Indian Navy Seeks Third Aircraft Carrier To Counter China In The Indian Ocean Region

31 Juli 2020

INS Vikramaditya (283,5 meter and 45.400 tonnes) first aircraft carrier (photo : Naval News)

The Indian Navy is seeking a third aircraft carrier and two new fighter squadrons to counter Chinese threat in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). In recent months, Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean Region has increased and the Indian Navy believes that a third aircraft carrier will help India contain China.

As per reports from the Times of India, the Indian Navy remains keen to push for a third aircraft carrier and two new fighter squadrons to counter China’s increasing footprint in the IOR. The delivery of India’s second aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Navy is expected to push for a grant of ‘’acceptance of necessity’’(AoN) for the third carrier, the 65,000-tonne IAC-II (INS Vishal). Experts at EurAsian Times believe that the grant may actually pass this time since the government is fast-tracking pending defence projects amidst soaring tensions with neighbours.

To balance the cost of the third carrier, the Navy has also trimmed the number of fighter jets it requested to 36 (two squadrons) from 57. Since indigenous jets won’t be ready till 2032, the deal for fighter jets might include the like of Rafale’s, Grippen’s and F/A-18s and MiG-29Ks.

Artist's impression of INS Vikrant (262 meter and 44.000 tonnes)(image : Naval Recognition)

The delay of the INS Vikrant has landed a blow to the Indian Navy. According to experts, the delay puts India in danger of losing its decisive edge over China in the carrier strike group arena (CSG).

Beijing already has two function aircraft carriers and is frantically working on to two more. The Chinese Navy aims to have 10 aircraft carriers by 2050 and expects to deploy a CSG in the IOR within the next 5 years. India has one operational aircraft carrier, INS Vikramaditya.

Beijing aims to increase in its footprint in the IOR to break New Delhi’s sphere of influence over the region. For decades India has enjoyed cordial relations with countries in the IOR and formed a sphere of influence over the region.

As reported by EurAsian Times earlier, China aims to dominate the Indian Ocean Region by completing the ‘string of pearls’.The theory refers to the network of Chinese military and commercial facilities developed by China in countries in the IOR stretching from the Chinese mainland to the Middle East.

The Chinese government has vehemently denied that such a strategy exists but its actions say otherwise. Beijing has access to outposts in strategic locations in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Djibouti.

(EurasianTime)

Boeing Responds to Australian RFI with T-7 Trainer Aircraft

31 Juli 2020

Boeing T7A trainer (photo : Boeing Defense)

Boeing has provided information to the Commonwealth of Australia on the T-7 in response to the AIR6002 Phase 1 future Lead-In Fighter Training System (LIFTS) program. The T-7, which is scalable, interoperable and configurable, is ideally suited to address the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) next-generation frontline fast-jet aircraft training requirements.

The advanced pilot training system features a low-risk, leading-edge, live, virtual and constructive fifth-generation aircrew training environment. “No other training system in the world today will better develop the skills required to operate the RAAF’s most advanced frontline aircraft like the F/A-18 Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler and the F-35,” said Chuck Dabundo, Vice President, Boeing T-7 Programs.

Boeing T7A trainer (photo : AndrewB)

The advanced system – which incorporates the T-7 aircraft and a suite of ground-based training and support equipment including simulators and digital debrief stations – has the flexibility to evolve as technologies, missions and training needs change. “The T-7 stands apart as a compelling solution for Australia’s future training requirements,” said Scott Carpendale, Boeing Defence Australia Vice President and Managing Director.

“We believe it meets Australia’s current and future fast-jet training needs with its next-generation system that combines live, virtual and synthetic training environments.” In September 2018, the U.S. Air Force awarded Boeing a contract with a potential value of up to US $9.2 billion to supply 351 T-7A Red Hawk aircraft and 46 trainers to replace the Air Education and Training Command’s aging T-38 fleet. The T-7A has recorded more than 200 engineering and manufacturing development flights to date, and is tracking to deliver to the USAF in support of initial operating capability (IOC) in 2024.

Boeing

Singapore and Brunei Navies Conclude Bilateral Exercise Pelican Conducted at Sea

31 Juli 2020

RSS Supreme (right) and KDB Darulehsan (left) during Exercise Pelican 2020 (photos : Sing Mindef)

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) have concluded the bilateral Exercise Pelican. Held from 27 to 29 July 2020 in the Philippines Sea, the exercise saw the participation of RSN's Formidable-class frigate RSS Supreme and RBN's Darussalam-class patrol vessel KDB Darulehsan.

This year's exercise, the 39th in the series, was conducted at sea with no physical interaction between personnel from both navies due to the current COVID-19 situation. The two navies focused on building interoperability through the conduct of various exercise serials, including coordinated gunnery firing, manoeuvring and communication exchanges.

Highlighting the importance of the exercise in reinforcing the strong ties between the RSN and RBN, Commanding Officer of RSS Supreme, Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Chua Eileen said, "Exercise Pelican has once again allowed us to interact with close friends whom we have developed relationships with over the years. Out at sea, it is these time-tested partnerships that allow us to operate well together, and support each other should the need arise. The good understanding that we established between our navies enabled us to plan and conduct an exercise at sea without any physical meet-ups."

Commanding Officer of KDB Darulehsan, Commander (CDR) Haji Edy Jofren bin PDP DP Haji Abd Jalil added, "The RBN and RSN have a special relationship that has developed from our commitment and participation in Exercise Pelican since its establishment in 1979. It is indeed an important avenue for enhancing interoperability, capacity building and most importantly forging ties and friendships amongst RSN and RSN personnel at all levels."

