2 Turkish-made Attack Helicopters Now Mission Capable: PAF

31 Mei 2022

PAF T-129 ATAK helicopter (photo : Efrain Noel Morota Aviation)

MANILA – The two Turkish-made T129 "Atak" attack helicopters delivered to the country last March are now "fully mission capable", the Philippine Air Force (PAF) said Tuesday.

Col. Maynard Mariano, PAF spokesperson, said this means that the air assets are ready for their role as a "strike aircraft, with the crew and the pilots done with the training and ready to be employed in areas needed."

The two helicopters were declared "fully mission capable" shortly after the Sanay Tudla 2 exercises, held from May 16 to 24 at the Col. Ernesto Rabina Air Base in Capas, Tarlac, were concluded.

The T129s are assigned to the PAF's 15th Strike Wing based at the Major Danilo Atienza Air Base in Sangley Point, Cavite City.

T129 during training (photo : PAF)

"As for the geographic assignment, this is something that we cannot disclose," Mariano said.

The first two T129s, out of the six ordered from the Turkish Aerospace Industries, arrived in Clark Air Base, Pampanga last March 9.

Mariano said the Turkish-made attack helicopters are expected to enhance PAF's surface strike system.

The T129s will be used for close-air support for ground troops and armed surveillance and reconnaissance.

"The T129 is a dedicated attack helicopter, much like the (Bell) AH-1S Cobra. This new system will complement the several surface strike systems of the Air Force and will be another game-changer in support to the numerous missions of the AFP [Armed Forces of the Philippines]," Mariano said.

T129 during (photo : PAF)

The total contract price for the six units of T129 helicopters is PHP13.7 billion, which includes the logistics support and training of pilots and crew in Turkey, Mariano added.

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 2020.

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

(PNA)

Lanal Batuporon Bakal Dipindah ke Sumenep untuk Permudah Daya Jangkau KRI

31 Mei 2022

Batuporon dan Sumenep (kanan), pulau Madura (image : GoogleMaps)

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - TNI Angkatan Laut akan memindahkan Pangkalan TNI Angkatan Laut (Lanal) Batuporon, Bangkalan ke Sumenep, Madura, Jawa Timur. 

Alasan strategis pemindahan ini untuk memudahkan daya jangkau Kapal Perang Republik Indonesia (KRI) yang berada di wilayah Alur Laut Kepulauan Indonesia (ALKI) II, yang mencakup Laut Sulawesi, Selat Makassar, Laut Flores, dan Selat Lombok. 

Kepala Staf Angkatan Laut (KSAL) Laksamana Yudo Margono mengatakan, Lanal Batuporon kurang strategis karena berhadapan dengan Komando Armada (Koarmada) II.

“Karena itu, akan dihibahkan lahan oleh PT Garam untuk lokasi pembangunan Lanal Sumenep, memerintahkan Lantamal V Surabaya untuk mengecek seberapa strategisnya tempat tersebut untuk dibangun Lanal,” kata Yudo saat berkunjung ke Sumenep, Minggu (29/5/2022). 

Selain itu, pembangunan Lanal Sumenep juga tak lepas karena aspek perekonomian di wilayah Sumenep. Sehingga kondisi tersebut dibutuhkan pengamanan laut yang memadai. 

Adapun rencana pembangunan Lanal Sumenep sendiri telah dimulai dengan adanya validasi organisasi internal TNI AL. 

Yudo mengingatkan supaya keberadaan Lanal Sumenep lebih dulu masuk dalam kategori lanal tipe C. 

Sebagai informasi, lanal tipe C dapat memberi ruang bagi kapal-kapal TNI AL untuk melaksanakan bekal ulang administrasi logistik. 

Dengan demikian, KRI yang melaksanakan patroli bisa bersandar di Lanal Sumenep untuk melakukan bekal ulang. 

Sejalan dengan beroperasinya lanal tersebut, nantinya bisa ditingkatkan menjadi lanal tipe B. 

