Philippines Eyes Second Pohang-class Corvette

30 November 2021

ROKS Andong PCC 771 (photo : ROKArmedForces)

A total of 24 ships of this class were built and commissioned by the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN) in four batches between 1984 and 1993. Of these, 10 are still in service with the RoKN, while several others have been transferred to countries including Egypt, Peru, Vietnam, and Colombia.

The Philippine Navy (PN) appears to be moving ahead with plans to acquire another retired South Korean Pohang-class corvette.

The vessel under consideration is ex-ROKS Andong (ex-PCC 771), which was withdrawn from RoKN service in December 2020.

(Jane's)

Hornets Farewelled after More Than 35 Years of Service

30 November 2021

F/A-18A A21-002 display at the Classic Hornet end of an era celebration at RAAF Williamtown, New South Wales (all photos : Aus DoD)

Air Force has farewelled the F/A-18A/B Hornets after more than 35 years of service, with an end of era event at RAAF Base Williamtown on November 29.

In a fitting tribute to the jet, a solo flying display marked its final farewell to the Australian public at the Wings over Illawarra Airshow on November 28.

The first two F/A-18A/B Hornets arrived in Australia on June 6, 1984, partially disassembled in the back of a C-5 Galaxy all the way from St. Louis, Missouri, United States. They were followed by the next two Hornets, flown in a non-stop record-breaking trans-Pacific 15-hour ferry on May 17, 1985.

Over the next 3 decades, 71 Hornets contributed to multiple operations and exercises through the dedication of all aviators at Nos. 3, 75 and 77 Squadron, and No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit.

Commander Air Combat Group, Air Commodore Tim Alsop, said the farewell activity included a flying display over Tindal and Williamtown to thank the community for their support.

“We could not conduct our flying operations and exercises without the support of the community, particularly around RAAF Bases Tindal, Williamtown and Darwin – they have supported us for the last 30 years and for that we thank them,” Air Commodore Alsop said.

“The Hornets have contributed to Australia’s air power for one third of Air Force’s centenary, protecting Australia and its interests both at home and on the world stage.

“Whilst pilots are critical to fly a Hornet, it’s a team effort to keep them in the air – with technicians, engineers, logistics, life support fitters, personnel capability and security forces all ensuring that the Hornet could conduct its role.”

The F/A-18A (single seat) and F/A-18B (twin seat) Hornets have been an integral part of Australia’s air combat capability, capable of air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.

The F/A-18A/B Hornets deployed to Operations Slipper, Falconer and Okra conducting strike and close air support missions in support of coalition forces.

Chief of Staff Air Combat Group, Group Captain Jason Easthope, said the Hornet was a capable aircraft that served Air Force with distinction.

“For the last 20 years, the Hornets have served on multiple operations overseas and at home, including our contribution to strike missions on Operations Falconer and Okra – this was significant as Australia had not dropped bombs in combat since the Vietnam War,” Group Captain Easthope said.

“On Operation Okra, F/A-18A/B Hornet squadrons flew 1937 missions and more than 14,780 flying hours, delivering approximately 1,600 munitions.

“Flying is my passion and I will always have a soft spot for the Hornet.”

The end of Hornet operations for No. 75 Squadron marks the beginning of a new chapter, as the Air Force transitions to the F-35A Lightning II.

(Aus DoD)

PAL dan Bofors Resmi Jalin Kerjasama Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO)

30 November 2021

Meriam Bofors 57mm (photo : PAL)

PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) resmi menandatangani perjanjian kerjasama terkait Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) senjata Naval Gun Sistem 57mm dan 40mm dengan BAE Systems Bofors AB perusahaan sistem senjata dan artileri asal Swedia. Penandatanganan dilakukan oleh Bapak Wilgo Zainar selaku CMO PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) dan Bapak Nils-Ove Gustafsson selaku Head of Regional Sales of BAE Systems Bofors AB.

PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) sebagai perusahaan galangan kapal moderen berkelas dunia telah memiliki berbagai fasilitas dan sumber daya manusia (SDM) yang mumpuni, sehingga telah memenuhi standar spesifikasi untuk melakukan Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Naval Gun Sistem Bofors. 

Meriam Bofors 40mm (photo : Wiki)

Pada Kerjasama yang dilakukan PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) bersama Bofors ini juga menerapkan transfer teknologi dan transfer pengetahuan, dimana experts dan engineers Bofors dan PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) akan bekerjasama dalam bidang MRO. hal ini merupakan implementasi dalam peningkatan mutu, agar kedepannya SDM PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) dapat lebih kompetitif dan bertaraf internasional.

PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) bersama Bofors berkomitmen melakukan upaya terbaik demi mewujudkan perjanjian kerjasama secara optimal. Kerjasama yang terjalin dengan Bofors ini diharapkan PT PAL Indonesia (Persero) mampu menjalankan proses MRO Naval Gun dengan keseluruhan secara mandiri dan efisien dalam waktu pengerjaan.

(PAL)

Boeing Awarded RAAF P-8A Deeper Maintenance Contract

29 November 2021

RAAF P8A Poseidon (image : Boeing)

Boeing boosts sovereign sustainment capability with P-8A deeper maintenance contract

Boeing Defence Australia (BDA) has signed a $60 million agreement with the Commonwealth of Australia to provide deeper maintenance to the RAAF’s P-8A Poseidon aircraft for the life of the fleet.

Already delivering through-life-support on the P-8A fleet, the deeper maintenance contract sets the stage for BDA to undertake major maintenance, repair, and overhaul work and spiral upgrades, including evolving its digital sustainment capability, at RAAF Base Edinburgh.

"The contract covers the life of type for the P-8A fleet and will provide exceptional ongoing opportunities for our local supply chain and upskilling of the broader defence and aerospace industry,” said BDA director Commercial Derivative Aircraft, Darryn Fletcher.

“We expect the contract will necessitate around 37 additional jobs from the outset and the engagement of multiple local businesses, and that these numbers will increase over time.”

The milestone aligns with the Commonwealth’s Industry Plan for Aerospace Platform Deeper Maintenance and Structural Integrity and delivers on its objective to build sovereign sustainment capability and Australian defence industry.

“To achieve this on one of Australia’s most complex aerospace programs is evidence of our strong partnership with the Commonwealth and our shared commitment to developing sovereign deeper maintenance capability,” said Fletcher.

The first RAAF P-8A is anticipated to undergo deeper maintenance in July 2022 after six years of service.

The contract also firmly establishes Australia as a potential hub to support other P-8 operators in the region.

BDA has proven credentials in delivering deeper maintenance in collaboration with the RAAF, the Commonwealth and Australian industry having serviced the E-7A Wedgetail, F/A-18A/B Classic Hornet, F-111, and B707 over the past two decades.

(Boeing)

DSME Delivers Key Technology for Air Independent Propulsion (AIP)

29 November 2021

Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) for submarines, based on the production of hydrogen by reforming methanol mixed with water (photo : maily-so)

DSME Develops Methanol Reforming Plant for Submarine Fuel Cells

Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) has successfully developed a methanol steam reforming plant for submarine fuel cells and delivered it to the Agency for Defense Development.

The company held a delivery ceremony at its Siheung R&D Campus on Nov. 18.

The plant produces high purity hydrogen using methanol and water. It means DSME has secured a level of competitiveness as high as that of advanced countries in the field of fuel reforming and hydrogen refining technologies.

Fuel cells are highly efficient in power generation and generate no noise and vibration. They do not generate foreign substances other than water in generating electricity.

Submarine fuel reforming technology is a state-of-the-art technology that has been studied for more than 20 years in major advanced energy powers such as Germany, France, and Spain.

Currently, hydrogen is supplied to submarine fuel cells through metal hydrogen storage alloy cylinders. This method is low in storage efficiency per weight and requires space for equipment installation. Its weaknesses are that separate auxiliary facilities are required for hydrogen charging and charging time is long. By contrast, the fuel reforming method using methanol boasts high storage efficiency, which improves submarines’ operation capabilities.

The fuel reforming method requires a smaller space and facilitates fuel supply. It does not require separate facilities for recharging and has short charging time.

(Business Korea)

Tank BMP-3F Pertama Selesai Menjalani Maintenance di Lumindo

29 November 2021

Kedatangan tank BMP-3F Korps Marinir pada bulan Februari lalu (photos : Lumindo)

Pada tanggal 21 Februari 2021 lalu PT Lumindo menerima kedatangan 5 kendaraan tank amfibi BMP 3 F milik Korps Marinir TNI AL untuk menjalani paket maintenance.

Adapun 5 tank BMP-3F Korps Marinir TNI AL yang akan menjalani paket maintenance ini adalah tank dengan nomor registrasi : AL. 9824-05, AL. 9825-05, AL. 9828-05, AL. 9831-05, dan AL. 9843-05.

