2014 (photo : MAC)

Based on reports from military experts Burma Maung Aung Moe (Maung Aung Myoe) and Celso Andrew (Andrew Selth), purchase of multiple launch rocket systems is part of the military modernization planned representatives of the junta. Purchasing of Type 63 towed rocket launchers from China to launch 107 mm rocket and fighting vehicles Type 90 to lauch rocket 122mm. North Korea has provided combat vehicles on truck chassis to start rockets caliber 240 mm.

(VPK)

29 April 2014

Pesawat Tempur Tucano Telat 8 Bulan

29 April 2014


 Super Tucano TNI AU (photo : Viva)

JAKARTA, KOMPAS — Sebanyak empat unit pesawat tempur Super Tucano buatan Embraer, Brasil, telat datang delapan bulan dari jadwal Agustus 2013. Kepala Pusat Pengadaan Kementerian Pertahanan Marsekal Pertama Asep Sumaruddin, yang ditemui di Jakarta, Senin (28/4) mengatakan pihak Indonesia sudah lebih dari 94% melunasi kontrak tahap satu senilai 142 juta dollar AS untuk delapan unit pesawat Super Tucano. Pesawat-pesawat tersebut dibeli untuk menggantikan pesawat tempur OV-10 Bronco.

"Sudah tiba di Indonesia empat pesawat yang ditempatkan di Pangkalan Udara Abdulrachman Saleh, Malang, di Skuadron Udara 21 pengganti OV-10 Bronco yang di phase out dari persenjataan TNI AU. Dari delapan pesawat yang dibeli dengan kontrak batch satu, baru empat pesawat diterima. Sisanya masih di pabrik Sao Paulo, Brasil. Hambatan disebabkan kendala penerbangan ferry ("ferry flight") dari Brasil ke Indonesia" tutur Asep.

Dia menjelaskan, sudah diupayakan bantuan melalui Kementerian Pertahanan Brasil dan Kedutaan Besar Brasil di Jakarta, termasuk Atase Udara Brasil di Indonesia yang baru saja ditugaskan di Indonesia. Saluran diplomatik dan militer sangat membantu, tetapi belum ada kepastian dari Embraer soal pengiriman pesawat tempur tersebut.

Untuk penerbangan ferry dari Brasil ke Indonesia, pilot-pilot AU Brasil siap membantu kapan saja. Rute penerbangan selama 14 hari tersebut adalah dari Sao Jose dos Campos - Recife -  Fernando de Noronha (Brasil) - Cape Verde - Las Palmas (kepulauan Canary) - Casablanca (Maroko) - Palermo (Italia) - Aleksandria (Mesir) - Riyadh (Arab Saudi) - Muskat (Oman) - Mumbay - Kalkutta (India) - U Tapao (Thailand) lalu Medan di Sumatera Utara, dan terakhir Malang, Jawa Timur. Hingga kini, Asep masih menanti jawaban dari pihak Embraer yang belum memberikan jawaban pasti soal kedatangan empat pesawat yang sudah dibayar tersebut.

Tawaran Pesawat Amfibi

ShinMaywa US-2 pesawat amfibi (photo : militaryphotos)

Kepala Pusat Komunikasi Kementerian Pertahanan Brigadir Jenderal Sisiriadi dalam kesempatan sama mengatakan ada tawaran pembelian pesawat amfibi. Salah satu tawaran datang dari Jepang yang menawarkan pesawat amfibi ShinMaywa.

"Kita mendapat beberapa tawaran dari beberapa negara. Ini memang menarik karena Indonesia dianggap sangat penting bagi Jepang. Pesawat tersebut akan lebih menjalankan fungsi kemanusiaan dan bukan militer," kata Sisriadi.

Asep menambahkan, selain Jepang pesawat amfibi buatan Beriev (Rusia), Bombardier (Kanada), dan beberapa negara lain sedang dikaji oleh pihak Indonesia. "Fungsinya penting bagi negara kepulauan," kata Asep.

(Kompas)

Russia Offers Mi-8/17 Upgrade Package for Vietnam with Electronic Jamming

29 April 2014


VPAF Mi-8 helicopter (photo : Militaryphotos)

Russia is hoping to be involved in upgrading Mi-8/17 helicopters in Southeast Asia by electronic jamming systems new.

In the framework of the DSA 2014 defense exhibition last, Science and Research Institute of Radio Technology (KNIRTI) named Russia's Kaluga has introduced a system of electronic warfare (EW) L187AE with new hopes orders to upgrade and improve electronic warfare capabilities for the Mi-8/17 helicopters are operating in Southeast Asia, including Vietnam.

