IAI Unveils Stealth-Busting Passive Radar

31 Oktober 2020

The new system covertly detects and tracks aerial targets, Exploits analog FM broadcasting and Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) for non-emitting aerial targets detection using non-cooperative transmissions and Immune to jamming (photo : IAI)

IAI Unveils New Passive Coherent Location System (PCL)

ELTA Systems, IAI's Group and subsidiary unveils its new Passive Coherent Location System (PCL). The system enables the creation of an air situation picture that tracks non-emitting targets using non-cooperative transmitters. It detects and tracks aerial threats based on target reflection from non-cooperative transmissions from FM or Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) towers. The reflections are received by one or a network of antennas, providing 3D real-time omnidirectional coverage for tracking of multiple targets in congested airborne traffic.

The PCL system is simple to deploy and can be located on remote borders, as well as in urban areas. Installation can include one sensor or a cluster of sensors for redundancy and improved coverage of specific problematic areas. The sites are connected to the central PCL command and control processing unit via a dedicated data link.

The new system is already deployable and provides real-time aerial mapping, of non-emitting threats.

VP and General Manager of IAI's ELTA Intelligence, Communications and EW division, Adi Dulberg, said, “We are proud to introduce the new PCL system developed by IAI/ELTA, that detects and classifies aerial risks without unveiling the locator. The PCL system creates air situation picture and can be deployed independently or as an additional layer for air control radars, as part of a multi-disciplinary air situation picture".

(IAI)

Tonga Receives Its Second Guardian-Class Patrol Boat

31 Oktober 2020

OEA Ngahau Silva (P302) (photo : Brian Wayne Scott)

The Morrison Government’s Pacific Maritime Security Program has reached a new milestone today as the Kingdom of Tonga received their second Australian-built Guardian-class Patrol Boat at a ceremony in Henderson, Western Australia.

This is the eighth Guardian-class vessel to be delivered under the Program.

The High Commissioner to Australia HRH Princess Angelika Lātūfuipeka Tuku’aho and His Majesty’s Armed Forces’ Lieutenant Colonel Tevita Siu Fifita accepted the VOEA Ngahau Siliva on behalf of Tonga.

Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC said the handover represented a focus on the enhanced maritime capability in the defence cooperation between our nations.

“Australia and Tonga have long worked together in pursuit of our shared goals for sovereignty, security and prosperity in the Pacific,” Minister Reynolds said.

“Tonga’s second Guardian-class Patrol Boat is a considerable step up in Tonga’s maritime capability, and I have no doubt the vessel will admirably serve Tonga and the Pacific region in meeting their maritime security goals.

“This Program, which is the successor to the Pacific Patrol Boat Program, demonstrates a 60 year commitment to the Pacific and to regional maritime security.

“We have already delivered seven Guardian Class Pacific Patrol Boats, with another five under construction at Henderson.

“This is just one component of this Government’s up to $183 billion Naval Shipbuilding Plan which will see more than 70 naval vessels built here in Australia, by Australian workers, with Australian steel.

“This investment is creating thousands of Australian jobs while building a globally competitive Australian shipbuilding enterprise.”

Assistant Defence Minister and Minister for International Development and the Pacific, the Hon Alex Hawke MP said the Guardian-class Patrol Boats were an important part of Australia’s collaboration with the Pacific in the COVID-19 environment.  

“Guardian-class Patrol Boats are playing a key role in supporting the Pacific response to complex COVID-19 related economic and security challenges,” Minister Hawke said.

“The VOEA Ngahau Siliva will protect Tonga’s maritime resources, and reduce the costs of illegal activities on both the economy and society.”

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said she was pleased to attend the ceremony and see how Australia’s defence industry and Austal Ships are playing a key role in the Pacific Maritime Security Program.

“Australia is proud to play a part in the next generation of Pacific maritime capability through the delivery of Australian-built vessels,” Minister Price said.

“Guardian-class Patrol Boats are another great success story for Australia’s growing

defence industry and support around 400 direct and indirect Australian jobs.”

The VOEA Ngahau Siliva is the second Guardian-class Patrol Boat for Tonga and the eighth for the Pacific.

(Aus DoD)

Kapal LMS Ketiga TLDM Mula Jalani Fasa Ujian Penerimaan

31 Oktober 2020

Kapal LMS ketiga dalam pengujian (all photos : TLDM)

KUALA LUMPUR – Kapal Misi Pesisir (LMS) ketiga Tentera Laut Diraja Malaysia (TLDM) telah selesai menjalani fasa pembinaan dan selamat diturunkan ke air di Limbungan Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Ltd (WSIG), Wuhan, China bagi menjalani Fasa Ujian Penerimaan di pelabuhan pada Rabu lepas.

Cawangan Komunikasi Strategik Markas TLDM dalam satu kenyataan berkata, upacara rasmi penamaan LMS ketiga ini telah ditangguhkan susulan penularan wabak pandemik COVID-19 di seluruh dunia.

“Upacara penamaan LMS ini akan dilaksanakan serentak dengan Upacara Penyerahan Fizikal Kapal yang dijadual dilaksanakan pada September 2021.

“LMS ketiga ini bakal menyertai Skuadron LMS Ke-11 bersama LMS Pertama iaitu KD KERIS dan LMS Kedua iaitu SUNDANG,” kata kenyataan itu.

Menurut TLDM, LMS ketiga ini bakal menjalani beberapa siri Ujian Penerimaan di pelabuhan dan seterusnya Ujian Penerimaan di laut sebelum diserahkan kepada TLDM pada penghujung September 2021.

“Bakal Warga Kapal (BWK) LMS ketiga dijangka akan diaturgerak ke China bagi menjalani latihan penyesuaian pada Mei 2021.

“Bagi SUNDANG pula, penyerahan LMS kedua TLDM ini yang dijadualkan pada 12 April 2020 telah turut terjejas susulan pandemik COVID-19 dan akan diserahkan kepada kerajaan apabila BWK SUNDANG selesai menjalani latihan penyesuaian yang tertangguh di China,” ujarnya.

Katanya, LMS keempat pula dijangka akan dilancarkan pada November 2020 ini.

“Perolehan kapal-kapal LMS ini dilaksanakan di bawah Kontrak Kementerian Pertahanan Malaysia dengan Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd (BNSSB) yang telah dimeterai pada 23 Mac 2017 dengan kerjasama pihak China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co Ltd (CSOC), China,

“LMS merupakan salah satu daripada 5 kelas kapal di dalam Program Transformasi Armada 15 to 5,“LMS berkemampuan melaksanakan tugas rondaan, pengawasan maritim, Search and Rescue (SAR) di samping menguatkuasakan undang-undang maritim Malaysia,” katanya.