Pada bulan Oktober tepatnya tanggal 15 Oktober 2021 lalu dilakukan tes dan uji coba  pertama (first test and trial) setelah dilakukan maintenance dilanjutkan dengan uji coba berikutnya pada tanggal 28 Oktober 2021.

Korps Marinir mempunyai 54 unit tank amfibi BMP-3F, dimana 17 unit pertamanya datang pada bulan Desember tahun 2010. Kemungkinan yang dilakukan maintenance adalah tank BMP-3F yang telah memiliki umur 11 tahun.  

Jika menilik pada kontrak kendaraan tempur milik Korps Marinir TNI AL sebelumnya yang dilakukan oleh PT Lumindo Artha Sejati untuk kendaraan jenis BTR-50P (M), tank PT-76 dan kendaraan peluncur roket RM-70 Grad maka lingkup pekerjaan maintenance adalah overhaul dan recondition, kemungkinan lingkup yang sama juga diterapkan pada tank BMP-3F ini.

Juga, jika menilik materi tes dan uji coba pada kontrak sebelumnya, berarti akan ada uji mesin, uji kedap dan uji arung pada tank BMP-3F Korps Marinir ini. Kita tunggu saja saatnya, mungkin kelima tank akan dilakukan tes dan uji coba secara bersamaan.

(Defense Studies)

Malaysia Now Evaluating Bids for Hawk Replacement: Minister

29 November 2021

Leonardo M346, double engine (photo : Defense Arab)

KUALA LUMPUR — The government is systematically planning the replacement of Hawk 108 and Hawk 208 fighter jets as outlined in the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Capability Development 2055 or CAP55, said Senior Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein.

He said the government had also started the replacement process by approving the new acquisition of Fighter Lead-In Trainer/Light Combat Aircraft (FLIT/LCA) through Rolling Plan 1, 2021.

Hongdu L-15, double engine (photo : ZambiaDigest)

“The international open tender for this procurement was closed on Oct 6, 2021, and is currently in the evaluation process. So, the process is underway and it is under CAP55," he said during Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat on November, 25.

He was replying to a supplementary question from Datuk Ahmad Nazlan Idris (BN-Jerantut) who had wanted to know whether the government had considered grounding the use of Hawk aircraft and the current status of new procurement to replace the aircraft.

MiG-35, double engine (photo : Mikoyan)

Replying to a question from Datuk Hasanuddin Mohd Yunus (PH-Hulu Langat) on RMAF bases in high-density areas and in locations that are no longer strategic, Hishammuddin said all RMAF runways were in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organisation standards which were periodically audited by Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and the RMAF itself. 

KAI FA-50, single engine (image : KAI)

Hishammuddin said despite being in a high-density area, as long as it met the standards, there was no need for the Ministry of Defence (Mindef) and the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) to make drastic decisions on the location of the existing RMAF bases.

HAL Tejas, single engine (photo : The Week)

“Furthermore, all RMAF flight operations are also subject to very strict standard operating procedures (SOP) and aviation safety standards,” he said.

TAI Hurjet, single engine (photo : turkishdefencenews)

He added that Mindef and MAF would work to improve the existing SOPs and safety measures. 

(Bernama)

TNI AU Gelar Latihan Angkasa Yudha 2021

28 November 2021

Latihan Angkasa Yudha  2021 (all photos : TNI AU)

Latihan Angkasa Yudha, Kasau: Sarana Evaluasi Doktrin 

KBRN   Lumajang: TNI Angkatan Udara (AU) menggelar latihan Angkasa Yudha (AYU) 2021 di di AWR Pandan Wangi, Lumajang Jawa Timur, Rabu (24/11/2021).

Kepala Staf TNI AU (Kasau) Marsekal TNI Fadjar Prasetyo, S.E., M.P.P. mengatakan, Latihan Angkasa Yudha merupakan sarana terbaik dalam mengevaluasi Doktrin, sehingga dapat melihat tingkat kesiapan operasi, satuan-satuan jajaran TNI Angkatan Udara dihadapkan dengan tantangan tugas mendatang.

Kasau menambahkan, perkembangan lingkungan strategis, dan akselerasi kemajuan teknologi yang begitu pesat, menjadi tantangan yang harus dijawab TNI AU.

Menyikapi hal tersebut,  TNI AU dituntut memiliki kesiapan operasi yang tinggi, termasuk merevisi dan evaluasi doktrin, guna  kesiapan alutsista, maupun kesiapan Sumber Daya Manusia yang mengawakinya. 