According to information revealed Kaluga, L187AE jamming system is a completely new, can be easily installed into the side of the line helicopter Mil Mi-8 and Mi-17, which provides the ability to protect and disable the radar-guided missiles of the enemy.

Like jamming modules Mi-17GPE ago, L187AE be KNIRTI use jamming technology is traditional memory frequency of radio signals (DRFM) and use the active electronically scanned array (AESA) , but is more processor combines modern digital signal.

AESA technology that Russia has developed and refined for a number of applications, including radar equipment for the fighter, has become an important component in the design of electronic warfare systems by them for allow the government to create a vast electronic protection while reducing the weight of the system by the smaller antenna, lighter and without mechanical scanning system that only needs to be hung on the plane and work as a jamming platform.

For helicopters Mi-8 and Mi-series-17, when mounted jamming system L187AE coverage will create a vast electronic space, jamming and creating information and false signals as integrated radar missiles on enemy bullets could not correctly identify the target, the missile will fly helicopters were diverted and safety.

With new L187AE jamming systems, KNIRTI're hoping to create a solution for logical and efficient operation of the water is increased Mi-8/17 stream in Southeast Asia. In particular, the Vietnam People's Air Force and is active with a number of not less helicopter line. Therefore, the review system equipped with a new jamming as L187AE get ready for the fight complex missions in the future will be a reasonable solution.

(BaoDatViet)

Armada Ketiga TNI AL Akan Dibentuk Juli

29 April 2014


Armada ketiga akan dibentuk di Sorong, Papua (photo : Tempo)

TNI AL Bentuk Armada Wilayah Baru  

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Tentara Nasional Indonesia Angkatan Laut segera membentuk armada wilayah baru. Sesuai dengan rencana, armada wilayah ketiga di Indonesia tersebut akan dibentuk di Sorong, Papua, pada Juli nanti.

Saat ini kekuatan tempur TNI Angkatan Laut masih bertumpu pada dua armada wilayah, yakni Barat atau Armabar, dan Timur atau Armatim. "Armabar di Jakarta, dan Armatim di Surabaya," kata Kepala Dinas Penerangan TNI AL Laksamana Pertama Untung Suropati di Markas Besar TNI AL, Cilangkap, Jakarta, Senin, 28 April 2014.

Jika armada laut Sorong diresmikan, Armada Timur di Surabaya akan berubah menjadi Armada Tengah. Menurut Untung, alasan utama TNI AL membentuk armada wilayah baru di Sorong adalah untuk meningkatkan koordinasi pengawalan wilayah laut Indonesia bagian timur.

Menurut Untung, lokasi Sorong dipilih karena memiliki geopolitik yang tepat dan strategis. Tujuan lain, untuk mempertegas kedaulatan Indonesia di kawasan, terutama wilayah timur yang dirasa masih berlubang pengamanannya.

Untuk pembagian kekuatan kapal perang, kata Untung, TNI AL akan menggunakan sistem alih bina atau pembagian kekuatan tempur yang dimiliki. Dengan kata lain, sejumlah kapal perang calon penghuni armada Sorong didatangkan dari sebagian armada Surabaya dan Jakarta.

Saat ini jumlah kapal perang milik TNI AL ada 150-160 unit. Namun, Untung menegaskan, jumlah kapal perang tersebut tidak akan dibagi rata untuk mengisi tiga armada wilayah. "Ada pertimbangannya. Bukan cuma kuantitatif saja, tapi kualitatif dan pengamatan intelijen juga," katanya.

Penambahan armada di Sorong, Papua, juga diikuti dengan penambahan divisi pasukan marinir. Sebab, menurut Untung, idealnya pembangunan armada wilayah baru wajib diikuti dengan penempatan pasukan marinir.

"Sebab, konsep TNI kan armada terpadu, jadi harus ada kapal perang, pesawat udara, pangkalan, dan marinir," ujarnya.

Wacana penambahan armada di Sorong sudah dibahas sejak dua tahun lalu. Selama itu pula TNI AL menyiapkan sarana dan prasarana pendukung untuk armada wilayah baru di Sorong. Dalam struktur organisasi yang baru nanti, direncanakan ada seorang panglima bintang tiga yang akan membawahi ketiga komando armada wilayah.

(Tempo)

Sabah Waters Safe With Strong Navy Presence

29 April 2014

There are six CB 90 and eight patrol vessels in Sandakan and managed by the Markas Angkatan Tugas Bersama Dua in Tawau (photo : min-def)

SEPANGGAR (Bernama) -- The Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) assured that Sabah waters was safe with the deployment of additional assets to avert any attempt by intruders to endanger the security of the country.