Yudo menegaskan, wilayah Sumenep merupakan jalur strategis untuk pelayaran nasional maupun internasional.

Hal ini tak lepas karena di Laut Jawa hampir setiap hari terjadi pelayaran yang sangat padat. 

Tak hanya itu, wilayah Sumenep juga tak jauh dari Selat Sapudi yang menjadi jalur bagi kapal-kapal asing, termasuk kapal selam maupun lintas laut. 

“Sehingga perlu pengamanan sangat ketat dan kehadiran Angkatan Laut akan mengamankan pulau-pulau di sekitar Madura, karena TNI AL juga memiliki kewenangan menegakkan hukum dan menjaga perairan yurisdiksi nasional,” tegas Yudo.

(Kompas)

Vietnamese Army Inspecting Scud Missile

31 Mei 2022

Scud B warhead of the Vietnamese Army (photo : Ann Quann, QPVN)

Personnel of Vietnam People Army inspecting a stock of Scud warheads at Warehouse K380. Based on the container description, the Army is using 8F44E (8Ф44Э) warheads for its tactical ballistic missiles. 8F44E is the export version of 8F44, a one-ton high-explosive warhead.

Personnel from 490th Brigade of Vietnam People Army demonstrating their Scud in a TV program. The Army used to have two units operating ballistic missiles. Still, for a number of reasons, the Army converted one unit into a storage unit.

The article has also shared insights into the range extension program for Scud B of the Army. Previously, Scud B of the Army could only reach out to 300km. Following the conclusion of the program, Scud B now features a maximum range of 500km.

(Ann Quann)

Kamboja Menerima Pasokan MLRS dan SPH Baru dari China

31 Mei 2022

Iring-iringan kendaraan artileri baru Angkatan Darat Kamboja (all photos : Military News)

Situs intelijen Cybershafarat melaporkan pada tanggal 29 Mei 2022 bahwa Kamboja baru saja menerima kendaraan peluncur roket multi laras beserta kelengkapannya yang terdiri dari :

-6 PHL-03 kendaraan MLRS 300mm,

-2 WS-2400 kendaraan pengangkut muatan,

-2 WS-2500 kendaraan pengangkut amunisi,

Kendaraan tersebut semuanya adalah buatan Norinco Corporation, China.

Namun pada kanal Youtube berbahasa Khmer ពត៌មានយោធា - Military News pada tanggal 28 Mei 2022 yang memuat video iring-iringan pengiriman kendaraan artileri tersebut, pada barisan terakhir yang luput dari perhatian adalah howitzer gerak sendiri (SPH) SH-1 155mm buatan Norinco Corporation China. Jumlah SPH yang dikirimkan sebanyak 6 unit.

PHL-03 adalah versi China dari kendaraan peluncur roket Rusia BM-30 Smerch. Dengan 12 laras kendaraan ini dapat meluncurkan roket dengan kaliber 300mm hingga jarak 70-130km, tergantung pada jenis roket yang digunakan. Pada tembakan salvo 1 kendaraan peluncur dapat menghancurkan daerah seluas 67 hektar. Negara di kawasan yang menggunakan MLRS dengan single calibre 300mm adalah Thailand dengan MLRS DTI-1/1G yang merupakan turunan WS-1B.

SH1 adalah truck-mounted howitzer dengan kaliber 155mm. Kamboja adalah negara kedua di kawasan yang menggunakan SPH ini setelah Myanmar. Jarak tembakan SPH ini dilaporkan dapat mencapai 53km. SH-1 dilengkapi dengan sistem kendali tembakan terkomputerisasi, navigasi, penentuan posisi, dan sistem penargetan sehingga memudahkan personel yang mengawakinya.

(Defense Studies)

New Zealand will Support Ukraine with L119 105mm Howitzer

30 Mei 2022

L119 105mm howitzer (photo : NZDF)

Thirty New Zealand troops will travel to the UK to help Ukrainian soldiers master the towed 105-mm L119 light howitzer.

This was announced on Monday by the Prime Minister of New Zealand.

