HMAS Sydney Completeted Qualification Trials in US

31 Juli 2021

HMAS Sydney returns home after conducted qualification trials in US (photo : RAN)

Sydney returns home

HMAS Sydney today returned to Garden Island, Sydney, following a four-and-a-half month deployment to the United States and Canada in which she qualified for operational duty.

While away, the crew of Navy’s third and final Hobart-class destroyer conducted combat system sea qualification trials, including weapons firings off the US west coast and integrated sonar suite trials, sailing from Nanoose Bay, Canada.

Sydney passed the tests and now joins her sister ships Hobart and Brisbane as being ready for operational deployment.

Commanding Officer Sydney Commander Andrew Hough said Navy’s Hobart-class destroyers provided significant combat capability to the joint force, be it in defending naval task groups, providing fire support to troops ashore, or coordinating air defence activities with the Air Force.

“Our deployment was the culmination of more than a decade of work by Navy in partnership with the Australian shipbuilding industry,” Commander Hough said.

“Despite the constraints of the pandemic, the crew achieved their mission while maintaining COVID-safe practices, with the support of their families back home.

HMAS Sydney when firing ESSM during qualification trials (photo : RAN)

“They demonstrated resilience and professionalism and showed that while the pandemic continues to shape our navy-to-navy interactions, we can still operate domestically, regionally and globally.

“It was an honour to lead such a dedicated crew and to return to our home port, knowing we have been part of the final check off for such a critical capability.”

Built in Adelaide by the Air Warfare Destroyer Alliance, Hobart, Brisbane and Sydney are equipped with the Aegis combat system, which includes an advanced phased array radar and SM–2 missiles.

The Aegis provides the destroyers with advanced air defence systems capable of engaging aircraft and missiles.  

Coupled with its surface and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, the destroyers have layered offensive and defensive systems to counter conventional and asymmetric threats in all spheres of naval warfare.

Sydney’s 174-strong crew is fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Before arriving at Garden Island, all personnel completed a 14-day quarantine period at sea and all required pre-arrival COVID-19 tests.

Sydney’s crew will now enjoy some much-needed respite while the ship undergoes a post-deployment maintenance period.

(Aus DoD)

Conversation between Minister Guerini and the Indonesian Minister of Defense

31 Juli 2021

Leonardo AW-101 medium large helicopter (photo : defence.pk)

Rome - Defense Minister Lorenzo Guerini on July, 21 had a telephone conversation with the Minister of Defense of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikoesoemo. Focus on the development of bilateral and industrial cooperation and collaboration between the navies of the two countries.

“Over the years our countries have been able to maintain strong relationships and cultivate numerous interests in common. The contribution that our nations guarantee to the numerous peacekeeping missions of the United Nations, including the one in Lebanon, is significant”.

Thus the Minister of Defense Lorenzo Guerini during the telephone conversation he had on July, 21 with the Minister of Defense of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikoesoemo.

Centauro 120mm 8x8 vehicle (photo : Iveco_Oto Melara)

A cordial conversation focused on topics of common interest, an opportunity to underline the importance that Italy attributes to cooperation with Indonesia in the bilateral and industrial sphere, and to collaboration between the navies of the two countries.

A particularly important topic among the Ministers was, in fact, that of the intense cooperation underway in the naval field, in relation to the program to strengthen the Indonesian Navy, and possible further developments. 

Looking to the future, Minister Guerini hoped for a strengthening of collaboration in the aeronautics and helicopter sectors and in the field of wheeled land vehicles.

During the phone call, the two ministers discussed the next session, scheduled for September, of the Joint Committee for Defense Cooperation , during which further information can be collected on how to orient the future of collaboration between Italy and Indonesia.

(Difesa)

DAHANA – DAVEY BICKFORD to Establish First Electronic Detonator Plant in Indonesia

31 Juli 2021

Electronic Detonator Blasting System for large open pit mining operations (photo : Davey Bickford SAS)

PT DAHANA (Persero), a state-owned enterprise engaged in defense and commercial explosives, will establish the first Electronic Detonator plant in Indonesia. This is marked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding between PT DAHANA (Persero) and its French partner Davey Bickford SAS at Dahana Subang Campus on Friday, July 30, 2021.

According to PT DAHANA (Persero)’s President Director Budi Antono, the cooperation between the two companies is set as a joint operation with an initial production capacity of 150,000 pcs/shift/year.

“In early stages, the production of this electronic detonator will be prioritized to meet the domestic needs. However, in the long term, export is possible," said Budi Antono during his speech.

Apart from the memorandum of understanding signed by President Director Budi Antono, there was also the signing of a Non-disclosure Agreement (NDA) by the Director of Technology & Development Wildan Widarman and a Rental Agreement for digital blasting equipment by the Director of Operations Bambang Agung. Davey Bickford SAS was represented by its Indonesia representative, Lieusanto Rasjid.