Region Two Navy Commander Rear Admiral Datuk Pahlawan Mohammad Rosland Omar said the navy currently had 23 assets that can be deployed at any one time if needed.

"I am confident that with the assets at our disposal, the security of the nation, especially Sabah is at the optimum level. We have the Kapal Tunda Diraja (KTD) Kepah and Combat Boat (CB) 90 plus the submarine," he told reporters at the 80th Armada TLDM Open Day at the TLDM Base in Teluk Sepanggar, here today.

RMN CB-90H (photo : Malaysian Defence)

Mohammad Rosland said there are six CB 90 and eight patrol vessels in Sandakan and managed by the Markas Angkatan Tugas Bersama Dua in Tawau for operations carried out by the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom) at the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone), which is overseeing the security in the area.

About 10,000 people visited the yearly programme which included various other activities like eating at floating Restaurant on KD Perak, riding on TLDM boats, angling competition, sports activities and exhibition by various government agencies.

The Armada TLDM Open Day was officiated by Sabah Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Hajiji Noor who represented Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman.

(Bernama)

28 April 2014

Sea Trial Perdana KRI Bung Tomo-357 Di Royal Navy Exercise Area

28 April 2014

MRLF Bung Tomo class (photo : Militaryphotos)

Suhu udara dan terpaan angin yang kencang menusuk tulang belulang, jam saat itu telah menunjukan pukul 21.30 local time bersamaan dengan pergerakan sejumlah cawak KRI Bung Tomo 357 mengikuti pelayaran perdana dengan MRLF (Multy Role Lihgt Fregate) KRI Bung Tomo-357 yang akan melaksanakan sea trial di Royal Navy Exercise Area perairan Glasgow, Inggris, Senin (7/4).

Sebelum menuju laut lepas, Dansatgas Kolonel Laut (P) Nyoman Sudihartawan beserta para Perwira Pengawas memberikan briefing kepada crew yang akan mengikuti sea trial.  Mr Manfred Knore selaku Manager Proyek dari Lursen juga turut serta dalam kegiatan tersebut. Diperkirakan jam 02.30 dinihari waktu setempat, dimana pasang tertinggi terjadi dan sejumlah pintu dock dapat dibuka untuk melepas kapal yang akan berlayar ke lautan lepas.

Setelah melewati pintu terakhir kapal melesat ke arah utara menuju perairan Glasgow. Analisa performa terhadap kinerja IPMS (Integrated Platform Management System) oleh Mr.Prasad Shiva selaku programer yang didatangkan khusus dari Kanada mulai dilaksanakan, keempat MPK (Mesin Pendorongan Pokok) diuji kemampuannya pada berbagai balingan apakah hal tersebut dapat dikontrol oleh program yang telah dilaksanakan up gradding beberapa waktu sebelumnya.

Kesempatan Sea Trial tersebut diutamakan untuk melaksanakan pengecekkan terhadap performa system pendorongan termasuk system control IPMS dimanfaatkan untuk memahami karakter kapal oleh para Cawak (Calon Awak Kapal). Pengujian Crash Stop dari Full Ahead langsung Full Astern dilaksanakan untuk mengetahui diameter taktis kapal dan menguji kehandalan, kapal maju penuh dengan menggunakan 4 (empat) MPK mencapai 30 knot dan crash stop sampai kapal berhenti pada jarak 650 yard selama 2 menit 30 detik.

Pengambilan data dan pengujian juga dilaksanakan untuk mengukur noise level di ruang ABK belakang guna kepentingan kenyamanan awak dan untuk kepentingan setting IPMS mencari noise level terendah dari berbagai putaran propeller (RPM) dan sudut CPP (Controllable Pitch Propeller) untuk kepentingan peperangan AKS (Anti Kapal Selam).

Bung Tomo class adalah ex Nakhoda Ragam class Brunei yang belum pernah memasuki dinas di AL Brunei (image shipbucket)

Ditengah dinginnya udara di Perairan Utara Inggris, Mr. Rorre yang mantan Boostman disalah satu Fregate Royal Navy diminta untuk men drill Pelda Novim Susanto untuk mengoperasikan RHIB (Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boat). Hari terakhir pelaksanaan Sea Trial dilaksanakan untuk melaksanakan kalibrasi speed log dengan referensi menggunakan GPS (Global Positioning System) selanjutnya kapal bergerak ke selatan menuju Barrow in Furness untuk melaksanakan penyempurnaan dan perbaikan terutama pada pipa Heat Exchanger yang perlu dilaksanakan pengecekkan setelah dilaksanakan penggantian sementara di Fairly Quaey.