Established in 1979, Exercise Pelican underscores the close and long-standing defence ties between Singapore and Brunei. The exercise enhances mutual cooperation, understanding, and interoperability between the RSN and RBN. Besides Exercise Pelican, the RSN and RBN also interact regularly through a range of activities, including visits and professional exchange programmes. These interactions have reinforced the strong bonds between the personnel from both navies.

Sing Mindef

Army Acquires New Sea Mobility Asset

31 Juli 2020

New watercraft for Philippine Army (photo : PA)

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila  - The Philippine Army officially unveils new watercrafts in a blessing ceremony here today, today, July 28, 2020.

The new boats are intended to augment the existing water navigation mobility assets of the Army used in patrol and troop insertion operations. A single boat was put on display for the blessing ceremony.

Army Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Rowen Tolentino represented the Commanding General Lt. Gen. Gilbert I. Gapay during the official turn-over of the boats to Special Forces Regiment (Airborne) Commander Brig. Gen. Lincoln Francisco T. Tagle. The new assets will boost the counter-terrorism and the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response operations of SFR(A) especially in priority areas in Mindanao.

The boats can load at least eight individuals in full battle gear and has a minimum speed of 25 knots. A total of 52 boats are earmarked for acquisition.

“Our pursuit for modernization will ensure that the Army is capable of facing various threats in the security environment and when we perform our non-traditional military roles during disasters. We aim that through modernizing our command capabilities, the Philippine Army can better serve the people and protect the nation from whatever challenges there may be,” remarked Gapay.

Philippine Army

Toyota Sebut Pindad Ajukan Kerja Sama Resmi untuk Maung

31 Juli 2020

Pindad Maung 4x4 (photo : Kompas)

 

Jakarta, CNN Indonesia -- Toyota Astra Motor (TAM) mengakui perusahaan persenjataan dan kendaraan tempur militer di Indonesia, Pindad, telah mengajukan permohonan mengenai penggunaan mesin pikap Hilux pada kendaraan taktis baru, Maung.

Direktur Pemasaran TAM Anton Jimmi mengatakan pengajuan Pindad masih ditelaah prinsipal di Jepang. Pihaknya disebut juga masih menunggu hasil keputusan prinsipal atas permohonan Pindad tersebut.

"Pindad sudah ada request ke kami, dan sekarang sedang dibicarakan dengan prinsipal. [Yang diajukan] berhubungan dengan penggunaan engine," ungkap Anton melalui pesan singkat, Selasa (28/7).

Menurut Anton Pindad baru kali ini mengajukan permohonan penggunaan dapur pacu Hilux. Anton juga menjelaskan permohonan yang dilayangkan Pindad hanya sebatas mesin, tidak termasuk sasis Hilux yang sebelumnya disebut-sebut digunakan Pindad bakal Maung.

"So far informasi yang dibicarakan adalah engine," kata Anton.

Kata Anton jika kerja sama Pindad dan Toyota sudah terjalin bukan tidak mungkin Maung bakal masuk dalam layanan purna jual. Artinya Maung bisa diservis di bengkel resmi Toyota.

Toyota Hilux 2019 (photo : turningblog)

"Mungkin next-nya ya sebagai kelanjutan dari penggunaan engine," kata Anton.

Maung merupakan kendaraan taktis yang didesain sebagai kendaraan militer dan sudah dipesan oleh Menteri Pertahanan Prabowo Subianto. Namun demikian Pindad punya rencana juga menyediakan versi sipil Maung dengan harga Rp400 juta - Rp500 juta, konversi ini bisa menjadikan Pindad seperti Jeep, Land Rover, atau AM General (Humvee).

Pindad merancang Maung memakai mesin turbo diesel 2.494 cc 2GD-FTV buatan Toyota yang digunakan pada Hilux. Selain Hilux mesin itu juga dipakai Fortuner dan Innova.

Pilihan mesin turbo diesel produksi Toyota itu tergolong baru bagi Pindad, sebab perusahaan pelat merah ini biasanya menggunakan mesin 4.000 cc buatan Renault dan Hino untuk kendaraan 4x4 seperti Komodo.

Berdasarkan website resmi Toyota, pikap kabin ganda Hilux yang dibekali mesin 2GD-FTV 2.949 cc mampu menyemburkan 147,5 hp dan torsi 400 Nm. Mesin yang sama pada Maung diklaim menghasilkan tenaga sedikit lebih besar, yakni 149 hp dengan torsi 400 nm.

Saat ini status Maung masih prototipe dan dalam tahap penyempurnaan. Produksi massal dikatakan bakal dilakukan segera dengan target awal memenuhi pesanan Kementerian Pertahanan.

CNN

Australian Frigate Sonar Upgrade Almost Complete

30 Juli 2020

Frigates HMA ships Anzac, right, and Arunta have both undergone the Broadband Sonar Advanced Processing System upgrade. The ships are seen here at Fleet Base West, Rockingham, Western Australia (photo : RAN)

Upgraded frigate sonar rollout almost complete

Upgrades to the Spherion B sonar processing systems in the Navy’s Anzac Class Frigates under SEA 1408 Phase 2 is almost complete.

The SEA 1408 Phase 2 replaced the existing sonar processing system with the sovereign designed Broadband Sonar Advanced Processing System (BSAPS) while still utilising the existing Spherion B Hull Mounted Sonar Wet End.

The BSAPS was jointly developed in a collaboration between Defence Science and Technology (DST), Saab Australia, BAE Systems and Thales Australia.