Support for this program originated from the government through the Assistant Deputy for Manufacturing Industry at the Ministry of SOEs, Liliek Mayasari. Liliek Mayasari revealed that the Defense Industry SOEs have the advantage of a dual use of technology-based solution, namely defense and non-defense.

Electronic Detonator Blasting System for underground mining operations (photo : Davey Bickford SAS)

“PT DAHANA is one of the SOEs which are members of the Defense Industry SOEs. Hopefully, the establishment of the electric detonator plant will help strengthen DAHANA's position as an explosive industry, both nationally and internationally,” said Liliek Mayasari during the virtual speech.

Electronic detonator is one of the accessories for explosives commonly used within mining sector. Electronic detonators function as the main explosives lighters which is capable of performing high level of accuracy compared to other types of detonators. In addition, Electronic Detonators can also increase blasting yields for its ease of setting of the delay time, reduce ground vibration and airblast, provide better safety in electrical environments, and more efficient use of the number of detonators.

The establishment of domestic production facilities is in line with the direction of the President of the Republic of Indonesia at the 2021 Ministry of Trade Work Meeting last March. At that time, President Joko Widodo again asked all stakeholders to boost the love of Indonesian products. President also asked the Ministry of Trade to make the right policies and strategies to develop the national product market, for example by supporting programs that are proudly manufactured and made in Indonesia.

“The presence of factories in the country will automatically increase the level of domestic component content (TKDN) which is beneficial to the domestic economic climate. This includes reduction or halt of import quotas in 2022/2023," said Budi Antono.

Several other production facilities are also in speedier process for completion. The Elemented Detonator (Non-electric) factory with a capacity of 8 million pcs/year located in the Energetic Material Center (EMC) Subang area is planned to start production early next year. Meanwhile, the DAHANA – PKT Ammonium Nitrate Plant Development Project in Bontang is planned for commissioning in the end of next year. 

(Dahana)

UK Royal Navy’s HMS Defender Makes Goodwill Visit to Brunei Darussalam

31 Juli 2021

HMS Defender (photo : Brunei Mindef)

MUARA - The United Kingdom Royal Navy’s Type 45 Destroyer, HMS DEFENDER, is in Brunei Darussalam for a goodwill visit from 25 to 27 July 2021, marking the first visit by the British Royal Navy ships to Brunei Darussalam since 2019.

This morning, HMS DEFENDER received a working visit by Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Retired) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister of Defence II; Commander of Royal Brunei Navy and officers and personnel from the Ministry of Defence and Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF).

Upon arrival, the delegation was received by His Excellency John Leonard Pencavel Virgoe, British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam; Group Captain Graeme Davis – (Royal Air Force), British Defence Adviser to Brunei Darussalam; and Commander Vince Owen, Commanding Officer of HMS DEFENDER.

HMS Defender (photo : Express)

The tour began with a presentation delivered by Commander Vince Owen on HMS DEFENDER’s main features and capabilities as well as sharing of experiences on HMS DEFENDER’s journey as part of the United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group (CSG) deployment. 

The HMS DEFENDER was commissioned in March 2013 and is in the region as part of the United Kingdom’s large scale CSG deployment which among others, aims to further strengthen the deep defence partnerships in the region and demonstrate the United Kingdom’s commitment to promoting peace and security in the region and the world.

Brunei Darussalam and the United Kingdom share a strong and longstanding defence relations that encompasses a comprehensive range of interactions including agreements in defence cooperation, exchange of visits, bilateral meetings, military exercises, trainings, courses as well as port visits such as this.

(BruMindef)

Vanuatu Receives New Guardian-class Patrol Boat RVS Takuare

30 Juli 2021

RVS Takuare, Guardian-class Patrol Boat for Vanuato (photo : thedownsnz)

Australian and Vanuatu have marked another milestone in our nations’ longstanding security partnership with Vanuatu taking ownership of its new Guardian-class Patrol Boat.

The RVS Takuare is the 12th vessel delivered under the Australian Government’s Pacific Maritime Security Program and was handed over by Australia on Vanuatu’s Independence Day at a ceremony in Henderson, Western Australia.

To ensure a COVID-safe ceremony for all our ni-Vanuatu and Australian attendees, His Excellency Mr Samson Fare, Vanuatu’s High Commissioner to Australia, accepted RVS Takuare on behalf of the Republic of Vanuatu alongside senior Australian Defence representatives via live stream from Canberra.  

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price represented Australia at the handover and said Vanuatu’s new Guardian-class Patrol Boat was an important demonstration of the enduring strength of the Vanuatu-Australia security relationship.