 “ ...Profesionalisme, Discipline, Dedication serta Effort yang ditunjukkan oleh teknisi asing selama berinteraksi lebih dekat di kapal  dalam beberapa aspek perlu kita tiru hal - hal yang kita anggap positif, kedatangan delegasi ke Inggris harus membawa dampak tidak hanya menyerap pengetahuan tentang hal - hal teknis yang ada di kapal namun berinterospeksi kepada diri kita masing - masing apakah kualitas kerja kita  sudah menyamai mereka atau belum, sehingga setiap saat kita selalu memperbaiki diri kita masing – masing. Saat ini kita mendapat mandat untuk fokus mempelajari kapal yang harus kita bawa ke tanah air dengan aman dan sukses sekaligus mengemban misi diplomasi angkatan laut di sejumlah negara yang akan kita singgahi, oleh karena itu mari kita songsong tugas itu dengan penuh semangat.....” demikian disampaikan Komandan KRI Bung Tomo-357 Kolonel Laut (P) Yayan Sofiyan, S.T. saat memberikan briefing dan evaluasi kegiatan saat memotivasi anak buahnya.

Kegiatan lainnya yang dilaksanakan setelah Sea Trial MRLF 2 antara lain adalah melaksanakan Classical dan praktek langsung di pesawat - pesawat, dari hasil evaluasi khususnya bidang Platform memang menunjukkan hal yang cukup menggembirakan karena Cawak dapat segera memahami system yang dihadapinya bahkan telah dilaksanakan drill prosedur start stop sejumlah pesawat yang ada di kapal. Cawak yang telah hadir di Inggris memang belum seluruhnya, baru 3 (tiga) Kadepsin dari ketiga kapal, 6 (enam) ekspert termasuk Kadep Eka) dan 9 (sembilan Key Personel termasuk Komandan KRI Bung Tomo 357) sisa cawak akan berangkat ke Inggris secara bertahap pada gelombang berikutnya. Untuk memahami secara teknis kapal baru diperlukan konsentrasi khusus sehingga pada saat kaderisasi awak pertama ini diharapkan dapat mentransfer pengetahuannya kepada ABK baru nanti, oleh karena itu setiap malam berbagai permasalahan yang diperoleh dibahas dan didiskusikan di kelas sehingga pemahamannya merata ke seluruh Cawak.

Kegiatan Jam Komandan secara periodik senantiasa dilaksanakan, demikian juga control terhadap cawak yang saat ini masih mengikuti KPPK di Kolatarmatim bukan menjadi hambatan karena dipisahkan jarak ribuan mil, pemanfaatan teknologi informasi berbagai layanan internet menjadi alternatif terpilih.

Sebagian teknisi asing yang dipercaya untuk menyiapkan ketiga kapal tersebut memiliki keahlian yang tidak diragukan lagi. Beberapa diantaranya merupakan ahli dari BAE atau pensiunan Royal Navy yang terjun langsung mengembalikan kesiapan kapal yang relatif belum dioperasionalkan sama sekali, oleh karena itu sebagian spare part perlu dilaksanakan penggantian dan kalibrasi ulang. Cawak mendapatkan kesempatan langka untuk langsung belajar bagaimana membongkar dan memasang serta mengukur silinder head dan setting to work Meriam 76 mm OSRG, Radar Scout / LPI dan AWS 9, EOTs, Sonar serta fire fighting yang ada di kapal.

Kehadiran MRLF melengkapi kekuatan TNI Angkatan Laut dalam waktu dekat diharapkan akan memberikan dampak strategis terhadap kredibilitas Indonesia pada tataran regional maupun global. Bangsa Indonesia telah tidak sabar menanti kehadiran kapal tersebut berlayar di seantero perairan Indonesia maupun dunia mengamankan kepentingan nasional Indonesia.

....Selamat Berlayar & Bertempur KRI Bung Tomo 357...fair the wind and bond voyage.......”

(Armada Timur)

UMS Anawyahtar (771) Test Fired Anti-ship Missile

28 Maret 2014


UMS-771 Anawyahtar light frigate (all photos : Myanmar Navy) 

Light-frigate Anawyahtar UMS-771 had successfully test-fired one of its Chinese-made surface-to-surface anti-ship guided missiles in Bay of Bengal on March-1. Anawyahtar was designed and built at Rangoon Naval Dockyards by Burma Navy and commissioned on September 7, 2000.