"Currently, there are very few armed forces that can make such preparations," said Jacinda Ardern, "which is why New Zealand was called."

The commander of the New Zealand Defense Forces, Marshal of Aviation Kevin Short, said that New Zealand plans to train about 230 Ukrainian gunners. "We think it will take at least a week to train a luxury man," he said.

Ukrainian military training is expected to continue in late July.

The British light 105 mm L119 howitzer (also manufactured under license in the United States as the M119) is designed to support infantry. Maximum range up to 17 km. The weight of the howitzer is 1.9 tons. The calculation consists of three people.

(UkrMilitary)

Pindad Enjiniring Indonesia Berkolaborasi Kembangkan Produk Senjata RCWS

30 Mei 2022

RCWS yang sedang dijajaki oleh PT Pindad bersama 3 mitranya (photo : PEI)

Kolaborasi kerjasama 4 perusahaan antara PT Pindad, PT Pindad Enjiniring Indonesia, BS Indonesia dan Kyeong In Tech yang telah mendatangani MOU bersama untuk pengembangan teknologi Remote Control Weapon System atau dikenal dengan RCWS. Pada tanggal 20 Mei 2022, Manager Engineering PT Pindad Enjiniring Indonesia, Garry Varian beserta tim peninjau PT Pindad melakukan kunjungan kerja ke Korea Selatan dan disambut langsung oleh CEO Kyeong in Technology Choi yong-jun, Senior Managing Director Seunghwan Cho, General Managing Jaeha Shin, International Business Development Jaehee Lee beserta jajaran pejabat lainnya.

Adapun agenda kunjungan ini dimaksudkan untuk meninjau dan menguji perkembangan produk persenjataan RCWS (Remote Controlled Weapon System) yang akan kembali di kirim ke PT Pindad Enjiniring Indonesia untuk selanjutnya di uji secara internal di fasilitas PT Pindad serta akan dilakukan sertifikasi produk dengan uji Eksternal bersama End User yaitu Tentara Nasional Indonesia (TNI). Jika semua nya berjalan lancar dan sudah sesuai dengan standar nya, produk RCWS ini akan diikutsertakan dalam pameran Indo Deffence pada bulan November tahun 2022.

Harapan kedepannya dengan pengembangan senjata atas kerjasama ini, dapat terwujud satu upaya untuk mewujudkan target inovasi sebagai Advanced Weapon System. Sehingga produk RCWS (Remote Control Weapon System) ini dapat meningkatkan kemampuan dan kapasitas produk senjata PT. Pindad dan PT Pindad Enjiniring Indonesia sebagai satu-satu nya anak perusahaan PT Pindad yang juga memiliki izin produksi Industri Pertahanan khusus untuk RCWS dapat membantu memproduksi secara massal serta membuat Indonesia bangga mampu memproduksi senjata canggih buatan dalam negeri.

(PEI)

PAF Ends 9-day Gunnery Competition

30 Mei 2022

PAF gunnery competition (all photos : PAF)

MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) announced the conclusion of the nine-day gunnery competition tasked to test the skills and accuracy of its strike, monitoring and detection assets.

The event took place at the Col. Ernesto Rabina Air Base in Capas, Tarlac between May 16 to 24, PAF spokesperson Col. Maynard Mariano said in a statement Friday.

These exercises were formally known in PAF and military circles as "SANAY-TUDLA II" and "SIMEX III".

He said the gunnery competition was highlighted by the participation of the PAF's air defense, command, control, communications, computers, information/intelligence, surveillance, targeting acquisition and reconnaissance (C4ISTAR), search-and-rescue systems and surface strike-capable assets.

These assets were divided into two teams supported by other PAF units corresponding to their core systems under the Integrated Air Operation System, Mariano said.