Deputy Director Combat Systems Commander Danielle Radnidge said the BSAPS project began life as a submission from DST through the Defence Industry Realisation Fund, a precursor to the Defence Innovation Hub.

“The submission was picked up and commercialised by Thales Australia, and showcases Australia’s world class ability to convert science and technology concepts into successful commercial enterprises,” Commander Radnidge said.

Spherion hull mounted sonar (photo : DST)

“This is without doubt, an Australian success story,” she said.

The BSAPS replaces the ‘ship build’ fitted sonar processing system which was supplied to Anzac Class Frigates as part of the original build program in the 1990s.

Responding to the emerging threat situation, a requirement was identified for a system that was more suited to modern submarine and torpedo threats expected to emerge over the lifespan of the Anzac Class Frigate - to date, six of the eight Anzac Class Frigates have been upgraded.

Among the many advantages offered by the SEA 1408 Phase 2 are a significant improvement in sonar passive capability, a greater level of sonar and Combat Management System integration, improved levels of sonar functionality and significant improvements in equipment reliability.

The new sonar system has been integrated with the 9LV Combat Management System and had been successfully demonstrated at sea over a number of years.

This technology has delivered a significantly advanced anti-submarine warfare and torpedo self defence capability to Navy’s Anzac Class Frigates and provides Navy with one of the most advanced, sovereign Hull Mount Sonar capabilities in the world, providing exceptional underwater awareness for our frigates.

The upgrade project management occurred through the Warship Asset Management Agreement Alliance with the Anzac Ships Program Office and SEA 1408 Project Office.

(RAN)

Prajurit Yonkav 8 Kostrad Asah Kemampuan Menembak Senjata Ranpur

30 Juli 2020

Latihan menembak dengan senjata ranpur (all photos : Kostrad)

Jakarta. Satuan Batalyon Kavaleri 8 Kostrad menyelenggarakan Latihan Menembak Senjata Ranpur (Latbakjat Ranpur) di Pusat Latihan Tempur (Puslatpur) Marinir TNI AL Situbondo, Jawa Timur. Jumat (17/7).

Latbakjat Ranpur diselenggarakan dengan tujuan untuk membekali, memelihara dan meningkatkan profesionalisme prajurit  Yonkav 8 Kostrad yang meliputi pengetahuan, keterampilan dan penyelenggaraan latihan menembak senjata Ranpur.

Latihan dilaksanakan mulai tanggal 14 hingga 17 Juli 2020 melibatkan 96 petembak senjata Ranpur  Yonkav 8 Kostrad, meliputi 41 orang petembak kanon Leopard/Coax, 9 orang petembak Marder, 38 orang  petembak PSU (Penangkis Serangan Udara), dan 8 orang petembak SMS (Ransus transporter).

Pada kesempatan Latihan menembak ini, Yonkav 8 Kostrad juga melatihkan menembak malam dengan memanfaatkan perangkat Thermal Imaging yang ada di Ranpur Leopard sehingga dapat membidik sasaran yang mengeluarkan panas pada kondisi gelap atau malam hari. Selama pelaksanaan latihan, mekanisme kegiatan dapat berjalan aman dan lancar. 

(Kostrad)

BRP Jose Rizal Sails for RIMPAC in Hawaii

30 Juli 2020

BRP Jose Rizal FF-150 departs for RIMPAC naval exercise (all photos : PN)

MANILA – The Philippine Navy (PN) on Wednesday formally deployed its first missile-frigate, BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), for the two-week "Rim of the Pacific" (RIMPAC) naval exercises which will run from August 17 to 31 in Honolulu, Hawaii.

In a statement, Navy public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, said the send-off ceremony for the BRP Jose Rizal and its crew, the Naval Task Group (NTG) 80.5, took place at Alava Wharf in Subic Bay, Zambales.

NTG 80.5 is commanded by Captain Jerry Garrido, Jr., the commanding officer of BRP Jose Rizal, and is complemented by surface, services, and support components.

Also aboard was an AgustaWestland AW-109 "Power" naval helicopter.

Before their departure, NTG 80.5 underwent rigorous health and safety protocols prior to boarding the participating PN vessel in order to ensure the safety of everyone amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

"Our participation in these exercise marks the beginning of a new era of naval operations as we build up our capabilities for modern warfare," said PN chief Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, who served as presiding officer and keynote speaker for the send-off ceremony.

BRP Jose Rizal is the PN's first warship in the inventory that is equipped with multi-dimensional warfare capabilities.

Through this year's RIMPAC, the PN will be able to simulate and test the capabilities of this newly acquired platform and provide BRP Jose Rizal a venue to test the proficiency of Filipino naval personnel as they integrate into a wider range of operations.

Bacordo also urged the contingent to seize the opportunity to hone their skills and talents as they conduct operations in a joint and combined environment and later share their experiences with their colleagues.

"This will boost your team training and increase your operational readiness. But all of you need to observe safety protocols. In these challenging times, it is imperative to work together, learn together and be safe together," he added.

In light of safety protocols amid the Covid-19 pandemic, Roxas said exercises will be an at-sea event only.

"To ensure safety of all the contingents from different military forces, shore-based activities are minimized," she added.

RIMPAC is a United States-led naval exercise hosted by the US Navy’s Pacific Fleet and held biennially.

Described as the world’s premier and largest joint and combined naval exercise, RIMPAC is geared towards building trust and partnership with other navies, understanding the capabilities of other navies and enhancing inter-operability.

"The Navy’s participation in this exercise trumpets its commitment in promoting multi-lateral cooperation leading to the strengthening of relationship and cooperation among regional and extra-regional navies," Roxas said. 