It was the Flag-ship of Burma Navy for 8 long years before the locally-made Frigate Aung Zeya (F-11) was built and commissioned in 2008. Anawyahtar’s first captain was Lt. Colonel Thet Swe who is now the Naval Chief-of-staff of Burma’s Armed Forces.


C-802 anti-ship missile has been fired from UMS-771 Anawyahtar (photo : Myanmar Navy)

Originally built as a Corvette the Anawyahtar (771) has been upgraded to a light-frigate by fitting new electronic systems, radars, weapon systems, and anti-ship guided missile systems all locally made except the Chinese missiles.

On March-1 this year Burmese naval technicians and weapon experts successfully test fired a Chinese-made anti-ship guided missile at an OTH (Over-the-Horizon) target. Burma Navy emphasized the fact that Anawyahtar’s missile launcher and firing system and all electronics except the missile was developed locally in Burma.



The successful test firing was closely supervised by Genral Thet Swe the Burma Navy Chief himself on board the light-frigate Anawyahtar, announced Burma Navy on March-6. Burma Navy also announced the possibility of a large-scale naval exercise around the coming 69th Armed Forces Day on March-27.



The test firing of anti-ship missile by Burmese Navy was the direct response to Bangladesh Navy’s regular OTH test firings of similar C-802 Chinese-made anti-ship cruise missiles in the Bay of Bengal since 2008.

(Myanmar Navy)

Philippine to Buy More Planes for Air Force

28 April 2014


The Armed Forces would purchase eight combat utility helicopters, six close air support aircraft, two-long range patrol aircraft, and radar systems. (photo : Koreaaero)

MANILA, Philippines – President Benigno Aquino III on Friday unveiled a plan to acquire more aircraft to boost the capability of the Philippine Air Force.

Presiding over the Air Force change of command in Lipa City, the President said the Armed Forces would purchase eight combat utility helicopters, six close air support aircraft, two-long range patrol aircraft, and radar systems.

“We intend to buy also full-motion flight simulator to improve the training of our pilots,” he said in a speech aired over state-run dzRB radio.

These are on top of the new FA-50 from South Korea that will be delivered to the Air Force next year, Mr. Aquino said.

“In 2005, we retired our last F-5 freedom fighter. It’s our wish to enhance the capability of our pilots to fly this type of aircraft for military operations,’’ he said.

Last month, the military signed contracts for the acquisition of 12 lead-in fighter trainer jets worth P18.9-billion from South Korea and eight combat utility helicopters worth P4.8-billion from Canada.

Under the watch of Lt. Gen. Lauro Catalino dela Cruz, who retired as Air Force chief on Friday, the PAF acquired a number of aircraft. It now boasts of three C-130 transports, eight combat utility helicopters, and 18 basic trainer aircraft, the President said.

Dela Cruz turned over his post to Major General Jeffrey Delgado, AFP deputy chief of staff for plans and programs. Delgado is a former senior military aide to the President.

The President did not make any reference to a defense agreement allowing increased US military presence that is widely believed to be signed during President Obama’s visit on Monday.

Reports say that the signing of the Agreement on Enhanced Defense Cooperation will be the cornerstone of Obama’s visit to the country.

Under the deal, the Philippines has agreed to allow the United States access to the country’s military bases in the face of China’s increasing aggressiveness in the South China Sea.

Philippine authorities will have access to US facilities inside local military bases.

The President said the new Air Force chief, a member of the Presidential Security Group during the term of then President Corazon C. Aquino, was a multi-skilled pilot who survived two air crashes.

He said Delgado was among a few pilots who could fly a combination of fixed and rotary wing aircraft, and was a qualified pilot for combat aircraft T-28D and MG520, trainer aircraft T-41D and SF -260, and co-pilot of the passenger aircraft BN Islander.

“The report that reached us was that two planes he flew crashed due to engine failure, including one that nearly cost him his life,” he said. “Despite the dangers of flying, he did not opt out of public service.”

(Inquirer)

26 April 2014

Singapore Intends to Acquire Russian MANPADS "Igla-S"

26 April 2014


MANPADS "Igla-S" (photo : Itar Tass)

MOSCOW (ARMS-TASS). Singapore Armed Forces may acquire Russian-portable air defense systems (MANPADS), "Igla-S". This was stated by ARMS-TASS head of the design department Engineering Design Bureau (KBM) holding "Precision complexes" Georgy Vasilyev.

"From Singapore we have long-standing ties, they are going to negotiate the possibility of acquiring Igla-S", - he said.

