Army Meets the Future of Defense Assets, Security, and Technology at ADAS 2022

30 April 2022

PA diplayed new assets at ADAS 2022 (photos : ADAS)

The Philippine Army joined the opening of the 4th Asian Defense, Security & Crisis Management Exhibition and Conference on April 27, 2022 at the World Trade Center, Pasay City, Metro Manila.

KAI also displayed helicopter and fighter (photo : DSA)

The Asian Defense and Security (ADAS) 2022 is the Philippines’ flagship defense and security exhibition which started in 2014 and held every two years in the country. ADAS 2022 is a three-day event that will run until April 29, 2022. 

Anti-aircraft missile (photo : ADAS)

It is being supported by the Office of the President, Department of National Defense, National Security Council, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, Philippine Air Force, Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, and the Tourism Promotions Board.

Brahmos displayed Land Based Anti-ship Missile System (photo : ADAS)

Among the top companies and key players in the exhibition are Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics Mission Systems, Airbus, Saab, Brahmos Aerospace, Austal, Israel Weapon Industries, Korea Aerospace Industries, Israel Aerospace Industries, Elbit Systems, Embraer, Aselsan, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Rafael, Glock, and UAV Factory. 

AeroVironment RQ-20A Puma AE hand-launched UAV of the PMC (photo : Max Defense)

Local and international guests from the defense, security, and civilian sectors also ushered in the ADAS series.

ASFAT OPV 86m (image : ASFAT)

Joined by 165 exhibitors from 32 countries, Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr., assessed all the most updated technology and equipment from military powerhouses such as South Korea, Turkey, Israel, Germany, and United States.

DSME 1400PN submarine (photo : DSA)

Lt. Gen. Brawner remarked that ADAS serves as a good resource for the Revised AFP Modernization Program (RAFPMP) that could also help the Philippine Army to address a wide spectrum of defense and security threats despite changing domestic and regional security needs.

(PA)

USAF Team to Visit Thailand to Assess F-35 Procurement Potential

30 April 2022

F-35A Lightning II (photo : USAF)

BANGKOK (NNT) - A U.S. Air Force inspection team will reportedly be sent to Thailand to assess the readiness of the Royal Thai Air Force to operate and maintain fifth-generation fighter jets.

As part of the inspection, the U.S. team will look closely at the RTAF’s resources and capabilities to see if they can support the purchase of advanced stealth fighters.

According to reports, a committee tasked with overseeing the planned military procurement has been looking closely at fifth-generation aircraft with advanced stealth capabilities, including Lockheed Martin F-35 jets, to replace Thailand’s aging F-16s.

Although the Cabinet approved a budget of 13.8 billion baht in January for the purchase of four jets, the jets would most likely need to be purchased using funds from next year’s budget.

(NNT)

Prajurit Yonif 1 Marinir Dan Taruna AAL Perdalam Materi Senjata Sniper SG-550

30 April 2022

Prajurit Marinir berlatih dengan sniper SIG SG-550 (photo : Marinir)

Dispen Kormar (Sidoarjo). Dalam rangka menindaklanjuti perintah harian Kepala Staf Angkatan Laut (Kasal) Laksamana TNI Yudo Margono tentang pembangunan Sumber Daya Manusia unggul dan profesional serta tangguh dalam menghadapi segala ancaman, Prajurit Batalyon Infanteri 1 Marinir dan Taruna AAL Tingkat IV Angkatan 67 Korps Marinir menerima pendalaman materi tentang senjata Sniper SG-550 di Kelas Lapangan Yonif 1 Marinir Gedangan, Sidoarjo, Jawa Timur. Jumat (08/04/2022).

Koptu Marinir Nurwidiatmoko selaku pengisi materi mengenalkan senjata Sniper SG-550 termasuk tentang karakteristik senjata dan diajarkan cara bongkar pasang senjata. Pada kesempatan tersebut juga dijelaskan tentang tiga kemampuan dasar sebagai penembak runduk diantaranya kemampuan menembak, kemampuan penguasaan lapangan dan gabungan keduanya. Dalam materi ini juga dijelaskan pengetahuan tentang taktik pergerakan penembak runduk dan tehnik pengoperasian senjata Sniper serta penempatan senjata Sniper.