"During the conduct of the exercise(s) the PAF utilized its air assets such as the FA-50PH of the 5th Fighter Wing; the AW-109AH, SF-260TP, T-129, and A-29B 'Super Tucano' of 15th Strike Wing; Bell-412 helicopters from the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing; unmanned aerial vehicles from the 300th Air Intelligence and Security Wing; the S-76(i) and (W-3A) 'Sokol' helicopters from the 505th Search-and-Rescue Group; and radars from the 580th Aircraft Control-and-Warning Wing," he added.

The activity was viewed live at the PAF Control Center, Air Force Command Center and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Command Operations Center along with other military command-and-control facilities.

"Combat air controllers of the 710th Special Operations Wing and direct air support forward teams were also the key players in the success of the activity. Critical to the activity was the connectivity provided by the 950(th) CEIS (Communications, Electronics, and Information System) Group," he said.

He said the "SANAY-TUDLA II" and "SIMEX III" showcased the delivery of secured and near-real-time "common operational picture" through a live voice, video and data feeds from sensors to shooters and to decision-makers in all command-and-control centers of the PAF.

The event was witnessed by AFP acting chief-of-staff Air Force Lt. Gen. Erickson R. Gloria, PAF chief Lt. Gen. Connor Anthony Canlas Sr., and other ranking military officials. 

(PNA) 

KRI Frans Kaisiepo-368 Koarmada II Laksanakan PassEx dengan HMS Tamar di Laut Jawa

30 Mei 2022

Passage Exercise dengan HMS Tamar Royal Navy (photo : Koarmada2)

KRI merupakan salah satu instrumen implementasi tugas Diplomasi Angkatan Laut sebagaimana amanat konstitusi. Diplomasi Angkatan Laut melalui latihan bersama Negara lain yang bertujuan untuk membangun kepercayaan dan persahabatan (Confidence Building Measure) sekaligus untuk meningkatkan profesionalisme dan mempertajam naluri tempur Prajurit dalam rangka memperkuat kemampuan pertahanan (Defense Capacity). KRI Frans Kaisiepo-368 Satkor Koarmada II yang tengah menjalankan tugas operasi di perairan Laut Jawa, Rabu (25/05/2022).

Sebagai latihan KRI Frans Kaisiepo-368 melaksanakan Passage Exercise dengan HMS Tamar. Pelaksanaan Passage Exercise dengan HMS Tamar ini di laksanakan setelah mendapatkan perintah dari Pangkoarmada II, Laksamana Muda TNI Dr. Iwan Isnurwanto, S.H., M.A.P., M.Tr. (Han).

HMS Tamar merupakan salah satu kapal perang kebanggan Angkatan Laut Kerajaan Inggris (Royal Navy) yang saat itu sedang melaksanakan lintas damai melalui Laut Jawa menuju Alur Laut Kepulauan Indonesia II (ALKI II) dengan tujuan akhir Darwin, Australia.

 

Royal Navy HMS Tamar (photo : NavyLookOut)

Adapun serial latihan yang dilaksanakan meliputi MISCEX 805 (Replenishing at Sea/General) dengan materi Mailbag Transfer untuk menunjang Operations Sustainability, SURFEX 316 (Tactical Maneuvering) untuk menguji kehandalan manuver dalam membentuk formasi tempur dan NAVCOMEX 207 (Flashex-Flaghoist) guna mengasah keterampilan kirim terima berita melalui isyarat lampu flash dan bendera.

“Kapal perang kedua negara dengan antusias saling unjuk kemampuan dalam setiap serial latihan.” Tegas Komandan KRI Frans Kaisiepo-368, Letkol Laut (P) John David Nalasakti Sondakh.

Sebagai tanda akhir dari latihan dilaksanakan Farewell Sail Past, selanjutnya Komandan HMS Tamar, Commander Elliot Smith menyampaikan apresiasi dan kegumannya terhadap Prajurit KRI Frans Kaisiepo-368.

“Thank you so much for your kind words, time, professionalism and excellent programs on this afternoon. It is an honour to operate with you. Thank you for your friendship, cooperation and professionalism. Fair winds, following seas and see you again.” broadcast Komandan HMS Tamar melalui radio komunikasi.