"Terkait perkembangan lingkungan strategis dan pesatnya kemajuan teknologi, ada beberapa hal yang perlu kita revisi, dan evaluasi, termasuk Doktrin," tegasnya.

Kasau memberi apresiasi atas profesionalisme yang telah ditunjukkan para prajurit TNI AU dalam latihan Angkasa Yudha (AYU) 2021.

Menutut Kasau, sebagai latihan puncak TNI AU, AYU,  menjadi tolak ukur sejauh mana tingkat profesionalisme prajurit TNI AU.

"Apresiasi tinggi saya berikan atas capaian para prajurit TNI AU dalam pelaksanaan latihan Angkasa Yudha 2021," ungkap Kasau. 

Latihan Angkasa Yudha 2021,  bertujuan memelihara, meningkatkan dan menguji profesionalisme  Kotamaops TNI AU dan satuan-satuan jajarannya, dalam menyusun rencana dan melaksanakan operasi udara gabungan pada rencana Kampanye Militer.

Pada kesempatan tersebut, kasau juga menyampaikan ucapan terima kasihnya kepada semua pihak, baik Kodiklatau selaku penyelenggara latihan, maupun kepada pemerintah setempat dan seluruh pejabat forkopimda.

Manuver lapangan Latihan Angkasa Yudha tahun 2021 ini, melibatkan 1579 prajurit dan 52 alutsista pesawat, baik pesawat tempur, angkut, intai dan juga helikopter.  Seluruh pesawat memainkan skenario latihan sejumlah operasi udara, sesuai platform pesawat masing-masing.

Pesawat intai strategis Boeing 737 dari Skadron Udara 5 melaksanakan misi operasi Intelijen dengan melaksanakan operasi udara pengamatan dan pengintaian. Sementara Pesawat tempur F-16, Sukhoi, T-50, Super Tucano dan Hawk 100/200 melaksanakan berbagai misi operasi udara,  diantaranya Operasi Udara Serangan Strategis (OUSS), Operasi Udara 

Lawan Udara Ofensif (OULUO), Operasi Udara Lawan Udara Defensif (OULUD) dan Operasi Udara Lawan Darat.

Sedangkan pesawat angkut C-130 Hercules dan Cassa-212  melaksanakan operasi mobilitas Udara, berupa penerjunan pasukan dan droping logistik di medan operasi. Adapun helikopter EC-725 Caracal dan NAS-332 Super Puma melakasanakan Search and Rescue Peetempuran (Sarpur) dan juga tindakan keamanan berupa air cover. 

Selain pelaksanaan operasi udara, pada Angkasa Yudha 2021, prajurit Pasukan Khas melaksanakan berbagai misi operasi, diantaranya Operasi Pembentukan dan Pengendalian Pangkalan Udara Depan (OP3UD). Paskhas juga melaksanakan latihan penembakan berbagai persenjataan yang dimilikinya, diantaranya penembakan Oerlicon, MO 81, MO 60 R, Sniper, Gatling Gun dan sejumlah persenjataan lainnya.

Manuver lapangan yang berlangsung selama tiga hari ini, diselenggarakan dengan mematuhi protokol kesehatan Covid-19 secara ketat.

Turut mendampingi Kasau saat peninjauan ini, para Asisten Kasau, para Pangkotama TNI AU, para Kepala Dinas Mabesau, Danlanud Abdulrachman Saleh. Sementara pejabat daerah yang hadir Bupati Lumajang, sejumlah pejabat Forkopimda provinsi dan kabupaten serta para pejabat TNI/Polri setempat.

(RRI)

Menhan Prabowo Disebut Kepincut Motor Listrik E-Tactical

28 November 2021

Motor trail listrik, E-Tactical, buatan PT LEN Industri, dipamerkan di IEMS 2021 (photo : Detik, Kompas)

SERPONG, KOMPAS.com – Motor trail listrik E-Tactical yang dikembangkan oleh PT Len Industri (Persero) mulai dipamerkan pada gelaran Indonesia Electric Motor Show (IEMS) 2021. 

Berbeda dengan motor trail listrik lain yang ada saat ini, E-Tactical akan menyasar pihak militer. Motor off road itu bisa dijadikan motor operasional bahkan kendaaran operasi khusus. 

Dendy Ariadiputra, pihak hubungan masyarakat PT Len Industri (Persero) mengatakan, belum lama ini Menteri Pertahanan (Menhan) Prabowo Subianto, sudah melihat langsung dan tertarik dengan E-Tactical.