(PNA)

NZDF Trials Emerging Technology with UBCO Bikes

30 Juli 2020

UBCO 2x2 utility bike (photo : elektrek)

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) are running battle-lab experiments using the UBCO 2×2 Utility Bike, Portable Power Supplies and Accessories for use in reconnaissance, surveillance, and other applications. Branches of the NZ Defence Force will each trial the fleet under various simulations to assess the vehicles. The trial is part of the Defence Force’s wider programme towards a more sustainable operation, which also fits with the Government’s goal of having 64,000 EVs on New Zealand roads by the end of next year.

LtCol Brad Gallop, Land Combat Group Lead, Capability Branch, New Zealand Defence Force says “There have been dramatic changes in technology over the last few years with electric vehicles a key emerging technology that the NZDF has been monitoring. After investigating a range of options, the NZDF selected UBCO for a trial in 2020”.

The Defence Force sustainable framework of Tuku Iho (“to pass on what you’ve received in at least as good as, if not better than, what you receive it in”) aims to enhance and protect the Defence estate’s natural, financial, manufactured, intellectual, social and human capital.

LtCol Brad Gallop talks about the program and how it fits into NZDF “I think technology has changed dramatically over the last five years; we need to look at alternative sources. EV is an emerging technology that we need to look at and to see how applicable it is on the battlefield.

UBCO 2x2 utility bike (photo : stuff)

“We are doing a detailed evaluation of EV Bikes. We’re looking for an alternate energy patrol bike, particularly for reconnaissance and surveillance but it has many other applications. I think this is about understanding emerging technologies and where it fits in the NZDF construct.

“I was talking to the team around what emerging technology we can take a look at. Our location in the world means that we have to come up with quite adaptive technologies”

UBCO developed its Electric Utility Vehicle and Portable power platform originally for off-road use and has certified it for dual purpose (on road) use globally in a wide range of high duty applications.

“The collaboration with the NZDF allows UBCO to rapidly learn how the 2X2 can operate across Army, Navy and Airforce. Globally, defense is a very controlled industry, so this collaboration is hugely valuable to learn quickly for UBCO” says Timothy Allan, CEO of UBCO.

Hayden  Robinson, Joint Experimentation Manager – Land Capability Branch, NZDF says “Electric vehicles offer some advantages over fuelled vehicles. They are quiet, don’t give off exhaust or heat, and aren’t powered by highly flammable liquids. They are simple to maintain and onboard computers will be able to record a range of information about how the bike is used.”

The aim of the evaluation is not only to look at the capability of the bike itself but also how it fits in the NZDF Operations. Both NZDF and UBCO are keen to understand the potential of the bikes, both on and off the battlefield.

(UBCOBikes)

Yonko 465 Paskhas Terima Rantis APC Turangga 4X4

29 Juli 2020

Kendaraan taktis Turangga 4x4 (photos : Paskhas)

Pontianak (27/07/20). Kendaran Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) Turangga 4x4 tiba di Markas Batalyon Komando 465 Paskhas untuk kemampuan operasional Batalyon Komando 465 Paskhas yang membutuhkan mobilitas dan kecepatan di medan operasi. 

Sebelum diterima Batalyon Komando 465 Paskhas Rantis APC Turangga 4x4 menjalani sejumlah uji coba dan pemeriksaan kelengkapan di Mako Korpaskhas Bandung.

Komandan Batalyon Komando 465 Paskhas Letkol Pas Jhoni Imanuel Laimeheriwa pada saat melakukan pemeriksaan dan kelengkapan APC Turangga 4x4 di Yonko 465 Paskhas menyatakan Rantis APC Turangga 4x4 di gunakan operasional Batalyon Komando 465 Paskhas untuk mendukung dalam melaksanakan penyerbuan cepat dan pengawalan konvoi serta patroli pengamanan bandara. 

Dengan adanya Rantis APC Turangga 4x4 diharapkan dapat meningkatkan moril dan kepercayaan diri prajurit dalam melaksanakan tugas operasi. Kepada personel yang akan mengawaki dan merawat Rantis APC Turangga 4X4 agar dalam pengoperasiannya dilaksanakan sesuai dengan prosedur dan mengaplikasikan segala sesuatu apa yang telah di dapatkan pada saat mengikuti pelatihan operasional Rantis APC Turangga 4X4.

(Paskhas)

Anggota DPR Minta Kemhan dan TNI Tak Terprovokasi Medsos

29 Juli 2020

Pembahasan alokasi anggaran hingga satuan 3 (tiga) yakni mulai dari unit organisasi, fungsi, program, kegiatan, hingga jenis belanja memang menjadi kewenangan eksekutif (photo : Pyotr Gryzowski)

AKURAT.CO, Kementerian Pertahanan (Kemhan) atau TNI diminta untuk tidak terprovokasi oleh media sosial (medsos) terkait kebijakan pemenuhan alat utama sistem persenjataan (Alutsista) yang akan diambil.

Hal itu disampaikan oleh Anggota Komisi I DPR RI, Bobby Adityo Rizaldi, terkait polemik rencana Kemhan yang akan membeli membeli jet tempur bekas Eurofighter Thypoon milik Austria.

Bobby mengungkapkan bahwa idealnya Indonesia memang membeli Pesawat tempur baru, tetapi Kemhan atau TNI AU lebih memahami postur pertahanan udara yang dibutuhkan.

"Menurut saya Kemhan atau TNI AU lebih paham yang dibutuhkan saat ada kekosongan postur pertahanan udara saat ini," ungkapnya di Jakarta, Selasa (28/7/2020).