“Our relationship is founded on shared values, interests and friendship,” Minister Price said.

“I wish to congratulate Vanuatu on its 41st Anniversary of Independence and extend my best wishes to the people of Vanuatu and to the ni-Vanuatu community here in Australia.

“It is fitting that Australia is delivering RVS Takuare today.

“The new Guardian-class Patrol Boat will provide a boost to Vanuatu’s sovereign maritime capabilities and is another tangible demonstration of our security partnership.

“Australia is proud to deliver this high quality vessel, supported by wharf infrastructure upgrades in Port Vila and through-life training and maintenance – a hallmark of our Pacific Maritime Security Program.”

Vanuatu’s Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Alatoi Ishmael Kalsakau Maau’Koro (MP) has closely followed the progress of the RVS Takuare from Vanuatu. He remarked;

“This is an emphatic demonstration of caring at the highest level, expressed in no better way than on Freedom Day for our Republic by this generous gesture of giving by the people of Australia, and represents a new call on nationhood in our expression of security and maritime surveillance. To say that we are proud understates the value we give to this relationship.”

Minister Price said the partnership between Vanuatu and Australia was also delivering benefits to local industry in both countries through joint security projects under the Defence Cooperation Program.

“I am pleased that our security partnership is supporting Vanuatu’s COVID-19 economic recovery through local jobs, alongside Australian industry involvement,” Minister Price said.

“Defence Cooperation projects such as upgrades to the Vanuatu Government National Emergency Radio Network and the Cook and Tiroas Barracks redevelopment are deepening our security partnership and industry ties.”

Under the Pacific Maritime Security Program, Australia is delivering 21 Guardian-class Patrol Boats to 12 Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste.

In addition to through-life sustainment for the vessels, the Pacific Maritime Security Program also provides dedicated aerial surveillance to the region.

(Aus DoD)

HTMS Kraburi 457 Trained PASSEX with the HMS Richmond F239 in the Andaman Sea

30 Juli 2021

HTMS Kraburi 457 and HMS Richmond F239 (photos : RTN)

On 24th July, HMS Richmond will enter Thailand's territorial waters to conduct a maritime military exercise with the Royal Thai Navy's FFG-457 HTMS Kraburi, the Chao Phraya-class guided missile frigate and Sikorsky S-76B helicopter. This will be first engagement of the UK Carrier Strike Group with an ASEAN nation.

Carrier Strike Group 21 (CSG21) attack aircraft squadron of the Royal Navy led by the aircraft carrier R08 HMS Queen Elizabeth combines with a destroyer, frigate and support ships, strengthened by the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II fighter aircraft of the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force and the United States Marine Corps (USMC) has passed through the Strait of Malacca and Singapore waters on July 25, 2021. The CSG21 fleet also conducted PASSEX exercises with the Royal Malaysian Navy, another friendly country in ASEAN as well.

The projection forces of the CSG21 attack aircraft carrier squadron are part of the UK's security policy to display the military deployment around the world as Global Britain by the Asia-Pacific region that includes ASEAN. The UK has focused on an integrated review of security, defense, development and foreign policy which was published on March 16, 2021 aimed at enhancing defense trade and industry engagement with regional partners that include India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, as well as in response to the increase China's international "power show".

(AAG)

2 Kapal Patroli PC-60 TNI AL Ditargetkan Selesai 2022

30 Juli 2021

Patrol Craft PC60 produksi PT Caputra Mitra Sejati, Banten (image : Caputra)

Wakasal Tinjau Proses Produksi Kapal PC TNI AL

Wakil Kepala Staf Angkatan Laut (Wakasal) Laksamana Madya TNI Ahmadi Heri Purwono, S.E., M.M., meninjau proses produksi Kapal Patroli Cepat (PC) 60 pesanan TNI Angkatan Laut di Work Shop Galangan PT. Caputra Mitra Sejati yang berlokasi Desa Salira, Kecamatan Pulo Ampel, Kabupaten Serang, Provinsi Banten, Kamis (29/7).

Produksi 2 PC 60 multi years ini kontrak kerjanya telah dimulai sejak Februari 2020 lalu dan direncanakan akan selesai pada Agustus 2022 mendatang.  

Kapal PC ini memiliki spesifikasi panjang 60  meter dengan kecepatan jelajah 17 knot dan mampu mencapai 24 knot kecepatan maksimal karena didukung  mesin penggerak generasi terbaru 2 unit Marine Diesel berkekuatan 3200 KW. Nantinya juga akan dipersenjatai dengan 1 unit Meriam berkaliber 40 mm type Oto Marlin buatan Leonardo Italia dan 2 unit Meriam 12,7 mm buatan FN Herstal Belgia.  