Kata Dendy, ketertarikan itu disampaikan Prabowo saat mengunjungi kantor pusat PT Len Industri dalam rangka peninjauan langsung salah satu BUMN Industri Pertahanan (Indhan) di Bandung (1/11/21). 

"Kemarin itu beliau bilang begini, karena ini tidak ada suaranya jadi ini nanti dinamakan Tim Senyap, beliau bilang begitu yang saya dengar," ujar Dendy yang ditemui Kompas.com, di Puspitek, Serpong, Jumat (27/11/2021). 

Harry Hindarsyah, Marketing PT Len Industri mengatakan, saat ini E-Tactical masih dalam bentuk purwarupa. Namun, dalam waktu dekat rencananya akan mulai diproduksi massal.

Jika sesuai rencana dia menyebut pihaknya siap memproduksi unit E-Tactical dalam jumlah yang cukup untuk bisa memenuhi permintaan militer. 

Harry mengatakan, paling cepat produksi akan dimulai setelah bulan kedua 2022, melihat kebijakan nantinya. Produksinya bakal dilakukan di pabrik milik Len di Subang. 

“Len punya pabrik di Subang, namanya Len Technopark, kemungkinan nanti di sana. Di Bandung juga ada produksi,” ucap Harry.

(Kompas)

BAE Systems Australia Delivered 20 M113 AS4 Optionally Crewed Combat Vehicles

27 November 2021

M113AS4 of the Australian Army (photos : BAE Systems Australia)

Using locally developed, world leading autonomous technologies, BAE Systems Australia has delivered 20 M113 AS4 Optionally Crewed Combat Vehicles (OCCVs) to the Australian Army.

Each M113 AS4 is fitted with a Vehicle Management System, derived from BAE Systems’ domain agnostic autonomy technologies which enables it to operate autonomously.

The demonstrator vehicles are now providing crucial insights into the capabilities of integrated autonomous technologies on future battlefields.

Four vehicles were recently trialled as part of Exercise Koolendong, a high-end live-fire warfighting exercise in the Northern Territory. Army successfully tested the limitations of the vehicles and the autonomous capability in harsh conditions within the combat environment.

(BAE Systems Australia)

PasMar 1 Dukung Latihan Pertempuran Kota

27 November 2021

Latihan pertempuran kota dengan kendaraan tempur BTR-4 (photos : PasMar1)

Prajurit Batalyon Kapa 1 Marinir Dukung Latihan Pertempuran Kota

Dalam rangka meningkatkan kemampuan dan kekuatan prajurit, Batalyon Kendaraan Amfibi Pengangkut Artileri 1 Marinir (Yonkapa 1 Mar) ikut berpartisipasi dalam latihan pertempuran kota Pasmar 1 yang dilaksanakan di Dawuan, Karawang, Jawa Barat, Kamis (25/11/2021).

Pertempuran kota adalah sebuah pertempuran yang dimana target yang ditentukan berada di wilayah padat penduduk sehingga memerlukan taktik khusus untuk menyelesaikannya. Selain menjadi ajang meningkatkan kemampuan dan rasa percaya diri prajurit diharapkan kegiatan ini juga menjadi gambaran para prajurit muda tentang mekanisme pertempuran kota, dimana kerja sama tank dan infanteri sangat dibutuhkan.

Sementara itu, Danyon Kapa 1 Mar Mayor Marinir Nana Widiyanto, M.Tr.Opsla., menyampaikan agar melaksanakan kegiatan dengan semangat dan ikhlas guna mendapat hasil yang terbaik sehingga kita semua selalu siap menerima tugas dari satuan atas dalam Operasi Militer Perang (OMP) dan Operasi Militer Selain Perang (OMSP).

"Jangan lupa berdoa dalam setiap langkahmu, tetap utamakan faktor zero accident dan laksanakan latihan ini dengan penuh keseriusan anggap latihan ini seperti di medan sebenarnya agar kita semua tetap menjadi prajurit yang profesional dimasa pandemi Covid-19 saat ini," imbuhnya.

Dalam kegiatan tersebut tetap mematuhi protokol kesehatan guna memutus rantai penyebaran virus covid 19 dengan menjaga jarak,memakai masker dan mencuci tangan sebelum dan sesudah melaksanakan kegiatan. (PasMar1)

Yon Arhanud 1 ikut mendukung latihan pertempuran kota (photos : PasMar1)

Batalyon Arhanud 1 Marinir Laksanakan Pertahanan Udara Amankan Posko Purkota

Dalam rangka mengamankan Posko Utama Pertempuran Kota (Purkota), prajurit Batalyon Arhanud 1 Marinir (Yonarhanud 1 Mar) melaksanakan latihan pertahanan udara demi melindungi Posko Utama di Dawuan, Karawang, Jawa Barat, Jumat (26/11/2021).