The army has Singapore currently has an old version of MANPADS "Igla". The main differences of the modernized complex is to increase by about half power of the missile increased to 6 km range missile applications due to different decisions in the field of aerodynamics, as well as advanced algorithms breeding goals and increased noise immunity. 

Anti-aircraft guided missile (SAM) MANPADS "Igla-S" is equipped with a contact-proximity fuse, which also provides high hit probability. Installing microelectronics and holding SMD allowed to reduce the amount of homing (GOS) and, consequently, increase the mass of the warhead SAM - from 1.3 kg to 2.5 kg. Application detonation fuel enhancer striking effect in undermining warhead, also significantly increases the combat effectiveness of missiles.

Vasilyev noted that in addition to Singapore's "Needle-S" attended to Turkey, Malaysia and Egypt.

(Itar Tass)

Uji Fungsi RSCAN di Posek Kosekhanudnas I

26 April 2014


Uji coba radar RSCAN di Kohanudnas (photo : Kohanudnas)

Dalam rangka mendukung tugas pokok operasi pertahanan udara Kosekhanudnas I mendapatkan tambahan peralatan baru yang diberi nama RSCAN (Radar Shadow Countour Analyzer). Gelar uji fungsi RSCAN ini dilaksanakan di Posek Kosekhanudnas I dipimpin oleh Panglima Kosekhanudnas I Marsekal Pertama TNI Fahru Zaini Isnanto, SH, MDS, Jakarta, Selasa, (22/4).

RSCAN (Radar Shadow Countour Analyzer) merupakan suatu alat baru pengadaan dari Mabes TNI yang berfungsi untuk menganalisa track hasil tangkapan radar.

Dalam sambutannya Panglima Kosekhanudnas I mengatakan,peralatan ini diharapkan mampu mendukung kegiatan operasi pertahanan udara yang dilaksanakan oleh Kosekhanudnas 1.

Dengan kegiatan uji fungsi inidiharapkan personel yang nantinya mengawaki dapat mengetahui dalam memanfaatkan fungsi dan kemampuan peralatan, tegasnya. Selain itu, dengan Uji fungsi diharapkan dapat menambah informasi dan meningkatkan profesionalisme dalam mengawaki peralatan yang ada secara maksimal.

“ Manfaatkan alat yang ada secara baik dan benar, sehingga dapat medukung tugas-tugas operasi udara dengan lancar,” kata Panglima.

Acara ini dihadiri oleh para Asisten dari Kohanudnas maupun Kosekhanudnas I, dan Direktur PT.Mardhika Adhidarma beserta para tekhnisinya.

(Kohanudnas)

25 April 2014

Optix, Kencana Defence form Electro-Optical JV

26 April 2014


Optix is a Bulgarian electro-optical systems specialist (photo : Optix)

Malaysian company Kencana Defence - a subsidiary of engineering group Bintang Kencana - has formed a joint venture (JV) with Bulgarian electro-optical systems specialist Optix, it was announced at the Defence Services Asia (DSA) exhibition in Kuala Lumpur on 16 April.

The joint venture will manufacture and assemble a range of more than 20 Optix-designed night-vision devices and thermal imaging systems for the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) and for export to regional countries. The joint venture will also undertake research and development in optical technologies and systems for the military and security sectors.

Officials said the joint venture was scheduled to commence production activities by the end of 2014 following the anticipated signing of a contract with the MAF.

(Jane's)

Belarusian BTR-50PKM Upgrade Offered for Asian Market

25 April 2014


Belarusian BTR-50PKM upgrade (all photos : Minotor Service)

Belarusian armoured vehicle repair, servicing, and upgrade company Minotor-Service presented several of its latest design concepts and modernisation packages at this year's DSA exhibition in Kuala Lumpur.



Among those with possible potential in the Asia-Pacific market is an upgrade package for the BTR-50 amphibious armoured personnel carrier (APC), which is still in service with Indonesia. Company marketing specialists state the upgrade package will significantly extend the life of these vehicles while at the same time making them compatible with more contemporary vehicles.



The design concept of the upgraded vehicle, which is designated BTR-50PKM, is to replace its engine, gearbox, brake and control linkages, while at the same time not increasing its weight or altering its centre of gravity.

(Jane's)

24 April 2014

Australia Confirms 58 F-35 Order

24 April 2014


After a previous decision to purchase 14 JSF, the purchase of 58 JSF will increase total number of F-35As Australia to 72 (photo : Aus DoD)

F-35As to transform Australia's air combat capability

Australia will acquire another 58 F-35A Lightning II aircraft in a major boost to the nation’s air combat capability, Prime Minister Tony Abbott announced in Canberra on April 23.