(AirTimes)

Disuguhi Badak Baru, Wakil Menteri BUMN 1 Kunjungi Pindad

30 Oktober 2020

Badak baru dengan tambahan pelindung add on (photos : defence.pk, Pindad)

Wakil Menteri BUMN 1 Kunjungi Pindad Tinjau Perkembangan Industri Pertahanan Nasional

Wakil Menteri BUMN 1, Budi Gunadi Sadikin didampingi oleh Asisten Deputi Bidang Industri Pertahanan & Manufaktur, Liliek Mayasari beserta jajaran melaksanakan kunjungan kerja ke Kantor Pusat PT Pindad (Persero), Bandung pada Senin, 26 Oktober 2020. Direktur Utama PT Pindad (Persero), Abraham Mose beserta Jajaran Komisaris, Direksi dan pejabat eselon 1 menerima Wakil Menteri BUMN 1 beserta jajaran.

Abraham Mose merasa terhormat dengan kunjungan kerja Wakil Menteri BUMN 1 untuk melihat perkembangan PT Pindad (Persero) sebagai industri pertahanan nasional. Membuka seluruh rangkaian kegiatan kunjungan Wakil Menteri BUMN 1, Abraham Mose memberikan sambutan dan paparan mengenai profil dan produk PT Pindad (Persero) yaitu produk-produk pertahanan & keamanan meliputi Senjata Api, Munisi dan Kendaraan Khusus.

Salah satu produk unggulan PT Pindad (Persero) sekaligus kebanggaan Indonesia adalah produk senjata PT Pindad (Persero) yaitu SS2 V4 telah dipercaya TNI untuk dapat menjuarai kejuaran tembak internasional AARM dan AASAM. Berbagai produk munisi, baik munisi kaliber kecil (kal. 5,56mm hingga 12,7mm), kaliber besar, mortir dan pesawat mortir, berbagai granat tangan hingga bom. Kemudian Abraham memperkenalkan Kendaraan Tempur Anoa yang telah terjun dalam misi perdamaian PBB, Kendaraan tempur 4x4 Komodo, Medium Tank Harimau yang digadang-gadang akan menjadi kendaraan tempur andalan TNI hingga Kendaraan Taktis Ringan Maung. PT Pindad (Persero) juga memiliki kapasitas untuk memproduksi senapan mesin SM5 Kal. 12.7mm dan RCWS Kal. 30mm yang sudah digunakan oleh Bakamla untuk menjaga keamanan di Kepulauan Natuna. "Salah satu kabar terbaru yang membanggakan adalah produk SM5 digunakan oleh Bakamla untuk menjaga keamanan di Natuna," Jelas Abraham.

Tidak hanya produk pertahanan dan keamanan, Abraham juga memaparkan perkembangan produk industrial PT Pindad (Persero) seperti alat berat excavator, dan alat mesin pertanian yang dapat mendukung program Food Estate, tabung gas LPG, penambat rel kereta api hingga produk medis yaitu ventilator.

Wakil Menteri BUMN 1, Budi Gunadi Sadikin mengucapkan terima kasih atas sambutan yang diberikan oleh PT Pindad (Persero) sekaligus mengungkapkan kekaguman dan ketertarikan terhadap produk-produk Pindad. Dalam kunjungan tersebut, Budi Gunadi Sadikin berpesan ke Komisaris dan Direksi PT Pindad (Persero) untuk membangun industri terutama sebagai industri pertahanan nasional yang dapat mendukung pertahanan keamanan Indonesia. "Saya titip ke Pindad, ke Komisaris dan Direksi, untuk membangun industri pertahanan agar memenuhi Minimum Essential Force TNI kita. Saya juga berharap Pindad dapat mengembangkan ekosistem industri agar melibatkan industri-industri tanah air yang muaranya di industri pertahanan. Pindad sudah memiliki visi yang sangat baik, perlu untuk memperhatikan kinerja sebagai industri dengan menggunakan prinsip-prinsip perusahaan, pengelolaan anggaran dan disiplin keuangan secara tepat" Jelas Budi Gunadi Sadikin.

Kegiatan kemudian dilanjutkan dengan mengunjungi fasilitas produksi PT Pindad (Persero) yang diawali dengan melihat produk Industrial Pindad, yaitu Excavator, alat mesin pertanian, tabung gas hingga produk alat kesehatan Ventilator, Pindad VRM. Rombongan Wakil Menteri BUMN 1 kemudian mengunjungi fasilitas produksi kendaraan khusus lalu diakhiri dengan mencoba menembak menggunakan senjata Pindad.

(Pindad)

China's Second Aircraft Carrier will Be Operational by Year-End

30 Oktober 2020

The Shandong aircraft carrier is moored at a naval port in Sanya, south China's Hainan Province (photo : Global Times)

China's 2nd Aircraft Carrier Shandong Completes Testing, Training Mission, to be Combat-Ready by Year-End

China's first domestically made aircraft carrier, the Shandong, has completed regular testing and training missions at sea that focused on actual combat after serving in the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy for 10 months, China Central Television (CCTV) reported Tuesday.

The testing and training included aviation support, damage control and emergency response, CCTV reported, citing Senior Captain Lai Yijun, the ship's commander.

They focused on actual combat and have effectively tested the performance of the weapons on the ship, Lai said. The testing and training show that the carrier's core performance improved, according to Lai.

As the Shandong has just served for less than a year, it is still undergoing basic training to test the performance of its equipment and enhance research on the operations and training of the ship, Zhang Junshe, a senior research fellow at the PLA Naval Military Studies Research Institute, told the Global Times on Tuesday.

In the future, the ship will conduct more exercises on coordination with aircraft and ships, as well as coordination with other carrier strike group, according to Zhang.

The Shandong, the country's second aircraft carrier, was commissioned into the PLA Navy on December 17, 2019, in Sanya, South China's Hainan Province.

It set out for military exercises on September 1, and experts hoped it would be combat-ready by the end of 2020.

In May, CCTV reported that the ship was conducting testing and training missions at sea after local residents saw the warship leaving a shipyard.

Since the COVID-19 outbreak, the aircraft carrier neglected neither epidemic control nor testing and training, as professional training has been conducted for individual sailors, battle positions and departments, CCTV reported then.

The ship conducted its reported first mission on December 26, 2019 after commissioning the week before, during which it sailed through the Taiwan Straits. The Sanya-based warship will come and go in the region often as such transits will likely become routine, Chinese mainland experts predicted.

(Global Times)

ADF Detail Problems with NH90 Helicopter

30 Oktober 2020

Last year, the ADF grounded its entire fleet of 47 MRH-90 helicopters after one of the Taipans made a precautionary landing caused by a tail rotor vibration (photo : Seaman Christopher)

Defence Force's MRH-90 Taipan helicopter doors 'not wide enough' to allow guns to fire while troops are exiting

Defence has admitted the door on its multi-role Taipan helicopters is too narrow to allow its gun to fire while troops are descending from the aircraft.