Kegiatan diawali dengan problem Gerakan Taktis (Gertak) dari Mako Yonarhanud 1 Mar menuju daerah steling, pada saat Gertak ini para prajurit Yonarhanud 1 Mar juga mendapatkan berbagai problem diantaranya Bahaya Udara yaitu adanya pesawat lawan yang menyusup guna menghancurkan objek vital yang ada serta memberikan perlindungan kepada satuan Infanteri dari bahaya udara.

Kapten Marinir Rizki Sandhi Herwanto selaku Perwira Pengawas dan Pengendali (Wasdal) menyampaikan agar setiap prajurit Yonarhanud 1 Mar melaksanakan latihan dengan sebaik mungkin, serta dapat menyerap berbagi ilmu yang di dapat dari saat berlatih kali ini namun tetap mengedepankan keselamatan dalam setiap kegiatan yang dijalankan.

Lebih lanjut, pada akhirnya prajurit Yonarhanud 1 Mar mampu mengamankan Posko Utama dengan baik seperti yang disimulasikan serta pada pelaksanaannya tetap mengedepankan faktor keselamatan. (PasMar1)

RTAF Received 2 EC 725 Helicopter

27 November 2021

EC725 number 20309 and 20310 of the RTAF (photo : RTAF)

Air Chief Marshal Chawapon Yimpong, Commander-in-Chief of Aviation Division 2, together with Deputy Commander of Aviation Division 2, Chief of Staff of Aviation Division 2 welcomed the group of pilots and staff members from AIRBUS HELICOPTER Company on the occasion that AIRBUS HELICOPTER Company delivered EC725 helicopter (locally named Type 11) number 20309 and 20310 at the hangar, Squadron 203, Wing 2 on November 24, 2021.

(Wing 2 RTAF)

Vietnamese Warship Participates in ASEAN - Russia Naval Drills

26 November 2021

The crew of frigate HQ-012 Ly Thai To is about to leave Vietnam for Indonesia to join the ASEAN – Russia Naval Exercise on November 23, 2021 (photo : VPN)

The frigate HQ-012 Ly Thai To has arrived in Indonesia to participate in the ARNEX joint exercise between ASEAN and Russia.

The ship left Cam Ranh military port in the central Khanh Hoa Province on Tuesday afternoon for Indonesia to participate in the ASEAN – Russia Naval Exercise (ARNEX), the first of its kind held to ensure the safety of maritime economic activity and civil navigation.

The Vietnamese crew will participate in practical activities like communications, formation, search and rescue, and greeting each other at sea during the event in Indonesia’s waters, according to Vietnam People’s Navy newspaper.

The drill aims to implement agreements from the 14th ASEAN Defense Ministers' Meeting which Vietnam chaired, and at the same time, shows Vietnam's support in promoting the ASEAN - Russia relationship.

Russian Ambassador to ASEAN Alexander Ivanov told Russian news agency Sputnik the drill will take place in North Sumatra on Dec. 1-3.

The exercise aims to develop cooperation between the Russian Navy and those of ASEAN member countries to provide security for maritime commercial activities and traffic, and will be divided into two phases -- virtual and maritime. Defense Minister of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto plans to launch the drill on board anti-submarine vessel Admiral Panteleev, he added.

The Gepard-class frigate HQ-012 Ly Thai To was built by Russia with advanced military equipment.

In May 2006, Vietnam and Russia signed a $350 million contract for two Gepard-class frigates. The ships were delivered to the Vietnamese Navy in March 2011 and named after Vietnamese kings Dinh Tien Hoang and Ly Thai To.

The HQ-012 Ly Thai To is designed to perform searches, track and destroy floating target ships and patrol territorial waters as well as special economic areas. The ship is equipped with stealth technology to minimize detection by enemy radar.