Dalam peninjauan ini Wakasal didampingi Direktur PT. Caputra Mitra Sejati Banten Kris Pramono dan para pejabat TNI AL yaitu Aslog Kasal Laksda TNI Puguh Santoso, S.E., M.M., Aspotmar Kasal Mayjen TNI Widodo DP, Pangkoarmada I Laksda TNI Abdul Rasyid K, S.E., M.M., Kadisadal Laksma TNI Maman Rohman, S.T., M.Han., Kadispenal Laksma TNI Julius Widjojono dan Danlantamal III Brigjen TNI (Mar) Umar Farouq, S.A.P., serta Danlanal Banten Kolonel Laut (P) Budi Iryanto, M.Tr.Hanla.

Sebelumnya Wakasal meninjau pelaksanaan Serbuan Vaksin yang dilaksanakan oleh TNI AL di area PT. Caputra Mitra Sejati dengan sasaran masyarakat maritim dan masyarakat umum di wilayah tersebut serta para pekerja galangan dengan target 1.000 orang.

(TNI AL)

PHP600 billion (11,94 bio USD) Allocated for Horizon 2 Modernization Program

30 Juli 2021

South Korea offered HDC-3100 to accompany the HDF-2600 class frigates (image : HHI)

DND doubles down on push for AFP modernization, more reforms

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said he will continue to push for the military's modernization and measures to improve its personnel management in the remaining months of the Duterte administration.

"In the remaining 11 months in this administration, we will push for the continued modernization of the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines), enactment of laws to improve the personnel management of the AFP and focus on the other priorities we set for ourselves when we assumed our posts back in 2016," Lorenzana said in a statement late Monday night.

Inspired by the overwhelming support from the President, Lorenzana said his agency will spare no effort in fulfilling its mandate to secure the country and contribute to national development.

"At the DND, we are grateful for the enduring support of the President for the improvement of the welfare and capabilities of the AFP when he increased the salaries of the soldiers. We are thankful for his leadership and direction to end the local communist insurgency, the provision of benefits for rebel returnees, and the enactment of the Bangsamoro Basic Law that would address the grievances of our Muslim brothers," Lorenzana said.

While taking pride in accomplishments during the past five years, the DND chief said that there is still a lot of work to be done before Duterte's term ends.

"In this year's State of the Nation Address (SONA), we at the DND were reminded once again that everything we do is for the benefit of the Filipino people. Speaking from the heart in his own, simple and inimitable way, the President showed that even as we aim and work for grandiose goals for our country, at the core of it all is protecting and upholding the dignity of every Filipino from all walks of life," Lorenzana added.

In his final SONA at the Batasang Pambansa on Monday, Duterte said strengthening the capability of the country's military and police has always been a priority under his administration.

In 2018, Duterte said the salaries of military and uniformed policemen and personnel were raised to a level that is "commensurate to the critical role they play in upholding national security and maintaining order".

Under his term, the country's defense capability also got a boost with the acquisition of two missile frigates -- the BRP Jose Rizal and the BRP Antonio Luna.

Jose Rizal class HDF-2600 class frigates (photo : PN)

AFP modernization entering Horizon 2

Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it is now transitioning from Horizon 1 to Horizon 2 of its modernization program.

In a Laging Handa briefing on Tuesday, AFP public affairs office chief Navy Capt. Jonathan Zata, said around PHP600 billion is allocated for projects for this period.

"Tayo po ay magta-transition na from Horizon 1 to Horizon 2 at meron po tayong mga nakalaan na PHP600 billion para po sa mga proyektong ito. Nasa 107 na 'yung mga projects na yan ay naisakatuparan na (sa ilalim ng Horizon 1) (We are now transitioning from Horizon 1 to Horizon 2 and around PHP600 billion are allocated for projects under it. Some 107 projects are already completed so far under Horizon 1)," he added.

The AFP Modernization Program has three horizons -- Horizon 1 which started in 2013 and ended in 2017, Horizon 2 from 2018 to 2022, and Horizon 3 from 2023 to 2028.

However, the AFP said unforeseeable circumstances were among the reasons for the delay in the implementation of some of its modernization projects.

This is in response to a Commission on Audit (COA) report saying 22 AFP modernization projects remain unfinished as of June 30 this year.

The equipment delivered for Horizon 1, Zata said, includes the six A-29B "Super Tucano" close-air support aircraft, S-70i "Black Hawk" helicopters, of which 10 are already delivered and five more for delivery this year, and the two brand-new missile frigates BRP Jose Rizal and BRP Antonio Luna.

Also in various stages of completion are the force protection equipment of the Philippine Army, Zata said.

"The AFP has always been grateful for the direction and support of the Commander-in-Chief (President Rodrigo Duterte) in continuously improving its capabilities,” he earlier said.