During a Senate Estimates hearing, officials have confirmed a third round of work is being carried out on the MRH-90 Taipan fleet that was bought from Airbus for $3.8 billion.

Head of helicopter capability and sustainment for Defence, Shane Fairweather, told the committee the problems were due to the width of the door, not the gun mount design.

"The door isn't wide enough to enable the safe exit while firing is taking place," he said.

"The Taipan gun mount minimises the time at which that firing can take place because you can deploy it and stow it quickly."

The Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Rick Burr, said "tactical workarounds" were allowing the aircraft to complete its duties.

"There are some technical issues and safety issues that prevent that from occurring but there are tactical workarounds that are in place," General Burr said.

The inability of the European-designed Taipan to fire its gun while soldiers are rappelling means the Army must fly the helicopters in pairs to carry out certain missions.

Senate Estimates was also told the cargo hook on the Navy's MRH-90s had been an "ongoing problem", but a solution was expected soon.

See full article ABC

Russian Helicopters Launches Mi-8 Test Operation Program in Indonesia

30 Oktober 2020

Mi-8/171 type helicopter test operation program (photo : Russian Helicopters)

Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant (U-UAP) as part of Russian Helicopters holding company (State Corporation Rostec) launches Mi-8/171 type helicopter test operation program, which is aimed at the assessing of all the advantages of helicopters real operation in conjunction with all available corporate support tools and implemented aftersales services of Russian Helicopters holding company. The pilot project is being implemented in Indonesia, where two Mi-8AMT helicopters are already involved in firefighting operations.

Helicopters sent to the Republic of Indonesia with crew and technical staff of U-UAP were relocated to the island of Kalimantan almost immediately upon arrival to extinguish forest fires. In the future, the rotorcraft will be on operational duty on the islands of Sumatra and Kalimantan.

«A contract with PT. National Utility Helicopters (PT. NUH), a utility helicopter operator in Indonesia with 50 years of experience in providing services for Indonesian Government as well as private companies, has become the pilot project of this program. The main task under the contract is to carry out firefighting operations in the region, as well as provide consulting services regarding the formation of its own air fleet of Indonesian operators for annual firefighting operations” said Leonid Belykh, Managing Director of U-UAP.

In the process of temporary use of helicopters, the customer gets the opportunity to consult the company's specialists in 24/7 mode, access to a replacement fund and a fund of additional equipment.

It is worth noting, that one of the first Mi-171A2 helicopters manufactured by the enterprise, since 2018 has been participating in a test operation program at UTair-VU airline, where it successfully fulfills the tasks facing the operator and demonstrates high flight performances. The experience of the joint work of the manufacturer and the customer was reflected in the U-UAP helicopter test operation program for Indonesia.

Mi-8/171 helicopters for a long time have been involved in the disaster relief operations not only in Russia, but also abroad. They have proved themselves as one of the most effective tools in the firefighting, medicine delivery and casualty evacuation operations, as well as in passenger and cargo transportation to hard-to-reach areas.

(Russian Helicopters)

Pesawat CN235 TUDB Jalani Perawatan di PTDI

29 Oktober 2020

Pesawat CN235 TUDB tiba di Bandung (photo : Akang Aviation)

PTDI Dapat Kepercayaan Angkatan Udara Brunei untuk Rawat Pesawat CN235-110

PRFMNEWS - Pesawat CN235-110 yang dibeli Angkatan Udara Kerajaan Brunei (The Royal Brunei Air Force/RBAF) tahun 1997 tiba di Apron Hanggar Delivery Center PTDI hari ini, Rabu 28 Oktober 2020.

Pesawat CN235-110 didaratkan ke Hanggar PTDI oleh Air Crew The Royal Brunei Air Force/RBAF dari Bandara Internasional Brunei.

Pesawat CN235-110 milik Angkatan Udara Brunei mendarat di Hanggar PTDI untuk menjalani swing compass, replacement cable assy of control quadrant, maintenance, installation of Auto Pilot Computer, Repainting (Anti Erosion dan Anti Lighting) Nose Radome dan recurrent Pilot training.

Test Pilot PTDI Capt. Esther Gayatri Saleh mengatakan, kondisi Pesawat CN235-110 dalam kondisi baik. Saat dia coba tidak ada kerusakan atau malfunction.

“Nggak ada yang malfunction, ini hidupkan dari storage”, kata Capt. Esther Gayatri Saleh dalam keterangan tertulis PTDI yang diterima prfmnews.id hari ini.

Kedatangan CN235 TUDB beserta crew (photo : PTDI)

Pesawat CN235-110 yang dibeli Angkatan Udara Kerajaan Brunei (The Royal Brunei Air Force/RBAF) tahun 1997 sudah cukup lama tidak diterbangkan. Pesawat ini diterbangkan terakhir kali tahun 2017, kemudian disimpan dan dirawat oleh Angkatan Udara Kerajaan Brunei. Pesawat CN235-110 grounded cukup lama karena adanya permasalahan perbaikan propeller yang ditangani oleh pihak lain.

PTDI memberikan pelayanan maintenance yang merupakan bagian dari program Aircraft Services PTDI kepada Angkatan Udara Kerajaan Brunei agar pesawat ini mendapatkan kepastian dalam kondisi layak terbang, dengan kehadiran PTDI untuk menginspeksi dan memperbaikinya.

“This is our services to our customer supaya mereka bisa terbang lagi. Mereka bagus maintain kebersihan, angkat jempol, pesawat ini sudah 23 tahun dibeli tahun 1997 tapi kondisinya masih baik,” jelas Esther.

(Pikiran Rakyat)

Northrop Grumman Initiates Build of First Australian Triton

29 Oktober 2020

Northrop Grumman initiates build of Australia’s first MQ-4C Triton aircraft (photo : Northrop Grumman)

MOSS POINT, Miss. – Northrop Grumman has initiated the build process for Australia’s first MQ-4C Triton, a game-changing unmanned maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft.  In a ceremony broadcast to a virtual audience, speakers from the Australian Government, Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), U.S. Congress, U.S. Navy and Northrop Grumman emphasized the significance of this event.

“The MQ-4C Triton will be a very important ISR capability for Australia,” said Air Commodore Terry van Haren, the RAAF’s air attaché to the Australian embassy. “It is ideally suited for Australian operating conditions, given its high altitude, long endurance, and impressive sensor suite. The Royal Australian Air Force looks forward to operating the MQ-4C alongside its other ISR and response aircraft such as the P8A Poseidon.”