(Koarmada2)

Yon Kapa 1 Laksanakan Harwat Ranpur BTR 4

29 Mei 2022

Pemeliharaan dan perawatan (harwat) kendaraan tempur BTR 4 (all photos : PasMar1)

Jelang LSD TW II Yon Kapa 1 MAR Laksanakan Harwat Ranpur

Dalam rangka persiapan menghadapi Latihan Satuan Dasar (LSD) Triwulan (TW) II prajurit Batalyon Kendaraan Amfibi Pengangkut Artileri 1 Marinir (Yon Kapa 1 Mar) laksanakan pemeliharaan dan perawatan (Harwat) ranpur BTR 4 di Garase Yon Kapa 1 Mar Kesatrian Marinir Hartono Cilandak Jakarta Selatan, Rabu (25/05/2022).

Sejalan dengan perintah harian Kepala Staf Angkatan Laut Laksamana TNI Yudho Margono, S.E., M.M., membangun sumber daya manusia yang unggul dan profesional serta tangguh dalam menghadapi segala ancaman Prajurit Yon Kapa 1 Mar persiapkan alutsista guna menghadapi LSD TW II.

Hal ini bertujuan untuk menjaga dan mewujudkan kesiapan operasional dalam mendukung tugas pokok satuan, pemeliharaan dan perawatan yang maksimal adalah syarat mutlak guna mewujudkan kesiapan operasional kendaraan tempur pemeliharaan dan perawatan ranpur meliputi pengecekan sistem kemudi ranpur kapa K-61 dan BTR 4, radio, mesin transmisi, kelistrikan, sistem hidrolik, pengecekan berbagai macam jenis pompa serta pengecekan sistem air radiator, oli mesin dan BBM pada ranpur.

Lebih lanjut, Danyon Kapa 1 Mar Letkol Marinir Nana Widiyanto, M.Tr.Opsla., juga menyampaikan bahwa kegiatan ini merupakan wujud pertanggung jawaban satuan dalam penyiapan material guna mendukung operasional dan tugas pokok satuan, sehingga kendaraan tempur harus selalu dalam keadaan siap untuk digunakan latihan maupun tugas operasi dalam negeri dan luar negeri.

(PasMar1)

PAF Investigations Crash-Landing of its Hermes 900

29 Mei 2022

PAF Hermes 900 UAV (photo : PAF)

PAF probes crash-landing of Hermes 900 drone

MANILA – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) said it is now conducting investigations to determine the exact cause of the crash-landing of its Hermes 900 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) while about to land at the Lumbia Airport, Cagayan De Oro City Saturday.

PAF spokesperson Col. Maynard Mariano, in a statement forwarded to reporters Saturday night, said the UAV took off at around 9:30 a.m. to perform a functional check flight (FCF).

"Upon takeoff, the UAV proceeded to 5NM (five nautical miles) east of Lumbia and ascended to 10,000 ft. After finding the FCF procedure to be satisfactory, the pilots declared the termination of test and started to descend 5000 ft 1.5 miles east of Lumbia Airport," he added.

At around 11:46 a.m., communication with the UAV was cut.

"All emergency procedures were performed, and field service representatives were called for troubleshooting," Mariano said.

He added that the Hermes 900 UAV crash-landed in a vegetated area where it was last confirmed to have lost contact.

"No civilian casualties and damage of properties were reported. The Command will be conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of such incident," Mariano said.

Mariano said the UAV, which is the same size as a small trainer plane, is still recoverable.

“As of the moment, the recovery is ongoing. The aircraft suffered considerable damage but was recoverable," he added

The Hermes 900 is an Israeli medium-size, multi-payload, medium-altitude long-endurance UAV designed for tactical missions.

It is a successor to the Hermes 450 series of drones, one of the most widely used military drones in the world.

It has an endurance of over 30 hours and can fly at a maximum altitude of 30,000 feet with a primary mission of reconnaissance, surveillance, and communications relay.

In 2020, the PAF received three Hermes 900 and one Hermes 450 unmanned aerial systems as part of a contract worth approximately USD175 million.