He added that these capabilities improved the conduct of military operations against terrorists both on land and sea and persistent monitoring to protect the country's interests in the West Philippine Sea.

"Many more lives and communities are saved during HADR (humanitarian assistance disaster relief) operations since most equipment needed during these instances are further improved. While more work is still needed, these capabilities are likewise forthcoming," Zata said. 

(PNA)

ARTEM has signed a Contract for the Production of R-27 Missile : for India or Indonesia ?

29 Juli 2021

Indonesian Su-30 fighter with R-27 and R73 missile (photo : TNI AU)

The Ukrainian manufacturer of missile weapons, the State Joint Stock Holding Company (JSC) "Artem" has received a contract for the production of air-to-air missiles R-27. This is stated in a statement by the president of the company, Vladimir Zimin, on the website of the Artem State Holding Company.

Ukrainian R-27 modification (all images : UkrMilitary)

The manufacturer received an advance payment, which made it possible to start the implementation of "the largest contract for the last 10-15 years for the supply of R-27 missiles worth over $ 200 million," said Vladimir Zimin. The customer of the batch of missiles has not been disclosed, but experts believe that it is about one of the Asian countries - Indonesia or India. Considering that the missile is compatible with a large number of Soviet Russian aircraft (Su-27, Su-33, Su-34, Su-35, MiG-29), the circle of potential customers may turn out to be wider.

Let us remind you that the Soviet guided missile R-27 was developed by specialists of the Vympel Moscow plant in the mid-1970s. Already in 1984, the serial production of the R-27 was organized, and since 1987 the missile has been in service. The guided missile is designed to destroy air targets at any time of the day - at target speeds up to 3500 km/h, and overload up to 8g. The missile layout provides for modularity, which facilitates modernization. Modifications of the R-27 are in service with the air forces of 29 countries.

Now SJSC "Artem" produces four modifications of R-27 (R-27ER1, R-27R1, R-27ET1, R-27T1). The most advanced R-27ER1 has a launch range of 95 km. A universal warhead weighing 29 kg is used to defeat targets. The R-27ER1 version is equipped with a semi-active radar head with radio correction. It is worth noting that in 2019 representatives of the Artem State Holding Company announced work on a new modification of the R-27 and new GOS - including active ones. Tests of promising samples are scheduled for 2021.

(AviaPort)

The Vietnam Engineers Team is Determined to Change the Color of the Medal

29 Juli 2021

Vietnam's Engineer Team training for the Army Games 2021 (all photos : QDND)

People's  Army Online - The Vietnam Engineers team is one of the teams that always competed with enthusiasm, spirit and bravery at two times participating in the Army Games and won bronze medals. Being present to watch the last days of the team's practice at the 229th Engineer Brigade (Bac Ninh) training ground, we clearly felt the determination, steel spirit and professionalism and meticulousness in each exercise of the athletes and coaching staff of the team.

The People's Army Electronic Newspaper would like to send you some training photos of the Engineers Team before the day of departure to compete at the Army Games 2021.

The competition content of the Engineer Team called "Safe route" includes the following sections: Shock Engineer Squadron, TMM-3M Hard Bridge Battalion, IMR Obstacle Demolition Crew.

In the "Shock Engineer Battalion" competition, the athletes performed landings from helicopter models, crossed suspension bridges, net walls, 2-storey houses and cleaned anti-tank mines.

The squad with the motto of being faster must be faster, so the whole team actively practiced to increase their performance every day.

All equipment and specialized support tools for athletes must be worn and maneuvered as quickly as possible.

At the Army Games 2020, the Vietnam Engineers Team won the "Best Shockwave Engineer Battalion" award.

After overcoming many obstacles, the squad cleared the anti-tank minefield and cleared the way for BTP vehicles to approach.

The test is completed when the unit successfully opens the bridgehead for the latter.

The TTM Hard Bridge Battalion has a difference that this year's competition regulations are more difficult, the length of the anti-tank trench is more than 60m.

The content of competition time is an important factor in determining the team's score, so the athletes all try their best to accelerate the team's achievements.

Since the first days of training, the team has registered and signed an emulation contract with the determination to successfully complete the contents and goals of the peak emulation phase to implement the "three best", that is: Work best preparation; participate in the competition to get the best results; good unity, strictest discipline.

The competition content of the crew breaking the IMR obstacle, the contest using the IMR vehicle to pick up wooden poles and level the anti-tank moat is also a difficult content, consuming a lot of time for the competing teams, so it requires very good crews. expertise and ingenuity to complete the shortest test.

The IMR crew performed the fire-extinguishing competition.

With the bravery and tradition of "Opening the way to victory", we believe that the Vietnam Engineers Army will shine in the international arena.