(VNExpress)

MARCUS-B UAV Successfully Landing and Take Off from HTMS Chakri

26 November 2021

Naval Research & Development Office (NRDO), Royal Thai Navy (RTN) with Thailand companies SIAM DRY TECH COMPOSITE CO., LTD. Pims Technologies was demonstrated MARCUS-B (Maritime Aerial Reconnaissance Craft Unmanned System-B) VTOL UAV take off and landing on CVH-911 HTMS Chakri Naruebet helicopter carrier (all photos : AAG)

Unmanned aerial vehicle for maritime reconnaissance type 2 of  MARCUS-B by the Naval Research and Development Office, Royal Thai Navy, in collaboration with the Thai private sector, namely SDT Composites, an air structure designer and manufacturer, and Pims Technologies, a system developer for flight control and communication. It is the latest vertical take-off and landing unmanned aircraft of the Royal Thai Navy. Developed from the first version of MARCUS that has been tested, which is designed, developed and built in Thailand.

Demonstration of landing operations on a helicopter carrier HTMS Chakri Naruebet To the video that appeared on November 17, 2021 is a development progress to meet the needs of more users. It also represents a new concept for using VTOL UAVs on helicopter carriers.

Although the idea of ​​using UAVs with HMS Chakri Naruebet is often proposed Which has previously clarified some form of limitations of aircraft systems that can be used on helicopter carriers.

For example, it may not be the idea of ​​Turkey looking to use the jet engine  Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) on its Anadolu-class amphibious landing ship as a replacement for the inability to supply Lockheed Martin fighter jets F-35B Lightning II from the US.

It is not sure if Turkey can actually do as pictured or not for the MARCUS-B UAV of Thailand though. It is not large enough to carry as many weapons or equipment as a helicopter, but it is a suitable development method.

(AAG)

Turkey Plans to Jointly Manufacture 'Hurjet' with Malaysia if Tender Process Successful

26 November 2021

Hurjet LCA (photos : turkishdefencenews)

CYBERJAYA --  Turkey plans to jointly manufacture the country's home-made Light combat-trainer jet, "Hurjet", with Malaysia should the tender process be successful, said the President and Chief Executive Officer of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), Prof Temel Kotil.

He said this is an effort to strengthen the global aviation industry in their respective regions, and that 15 jets will be built in Malaysia and another three will be built in Turkey should the tender process be successful.

“We want to contribute to the capacity building of Malaysia to produce such aircraft as we see Malaysia as one of the best countries to collaborate with strategically in Asia-Pacific.” he told a press conference after attending the new Turkish Aerospace’s office opening ceremony officiated by Minister of International Trade and Industry, Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, at Cyberview Futurise campus, here, today.

Hürjet is an Advanced Jet Trainer and Light Attack Aircraft. According to the company, it is a single engine, tandem-seat with modern avionics and high-performance features. The aircraft’s first flight is forecast for the last quarter of 2022.

Turkish and Malaysian engineers will carry out joint studies in a number of areas such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), jet trainers, helicopter projects, and modernization programs for the global aviation ecosystem (photo : Turkey Embassy)

Turkish Aerospace opens first engineering, design office in Southeast Asia in Malaysia

Commenting on the new office, Kotil said the Turkish Aerospace office in Malaysia will be the company's first engineering and design office in Southeast Asia, where the company will continue its investments and collaborations in Malaysia for the development of new generation technologies, particularly in the field of defence industry and aviation.

Meanwhile, Azmin, in his speech, said that the bilateral linkages between Malaysia and Turkey continue to grow from strength to strength.

"In fact, as recently as last week, officials from MITI, led by my Secretary General, were in Ankara, Turkey, to meet with Turkish trade officials to negotiate the expansion of our existing Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

"Once concluded, the expanded FTA will also cover trade in services, investment and electronic commerce. I am pleased to share that the talks last week made substantial progress and both sides are now on track to conclude the text-based negotiations by the end of this year, and finalise the entire package of the FTA by the middle of 2022," he said. 

The minister said as of June 2021, a total of 13 manufacturing projects with Turkish participation have been approved with total investments of RM510.4 million, adding the government will continue to focus on attracting high quality investments which have elements outlined in the National Investment Aspirations (NIA) framework.

Meanwhile, Ambassador of Turkey to Malaysia Dr Merve Safa Kavakci, in her speech, said that there were only 62 ongoing defence industry projects in Turkey in 2002, and today the figure has surpassed 750.

"Turkish Aerospace should be seen as a highly valued beacon of knowledge, experience and excellence.

"We are pleased to see that Turkish defence industry companies are engaged in many solid cooperation projects in different parts of the world, including Malaysia," she said.

(Bernama)

Australia and PNG Successfully Concluded Exercise Kumul Exchange

24 November 2021

Exercise Kumul Exchange at Townsville (photos : Aus DoD)

Partnership Endures as PNG Military Exchange Concludes in Townsville

Troops from the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) have successfully concluded Exercise Kumul Exchange at Lavarack Barracks, Townsville.