Capt. Dan Mackin, the U.S. Navy’s Triton program director, applauded the continued progress of the program, stating, “With much of our team working remotely, geographically dispersed, and across many time zones, I am so impressed with the continued productivity I have seen and the great work being done. Our partnership near and far remains strong as we prepare to deliver the first Triton aircraft to Australia in 2023.”

“As a strategic partner in the cooperative development program, Australia is a critical part of Triton’s development and production,” said Doug Shaffer, vice president, Triton programs, Northrop Grumman. “This game-changing system will boost Australia’s ISR capability and enable them to meet their surveillance needs to manage the world’s third largest exclusive economic zone.”

The MQ-4C is a cooperative development program between the Royal Australian Air Force and the U.S. Navy, and provides a round-the-clock maritime wide-area ISR. Operating at altitudes exceeding 50,000 feet, Triton can cover more than one million square miles, or two and a half million square kilometers, of ocean and littorals in a single flight, bringing unprecedented awareness to commanders’ common operating pictures.

Northrop Grumman solves the toughest problems in space, aeronautics, defense and cyberspace to meet the ever evolving needs of our customers worldwide. Our 90,000 employees define possible every day using science, technology and engineering to create and deliver advanced systems, products and services.

(Northrop Grumman)

The First Image of the Aircraft Yak-130 Vietnam

29 Oktober 2020

Vietnam Air Force's Yak-130 combat-training aircraft on the assembly line at the Irkutsk factory (photo : BaoDatViet)

The first picture of the body frame of a training aircraft - advanced combat Yak-130 assembled by Russia for the Vietnam Air Force has been posted.

Russian newspaper Vedomosti dated January 29, 2020, citing sources in the defense industry, said that Vietnam had signed a contract to buy 12 Yak-130 training and combat aircraft by the Irkutsk aviation complex. manufacturing.

According to the disclosure, the contract was signed at the end of 2019, but it is unclear when it is handed over to the Vietnamese side. If the above information is authentic, we will become the 6th country to buy Yak-130 from Russia. This advanced training aircraft was previously sold to Algeria, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Laos and Belarus.

The Russian State Arms Export and Import Corporation Rosoboronexport and the Federal Defense Cooperation Agency have not yet commented on information about Vietnam ordering Yak-130.

However, recently in a report published on Russian TV channel 1 on the occasion of the visit of the Russian Defense Minister - General Sergei Shoigu to the Irkutsk complex, remarkable details appeared, which is a photo of the plane training - fighting Vietnam's first Yak-130.

Based on the picture, the body frame of the Yak-130 at the Irkutsk aviation factory was painted with the Vietnamese flag, the plane bearing the factory number 130.12.05-103. In which, according to the explanation, 05 is the customer code, 103 is the 3rd in the production lot, the number 12 can be understood as the total number of aircraft to be produced for the partner.

Thus, this is the third Yak-130 aircraft in Vietnam, the two previous aircraft most likely have completed the chassis and are being fitted with wings as well as electronic equipment to conduct test flights at the previous factory. when officially handed over.

The purchase of advanced Yak-130 training aircraft is seen as the first step for the Vietnam Air Force to step up to order high-performance fighters such as the Su-30SM also from Irkutsk, or Su-35S and Su-57 by KnAAPO.

(BaoDatViet)

N219 Nurtanio Jalani Uji Tabrak Burung

29 Oktober 2020

Uji tabrak burung pesawat N219 Nurtanio (photo : Lapan)

Bertempat di Lab. Uji Aerostruktur Pusat Teknologi Penerbangan (Pustekbang) LAPAN, Bogor hari ini Ahad (25/10) Tim dari LAPAN, PT. Dirgantara Indonesia dengan pengawasan Direktorat Kelaikudaraan dan Pengoperasian Pesawat Udara (DKPPU) Kementerian Perhubungan melakukan uji tabrak burung ke kaca kokpit N219 Nurtanio.

Sasaran ditabrakkan dengan kecepatan 115 Knots. Pengujian dipimpin Koordinator Bidang Program dan Fasilitas Pustekbang, Ir. Agus Aribowo, M.Eng. Indonesia semakin maju dalam kemandirian teknologi penerbangan.

(Lapan)

Royal Thai Army Orders Third Hensoldt TRML-3D Radar

28 Oktober 2020

Royal Thai Army will be equipped with a third HENSOLDT TRML-3D by 2022 (photo : Hensoldt)

HENSOLDT delivers TRML-3D to Royal Thai Army

Ulm, Germany – The sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT will equip the Royal Thai Army with its TRML-3D. This is the third TRML-3D ordered by the Royal Thai Army. The radar will be delivered in 2022.

“Our TRML-3D is an extremely reliable radar, developed especially to be rapidly deployable and highly mobile for fast camp and decampment”, said Guillaume Bayol, Sales Director Asia Pacific. “The decision by the Royal Thai Army to select TRML-3D for the third time clearly demonstrates the confidence that they have in HENSOLDT radar solutions”.

The mobile systems TRML-3D is used in surveillance and air defence missions supporting short-range air defence weapon systems. It is a fully coherent multi-mode phased array surveillance and target acquisition radar system designed for detection and air defence.

The 3D radar is capable of detecting, tracking, and classifying various types of targets with a particular emphasis on small, fast and low-flying aircraft, missiles and hovering helicopters. TRML-3D has been in service since 2004 and is in operational use with different armed forces worldwide.

(Hensoldt)

Usai Propelan untuk Munisi, Dahana Kembangkan Propelan untuk Pendorong Roket

28 Oktober 2020

Pembangunan industri propelan dibagi dalam dua fase yaitu fase 1 propelan munisi kemudian dilanjutkan fase 2 propelan roket (photo : iNews)

BUMN Produsen Bom Ini Kembangkan Propelan untuk Pendorong Roket

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - PT Dahana (Persero) terus mengupayakan penyelesaikan proyek pembangunan pabrik propelan. Bahan kimia ini sangat diperlukan untuk menunjang industri pertahanan. 

Propelan adalah bahan pendorong peluru atau roket, yang menjadi komponen utama munisi bagi kebutuhan Munisi Kaliber Kecil (MKK) dan Munisi Kaliber Besar (MKB), maupun bahan bakar roket. 

Kebutuhannya di dalam negeri selama ini diimpor dari luar negeri, sehingga membebani devisa negara dan rawan embargo. Untuk itu pembangunan Industri propelan menjadi salah satu program prioritas guna mewujudkan kemandirian industri pertahanan. 

Direktur Utama PT Dahana (Persero) Budi Antono mengatakan, selama ini Kemhan RI telah sangat mendorong kemajuan industri pertahanan dalam negeri.

Di masa mendatang diharapkan dukungan ini dapat terus dilanjutkan karena industri propelan diharapkan dapat terus dikerjakan oleh industri pertahanan dalam negeri. 