To be faster every second is the great sweat of athletes in practice and competition.

With careful psychological and technical preparation, the Vietnam People's Army Engineers Team is determined to change the medal color at the Army Games 2021.

(QDND)

Silentium Secures Contract to Deliver Passive Radar Systems for Army

29 Juli 2021

The Maverick M-series passive radar system from Silentium Defence (photo: Silentium Defence)

ADELAIDE, SA – Silentium Defence has secured a (AU) $7.4 million contract from the Department of Defence to supply its MAVERICK M-series passive radar system to the Australian Army for capability development and evaluation activities.

Silentium’s MAVERICK M-series is the first high-performance, low-power, soldier-portable, covert radar system for air defence, land, and maritime surveillance. It provides critical sovereign capability for the ADF and its allies and an undeniable advantage in the air, land, and maritime domains – the ability to see without being seen.

Dr James Palmer, CEO Silentium Defence said, “the battlespace continues to evolve, and we see greater penetration of new, unmanned aerial systems alongside traditional threats that put our troops, operations, and assets in harm’s way.

“Comprehensive situational awareness with sufficient time to act has never been more critical.

“Our MAVERICK M-series passive radar system, designed in collaboration with Defence provides that awareness without compromise. This is true world class technology, developed right here in Australia.”

A complementary or replacement technology to traditional surveillance systems, MAVERICK M-series passive radars use existing energy in the environment (e.g. broadcast television signals) as their transmission source. As it does not emit, it does not highlight the user’s presence or create a radiation hazard, making it quick, safe, and easy to deploy, even in densely populated environments.

Unlike traditional active radar systems, passive radar does not require spectrum allocation to operate which makes it more cost effective to deploy in a world where spectrum is increasingly expensive and elusive to secure.

MAVERICK M-series is part of Silentium Defence’s broader passive surveillance product suite that includes other high-performance sensor systems for critical Space Domain Awareness and Air Traffic Management and addresses a combined $19bn global market opportunity.

(Silentium)

Rantis P6 ATAV V3 Raih Sertifikat Kelaikan Militer

28 Juli 2021

Kendaraan taktis P6 ATAV V3 (photo : SSE)

Penandatanganan dan Penyerahan Sertifikat Kelaikan Militer Rantis P6 ATAV V3 All Terrain Assault Vehicle Produksi PT SSE Surya Sentra Ekajaya

Penandatanganan serta penyerahan Sertifikat Kelaikan Militer Rantis P6 ATAV V3 (All Terrain Assault Vehicle) pengadaan Kemhan guna Korpaskhas TNI-AU oleh Kapuslaik Kemhan Laksma TNI Teguh Sugiono S.E., M.M kepada bapak Billy selaku perwakilan PT. Surya Sentra Ekajaya sebagai produsen Rantis P6 ATAV V3 tersebut dilaksanakan di Ruang Kerja Kapuslaik Lt 10 Gd. AH Nasution Kemhan RI. 

Penandatanganan dan penyerahan Sertifikat Kelaikan Militer dilaksanakan setelah seluruh proses kegiatan sertifikasi kelaikan yang meliputi kegiatan aplikasi, verifikasi dokumen/review documen, pemeriksaan kesesuaian/conformity inpection serta pengujian fungsi/functional test sudah sesuai dan memenuhi syarat kelaikan. Kegiatan tersebut berlangsung aman dan lancar serta mematuhi Protokol Kesehatan Covid-19.

Rantis P6 ATAV V3 produksi PT. Surya Sentra Ekajaya yang memiliki fungsi sebagai kendaraan serbu reaksi cepat, P6 V3 cocok digunakan dalam pertempuran hutan maupun perkotaan yang dilengkapi dengan perlindungan kaca maupun body tahan terhadap tembakan Level 1-Stanag dan dilengkapi RCWS serta Gunshot Detection System. Kendaraan maupun peralatan tersebut akan di gunakan oleh Satuan Bravo Korpaskhas TNI-AU dalam tugas khusus.

(Kemhan)

Vietnamese Frigates are Beautiful and Sparkling during the Military Parade in Vladivostok

28 Juli 2021

HQ-015 and HQ-016 during parade in Vladivostok (all photos : VL, KienThuc)

Two Gepard 3.9 frigates of the Vietnamese Navy were lavishly decorated to participate in the naval parade in Vladivostok, Russia.

Two frigates, Quang Trung 016 and Tran Hung Dao of the Vietnam People's Navy, were lavishly decorated when participating in the naval parade held in the Far East, Russia.

The naval parade is held annually by Russia, to celebrate the birth of the country's navy, and also an opportunity to show off its military might in the Pacific region.

This parade is often held with the participation of many foreign guests, including Vietnam. This is not the first time that Vietnamese frigates appear in this parade.