(PNA)

Japan to Enable Fighter Jet and Missile Exports to 12 Nations

29 Mei 2022

JASDF F-15DJ aircraft (photo : Wiki)

TOKYO -- The Japanese government plans to allow exports of fighter jets, missiles and other arms to 12 countries, including India, Australia as well as some European and Southeast Asian nations, Nikkei has learned. Regulatory changes to allow for the exports could come by next March.

The government aims to enhance deterrence against China by cooperating with countries that have signed individual security agreements with Tokyo.

These countries include Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, the U.S., the U.K., Germany, France and Italy.

In 2014, Japan established a principle regarding transfers of defense equipment and eased regulations that had prohibited its export. However, it still bans exports of lethal weapons.

The principle states that exports to countries that do not jointly develop arms with Japan are limited to equipment for rescue, transport, warning, surveillance and minesweeping missions.

However, the easing will be included in the government's policy on economic and fiscal management and reform, to be finalized in June. The principles will be revised after a National Security Strategy is formulated, which is scheduled to take place at the end of this year.

Japan is planning to develop new fighter jets and medium-range anti-aircraft missiles with the U.S. and the U.K.

Export customers will allow Japan's manufacturers to lower their production costs. This will also lower the Japanese government's procurement costs and lighten its financial burden.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February, Asia's security environment has been growing increasingly severe. Government officials hope the spread of Japanese-made equipment to neighboring countries will deepen the country's security cooperation with likeminded countries.

See full article Nikkei Asia

Austal Australia Delivers 15th Guardian Class Patrol Boat

29 Mei 2022

Te Kukupa II Guardian-class for Cook Islands (photo : Austal)

Austal Limited (Austal) (ASX: ASB) is pleased to announce Austal Australia has delivered the 15th Guardian-class Patrol Boat (GCPB) to the Australian Department of Defence.

The vessel, Te Kukupa II, was then gifted by the Australian Government to the Cook Islands at a certificate signing ceremony held today at Austal’s shipyard in Henderson, Western Australia.

The ceremony was attended by Commodore Ivan Ingham AM, Royal Australian Navy, Senior ADF Officer Western Australia, with the Cook Islands being represented by Tepaki Baxter, Commanding Officer of Te Kukupa II.

The new Guardian-class Patrol Boat replaces the original Te Kukupa, a Pacific-class Patrol Boat gifted to the Cook Islands in 1989 and recently de-commissioned, under the Pacific Patrol Boat Replacement Project, part of the Australian Government’s Pacific Maritime Security Program.

Austal Limited Chief Executive Officer Paddy Gregg said the new vessel was the second of five Guardian-class Patrol Boats to be delivered to the Commonwealth of Australia in CY2022.

“We are well on track to deliver five, forty metre Guardians this calendar year – an outstanding achievement and a great demonstration of our collective industry and team’s capability and productivity in steel shipbuilding,” Mr Gregg said.

“The Pacific Patrol Boat Replacement Project engages more than 300 suppliers from around Australia. Each one is helping to form the National Naval Shipbuilding Enterprise that is delivering sovereign capability for Australia. 

Te Kukupa II Guardian-class for Cook Islands (photo : Wiki)

“Our warmest congratulations go to the Cook Islands Police Maritime Wing and we wish ‘fair winds and following seas’ to the Commanding Officer of Te Kukupa II, Tepaki Baxter and his crew.”

Faster than the previous/current Pacific class patrol boats, with improved seakeeping, better amenities, and an enhanced mission capability – including an integrated RHIB stern launch and recovery system – the Guardian-class Patrol Boat provides the Cook Islands with a much-improved naval asset to carry out border patrols, regional policing, search and rescue, and many other operations domestically and internationally.

The Pacific Patrol Boat Replacement Project was awarded to Austal Australia in May 2016, with an additional contract option awarded in April 2018, taking the program to 21 vessels, valued at more than A$335 million. Twelve Pacific Island nations including Papua New Guinea, Fiji, the Federated States of Micronesia, Tonga, Solomon Islands, Cook Islands, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Palau, Samoa, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and Timor-Leste will receive the vessels through to 2023.