The additional aircraft will lift the total number of F-35As Australia will acquire to 72, after a previous decision to purchase 14.

This will create a total of three operational squadrons – two at RAAF Base Williamtown and one at RAAF Base Tindal – and a training squadron at RAAF Base Williamtown
The F-35A will replace the Royal Australian Air Force’s fleet of F/A-18A/B Hornets.

The first aircraft will arrive in Australia in 2018, with Number 3 Squadron operational by 2021. All 72 aircraft are expected to be operational by 2023.

The total cost will be $12.4 billion including about $1.6 billion for new facilities at RAAF Bases Williamtown and Tindal.

The Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Geoff Brown, is enthusiastic about the F-35’s stealth capabilities.

He said the jump between a fourth- and fifth-generation fighter was dramatic.

“It’s the difference between being in a biplane against a monoplane pre-World War II, the difference between a piston engine and a jet – it’s one of those game-changing events,” he said.

Air Marshal Brown said the announcement of an additional 58 Joint Strike Fighters allowed Air Force to plan for the full withdrawal of the 71 F/A-18A/B Hornets.

“The Hornet’s been the mainstay of our air combat fleet for nearly 30 years. To be signed up to the future means we can go forward and plan how we’re going to transition,” he said.

“The transition will be quite a difficult thing to do because we need to move people from that era of technology into a completely different generation.”

Air Marshal Brown said the F-35As would need upgrades to maintain their combat edge but the Joint Strike Fighter program was designed for easier improvements than the F/A-18s.

He said the F-35As would be complemented by the RAAF’s 24 F/A-18F Super Hornets and 12 EA-18G Growlers.

(Aus DoD)

First Win Pitching for Malaysian Requirement

24 April 2014


Malaysian army could purchase 200 Chaiseri First Win 4x4 under the brand name of Deftech AV-4 (all photos : Malaysiaflyingherald)

Defence companies from Thailand and Malaysia are hoping to secure a contract from the Malaysian government to build up to 200 4x4 multipurpose armoured vehicles for the Malaysian Army.



The vehicle will be based on the First Win armoured vehicle, designed by Thailand's Chaiseri Metal & Rubber Company and built under licence by Malaysia's DRB-Hicom Defence Technologies (Deftech). In Malaysia the vehicle has been named the AV4.

Company officials told IHS Jane's at the Defence Services Asia (DSA) exhibition in Kuala Lumpur on 16 April that they expect funds to become available to procure a first batch of AV4 vehicles in the first quarter of 2015.

(Jane's)

Navy Conducting Sonar Studies

24 April 2014


The objective of the project is to absorb the sonar technology (operation and maintenance) in preparation for the development of a morecomplex system (photo : Brunei Mindef)

With sonar playing an invaluable role in maritime defense, the Naval Research and Development Center (NRDC) announced that it is conducting its own sonar studies with the goal of developing indigenous ones for the country.

Lt. Cmdr. Gregory Fabic, Philippine Navy spokesperson, said that this is under the NRDC’s Project “Ilalim” (Filipino for under).

“Project ‘Ilalim’ involves the study of sonar systems of platforms included in Defense Acquisition System projects (ex. Frigate and others),” he added.

The objective is to absorb the sonar technology (operation and maintenance) in preparation for the development of a morecomplex type of fixed or mobile underwater monitoring system thru re-engineering, Fabic pointed out.

Sonar (originally an acronym for Sound Navigation And Ranging) is a technique that uses sound propagation (usually underwater, as in submarine navigation) to navigate, communicate with or detect objects on or under the surface of the water, such as other vessels.

Two types of technology share the name “sonar”: passive sonar is essentially listening for the sound made by vessels; active sonar is emitting pulses of sounds and listening for echoes.

Sonar may be used as a means of acoustic location and of measurement of the echo characteristics of “targets” in the water. 

(The Manila Times)

23 April 2014

Deftech Offers Cambodia and Myanmar to Modernize Soviet-Made Tanks

23 April 2014


Cambodia T-55 MBT (photo : tank-net)

Representatives of the Malaysian company DEFTECH in the DSA-2014 exhibition held talks with a delegation of NE Cambodia on repair and modernization of the armament of the country tanks T-54/T-55.

As reported by "Burnham" referring to statements by the "Deftech" cost of the program could range from 161.95 to 194.34 million riels (50-60 million dollars).

Number of machines to be repaired and the amount of modernization will depend on how much the program will allocate command Cambodia and the loan amount, which will provide one of the Malaysian banks.