During the official ceremony yesterday, July 25 local time, Russian President Putin stated that Russia has the ability to launch destructive attacks, with any which opponent.

Putin stressed that the Russian military has enough strength to deal with threats in the air, on the water, under the water or on land, and will not tolerate any target.

Previously, two ships Quang Trung and Tran Hung Dao of the Vietnam People's Navy were present in Vladivostok on July 22, ready to participate in the parade.

Due to the complicated situation of the COVID-19 epidemic around the world, the number of warships participating in the naval parade in Russia this year was not as rich as in previous years.

Two Vietnamese frigates will also participate in the Army Games 2021 tournament in the Sea Cup category. This will also be the first time, we participate in a competition at sea.

Two frigates Tran Hung Dao and Quang Trung, we ordered from Russia in the second phase, after owning two ships Dinh Tien Hoang 011 and Ly Thai To 012 in the service.

The ship Tran Hung Dao 016 was launched from April 2016, and officially joined the force of Region 4 of Vietnam Navy in February 2018.

Meanwhile, the Quang Trung 016 ship, although launched a month later than the Tran Hung Dao ship, was also commissioned at the same time as the 015.

Compared with the original design of these two corvettes, the Vietnamese navy has creatively designed an additional aircraft compartment on the rear deck, in order to facilitate good preservation of weapons and vehicles.

Russia's Gepard 3.9 frigates are specially designed, with a hull structure that allows to minimize radar emissions, the ship has 10 completely separate watertight compartments with dual rudders, for high stability when traveling work.

In addition to Vietnam, currently the Russian Navy is also using two frigates of this type in the fleet of the Caspian Sea.

(Kien Thuc)

Thai Navy Outlines Submarine Plan but Procurement Faces Funding Hurdles

28 Juli 2021

Janes Defence Budgets forecasts that Thailand's military expenditure will grow strongly from around 2023 (infographic : Jane's)

The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) has reproposed a plan to procure two additional submarines from China for THB22.5 billion (USD685 million).

The plan has been shelved since April 2020 due to fiscal constraints linked to the Covid-19 pandemic, although the RTN confirmed on 18 July that it has proposed that initial funding for the procurement is sourced from Thailand's defence budget for fiscal year 2022, which starts October 2021.

However, the annual military expenditure is not yet approved, and government officials have indicated a possible move to block the submarine funding in light of Thailand's worsening Covid-19 outbreak. Janes understands that the RTN may also postpone the procurement by another year due to political pressure.

The RTN reaffirmed the procurement plan on 17 July in a press conference in Bangkok. RTN spokesperson Admiral Chettha Jaipiam said the procurement was part of a “package deal” with China, following the RTN's order of a first-in-class S26T diesel-electric submarine from the China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Company (CSOC) in 2017.

Admiral Chettha added that the RTN had also renegotiated with China the procurement repayment terms through which costs will reduce in the first year of the acquisition by one-third. The RTN is aiming to procure the two additional submarines over seven years, with the initial payment from fiscal year 2022.

Thailand's 2022 defence budget was announced in May at THB203.28 billion (USD6.5 billion) but has yet to be approved by the House of Representatives, which meets this month to discuss the allocation. A senior House official quoted by the official media in Thailand said that both the opposition and the government opposed the submarine procurement during the pandemic.

(Jane's)

Indonesia Continues Negotiations of RK-360MC Neptune

27 Juli 2021

RK-360MC coastal anti-ship missile (photo : UKrainian MoD)

Oleg Korostelov, the general designer of LUCH Design Bureau, told about this in an interview with Novinarny, news.depo.ua.

He noted that negotiations on the acquisition are underway at various stages. The biggest progress is now with Indonesia, which has signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the supply of a coastal mobile missile system RK-360MC Neptune.

"Indonesia continues negotiations, they are interested in our "Neptune". There are two more countries, but negotiations with them are still a very raw beginning, and it is too early to talk about it," Korostelov said.

Thus, Indonesia may become the first foreign buyer of the Neptune complex, which on August 23, 2020 was adopted by the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Now RK-360 MC "Neptune" - a complex of surface-to-surface cruise missiles with anti-ship missile designed to destroy warships of cruiser, destroyer, frigate, corvette, landing ships tank and vehicles, as well as coastal radio-contrast targets, in any weather conditions at any time of day and night, with active fire and electronic countermeasures of the enemy. 

(News.Depo)

RAAF C-27J Role Redefined for HADR

27 Juli 2021

An Air Force C-27J Spartan aircraft during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2021 (photo : Aus DoD)

Spartan to enhance response and engagements

Defence is enhancing support for humanitarian disaster relief, crisis response and regional engagements by redefining the role of the C-27J Spartan aircraft.