“Kami mengucapkan terima kasih kepada Kementerian Pertahanan yang telah memberikan kesempatan kepada Dahana untuk turut serta mewujudkan kemandirian industri pertahanan,” ujar Budi Antono dalam keterangan tertulis, Sabtu (24/10/2020). 

Sementara itu Sekjen Kemhan Donny Ermawan Taufanto, menekankan bahwa kemandirian industri pertahanan merupakan hal yang sangat penting dalam mewujudkan sistem pertahanan negara yang kuat, maju dan mandiri. 

Kata dia, industri yang kuat diharapkan mampu memberikan multiplier effect baik terhadap pembangunan ekonomi maupun penguasaan teknologi bagi bangsa Indonesia.

Kemandirian industri pertahanan juga diharapkan dapat mewujudkan pergeseran pemahaman dari belanja pertahanan menjadi investasi pertahanan seperti arahan Presiden RI pada HUT TNI yang ditujukan kepada Kemhan dan industri pertahanan. 

Ia melanjutkan, Dahana merupakan salah satu industri strategis Indonesia, khususnya dalam memproduksi propelan dalam menunjang kemandirian industri pertahanan. 

“Peningkatan kemampuan industri pertahanan nasional sangatlah diperlukan guna memenuhi dan mendukung kebutuhan serta menunjang kemandirian alat utama sistem pertahanan (alutsista) TNI," kata dia. 

"Semakin pesat kemajuan di bidang ilmu pengetahuan dan teknologi berpengaruh langsung terhadap peningkatan kemampuan Industri pertahanan yang dibutuhkan untuk kepentingan pertahanan dan keamanan," tambah dia.

Sebagai informasi, pembangunan industri propelan dibagi dalam dua fase yaitu fase 1 propelan munisi dan fase 2 propelan roket. Untuk fase 1 telah diinisiasi oleh KemHan dengan membangun Pabrik Nitrogliserin, Pabrik Acid Plant serta fasilitas pendukung Industri Propelan seperti Gardu Trafo Listrik, Water Treatment Plant, Laboratorium dan Fasilitas Uji Balistik. 

Dukungan Pemerintah diperlukan untuk melanjutkan kemandirian industri propelan dengan membangun Pabrik Spherical Powder sehingga Indonesia dapat mandiri serta menimbulkan efek penggetar di Kawasan regional. 

Langkah-langkah yang telah dilakukan oleh Dahana terkait propelan ini diantaranya penandatanganan head of agreement dengan PT Pindad untuk offtake propelan dan fasilitas pendukung di Dahana yang telah dibangun oleh Kemhan RI. 

Selain itu, hal ini juga didukung oleh posisi geografis Dahana yang memiliki lahan luas, dekat dengan akses tol, bandara Kertajati, Pelabuhan Patimban serta sumber bahan baku pendukung.

(Kompas)

Northrop Grumman and Airbus Sign Teaming Agreement in Australia for Triton Support

28 Oktober 2020

MQ-4C Triton HALE UAV (photo : Northrop Grumman)

CANBERRA, Australia – Northrop Grumman Australia (NYSE: NOC) and Airbus Australia Pacific have entered into a strategic teaming agreement to cooperate in the delivery of advanced and optimised aircraft sustainment capabilities at Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Edinburgh in South Australia.

“With the imminent arrival of ground-based infrastructure for the MQ-4C Triton unmanned system, we are already working on expanding our presence at Edinburgh,” said Chris Deeble, chief executive, Northrop Grumman Australia. “This agreement underscores Northrop Grumman’s commitment to Australian investment across advanced capabilities, skills and jobs in support of the country’s strategic defence programs.”

Northrop Grumman and Airbus will collaborate in the sustainment and maintenance of new capabilities that will call RAAF Base Edinburgh home. The companies also bring an array of proven Australian industry partners to this arrangement that will augment those capabilities and expand access to specialty competencies.

“Both Airbus and Northrop Grumman have a long and proven heritage in platform stewardship” said Andrew Mathewson, managing director, Airbus Australia Pacific. “Together, this expanded team has the capacity, capability and credentials needed to deliver reliable and effective sustainment solutions to the RAAF at Edinburgh.”

Northrop Grumman solves the toughest problems in space, aeronautics, defence and cyberspace to meet the ever evolving needs of our customers worldwide. Our 90,000 employees define possible every day using science, technology and engineering to create and deliver advanced systems, products and services.

(Northrop Grumman)

Kopaska Uji Fungsi Amunisi 5,56mm Senjata Bawah Air

28 Oktober 2020

Uji fungsi amunisi 5,56mm untuk senapan bawah air Ukrop UX-15 buatan Ukraina (photo : TNI AL)

Komandan Puskopaska Menyaksikan Uji Fungsi Amunisi 5,56mm Senjata Bawah Air

Komandan Puskopaska Laksma TNI Yudhi Bramantyo N.S menyaksikan uji fungsi penembakan amunisi 5,56mm dan senjata bawah air jenis Ukrop UX-15 buatan Ukraina di Kolam renang Satkopaska Koarmada II Ujung Surabaya, Selasa (27/10/2020).

Uji coba ini dimaksudkan untuk mengetahui kemampuan amunisi 5,56mm senjata bawah air guna meningkatkan kekuatan tempur serta meningkatkan kemampuan perorangan dalam melaksanakan peperangan laut khusus.

Sesuai hasil dari uji coba, kemampuan amunisi 5,56mm dari senjata Ukrop UX-15 buatan Ukraina sangat mendukung pergerakan prajurit dalam memasuki daerah musuh dengan mengunakan teknik bawah permukaan atau bawah air guna menghadapi peperangan laut khusus.

“Pasukan katak sebagai pasukan khusus TNI Angkatan Laut dalam melaksanakan tugas-tugas khusus, salah satu teknik yang digunakan adalah infiltrasi untuk masuk ke wilayah musuh atau yang dikuasai musuh melalui bawah permukaan dengan selam tempur malam hari. Hal ini merupakan kemampuan yang harus dikuasai oleh prajurit Kopaska. Diharapkan dengan adanya amunisi 5,56mm senjata bawah air ini dapat semakin meningkatkan kekuatan sehingga siap menjawab tantangan tugas dimasa yang akan datang” Ujar Laksamana Bramantyo.

Senjata Ukrop UX-15 buatan Ukraina mampu digunakan baik diatas air/permukaan dengan menggunakan amonisi jenis cal. 5,56 mm x 45 mm / 5 TJ, sedangkan dibawah permukaan menggunakan amonisi type SPA dan SPA-NB Cal 5,56 mm x 45 mm, yang membedakan amunisi bawah air dengan amonisi permukaan/atas air adalah bahwa amunisi bawah air bentuk proyektilnya lebih panjang, ujungnya tajam dan lebih berat sedangkan amonisi permukaan/atas air proyektil lebih pendek seperti amunisi cal 5,56 mm atas air lainnya. Adapun rangkaian uji fungsi diawali penyelaman dan dilakukan penembakan bawah air pada jarak 10 meter, 15 meter dan 20 meter.