According to various sources, Cambodia Armed Forces has from 150 to 500 MBT T-54/T-55.

According to "Jane Defence Weekly", this program Malaysian company plans to implement in conjunction with The Polish defense holdings (Polski Holding Obronny, previously - "Bumar"). This company in 2009 put Malaysian Army 48 PT-91M tanks (Polish modification of T-72). Since delivering tanks company "Deftech" fulfilled their service under contract with Malaysian Army, and thus gained experience repair armored Soviet production.


Myanmar T-72S MBT (photo : mmmiitary)

In case of signing the contract, work could begin in October this year. Offer details were not disclosed. Depending on the customer's request, can be upgraded as the internal systems of the tank, and external equipment.

During the exhibition, DSA-2014, a similar proposal the company "Deftech" gave the delegation of Myanmar Ministry of Defense. In service of this country also has tanks T-55 and T-72 Soviet-made, requiring repair and modernization.

(VPK)

PT Len Equips Indonesian Navy MPA with Surveillance System

23 April 2014


PT Len Retimax 2000 (all images : Defense Studies)

State-owned defence electronics company PT Len has equipped an Indonesian Navy (Tentara Nasional Indonesia - Angkatan Laut: TNI-AL) maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) with its Retimax 2000 surveillance and reconnaissance system.



The system, consisting of a mission console, a cockpit display console and gimbal with three different sensors, was mounted on a TNI-AL NC-212 MPA in December. It has undergone several successful tests and is now fully operational, the company told IHS Jane's at the DSA 2014 exhibition on 16 April.

"This is the first MPA equipped as a trial to fulfill the TNI-AL's requirement for a high-definition real-time surveillance system," said Yudiansyah Lubis, the company's control systems engineer.

(Jane's)

Vietnam to Arm New Gepard-Class Frigates with Palma CIWS

23 April 2014


Palma close-in weapon system (CIWS). (photo: VPK)

The People's Army of Vietnam (PAVN) Navy will equip its third and fourth Russian-built Gepard 3.9 (Project 11661) light frigates with the Palma close-in weapon system (CIWS), Nudelman Precision Engineering Design Bureau confirmed in a statement issued 22 April.

The PAVN is scheduled to take delivery of the vessels, reported to be anti-submarine warfare (ASW) variants, in 2017. The first two ships in class, Dinh Tien Hoang and Ly Thai Ho , were commissioned in March and August 2011 respectively and loaded with a similar CIWS.

The Palma CIWS consists of Sosna-R hypersonic surface-to-air missiles, two six-barrel AO-18KD 30 mm automatic cannons and the 3V-89 electro-optical multichannel electronic countermeasures resistant fire-control system. The principal control system is electro-optic with radar back-up.

According to company literature, the system can engage six targets at up to 8 km simultaneously depending on the number of firing modules installed. The manufacturer indicates a gun kill envelope of 0.2 to 4 km to an altitude of 3,000 m and a missile kill envelope of 1.6 to 10 km to an altitude of 5,000 m.

(Jane's)

22 April 2014

Construction for the Second PKR 10514 Frigate to Start in Next 3 Months

22 April 2014

Sigma PKR 10514 frigate (image : Acelanceloet)
Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding Lays Keel for First Sigma 10514 PKR Frigate

In accordance with the agreed planning in the contract for the construction of a Damen SIGMA Frigate for the Indonesian Navy, the keellaying ceremony has taken place on 16 April 2014 at the PT PAL (Persero) Shipyard in Surabaya, Indonesia.

The construction of the 4 modules that are going to be built at PT PAL (Persero) Shipyard Surabaya and the two modules that are being built in Vlissingen, are proceeding according to schedule

The construction and testing of the modules simultaneously at two different locations signifies the unique Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding modular building strategy that is unparalleled in the naval shipbuilding industry. All modules will be assembled at the PT PAL (Persero) Shipyard under main contractorship of Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding followed by Harbour Acceptance Tests and Sea Acceptance Trials.

Second Frigate
Furthermore, the progress for the second SIGMA 10514 PKR frigate, for which the contract was signed 14 February 2013, proceeds as scheduled and construction is foreseen to start in approximately 3 months.

Expanding Indonesian Navy
The acquisition of the SIGMA 10514 PKR Frigate is part of the further modernization and expansion of the Indonesian Navy, TNI-AL. The main missions and tasks of the SIGMA PKR 10514 will be in the domains of naval warfare as well as Maritime Security missions and tasks. Also, the ship may be used for humanitarian support tasks.

(Damen)