Menurut Bobby, terkait urgensi postur pertahanan, Indonesia memang perlu peremajaan Pesawat tempur pengganti F-5E Tiger, dan secara teknis perlu Pesawat bermesin ganda untuk menjaga wilayah Indonesia yang luas di bagian Timur.

F-5 Tiger TNI AU telah dipensiunkan sejak 2017 setelah mengabdi selama 35 tahun (photo : intisari)

Bobby mengatakan, periode Kekuatan Pokok Minimum (Minimum Essential Force/MEF) II yang ideal ada pengadaan Su-35 yang baru, namun sepertinya tertunda karena adanya embargo dari Amerika Serikat melalui Undang-Undang Penentang Lawan Amerika Melalui Sanksi (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act/CAATSA).

"Soal Eurofighter belum pernah dibahas di Komisi I DPR RI. Lalu terkait polemik Pesawat baru dan bekas, untuk membeli Pesawat baru membutuhkan waktu sedangkan kita perlu Pesawat tempur pengganti F-5E," katanya.

Bobby menyarankan agar publik menyerahkan sepenuhnya kepada Kemhan atau TNI untuk memutuskan. Namun, menurut Bobby, tetap dipastikan tahapan-tahapannya harus layak pengadaan melalui peran Badan Pemeriksa Keuangan (BPK).

Politikus Partai Golkar itu mengungkapkan bahwa DPR RI tidak bisa terlibat membahas satuan 3, dan dalam pengadaan Alutsista yang paling paham adalah Kemhan atau TNI.

"Jangan terprovokasi hal teknis dari sosial media atau internet, Kemhan atau TNI pasti punya perhitungan strategis selain soal baru atau bekas," ungkapnya.

Sebelumnya, Indonesia dikabarkan berminat membeli 15 Pesawat tempur buatan konsorsium Eropa, yakni Eurofighter Typhoon, yang saat ini dioperasikan oleh AU Austria.

(Akurat)

Vietnam Agrees $348 Million Japan Loan to Build Six Patrol Vessels

29 Juli 2020

Six patrol vessel to be delivered by 2025 (photo : VoV)

HANOI (Reuters) - Vietnam on Tuesday signed an agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to borrow 36.63 billion yen ($348.2 million) to build six patrol vessels, state media reported, amid rising tensions in the South China Sea.

The vessels, to be delivered to the Vietnam coast guard by October 2025, would boost the country's maritime capability, Nhan Dan newspaper reported. It did not provide details of the vessels to be built.

Vietnam and other Asian states have for years been locked in maritime disputes in the South China Sea. China claims 90% of the potentially energy-rich waters but Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also lay claim to parts.

The vessels are "aimed at strengthening law enforcement and maritime rescue operations, ensuring security, maritime safety and freedom of navigation in Vietnam", said the newspaper, an official outlet of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

Australia last week joined the United States in stating that China's claims in the South China Sea do not comply with international law.

Last year, the United States announced it would provide Vietnam with another coast guard cutter for its growing fleet, in addition to at least 18 "Metal Shark" patrol boats it provided to Vietnam in the last three years.

The 40-year loan has a grace period of 10 years, Tuesday's report said, adding that the vessels would be built by a Japanese contractor.

(Reuters)

Perkuat TNI AL, KRI Posepa-870 dan KRI Escolar-871 Resmi Diluncurkan

29 Juli 2020

Kapal Patroli Tipe PC-40 KRI Posepa-870 dan KRI Escolar-871 (photo : TNI AL)

TNI Angkatan Laut meluncurkan dua kapal perang baru jenis Patroli Cepat (PC-40 M) yakni KRI Posepa-870 dan KRI Escolar-871 yang diresmikan oleh Kepala Staf Angkatan Laut (Kasal) Laksamana TNI Yudo Margono, S.E., M.M., didampingi Ketua Umum Jalasenastri Ny. Vero Yudo Margono, bertempat di Halte Slipway PT Caputra Mitra Sejati, Banten, Senin (27/7/2020).

Kapal PC 40 M ini, memiliki spesifikasi panjang 45,5 meter, lebar 7,9 meter dan bobot 220 ton. Kapal tersebut mampu melaju dengan kecepatan maksimal 24 knot, kecepatan jelajah 17 knot dan kecepatan ekonomis 15 knot, serta memiliki ketahanan (endurance) dalam berlayar selama enam hari. Kapal perang ini juga dilengkapi dengan dua unit radar dan senjata meriam 30 mm serta diawaki 35 Anak Buah Kapal (ABK).

Dalam acara shipnaming dan launching tersebut, Kasal mengatakan bahwa sebagai negara maritim yang memiliki konstelasi perairan yang cukup luas, TNI AL bertanggung jawab terhadap kedaulatan dan stabilitas keamanan maritim di seluruh wilayah yurisdiksi Indonesia. Sebagai konsekuensinya kebutuhan kapal patroli merupakan suatu keharusan bagi negara kepulauan.

“Pembangunan kapal patroli 40 M ini, merupakan bagian integral dari pembanguan kekuatan TNI AL dan wujud dari kemandirian industri pertahanan. Pemenuhan kebutuhan alutsista TNI AL juga turut memberikan kontribusi bagi peningkatan perekonomian bangsa dan kesejahteraan rakyat Indonesia”, ujar Kasal.