Turut hadir dalam uji fungsi penembakan senjata dan amunisi bawah air tersebut, Kadisenlekal Laksma TNI Indarto Pantja, Kalabinsen Kolonel Laut (E) Cholik Kurniawan ST, Paban III / Alpal Slog Mabes TNI Kolonel Tek V. Andi PS, Wadandenjaka Letkol Mar Rino Rianto, Wadan Satkopaska Koarmada II Letkol Laut (P) M. Macri Makoagow.

(TNI AL)

Visible Differences of Two Batch Gepard of Vietnamese Navy

27 Oktober 2020

Gepard batch two (front) and batch one (behind) of Vietnamese Navy (photo : QDND)

Recently published photo of the 162nd Brigade at sea from the online newspaper of the Vietnam People's Navy that demonstrates the visible differences between the first pair of Vietnamese Project 1166.1E "Gepard 3.9' frigates from the second batch.

The frigate Quang Trung (016) features 533mm torpedo tubes mounted on the sides for ASW purposes. This is a feature not included in the Đinh Tiên Hoàng (011) in the background...and makes the first two "frigates" realistically just large missile-equipped OPVs.

Although the Gepard-class design lacks an enclosed hangar this was rectified in Đinh Tiên Hoàng along with her sister frigate Lý Thái Tổ (012). Hangar extensions were added to their half exposed helicopter space but there still seems to be some mechanical issues with the door closing all the way. Quang Trung and Trần Hưng Đạo (015) still have half-exposed hangars - it's unknown whether or not they will receive the same upgrade as the first 2 frigates.

All retain the same air defense layout in the form of 2 AK-630 CIWS and a single Palma mixed gun-missile CIWS system.

(VietDefense)

TNI AU Siapkan Lahan Pengembangan Detasemen Wamena Menjadi Lanud Tipe C

27 Oktober 2020

Lokasi lahan untuk menjadi Lanud Tipe C (photos : TNI AU)

Pangkoopsau III Tinjau Langsung Lokasi Lahan Pengembangan Detasemen TNI AU Wamena Menjadi Lanud Tipe C

TNI AU. Penkoopsau III, Biak - Panglima Koopsau III Marsda TNI Ir. Novyan Samyoga, M.M., meninjau langsung Detasemen TNI AU Wamena dalam rangka mengecek kesiapan lahan yang akan digunakan sebagai lokasi pembangunan guna pengembangan dan peningkatan status Detasemen TNI AU Wamena menjadi Lanud Tipe C di Wamena Kabupaten Jayawijaya.

Kedatangan Pangkoopsau III dengan mengunakan pesawat khusus CN-235MPA dengan nomor registrasi pesawat  A-2318 yang diterbangkan langsung oleh Komandan Skadron Udara 27 Mayor Pnb  Yoga Wiwit R, S.T. disambut hangat oleh Komandan Detasemen TNI AU Wamena Letkol Pnb Kholik serta pejabat Forkompimda dan Tokoh Adat Wamena.  Terlihat para pejabat yang hadir Wakil Bupati Jayawijaya Marthin Yogobi, S.H., M.Hum., Wakil Ketua 1 DPRD Nikko Kossay, Kepala BPKAD Heron Hubi, Kepala UPBU Kelas I Wamena Faisal Marasabessy, Kepala BKKBN Heri Mabel, Kepala BPN Yuli Randa, Ketua 1 LMA Herman Doga, Kepala RSUD Wamena dr. Felly Sahureka, Kapolres Jayawijaya AKBP Dominggus Rumaropen serta pejabat Wamena setempat.

Dalam diskusi singkat di ruang pertemuan Detasemen Wamena, Pangkoopsau III menjelaskan bahwa keberadaan bandara Wamena merupakan objek yang sangat vital dan strategis baik dari segi pertahanan negara maupun pembangunan wilayah khususnya Kabupaten Jayawijaya, dimana sarana transportasi yang paling cepat dan efektif adalah jalur udara.   Misalnya, jika terjadi bencana alam atau kerusuhan, maka keberadaan bandara Wamena akan sangat vital dalam membantu proses penanganan bencana maupun bantuan evakuasi korban dan logistik, tuturnya.

Sementara itu Wakil Bupati Jayawijaya menyambut baik gagasan pengembangan Detasemen TNI AU Wamena menjadi Lanud Tipe C di bawah jajaran Koopsau III, dan Pemerintah Daerah dengan masyarakat adat sangat mendukung, terutama dalam mencari solusi untuk pengadaan lahan yang akan digunakan sebagai fasilitas penerbangan dan perkantoran, sehingga diharapkan tahun 2021 mendatang sudah tersedia lahan bagi pembangunan Lanud Wamena yang kita harapkan bersama.

(TNI AU)

Ghana to Procure Armored Vehicles Based on Terrex 2

27 Oktober 2020

Elbit will supply nine 8×8 Infantry Fighting Vehicles and ten 6×6 IFVs (photo : Elbit Systems)

Ghana to procure armored vehicles from Elbit 

Sources in Ghana reported that Ghana’s parliament approved $86.1 million in government loans to fund acquisition of 19 armored vehicles from Israel’s Elbit Land Systems. The company will supply nine 8×8 Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) equipped with Elbit Systems UT30 30 mm remotely operated turrets. The order includes ten 6×6 IFVs fitted for reconnaissance operations.

According to South Africa's defenceWeb news site, there is an agreement in place between the Israeli Discount Bank and the Government of Ghana, with the deal insured by the Israeli Foreign Trade Risks Insurance Corporation. A $74 million credit facility will be combined with a $12 million commercial loan. Although the loan has been approved, the deal is currently officially in the negotiation stage and requires parliamentary approval.

There is no information about the type of vehicles to be acquired, but Elbit Systems offers various models sourced from original equipment manufacturers, such as the Sentinel 8×8, based on the STK Terrex 2 designed by ST Kinetics of Singapore.

Ghanaian MPs said that the purpose of purchasing these vehicles is to help the army deal with potential terrorism, human smuggling and other security threats along the northern border with Burkina Faso. The acquisition will help Ghana’s military realize long-delayed establishment of two new armored regiments to be based in Sunyani and Tamale.

The Army Recognition website said that Ghana's armed forces are currently equipped with three EE-9 Cascavels, 24 Ratel-90s with 90mm cannon, 15 Ratel-20s with 20mm cannon, four Piranhas with 25mm cannon, five Type-05Ps with 25mm cannon, and 46 first-version Piranha 8x8 armored vehicles.