The exercise saw a contingent of PNGDF soldiers integrated within the 3rd Brigades infantry, combat engineer and combat support battalions.  They conducted training courses and field activities to strengthen bonds between ADF and PNGDF soldiers. 

Commander of the 3rd Brigade, Brigadier Kahlil Fegan said the exercise is an opportunity to further our commitment to regional stability.

“The Kumul Exchange program is a valuable opportunity for the Australian Army and soldiers of the 3rd Brigade to further enhance the enduring military partnership with our PNGDF neighbours,” Brigadier Fegan said. 

“Working and training side by side allows the soldiers from both nations to develop their military skills, regional knowledge and of course, the lasting mateship and comradery that is forged.”

Completing his time at the 3rd Combat Service Support Battalion (3 CSSB) as an armourer and vehicle mechanic, PNGDF Private Steven Malaisa said the exchange program was one that he would like to see continue.

“The partnership program is a great learning experience, it helps us with our work back in PNG, and I personally have learned plenty during my time in the armoury,” Private Malaisa said.

“I want to say thank you to the Australian Government and the ADF for the opportunity to be a part of the exchange. We’re looking forward to coming back again.”

Sergeant Troy Rooney from 3 CSSB was a mentor throughout the exchange and highlighted the program’s success in developing both skills and relationships amongst the soldiers.

“This is the first time I’ve had the pleasure of working with the PNGDF, and the bond we’ve made is really valuable,” Sgt Rooney said.

The PNGDF soldiers departed Townsville on Sunday 14 November and are looking forward to more training opportunities with Australian soldiers in the future. 

(Aus DoD)

1st Batch of Turkish T129 Attack Choppers to Arrive in December

25 November 2021

T129 ATAK helicopter (photo : Cem Dogut)

MANILA – The first batch of the six Turkish-made T129 "ATAK" attack helicopters will arrive in December, Philippine Air Force (PAF) commander Lt. Gen. Allen Paredes said Tuesday night.

"Deadly...coming this December. The T129 Attack Helicopter of the Philippine Air Force," Paredes said in a Facebook post.

He did not give other details on the arrival of the helicopters.

The six T129 attack helicopters will be acquired for a total contract price of USD269,388,862 (about PHP12.9 billion) from the Turkish Aerospace Industries through a government-to-government mode of procurement under Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act.

The T129 is a twin-engine, tandem seat, multi-role, all-weather attack helicopter based on the Agusta A129 Mangusta platform and is designed for advanced attack and reconnaissance missions in hot and high environments and rough geography in both day and night conditions.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana signed the contract for the acquisition of the Turkish attack helicopters in July last year.

The PAF is looking to acquire dedicated but affordable attack helicopters to beef up its fleet of lightly-armed helicopters, such as the MG-520 and AW-109E, which are being used for counter-terror and ground support missions. 

(PNA)

DAPA Confirms Cost Adjustments to KF-21 Development Programme

25 November 2021

KF-21 fighter (image : daum)

The overall cost of the engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) phase of the KF-21/IF-X multirole fighter aircraft programme has been adjusted from approximately KRW8.6 trillion (USD7.2 billion) to KRW8.1 trillion (USD6.8 billion), South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) told Janes.

A DAPA spokesperson confirmed to Janes on 24 November that, because the KF-21 has been designated as a ‘defence article' and therefore is exempt from value-added taxes, the EMD cost had been adjusted and is now being reflected in the cost-sharing agreement between South Korea and Indonesia.

DAPA said that Indonesia's cost share for the KF-21/IF-X development programme will total approximately KRW1.6 trillion (USD1.35 billion), KRW100 billion lower than initially estimated. The South Korean cost share will also be adjusted accordingly.

Confirmation of the new cost structure comes a few weeks after the Indonesian Ministry of Defense reaffirmed its commitment to funding 20% of development costs for the KF-21 through 2026, with approximately 30% of its contribution (KRW480 billion) set to be paid in kind.

DAPA spokesperson told Janes that such payments in kind will include natural resources and other goods, however, details on the exact products and delivery type will be discussed in future consultations with Indonesia.

Indonesia's contributions to the project stopped in 2017 after it had paid KRW227 billion, with arrears growing to date to approximately KRW800 billion. How and when the balance of KRW1.3 trillion, including arrears, will be paid will also be the subject of further bilateral consultations.

(Jane's)