Galangan kapal PT Caputra Mitra Sejati, Serang, Banten (photo : Caputra)

Tidak hanya itu, Kasal juga menambahkan bahwa peluncuran KRI Posepa-870 dan KRI Escolar-871 ini, akan memasuki tahap pengabdiannya sebagai bagian dari unsur patroli di bawah Kotama Operasi karena kedua unsur ini memiliki performa yang jauh lebih baik. “Saya berharap seluruh pihak mampu menciptakan inovasi baru dan kita tunjukkan bahwa kita dapat mengejar ketertinggalan yang sudah terjadi selama ini. Bangsa Indonesia harus menjadi bangsa yang kompetitif dan mampu bersaing di tataran Internasional termasuk dalam industri perkapalan”, tambahnya.  

Alutsista TNI Angkatan Laut ini, merupakan kapal perang karya anak bangsa yang diproduksi PT Caputra Mitra Sejati Banten. KRI Posepa-870 rencananya akan memperkuat Pangkalan Utama TNI AL (Lantamal) V Surabaya, sedangkan KRI Escolar-871 akan memperkuat Lantamal VII Kupang. Peluncuran Kapal perang tersebut ditandai dengan pemotongan tali dan prosesi pemecahan kendi oleh Ny. Vero Yudo Margono sebagai “Ibu Kandung Kapal” dan dilanjutkan dengan pemberian cinderamata berupa miniatur kapal PC 40 M.

Turut mendampingi Kasal pada kesempatan tersebut para Pejabat Tinggi TNI AL diantaranya, Irjenal, Asops Kasal, Aslog Kasal, Pangkoarmada I, Pangkolinlamil, Kadismatal, Kadislaikmatal, Kadisadal, Kadislitbangal, Danlantamal III Jakarta, Dirut PT CMS  Kris Pramono dan jajaran Direksi PT CMS Banten serta Satuan Tugas Yekda Dalam Negeri (Satgas Yekda DN) PC 40 M.

(TNI AL)

India May Give Indonesia BrahMos Missiles

28 Juli 2020

Inclined launcher and BrahMos surface-to-surface missile (photo : Trishul)

NEW DELHI: India and Indonesia, which is also locked in a maritime dispute with China in the contentious South China Sea, have decided to expand their strategic and defence cooperation in a wide range of areas. 

The further expansion of defence and military relations were discussed during delegation-level talks led by defence minister Rajnath Singh and his Indonesian counterpart General Prabowo Subianto in New Delhi on Monday. 

Sources said that the possible export of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to Indonesia as well as measures to further deepen maritime security cooperation figured prominently in the talks.

(Times of India)

Schiebel Pacific Teams with Raytheon Australia for Australian Army's Land 129 Phase 3

28 Juli 2020

Schiebel and Raytheon ready to submit for Land 129 Phase 3 (photo : Schiebel)

Australia, Nowra – Schiebel Pacific and Raytheon Australia have teamed up for the LAND129 Phase 3 Tactical Unmanned Aerial System (TUAS) project for the Australian Army. The tender response was submitted last week.

The teaming couples Schiebel’s proven and world-class CAMCOPTER® S-100 UAS with Raytheon Australia’s 20 year pedigree as a trusted, prime systems integrator across multiple domains. Together, the companies will deliver a solution that provides a highly capable, low risk offering that is intended to establish an enduring sovereign TUAS capability.

Schiebel Pacific has extensive experience in working with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and local industry. The Royal Australian Navy operates several systems at 822X Squadron, Nowra, New South Wales.

Fabian Knechtl, Managing Director of Schiebel Pacific, said: “We are very confident that the capability of the CAMCOPTER® S-100, together with the proposed integration into existing ADF systems, is the best solution for the Australian Army. Additionally, Raytheon Australia’s pedigree and experience in sovereign complex systems integration makes them the perfect partner and our teaming will assure efficient and timely delivery to the ADF. We are fully committed to the Australian Government’s policy on Australian Industry Capability (AIC) and have already started the ‘transfer of knowledge’ to our local entity and our partners. Over the next several years, Schiebel Pacific will become known as a highly capable Australian UAS provider.”

The Vertical Take Off and Landing (VTOL) UAS CAMCOPTER® S-100 is a proven and reliable TUAS for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions. With its small footprint and ability to operate from confined areas, it needs no prepared area or supporting equipment for take-off and landing and it can be set up and ready in 20 minutes. The S-100 operates day and night for up to 8 hours. The UAV has globally collected more than 100,000 flight hours so far. 

(Schiebel)

Demokrat : Anggaran Rp 131 T Belum Cukupi Kebutuhan Kemhan

28 Juli 2020

Anggaran Pertahanan Indonesia 2009-2020 (image : Katadata)

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia- Wakil Ketua MPR RI dari Partai Demokrat, Syarif Hasan menilai besaran anggaran Kementerian Pertahanan yang mencapai Rp 131 Triliun masih kecil dibandingkan dengan PDB serta kebutuhan pengadaan Alutsista Indonesia. 

Namun demikian, ditengah ketatnya keuangan negara tetap tidak disarankan bagi Kemenhan untuk tidak membeli alutsista bekas. (CNBC)

Sebesar Apa Anggaran Kemhan RI dibanding Negara Tetangga?

Jakarta - Anggaran Kementerian Pertahanan (Kemhan) yang besar kembali disorot. Kali ini Menteri Keuangan Sri Mulyani mengatakan anggaran kementerian yang dipimpin Prabowo Subianto ini wajar sangat besar.

Anggaran pertahanan negara-negara ASEAN 2019 (image : Katadata)

Khususnya, anggaran untuk belanja militer dalam pengadaan alat utama sistem pertahanan alias alutsista. Lalu seberapa besar perbandingan belanja militer di Indonesia dengan negara lain?

Dari catatan detikcom yang dihimpun Minggu (19/7/2020), menurut Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) belanja militer Indonesia dibanding produk domestik bruto (PDB/GDP) ternyata terus mengalami penurunan sejak 1988 hingga 2019.