Komandan Batalyon Infanteri 1 Marinir Letkol Marinir Akhmad Kharis Mukhyiddin, S.A.P., M.Tr. Opsla menyampaikan kepada seluruh prajurit dan Taruna AAL Tingkat IV Angkatan 67 Korps Marinir agar melaksanakan kegiatan tersebut dengan penuh semangat agar dapat memahami dan mengerti tentang penembak runduk. 

Kemampuan taktik pergerakan dan tehnik pengoperasian senjata penembak runduk merupakan kemampuan dasar yang harus dimiliki oleh prajurit Korps Marinir sebagai pasukan pendarat, sehingga setiap prajurit harus menguasai taktik bergerak, berkamuflase, mengobservasi sasaran terpilih dan mampu melaksanakan penghitungan minute of angle (MOA) saat menembak sehingga tembakan dapat terarah pada sasaran.

“Selama kegiatan, utamakan faktor keamanan dan keselamatan personel maupun material,” pungkasnya.

(Marinir)

RAAF Refuels Japanese Aircraft for the First Time

30 April 2022

An air-to-air refuelling flight test between RAAF KC-30A JASDF Mitsubishi F-2A over Japan (photo : Aus DoD)

RAAF achieves milestone refuelling of Japanese aircraft

For the first time, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has conducted air-to-air refuelling flight testing with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF, or Koku-Jieitai).

Conducted in April over three weeks, the flight test engineering program in Japan involved a RAAF KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) and Mitsubishi F-2 aircraft of the JASDF.

Air Vice-Marshal Darren Goldie, Air Commander Australia, said the successful flight test program was a leap forward for Australia and Japan’s interoperability, and would facilitate the increasing complexity and sophistication of bilateral engagement between both nations.

“This is the first time that a RAAF aircraft has refuelled a JASDF aircraft, and will help build the special strategic partnership between Australia and Japan,” Air Vice-Marshal Goldie said.

“The success of this program will facilitate Japan’s participation in Exercise Pitch Black 22, which will take place in the Northern Territory this August and September.

“Working together will ensure we can continue to uphold and reinforce a secure, inclusive, and resilient Indo-Pacific region.”

Over a series of flights, aircrew and engineers ensured the mechanical compatibility between these systems, and that both aircraft can be flown safely in a range of configurations and lighting conditions.

The RAAF flight test team has extensive experience with KC-30A refuelling trials in Australia, the United States and Singapore, with this most recent trial being the first time it has worked with the JASDF.

“The flight test program represents two years of close cooperation between our own Aircraft Research and Development Unit (ARDU), and the JASDF Air Development and Test Wing (ADTW),” Air Vice-Marshal Goldie said.

In recent years, JASDF and RAAF personnel have worked together following natural disasters in Tonga and Australia, and trained with each other during Exercise Cope North in Guam, and Exercise Bushido Guardian in Japan.

(Aus DoD)

KRI Frans Kaisiepo-368 Berlatih Tembakkan Torpedo

29 April 2022

KRI Frans Kaisiepo 368 (photo : Vladimir Knyaz)

Kehandalan Sensor dan Senjata Teruji, KRI Frans Kaisiepo-368 Hancurkan Kapal Selam Musuh

TNI AL Koarmada II. Surabaya -- Kekuatan Sistem Senjata Armada Terpadu TNI Angkatan Laut dirancang untuk dapat melaksanakan tugas-tugas secara simultan dalam konsep operasi gabungan yang diimplementasikan pada skema peperangan laut termasuk peperangan Anti Kapal Selam (AKS). Lingkungan bawah air sebagai domain peperangan AKS merupakan lingkungan yang menantang dalam upaya membentuk gambaran taktis dan menghancurkan kapal selam musuh.

Latihan penembakan torpedo KRI Frans Kaisiepo 368 (photos : Koarmada2)

KRI Frans Kaisiepo-368 dengan tenang dan pasti berhasil mendeteksi kontak bawah air yang dicurigai sebagai kontak kapal selam. Juru Sonar melaksanakan identifikasi dan klasifikasi menggunakan FM Analysis serta chart check untuk memastikan kontak bawah air tersebut adalah kapal selam musuh. 