The Pacific Patrol Boat Replacement Project supports more than 200 direct jobs at Austal Australia and more than 200 indirect jobs nationally through Australian businesses contracted by Austal.

Austal Australia’s expanded service centre in Cairns, incorporating a 1,200 tonne (80 metre LOA) slipway and a 1,120 tonne mobile boat hoist, continues to provide in-service support to the growing Guardian-class Patrol Boat fleet; with more than 100 people now employed in a variety of engineering and sustainment roles in the Far North Queensland city.

The 39.5 metre steel monohull patrol boat – designed, constructed and sustained by Austal Australia – is based on a proven design platform that has included the 38 metre Bay-class, 56 metre Armidale-class and 58 metre Cape-class patrol boats that are in service with the Australian Border Force and Royal Australian Navy.

This ASX announcement has been approved and authorised for release by Paddy Gregg, Austal Limited’s Chief Executive Officer.

(Austal)

BRP Melchora Aquino, PCG's Newest Multi-role Vessel Leaves Japan for PH

28 Mei 2022

BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702) (photos : PCG)

MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) newest 97-meter, multi-role response vessel (MRRV) has been sent off from its manufacturer in Japan and will reach the country on June 1.

In a speech during the ship’s send-off ceremony in Japan on Friday, PCG Commandant Admiral Artemio Abu said the vessel, BRP Melchora Aquino, is “another brand-new capital ship” similar to BRP Teresa Magbanua.

“This sturdy white ship will serve as the stalwart protector of our maritime reserve, and instrument for peace and tranquility within our territorial waters,” Abu said.

He said the vessel will be a “symbol of hope,” a “source of national pride,” and will serve as an instrument in promoting the rule of law at sea and “enhancing amity among neighboring nations.”

Made by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding and funded through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), he said the vessel “symbolizes the strong partnership and cooperation” between Japan and the Philippines.

In a separate speech, Transportation Undersecretary for Maritime Admiral George Ursabia Jr. (Ret.) said both BRP Melchora Aquino and BRP Teresa Magbanua were acquired under the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project Phase 2.

Ursabia thanked the Japanese government and its people for being the Philippines’ “closest development allies” and for their contribution to the growth of the country.

“I am confident that our solid partnership and decade-long friendship aimed at realizing numerous development projects will further solidify our bond to be able to withstand the tides of time,” Ursabia said.

The PCG’s newest MRRVs were modeled after the Japan Coast Guard’s Kunigami-class vessel, have a maximum speed of not less than 24 knots, and endurance of not less than 4,000 nautical miles.

The ships are capable of sustained maritime patrols in the country’s maritime jurisdictions, including the West Philippine Sea and Philippine Rise.

On Sunday, the BRP Teresa Magbanua and other PCG vessels were sent to Makassar, Indonesia to represent the Philippines in the Marine Pollution Exercise 2022 from May 22 to 27.

The PCG is joined in the exercise by Indonesia’s Directorate General of Sea Transportation and the JCG. 

(PNA) 

Prajurit Tri Media Yontaifib 2, Laksanakan Latihan di Koarmada II Surabaya

28 Mei 2022

Latihan Batalyon Intai Amfibi 2 Marinir (all photos : Korps Marinir)

Dispen Kormar (Surabaya) -- Guna mengasah kemampuan dan profesionalisme, Prajurit Batalyon Intai Amfibi 2 Marinir melaksanakan latihan infiltrasi menggunakan sarana peluncur torpedo (Petor) KRI Ardadedali 404 di Dermaga Kapal Selam Koarmada II Surabaya, Jawa Timur, Jumat (27/05/2022). 

Kegiatan tersebut masih dalam rangkaian Latihan Satuan Dasar (LSD) II TW II Aspek laut tahun 2022. Latihan ini dipimpin langsung oleh Komandan Batalyon Intai Amfibi 2 Marinir Letkol Marinir Supriyono, CTMP. 