SIPRI sendiri merupakan lembaga independen yang fokus pada masalah konflik hingga persenjataan mengumpulkan data belanja militer dari sejumlah negara. Sipri mengelola data berdasarkan sumber terbuka.

Belanja pertahanan negara ASEAN Oceania terhadap total belanja negara tahun 2018 (image : WorldBank)

Tahun 1988, belanja militer di Indonesia tercatat 1,5% dibanding PDB. Kemudian, mengalami penurunan hingga tahun 1996 yang tercatat 1,3%. Sempat naik lagi di tahun 1997 di posisi 1,5%, belanja militer turun lagi sampai di 2003 menjadi 0,9% dibanding PDB.

Pada tahun 2004 hingga 2019, porsi belanja militer masih juga cenderung turun. Terakhir, di tahun 2019, porsi belanja militer di Indonesia sebesar 0,7% dibanding dengan total PDB Indonesia.

Bila dibandingkan dengan negara tetangga, belanja militer Brunei Darussalam berdasarkan data tersebut yakni 3,3% dari PDB di tahun 2019, Kamboja 2,3%, Malaysia 1%, Filipina 1%, Singapura 3,2%, dan Thailand 1,3%.

Perbandingan total hutang negara ASEAN Oceania terhadap GDP tahun 2019 (image : Defense Studies)

Kini, di tahun 2020 Prabowo dititipkan anggaran sebesar Rp 127,35 triliun. Yang merupakan anggaran kementerian/lembaga (K/L) paling besar. Belanja alutsista menjadi fokus anggaran Prabowo dengan bagian paling besar mencapai Rp 14, 53 triliun.

Itu baru pengadaan, Prabowo juga menganggarkan dana untuk pemeliharaan dan perawatan alutsista untuk Alpung, KRI, KAL, Ranpur/Rantis darat sebanyak 143 unit sebesar Rp 3,19 triliun. Sementara itu, pemeliharaan/perawatan Pesawat Udara, Senjata & Almatsus lainnya sebanyak 228 unit sebesar Rp 5,10 triliun.

(Detik)

Gempita ISTAR Successfully Found Illegal Immigrants

28 Juli 2020

The presence of Gempita in anti illegal immigrant operation equipped with Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) variant of the Gempita (photo : MFH)

Ops Benteng: Gempita Strikes

Five illegal immigrants from neighbour country has been detained at  Kampung Gambut Punggai, Kota Tinggi, Johor after the boat that tried to smuggle them into Malaysia was detected by ISTAR variant of FNSS/DEFTECH AV-8 Gempita 8×8 armoured vehicle operated by the 2nd Regiment, Royal Armoured Corp (2 KAD) on July 12.

Gempita ISTAR 8x8 (photo : Army Recognition)

Based from the radar leads given by the Gempita’s Thales Vintaqs Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) sensors, the men from the 61st Royal Artillery Regiment (61 RAD) led by Kapt Norhisham Iswandy and stationed at Tanjung Sepat Military Post were vectored to the suspected landing area where the illegal immigrants were intercepted just as the boat was 50 meters away from the shore.

All of the immigrants arrested by the Army were of Indonesian citizens aged between 23 to 40 years old. They were handed over to the Royal Malaysian Police (RMP) for further actions.

The Thales Squire radar system on Vingtaqs II can detect and classify moving targets on, or close to, the ground at ranges up to 48 km. Squire features automatic target classification facilities for persons, wheeled vehicles, tracked vehicles and helicopters. (photo : Army Recognition)

Deployment of the Gempita ISTAR in the southern region is part of Ops Merpati, a long standing anti illegal immigrant operation along Johor’s East Coast. The operation is now being integrated as part of Ops Benteng, an operation to stem the importation of coronavirus into the country via illegal immigrants.

The Rheinmetall Defence Vingtaqs II optronic device without the radar antenna, Vingtaqs II  is  long range – surveillance, observation and reconnaissance system(photo : Rheinmetall Defence)

Besides Kota Tinggi in the southern region, the Army also deployed the Gempita ISTAR to Langkawi for similar operations against illegal immigrants from Myanmar.

Radar images of Gempita ISTAR (photo MMP)

Besides Gempita ISTAR, the authorities are now looking for any other illegal immigrants who might have managed to escape arrest and could be in hiding somewhere near the vicinity. For that, the Army is deploying its Schiebel S-100 Camcopter UAV operated by Defence Intelligence Staff Division (Bahagian Staf Perisikan Pertahanan or BSPP) to assist the troops on the ground.

(MFH)

S-100 Camcopter Operating Onboard of Myanmar Navy's Ships

27 Juli 2020

S-100 Camcopter of the Myanmar Navy (photo Myanmar and AMU)

This Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) UAS needs no prepared area or supporting launch or recovery equipment. It operates day and night, under adverse weather conditions, with a range out to 200 km, both on land and at sea. 

The S-100 navigates automatically via pre-programmed GPS waypoints or can be operated directly with a pilot control unit. Missions are planned and controlled via a simple point-and-click graphical user interface. High-definition payload imagery is transmitted to the control station in real time. 

Using "fly-by-wire" technology controlled by redundant flight computers, the UAV can complete its mission automatically in the most complex of electromagnetic environments. Its carbon fiber and titanium fuselage provides capacity for a wide range of payload / endurance combinations.