Berdasarkan hasil analisis juru sonar dan chart check negatif, maka Pos Komando Peperangan Anti Kapal (PK PAK) menetapkan bahwa kontak tersebut adalah kapal selam musuh dengan klasifikasi Possible Submarine Low 2. Dengan sigap, Komandan KRI Frans Kaisiepo-368 memerintahkan PK PAK untuk melaksanakan deliberate attack dengan menembakkan Torpedo A 244 S Mod 3.

Situasi tersebut merupakan bagian dari skenario Uji Fungsi penembakan senjata AKS KRI Frans Kaisiepo-368 selesai melaksanakan pemantapan kondisi teknis Peluncur Torpedo B-515, Shipborne Presetter 115C (SPS 115C), dan Torpedo Simulator 102C (TRS 102C). Hal ini bertujuan agar KRI Frans Kaisiepo-368 berada dalam kondisi siap tempur saat melaksanakan tugas operasi. Salah satu bentuk kegiatan dalam uji fungsi tersebut adalah penembakan dummy Torpedo A 244 S Mod 3.

Dalam kesempatan tersebut, Komandan KRI Frans Kaisiepo-368, Letkol Laut (P) John David Nalasakti Sondakh menyampaikan bahwa kegiatan uji fungsi sistem penembakan torpedo berjalan dengan baik dan seluruh sistem berfungsi normal.

 

“Dummy torpedo A 244 S Mod 3 berhasil meluncur dan TRS 102C berhasil membaca seluruh parameter yang dimasukkan melalui SPS 115C dengan tepat. Recovery dummy torpedo oleh tim dari Dislambair juga berjalan dengan baik”, tegas Letkol John.

Di tempat terpisah Komandan Satuan kapal Eskorta (Satkor) Koaramda II, Kolonel Laut (P) Andri Kristianto juga menyampaikan bahawa kegiatan ini adalah wujud dari pelaksanaan arahan Pangkoarmada II Laksda TNI Iwan Isnurwanto , yang selaras dengan program prioritas Kasal Laksamana TNI Yudo Margono yakni terkait pembinaan SDM TNI AL yang unggul. ”Pungkasnya.

(KoArmada2)

HMAS Maitland Decommissions in Darwin

28 April 2022

HMAS Maitland off the coast of Honiara, Solomon Islands, during a maritime surveillance patrol (photo : Aus DoD)

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) has decommissioned Armidale Class Patrol Boat HMAS Maitland at a ceremony at HMAS Coonawarra, Darwin, following 16 years of service.

Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Michael Noonan, AO, RAN, recognised the service of the Ship’s Company.

“HMAS Maitland and the men and women who have served in her, have made a significant contribution to our national interest,” Vice Admiral Noonan said.

“Through their professionalism and dedication, the crew have protected our nation’s borders and offshore maritime interests from illegal activity such as unauthorised entry and customs breaches, and upheld immigration and drugs legislation.

“Today, we reflect on that contribution while looking to our future.

“Navy will be transitioning to 12 Arafura Class Offshore Patrol Vessels, which have much greater range and endurance than the Armidale Class patrol boats,” Vice Admiral Noonan said.

The Arafura Class Vessels will carry three sea boats larger than that of the Armidale Class, significantly increasing our capability and enhancing our capacity to patrol Australia’s maritime territory and near region.

Since commissioning in 2006, HMAS Maitland has worked alongside Border Force, Australian Fisheries and the Australian Federal Police as part of Operation RESOLUTE and been assigned to Operations AUGURY, RAI BALANG, SANDALWOOD and SOLANIA. 

HMAS Maitland is named after the City of Maitland in NSW, and the World War II naval training establishment located in Newcastle, NSW. She is the second Armidale Class Patrol Boat to be decommissioned.

(Aus DoD)

IAI and Hyundai Heavy Industries to Supply Philippine Navy with ALPHA 3D Radar Systems

29 April 2022

ELM-2258, also known as the advanced lightweight phased-array (ALPHA) 3D radar system (photo : Jane's)

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Hyundai Heavy Industries have signed an agreement to supply the Philippine Navy with IAI’s ALPHA 3D Radar Systems. The systems will be integrated on the Philippine Navy’s new Corvette ships.