(Israel Defence)

Uji Dinamis Stand Ejection Seat Pesawat Su-27/30

27 Oktober 2020

Pelaksanaan Uji Dinamis Stand Ejection Seat Pesawat Su-27/30 (all photos : TNI AU)

TNI AU.  Pelaksanaan Uji Dinamis Stand Ejection Seat Pesawat Su-27/30 di Skadron Teknik 044 Lanud Sultan Hasanuddin yang di laksanakan sejak Tanggal 20 s/d 23 Oktober 2020.  Kegiatan tersebut diikuti oleh Tim Uji dari Dislitbangau yakni Kolonel Kal Suhendro, Kolonel Tek Musa A Ganar, Letkol Tek Endri, Letkol Tek Wayan Jati, Letkol Tek Siringoringo, Letkol Tek Rahmat H, dan Pns Hikmat B. Jumat (23/2020).

Dalam kegiatan ini turut hadir Tim Pengamat dan Penilai dari Mabesau dan Skatek 044 antara lain Mayor Tek Bambang (Srenaau), Letkol Tek Mengky (Disaeroau), Puslaiklambangjaau (Kalambangja Lanud Sultan Hasanuddin Mayor Pnb Devi Oktaviandra), Letkol Tek Muh. Jasril Iman Jamil (Danskatek 044), Mayor Tek M. Ridwan Pramudya, S.E. (Kasihar Skatek 044) serta Lettu Tek Heru Hartanto, S.Sos (Inspektor Egrees System Skatek 044).

Kegiatan Uji Dinamis Stand Ejection Seat tersebut bertujuan untuk menguji kemampuan, kehandalan dan kenyamanan Stand Ejection Seat buatan Dislitbangau dengan metode dan tolak ukur sesuai dengan spesifikasi standar teknis Syarat-Syarat Type (SST) yang telah ditetapkan.

Diharapkan melalui Uji Dinamis Stand Ejection Seat Pesawat Su-27/30 dapat mendukung keperluan pembinaan dan pengembangan alutsista TNI AU maupun pendukungnya serta pengkajian dan penerapan ilmu pengetahuan dan teknologi secara terus menerus untuk kepentingan pengembangan TNI AU.

(TNI AU)

Biofouling Measures Approved for Naval Vessels

26 Oktober 2020

New Zealand became the first country in the world to introduce nationwide rules to combat the biosecurity risk from biofouling (photo : NZDF)

New measures to prevent biofouling will reduce the risk of Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) vessels introducing marine pests and diseases to New Zealand without creating any undue restrictions on naval operations. 

Biosecurity New Zealand and the RNZN have signed off on a new craft risk management plan. 

Biosecurity New Zealand and the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) have worked together for 18 months to find a practical solution that both manages biosecurity risks and allows RNZN to freely undertake its duties overseas, says Peter Thomson, Biosecurity New Zealand’s Director Animal and Plant Health.

“Vessel biofouling is recognised as a significant pathway for the spread of marine pests and diseases around the world.

“The plan recognises RNZN’s unique challenges in meeting New Zealand’s strict biofouling requirements for international vessels that wish to stay in local waters for more than 21 days or visit unapproved ports.”

RNZN Chief Naval Engineer Captain Richard Walker welcomes the new craft risk management plan.

“With New Zealand being a maritime nation and as a key player in our marine industry, we want to set a good example. This new plan allows us to do that. 

“We are pleased to be at the forefront of protecting New Zealand from unwelcome marine pests and diseases. NZDF’s Environmental Services team and Biosecurity New Zealand have done a great job to reach a practical solution that satisfies the requirements of both organisations.

“NZDF is demonstrating leadership within the shipping industry by applying a best-practice biofouling management approach to RNZN vessels that ensures their operations do not pose a biosecurity risk to the environment,” says Captain Walker.

The plan requires NZDF to meet the same standard of cleanliness as other vessels of the same size. However, it allows different approaches to meet that standard.

This plan also avoids the need for RNZN vessels to go into drydock. This is often impossible or impractical, given the size of the ships and their unique operating profile. For example, the vessels normally only spend short periods of time outside New Zealand territorial waters.

Biosecurity New Zealand has reviewed and documented the approach, which meets international guidelines under the International Maritime Organisation and New Zealand’s biosecurity requirements.

With the introduction of the Craft Risk Management Risk Standard for Biofouling in May 2018, New Zealand became the first country in the world to introduce nationwide rules to combat the biosecurity risk from biofouling.

(NZDF)

Australia and Singapore Enhance Joint Interoperability

26 Oktober 2020

Republic of Singapore Airforce CH-47 Chinook Helicopter landing on-board HMAS Adelaide during Exercise Sea Wader 2020 (all photos : Aus DoD)

The Royal Australian Navy and Republic of Singapore Air Force have proven their ability to work together with Singaporean CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift helicopter crews qualifying to take off and land on Australia’s largest vessels, HMA Ships Adelaide and Canberra.

Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC said qualifying Republic of Singapore Air Force personnel, to operate their CH-47 aircraft with the Australian Navy, was a force-multiplier for both nations.

“Last week I conducted my second official visit to Singapore, and met with my counterpart Minister for Defence, Dr Ng Eng Hen. During the visit, we jointly marked 30 years of the Singapore Armed Forces training in Australia,” Minister Reynolds said.

“The 30th Anniversary of Singapore training in Australia is a significant milestone in our bilateral defence relationship, and this activity is a clear demonstration of the closeness of our friendship and our growing interoperability.”   

The Singaporean CH-47 crews, permanently based at Oakey in Queensland, spent two days flying from Townsville to HMAS Adelaide at sea to undertake Deck Landing Qualifications.

This included communicating with the warship’s flight control room and being guided by Australian sailors on the flight deck.

“The ability to operate our largest amphibious vessels with Singapore’s CH-47 Chinook helicopters means we can work together to mobilise and move personnel or supplies at sea, and enhance our combined joint capability,” Minister Reynolds said.

“Singapore maintains an ongoing number of CH-47s at Oakey. These are the same aircraft that came to Australia’s aid during the 2020 bushfire emergency, underscoring the utility of being able to operate with Singapore in a crisis. We will always be grateful for Singapore’s assistance during our time of need.”

At around 30 metres long, the CH-47 Chinook is a tandem rotor helicopter and is designed to provide tactical transport capabilities for vehicles, heavy equipment and dozens of troops.

HMAS Adelaide is a 230-metre long Landing Helicopter Dock based in Sydney.