(Myanmar and AMU)

CH-47F Chinook Baru Milik Singapura

27 Juli 2020

CH-47F Chinook RSAF saat uji coba di fasilitas Boeing di Pennsylvania (photo : Vincent Games)

Gambar pertama dari helikopter CH-47F baru milik Angkatan Udara Republik Singapura (RSAF), dengan no seri 98160 (untuk dikonfirmasi) dan terdaftar dengan no N271GG (nomor konstruksi M2071) terlihat berada di Wilmington/New Castle (DE). Helikopter Chinook ini sedang dalam uji-terbang dari fasilitas produksi Boeing Chinook terdekat di Ridley Township (PA).

Dalam publikasi selama ini disebutkan bahwa RSAF telah memesan 8 helikopter CH-47F Chinook. Namun, menurut FAA Registry, 16 CH-47F telah terdaftar dalam kisaran ini yaitu N271GG hingga N286GG (c/n M2071 hingga M2086) dan mungkin semuanya adalah helikopter pesanan Singapura.

RSAF saat ini memiliki 16 helikopter CH-47SD Chinook dalam inventorinya. Chinook dioperasikan oleh Skuadron 127 di Sembawang (Singapura), dengan detasemen lima Chinook di Oakey (Queensland, Australia) untuk pelatihan.

(Scramble Magz)

Pindad Mulai Produksi Rantis Maung

27 Juli 2020

Prototipe kendaraan taktis (rantis) Maung 4x4 produksi PT Pindad di Bandung (all photos : Kompas)

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - PT Pindad (Persero) sudah mulai melakukan proses produksi kendaraan taktis (Rantis) Maung 4x4. Hal ini dilakukan guna memenuhi permintaan pemesanan dari Kementerian Pertahanan (Kemhan). 

Abraham Mose, Direktur Utama PT Pindad, mengatakan proses produksi Maung sudah dimulai sejak pekan ini, diharapkan sudah ada beberapa unit yang bisa dikejar dalam dua bulan. 

"Sudah dimulai ya, material yang dibelanjakan juga sudab mulai datang, tapi ini untuk yang militer dulu yang kemarin dipesan 500 unit. Diharapkan saat HUT TNI di Oktober nanti sudah ada 50-an unit yang bisa ikut," ujar Abraham kepada Kompas.com, Kamis (23/7/2020).

Abraham menjelaskan Menteri Pertahanan (Menhan) Prabowo Subianto, merencanakan Maung agar bisa ikut serta dalam parade defile perayaan HUT TNI pada 5 Oktober 2020 nanti.

Sementara untuk sisa jumlah unit Maung yang menggunakan mesin turbodiesel berkubikasi 2.400 cc lainnya, diklaim akan tetap dikerjakan. 

Menurut Abraham, meski bertahap, Pindad mengupayakan pemenuhannya bisa dikejar hingga akhir 2020.

"Jadi memang bertahap unitnya, tidak langsung 500 unit karena kan butuh proses. Setelah jadi nanti ada proses pengujian dan lain sebagainya lagi. Konsen kami tetap memunuhi untik militer lebih dulu," ucap Abraham. (Kompas)

Pindad Gandeng UMKM

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Guna mengejar pesanan 500 unit yang diminta Kementerian Pertahanan (Kemhna), PT Pindad (Persero) sudah mulai menjalankan proses produksi kendaraan taktis (rantis) Maung.

Menariknya, dalam proses penggarapan Maung, Pindad juga melibatkan sektor Usaha Mikro Kecil dan Menengah ( UMKM) yang ada di lingkungan sekitarnya. Kondisi ini dilakukan sebagai upaya meningkatkan penggunaan komponen lokal atau Tingkat Kandungan Komponen Dalam Negeri ( TKDN). 

"Karena Pindad merupakan industri hilir, jadi dalam proses produksi Maung serta kendaraan militer lainnya kami juga melibatkan ekosistem yang ada disekitar, karena kami juga memiliki kewajiban untuk membina industri UMKM yang ada di lingkungan kami," kata Vice President Inovasi PT Pindad Windhu Paramarta, kepada Kompas.com, Kamis (23/7/2020).

Lebih lanjut Windhu menjelaskan bila di area Pindad, ada banyak UMKM yang sudah sejak dulu ikut mendukung Pindad dalam hal produksi.

Kebanyakan bidang usahanya lebih ke bengkel besi, serta mengolah bahan baku menjadi komponen-komponen pendukung. 

Contohnya seperti pengerjaan braket yang dibutuhkan untuk lampu dan lainnya. Selain itu juga untuk komponen towing serta overfender yang semua rata-rata dikerjakan oleh UMKM.

"Dengan demikian, industri UMKM di sekitar Pindad bisa kami bisa dan menghidupkan sektor ekonomi mereka juga. Kami juga terbuka untuk industri yang memang sudah lama berkecimpung di dunia otomotif, initinya kami akan libatkan juga untuk mendukung Maung ini," ucap Windhu.

Sementara ketika ditanya soal kandungan lokal pada Maung sendiri, menurut Windhu secara garis besar sudah cukup tinggi. Apalagi memang bila melihat dari rata-rata materialnya dibuat sendiri layaknya custom. "Kalau kami tarik secara keseluruhan, di luar dari mesin dan transmisi ya, itu sudah mendekati 50 persenan. Tuntutan untuk industri itu kan sekitar 40 persen, tapi kami terus mengejar hingga bisa 50 persen," ujar Windhu.

"Memang ada misi tersendiri untuk Pindad dari Kemham dan BUMN yang mengharuskan Pindad sebagai industri yang leading di militer untuk menghidupkan kembali ekosistem industri yang ada disekitarnya, apalagi kondisinya juga sedang Covid-19 juga," kata dia.

(Kompas)