IAI is a global leader in the development of advanced naval technologies. Developed by IAI’s ELTA Division, the ALPHA 3D Radar System is a lightweight, multi-function 3D AESA radar, which shares technology with its larger sibling, the MF-STAR radar. With its modular construction and fully digital software-driven architecture, the ALPHA delivers low LCC together with the cost-effective ability to implement future upgrades, mainly through software updates, ensuring the ability to cope with new threats over the system's extended service life. IAI’s family of naval radar technology is operational and combat-proven in navies around the world.

HHI HDC-3100 corvette (image : HHI)

The ALPHA 3D Radar System will be fully integrated with the Combat Management System (CMS) supplied by Hanwha Systems, and will provide an array of advanced multi-mission capabilities for the Philippine Navy. 

Yoav Tourgeman, IAI VP and CEO of ELTA, said: “This agreement is a testament to IAI’s close partnership and cooperation with Hyundai and the defense ecosystem in Asia. Incorporating IAI’s pioneering AESA technology on the Philippine Navy’s new ships highlights the trust that the Philippine Navy and Hyundai Heavy Industries have placed in IAI. We are honored to be an integral part of this important program and supply our operational, combat-proven systems to our friends in Asia."

IAI is a globally-recognized leader in developing advanced naval technologies. IAI’s radar technology and air and missile defense systems are operational in navies worldwide, including in the Israeli Navy, which integrated the MF-STAR radar and the Barak MX Air and Missile Defense System on its new Sa’ar Corvettes in 2021. IAI’s tailor-made naval solutions are based on decades of technological, combat-proven expertise.  

(IAI)

Tiga Kapal Perang Koarmada III Dipasang Meriam 30 mm

29 April 2022

Meriam Oto Melara 30 mm Marlin WS Gun Mount 059 (photos : Koarmada 3)

Fasharkan Manokwari Pasang Meriam 30 mm di Tiga Kapal Perang Koarmada III

TNI AL/Koarmada III --- Tiga KRI dibawah jajaran TNI AL/Koarmada III melaksanakan  pemasangan Meriam Oto Melara 30 mm Marlin WS Gun Mount 059  di Fasharkan Manokwari Papua Barat. Dlam pemasangan meriam tersebut dua KRI yaitu KRI Layaran-854 dan KRI Tatihu-853 telah selesai dan berhasil melaksanakan kegiatan Sea Acceptance Test (SAT) atas Meriam Kaliber 30 MM yang dilaksanakan di perairan utara Papua, sedangkan KRI Madidihang-855 pelaksanaan uji coba penembakan akan dilaksanakan dalam beberapa waktu kedepan, Kamis (28/04/22).

Ketiga KRI tersebut merupakan produk anak bangsa, dibuat oleh PT Palindo Marine Shipyard Batam, saat ini  beroperasi di wlayah kerja  Komando Armada III yang terbentang dari perairan Maluku, Maluku Utara, Maluku Tenggara, Papua dan Papua Barat. Adapun  pemasangan Meriam 30 mm tersebut,  bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kesiapsiagaan dan kekuatan tempur dalam menjalankan tugas menjaga kedaulatan dan keamanan laut di wilayah kerja  Koarmada III.

KRI Layaran-854, KRI Tatihu-853 dan KRI Madidihang-855 (photo : suaradamai)

Meriam Oto Melara 30 mm Marlin WS Gun Mount 059 merupakan produksi Italy, dan pemasangannya dilaksanakan di Fasharkan TNI AL Manokwari Papua Barat, yang merupakan tindak lanjut dari kebijakan Kepala Staf Angkatan Laut dan Panglima Koarmada III untuk memanfaatkan Fasharkan Manokwari sebagai salah satu Fasharkan di wilayah kerja Koarmada III yang mampu melaksanakan pemeliharaan dan perbaikan KRI maupun KAL.

Selain itu proses pemasangan Meriam tersebut hingga uji coba penembakan dilaksanakan oleh Teknisi Asing/Leonardo Italia, sekaligus memberikan training dan pelatihan kepada Teknisi Fasharkan Manokwari dan personel KRI sebagai pengawak Meriam 30mm.