The Spartan’s new role will enhance Australia’s humanitarian and emergency response to natural disasters in Australia and our near region, regional engagement across the Indo-Pacific including through Pacific Step-Up, and the Australian Defence Force’s military logistics and air mobility capability.

Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Mel Hupfeld, AO, DSC, said the Spartan’s capabilities were aligned with Defence’s strategic objectives to shape Australia’s strategic environment, deter actions against our interests and when required, respond with credible military force.

“The Spartan demonstrated its specific capabilities during the 2019/20 Australian bushfire crisis by safely evacuating 2,400 fire-affected community members and resupplying remote communities that were inaccessible by larger aircraft, which included moving 300,000 kilograms of cargo,” Air Marshal Hupfeld said.

“The Spartan conducted these missions at a range that exceeded the ability of Defence helicopters because of its flexibility and the inherent operational characteristics of a light tactical fixed wing aircraft.”

Head of Air Force Capability, Air Vice-Marshal Cath Roberts, AM, CSC, highlighted the Spartan’s contribution to ADF contingency response, and its value in providing assistance to regional neighbours.

“The use of the Spartan on exercises such as Arnhem Thunder and Talisman Sabre to deliver vital stores to expeditionary airbases, showcases its ability to reach remote and austere airbases.

“And it has also recently transported medical supplies and equipment to Port Moresby to assist PNG in the fight against COVID-19; as well as contributed to Australia’s support to regional maritime security and fisheries protection on the high seas through deployments on Operations Resolute and Solania,” Air Vice-Marshal Roberts said.

Redefining the role of the Spartan will ensure Defence delivers an airlift capability that meets Australia’s requirements, providing vital support to the nation and our near region.

The Australian Defence Force has a long and proud history of supporting our whole‑of-government regional assistance efforts, including logistics and specialist support for the conduct of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

(Aus DoD)

PCG’s 1st 94-meter Patrol Vessel Launched in Japan

27 Juli 2021

Launching of MMRVs 94 meters (all photos : Presidential Comm, PCG)

The first of two 94-meter multi-role response vessels (MMRVs) acquired by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) under the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project Phase II (MSCIP Phase 2) has been launched at the Shimonoseki Shipyard of Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. in Japan today, 26 July 2021.

The two MRRVs will be the largest vessels of the PCG’s fleet, once delivered. These MRRV’s modeled after the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) Kunigami-class vessels are expected to improve the PCG’s maritime security and maritime safety capabilities.

Each of the new MRRVs measure approximately 94 meters, has a maximum speed of not less than 24 knots, and an endurance of not less than 4,000 nautical miles. The ships are capable of conducting sustained maritime patrols in the country’s maritime jurisdictions, including the West Philippine Sea and Philippine Rise.

In addition, the two vessels will significantly boost the capabilities of the PCG in conducting maritime search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations.

Through the accelerated construction of the Japanese shipbuilder, the first 94-meter MRRV is expected to arrive in Manila by March 2022, while the second vessel will arrive two months later or by May 2022.

The addition of the two new MRRVs to the PCG’s fleet is welcomed by DOTr Secretary Arthur P. Tugade who stressed that the acquisition of new vessels is a breakthrough towards the government’s thrust of modernizing and upgrading the country’s maritime safety and border protection.

“The modernization of Philippine Coast Guard has been going fast and quick and very meaningful. In fact, in this effort to make it quick, fast, and very meaningful, the government of Japan has contributed very much. And to which I express my appreciation for your continued support,” Secretary Tugade said.

The new vessels, according to the DOTr Secretary, will be of great help in responding to maritime incidents in the country’s waters and exclusive economic zone (EEZ), such as in the conduct of search and rescue operations and maritime security patrols, as well as in the enforcement of marine environmental laws, among others.

For his part, PCG Commandant, Admiral George V Ursabia Jr noted that the addition of the two MRRVs – the biggest in the fleet – is a big stride in strengthening the country’s maritime security and maritime safety capabilities.

“We are making a milestone, not just for the Department of Transportation and Philippine Coast Guard, but also for the Philippines – acquiring the first-ever biggest ship for the Coast Guard. It is a 94-meter multi-role response vessel. It is a big stride in the development of our country in the context of maritime security and maritime safety,” Admiral Ursabia expressed.

The MSCIP Phase 2 is a Japanese-assisted project funded by an Official Development Assistance (ODA) Loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) amounting to approximately JPY 16,455,000,000 (JPY 16.5 billion).

The contract between the DOTr and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. for the design, construction, and delivery of the two 94-meter MRRVs amounting to JPY 14,550,000,000 (JPY 14.6 billion) was signed on 27 December 2019 and became effective on 08 May 2020. 

(PCG)