(Aus DoD)

Otokar Tawarkan Kaya II untuk Pengganti Condor

26 Oktober 2020

Otokar Kaya II (all photos : milisavunma)

Kontingen penjaga perdamaian Malaysia di Lebanon yang terlibat dalam United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), yang dikenal sebagai MALBATT 850 diperkirakan akan menerima Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) 4×4 baru pada tahun 2021 untuk menggantikan Radpanzer Condor yang sudah tua.

Sebanyak 42 Condor dikerahkan ke Lebanon dalam dua gelombang sejak 2006 ketika kontingen penjaga perdamaian pertama, MALCON 1 dikerahkan.

Satu Condor hancur dalam kecelakaan pada tahun 2008 menewaskan pengemudi, Kpl Jun Anak Sang dari MALCON 2. Pada tahun 2013, pengemudi Recovery Vehicle, Sjn Rosdi Mohamad Zan tewas ketika truk Volvo menarik Condor yang rusak, terguling di sebuah jurang.

Angkatan Bersenjata Malaysia (MAF) pada awalnya meminta APC 6×6 untuk menggantikan Condor dimana PINDAD Rimau buatan Indonesia disebut-sebut sebagai salah satu kandidat yang disukai.

Hal ini kemudian ditunda sampai saat ini ketika tender dikeluarkan untuk 20 APC 4×4 baru. Spesifikasi tender tersebut akan mencakup senapan mesin 7,62 mm, Remote Control Weapon System (RCWS), dan kapasitas untuk menampung setidaknya 8 personel bersenjata lengkap.

Meski tidak dipublikasikan, kendaraan lapis baja yang dikerahkan juga dilengkapi dengan rangkaian Electronic Warfare (EW) untuk mengganggu dan mengalahkan bom yang dipasang di jalan atau Improvised Explosive Devices (IED). Dipercaya bahwa praktik semacam itu telah diterapkan sejak MAF terlibat dalam misi penjaga perdamaian di Afghanistan dengan EW suite (atau jammer) buatan Turki dipasang di kendaraan.

Sejak 2016, MALBATT 850 telah menerima 9 IAG Guardian Plus 4×4 Mine Resistance Armored Protected (MRAP) kendaraan untuk mengisi celah yang ditinggalkan oleh Denel RG-31 Nyala 4×4 MRAP pinjaman PBB yang sebelumnya digunakan oleh kontingen sebagai pengawal Condor.

IAG Guardian diperoleh berdasarkan pengaturan offset yang dibuat dengan Thales berkenaan pengadaan rudal permukaan ke udara Starstreak. Sementara mereka bertugas dengan istimewa di sepanjang perbatasan Lebanon-Israel serta platform Batalyon Mobile Reserve (BMR). Kendaraan buatan UEA ini berada di bawah sorotan Auditor Jenderal karena ditemukan bahwa mereka tidak dilengkapi dengan RCWS meskipun sistem tersebut telah ditentukan oleh PBB.

Agar adil, negara-negara kontributor lain di UNIFIL sebagian besar mengoperasikan APC mereka masing-masing tanpa RCWS juga karena fakta bahwa penduduk lokal sangat sensitif dan tersinggung karena memiliki pasukan penjaga perdamaian dalam populasinya di atas kendaraan lapis baja militer yang dilengkapi dengan sensor yang dilengkapi RCWS.

Penjaga perdamaian Malaysia memang memiliki beberapa kontak dengan pendukung Hizbullah beberapa tahun yang lalu maka keputusan untuk tidak melengkapi Guardian dengan RCWS adalah murni alasan keselamatan operasional.

Meski demikian, program APC baru ini menarik banyak pemasok, salah satunya Otokar Turki yang menawarkan kendaraan Kaya II 4×4 MRAP.

Yang menjadikan Kaya II kandidat kuat dalam tender kali ini adalah menggunakan sasis truk medium Mercedes Unimog yang mirip dengan kendaraan Condor Malaysia.

Artinya, jika dipilih, Kaya II akan dapat memanfaatkan rantai pasokan yang ada dan dukungan pemeliharaan dari armada Condor karena kesamaan sasis.

Sasis Unimog dapat diandalkan karena truk tersebut juga dalam dipakai aktif oleh Royal Malaysian Police (RMP).

Pelatihan kepada awak terutama untuk pengemudi menjadi mirip begitu juga dengan peralatan servis dan suku cadangnya. Mempertimbangkan bahwa mengangkut Condor kembali ke Malaysia tidak akan layak secara finansial dan bijaksana untuk dilakukan, mungkin ini dapat dipreteli dari komponen yang berguna dan dijadikan sebagai stok komponen untuk armada Kaya II.

Tentara Malaysia juga memiliki persyaratan tersendiri bagi MRAP untuk melengkapi Batalion Siap Sedia (BSS), Pasukan Khusus dan Brigade Parasut ke-10. Dengan lebih dari 200 Condor yang belum diganti, potensi memiliki Kaya II yang menggunakan sasis serupa berarti akan ada banyak penghematan biaya.

Meski begitu, risiko keusangan komponen terlihat jelas, contohnya ketika Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) memutuskan untuk membeli delapan badan pesawat baru Alenia MB-339CM lead in fighter trainer (LIFT) yang menggunakan mesin Rolls-Royce Viper yang bersumber dari pesawat latih jet Aermacchi MB-339AM.

Meskipun mulai beroperasi pada tahun 2008, tujuh armada yang tersisa (satu hancur dalam kecelakaan) tidak dapat beroperasi pada tahun 2017 karena keusangan mesin Viper.

(MFH)

Philippines Selects Sabrah Light Tanks and Wheeled APCs of Elbit Systems

26 Oktober 2020

Sabrah light tanks and wheeled APC (photo : Elbit Systems)

Philippine Army’s upcoming tanks: Elbit’s Sabrah light tank series

Israel-based Elbit System’s Sabrah light tank series will soon be joining the Philippine Army under the Armor Division after it was selected as winning proponent for Philippine Army Light Tank Acquisition Project under the current Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program, as confirmed by MaxDefense Philippines.

Under the said project, the Philippine Army will be receiving a number of tracked and wheeled light tanks.

The Sabrah light tank series is armed with 105 mm turret. The tracked variant is using ASCOD as platform, while the wheeled variant uses the Pandur II.

According to Elbit, “The Sabrah light tank series is based on a tracked or wheeled platform, as part of Elbit Systems’ global cooperation with tier-one military platform manufacturers.”

“Due to ongoing development and technology insertion, the ASCOD offers advanced protection and mobility, large internal volume at very compact ddimensions, and a large payload at low GVW,” Elbit said. “The chasis provides the ASCOD with its mobility/mine protection characteristics and acts as the interface for all other primary subsytems.”

“The Pandur offers a unique solution of wheel suspensions characterized by robus chassis components, optimum riding comfort and minimum maintenance effort,” Elbit noted.

(Mintfo)