Meriam Oto Melara 30 mm Marlin WS Gun Mount 059 merupakan produksi Italy, mempunyai jarak jangkauan maksimalnya sekitar 3500 Meter, dan memiliki sistem yang canggih, karena dilengkapi kamera dan remot kontrol, serta mempunyai  fungsi selain sebagai pertahanan permukaan antar kapal, dan juga  untuk pertahanan udara baik dengan pesawat maupun rudal, dengan jarak 3,5 km.

(Koarmada 3)

RUAG Australia to Become F-35 Wheels and Brakes MRO Authority

28 April 2022

F-35A Lightning II wheel and brake (photo : USAF)

RUAG Australia secures inaugural F-35 wheels and brakes sustainment capability in Asia-Pacific region

With Phase 1 and 2 now successfully completed, RUAG Australia received JPO ATP and will now proceed into Phase 3 and 4 to become an official Depot Source of Repair (DSOR). The wheels and brakes sustainment capability will be exclusive to RUAG in the APAC region and support ongoing maintenance and sustainment of the fifth generation F-35 fleet. RUAG Australia will transition its highly skilled and experienced defence and aerospace technical staff from current legacy programs into the F-35 Global Support Systems (GSS). The ATP achievement is a critical step for developing Australia’s industrial sovereign capability and delivering our commitment as one of the joint partner nations in the F-35 Program. 

“RUAG Australia is the first Australian industry Component Assigned Product Service Provider (A-PSP) to complete the F-35 JPO Depot Maintenance Development Plan (DMDP) process through Phases 1 and 2, and I congratulate you and your team in achieving this important milestone” says Kirrilee McNeill, Director Industry Aerospace Combat Systems Branch, Aerospace Systems Division.

Terry Miles, General Manager of RUAG Australia, notes “We have seized the opportunity to deliver reliable wheels and brakes solutions for the F-35 Program, by leveraging our expertise and long-standing success of providing MRO sustainment for complex aircraft components, and the fifth generation of military aircraft sustainment.”

“The Australian team has embraced continuous improvement and capability development at a local level to improve global competitiveness. Long-standing relationships with customers and business affiliates will strengthen RUAG Australia’s sovereign capability in the APAC region,” says Felix Amman, Executive Vice President, RUAG MRO International. 

(RUAG)

TLDM Mohon Perolehan LMS Batch Kedua Disegerakan

28 April 2022

LMS batch pertama KD Badik (photo : TLDM)

LUMUT – Tentera Laut Diraja Malaysia (TLDM) memohon kerajaan memberikan kelulusan segera perolehan batch kedua kapal misi pesisir (LMSB2) batch kedua demi memelihara kepentingan dan kedaulatan negara.

Panglima Tentera Laut, Laksamana Tan Sri Mohd. Reza Mohd. Sany berkata, LMS itu mempunyai keupayaan tempur yang lebih baik berbanding kapal LMS kelas Keris yang digunakan TLDM buat masa ini.

Menurut Mohd. Reza, peningkatan keupayaan tempur ini amat diperlukan ekoran jurang kemampuan aset sedia ada TLDM semakin melebar dan berada pada tahap kritikal.

“Saya ingin jelaskan bahawa perolehan LMSB2 adalah selari dengan rancangan transformasi TLDM 15to5 yang telah direkalibrasi.

“TLDM amat berharap kerajaan dapat memberi pertimbangan yang positif bagi memastikan perolehan ini dapat dilaksanakan dalam masa terdekat,” katanya selepas menghadiri Istiadat Perbarisan Hari TLDM ke 88 di Pangkalan TLDM Lumut di sini hari ini.

Mohd. Reza berkata bagi memastikan peroleh ini dapat disegerakan TLDM telah mengadakan perbincangan serta mendapat sokongan penuh daripada Menteri Kanan Pertahanan, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein.

(Kosmo)

Lorenzana to Endorse P30-B OPV Project to Next DND Chief

28 April 2022

HHI is offering HDP-1500 Neo OPV (image : HHI)

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Wednesday said he is inclined to endorse to the next defense chief the contract for the offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) which is worth PHP30 billion to avoid midnight deal allegations.

"Six yan (OPVs), kung maayos natin yan yung mga papeles I might also endorse it to the next Secretary of Defense para makita naman nya kung ano ang mangyari, kasi kung pirmihan ko yan baka sabihin midnight (deal) [That project consists of six (OPVs) and if we are able to complete all the documents, I might endorse it to the next Secretary of Defense, so he could have a look at it. This is to avoid midnight deal allegations]," he said when asked by reporters if he has any projects that he will endorse to the next administration at the sidelines of this year's Asian Defense and Security (ADAS) exhibition held at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Lorenzana said that former Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin did the same to him regarding the two missile-frigates of the Philippine Navy (PN).

He said that Gazmin did all the initial works on the project but did not sign it as his term was about to end at the time to avoid midnight deal accusations.

The DND earlier said it is now looking for new proponents for the PN's procurement of six OPVs due to pricing issues with Australian shipbuilder Austal. "Pending our approval of the contract for the purchase, they (Austal) said the cost has increased -- materials, labor and everything. They asked for additional payment. I think our budget is PHP30 billion, so they want PHP12 billion more for the six OPVs or they said we can reduce the number from six to five," Lorenzana said.

He added that he can no longer ask the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for additional funding. However, he also said reducing the number of OPVs to be acquired is not an option for the PN.

"Ang gusto nila (Navy) anim talaga dahil talagang (yun) kailangan natin, so ang ginawa nila ay nakikipag-usap sila ngayon sa mga ibang proponent (na) kayang tugunan without any increase in price or reducing the number of ships (What they really want is six because that is the number they need, so they are now talking with other proponents capable of giving that number without increasing the price or reducing the number of ships)," the DND chief earlier said.

ASFAT is offering its VARD-7 86m OPV (image : ASFAT)

Lorenzana also said that shipbuilders from France, Sweden, South Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries, Japan, and India have expressed interest in the PN's OPV project.

Initially, Australian shipbuilder Austal was believed to be the frontrunner in the OPV project.

Lorenzana, in earlier statement, said tapping Austal for the project will be greatly advantageous to the country as it will provide jobs to Filipinos as the company has an existing shipyard in Balamban, Cebu which it had acquired from Aboitiz.

This is aside from the transfer of technology which will also be beneficial to the Philippines in the long run, he added. The OPV project is expected to replace the World War II surface assets decommissioned by the Navy.

The DBM already released the funds for the project last year.

As this developed, AFP chief Gen. Andres Centino, who attended this year's ADAS' opening ceremonies, called the exhibition an opportunity for the military's project evaluation teams to assess and evaluate suitable requirements for the military’s defense and security platforms, systems, and equipment.

Some 146 local and foreign companies are participating in this year's event. As the premier platform for manufacturers and distributors, ADAS seeks to showcase capabilities or solutions that address the requirements of defense and security agencies.

National disaster reduction agencies have similarly benefitted from the event where they are able to avail of the latest updates on new techniques and technologies in disaster management. Following its successful launch in 2014, ADAS reaffirmed its position as the Philippines’ Flagship Defense and Security event as it continues to attract a significant number of international exhibitors from around the world to Manila.

“By bringing the latest technologies from around the world to Manila, the exhibition has opened wider avenues for the professional training, education, and enhancement of personnel competencies and skills,” Centino said. 

(PNA) 

PH Air Force Gets First-ever Missile Simulator

27 April 2022

PAF formally accepted SPYDER simulator (photos : PAF)

MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) can now train on various surface-air missile engagement techniques after it formally accepted its first missile simulator, the SPYDER Philippines Air Defense Systems (SPAD) Simulator-Training Center.

Air Force spokesperson Col. Maynard Mariano, in a statement Tuesday night, said the acceptance, turnover, and blessing ceremony took place at the Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga on April 26.

"The SPADS Simulator-Training Center is the AFP’s (Armed Forces of the Philippines) first missile training center, which will serve as a training ground for future missile operators to prepare them for real-world challenges, as well as to increase personnel knowledge, skills, and develop the right attitude for air and missile defense," he said.

The SPAD Simulator-Training Center is part of the Ground Base Air Defense System (GBADS) acquisition project of the PAF, which seeks to enhance the military's defense capabilities.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana was the guest-of-honor of the event, along with PAF chief Lt. Gen. Connor Anthony Canlas, Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss, Rafael Advanced Defense System executive vice president retired Brig. Gen. Pinhas Yungman, and Air Defense Command chief Maj. Gen. Augustine Malinit.

"During the activity, Secretary Lorenzana, along with PAF senior leaders were able to witness the missile engagement simulation and the training capabilities of the center and its attendant facilities," Mariano said.

SPYDER is short for the surface-to-air PYthon and DERby mobile-air defense system developed by the Rafael Advanced Defense Systems with assistance from Israel Aerospace Industries.

The Notice of Award for the GBADS acquisition project was released in 2019.

The PAF did not give the specific number of SPYDER batteries it is set to acquire. 

(PNA)

Air Defense - Air Force Organizes Shooting, Bombing, and Live Ammunition

27 April 2022

Su-22, Su-30MK2, and Mi-8 helicopters shooting and bombing at Thanh Son (all photos : PKKQ)

On April 21, the Air Defense - Air Force (PK-KQ) organized a flight to shoot, drop bombs and live ammunition at sea targets at the TB-5 Shooting Range for air units throughout the Service. 

Directly monitoring and directing the shooting wave were Lieutenant General Nguyen Van Nghia - Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People's Army; Lieutenant General Vu Van Kha - Acting Commander of the Air Defense Forces; Major General Pham Truong Son - Deputy Commander of the Air Defense Forces; Major General Bui To Viet - Deputy Political Commissar of the Air Defense Forces; heads of the Air Defense and Air Forces agencies.

In this round of shooting and bombing of sea targets, the pilots and crew practiced the contents of bombing, artillery, rocketry, simple maneuvers, complex maneuvers according to squads and maneuvers. single unit, hitting sea surface targets, on all types of aircraft on the service of the units. 

In the process of organizing the preparation and practice of shooting and throwing, the units have well performed command and control; ensure good techniques, logistics, information - radar in stages. 

The team of pilots and flight crews are carefully prepared in terms of tactical skills, bravery and psychology; successfully complete the contents of practice flying, shooting real bombs at sea, ensuring absolute safety.

With 28 successful flights using weapons, this round of shooting and dropping live bombs at sea accurately reflected the results of combat training of the units that were constantly being improved; at the same time, contribute to training and improving the qualifications, experience and combat skills of the pilots and flight crews; flight command level, ability to ensure sea flight operations of the units. 

Thereby improving the combat readiness and combat of the air force units, meeting the mission requirements in the coming time.

(PKKQ)

Marsun is Winning Four New Naval Patrol Boat project for Royal Thai Navy

27 April 2022

Marsun M10 Riverine Patrol Boat and M10 Riverine Patrol Boat MKII (photos : AAG)

The Royal Thai Navy's Central Procurement and Price Information Center has published an announcement of a project to build a speedboat to monitor the river. (Excluding weapons systems) in the amount of 4 ships by the Royal Thai Naval Dockyard (RTND: Royal Thai Naval Dockyard) amount 84,012,120 baht ($2,505,056) on January 10, 2022.

The announcement of the winner of the project published in the middle of April, 2022 is Marsun Public Company Limited, with a limit bid. 82,176,000 baht ($2,450,307) The TOR: Terms of Reference has not been published.

It is understood that Marsun PCL Thailand should be awarded a contract to construct a new rapid patrol boat based on the M10 Riverine Patrol Boat and M10 Riverine Patrol Boat MKII designs that a Thai private shipyard designed, developed and built internally  Thailand.

By the River Fleet (RS: Riverine Squadron) has provided 3 boats, boats patrol boats L.161, boat sets, boats L.161, boats. Number of 6 boats (boat L. 164, boat  L.165, boat L.166, boat L.167, boat L.168 and boat L.169)

6 boats patrol boats L.170 boat series (boat L.170, boat L.171, boat L.172, boat L.173, boat L.174 and boat L.175) and boat patrol boats. Lor 176, a total of 6 ships (boat 176, boat 177, boat 178, boat 179, boat 180 and boat 181), etc.

In addition to Marsun Thai Company, there is also Choknamchai Hitech Pressing Co., Ltd., another company that has been awarded a boat building contract. 6 speed boats patrolling the river from the Department of the Naval Dockyard 84.3 million baht ($2,513,640) in fiscal year 2020.

The Naval Fleet, Royal Thai Fleet (RTF: Royal Thai Fleet) is in the process of acquiring a new patrol speed boat to replace the 39 boat patrol boat series L 11 (Patrol Boat, River PBR Mark II) numbering 39 ships in service, coming from the year 1971-1979.

The ships on the river are organized, most of the SRT ships are in the peacekeeping unit along the Mekong River. NRK (previously NDP) and some other task force units At present, many ships of the Royal Thai Police, Lor 11 series boats have been decommissioned.

There are no details about the characteristics of the 4 new SRT ships that Marsun Thai Company has been selected. stating that "Does not include weapons systems", therefore understands that the Thai Navy will arm the ship itself, including M2 HB .50cal heavy machine gun, M240T 7.62mm machine gun and 40mm machine grenade launcher, etc.

Marsun has also been selected for the Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel (LCVP: Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel) Phase 3 project, 2 vessels, proposed for a budget. 30,602,000 baht ($912,484) as well, all of which promote the Thai Navy's boat-building industry in the country.

(AAG)

NZ C-130Js to Get Specialist Equipment, Advanced Sensors

26 April 2022

The five Lockheed Martin C-130J-30s Super Hercules to be built for New Zealand will have advanced ISTAR and communications systems (photo : Lockheed Martin Aeronautics)

The five Lockheed Martin C-130J-30s Super Hercules to be procured by New Zealand will have specialist equipment and sensors.

Janes has learned that the aircraft will be fitted with L3 WESCAM MX-20 electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) cameras and a Honeywell JetWave Ka-band wide bandwidth, high-speed satellite communications (satcom) system.

The MX-20 system is designed for high-altitude intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) operations. It has been deployed aboard long-range maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) and GA-ASI MQ-9B SkyGuardian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Able to provide more than x400 magnification in the EO sensor and more than x75 magnification in the IR sensor, the MX-20 also uses Enhanced Local Area Processing (ELAP) to improve feature recognition.

Janes previously reported that the modular design of the system supports up to seven sensor payloads simultaneously. This comprises “a daylight CCD [charged-coupled device] camera with zoom lens, a colour [or monochrome] daylight camera with four-step spotter lens, a night camera with four-step spotter lens, a thermal imager with high magnification four-step zoom, a laser rangefinder, and two choices of laser illuminator/pointer”.

The satcom system supports up to 50 Mbps of speed via the fuselage-mounted antenna. The tail-mounted antenna is capable of speeds up to 30 Mbps.

“In addition to the above [two] specific systems, the NZ [New Zealand] variant will include the ability for video and images to be captured while the aircraft is in use,” the New Zealand Ministry of Defence (MoD) told Janes.

This includes “the ability to live-stream footage back to civilian agencies during humanitarian and disaster relief and search-and-rescue (SAR) missions”, the MoD added.

(Jane's)

Yonarmed 17 Selenggarakan Latihan Taktis Tingkat Seksi

26 April 2022

Latihan Taktis Tingkat Seksi Yonarmed 17/Komposit/RC dengan menggunakan meriam tarik 105mm dan 155mm (all photos : Yonarmed 17)

Yonarmed 17/Komposit/RC melaksanakan Latihan taktis tingkat seksi yang diselenggarakan pada tanggal 18 s/d 22 April 2022 dengan bertempat di rahlat (daerah latihan) kabupaten Pidie kompleks.

Latihan ini melibatkan 224 personel yang terdiri dari pelaku, penyelenggara, dan pendukung, serta melibatkan 2 jenis kaliber meriam yaitu 105 mm dan 155 mm.

Latihan bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan personel dalam hubungan tingkat seksi, sekaligus juga untuk mempersiapkan personel dalam menghadapi Uji Siap Tempur Tingkat Seksi yang akan dilaksanakan dalam waktu dekat.

Batalyon Artileri Medan 17/Rencong Cakti atau Yon Armed 17/105 Tarik/Rencong Cakti atau sekarang berubah menjadi Yon Armed 17/Komposit merupakan satuan Batalyon Artileri yang berada langsung di bawah Komando Kodam Iskandar Muda. Markas Komando Yon Armed 17/Komposit beralamat di Jl. Lintas Banda Aceh - Medan Ds.Cot Padang Nila kec. Muara Tiga Kabupaten Pidie.

(YonArmed 17)