Dalam latihan ini disimulasikan prajurit Tri Media melaksanakan infiltrasi melalui peluncur terpedo Kapal Selam KRI Ardadedali 404 menuju pantai pendaratan musuh.

Tujuan latihan ini adalah untuk meningkatkan kemampuan dan mengasah naluri tempur prajurit sesuai dengan tugas pokok sebagai pasukan khusus matra laut dibawah Korps Marinir.

Letkol Marinir Supriyono, CTMP berpesan “keterampilan Tri Media (Aspek Darat, Laut dan Udara) harus selalu di asah guna meningkatkan kemampuan, dan kesiapan baik personil maupun material dalam rangka mendukung tugas tugas Korps Marinir TNI Angkatan Laut. 

(Korps Marinir)

Australia Requests Sale of 20 HIMARS

28 Mei 2022

M142 HIMARS MLRS (photo : Lockheed Martin)

WASHINGTON - The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Australia of HIMARS Launchers and related equipment for an estimated cost of $385 million.  The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today. 

The Government of Australia has requested to buy twenty (20) M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS); thirty (30) M30A2 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS); thirty (30) Alternative Warhead (AW) Pods with Insensitive Munitions Propulsion Systems (IMPS); thirty (30) M31A2 GMLRS Unitary (GMLRS-U) High Explosive Pods with IMPS; thirty (30) XM403 Extended Range (ER)-GMLRS AW Pods; thirty (30) EM404 ER GMLRS Unitary Pods; and ten (10) M57 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS).  Also included are Reduced Range Practice Rocket Pods (RRPRP); Vehicular Intercom System (AN/VIC-3) 3-Station; radio communication mounts; machine gun mounts; battle management system vehicle integration kits; wheel guards; ruggedized laptops; training equipment publications; spare and repair parts; support equipment; tools; test equipment; technical data; U.S. Government and Contractor support; technical and logistical support services; and other related elements of program and logistic support.  The total estimated program cost is $385 million.

Dimension of HIMARS is 7,0m in length, width 2,4m, height 3,2m and weight 16,25 tonnes, with crew 3 personnel (image : David Stewart)

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States.  Australia is one of our most important allies in the Western Pacific.  The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the region.  It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability. 

The proposed sale will improve Australia’s capability to meet current and future threats, and will enhance interoperability with U.S. forces and other allied forces.  Australia will use the capability to strengthen its homeland defense and provide greater security for its critical infrastructure.  Australia will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces. 

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

Effective range with various projectile cal 227mm M26: 32 km, M26A1/A2: 45 km, and M30/31: 70 km (image : David Stewart)

The principal contractors will be Lockheed Martin Inc., Bethesda, MD; Chelton Inc., Marlow, United Kingdom; and L3 Harris Corp., Melbourne, FL.  The purchaser typically requests offsets.  Any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor(s).

Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of two (2) U.S. Government and five (5) U.S. contractor representatives in Australia for a period of one year. 

(DSCA)

Spesifikasi Pindad Cobra, Si Panser Lapis Baja Hasil Kerjasama dengan Ceko

26 Mei 2022

Pindad Cobra (photo : Angkasa Review)

KOMPAS.com - PT Pindad dan Kementerian Pertahanan (Kemenhan) sepakat membuat pengadaan 22 kendaraan tempur (ranpur) senilai 80 juta dolar AS. 

Untuk memproduksinya, Badan Usaha Milik Negara (BUMN) ini menggandeng perusahaan Ceko, Excalibur Army Group dari CzechoSlovak Group. 

Pindad Cobra, ranpur jenis panser ini sudah berdatangan sejak 4 Februari 2020. 

Pindad Cobra diperuntukan bagi Batalyon Infantri Mekanis (Yonifmek), pasukan infanteri termekanisasi yang dibekali pengangkut personel lapis baja (APC) atau kendaraan tempur infanteri (IFV) sebagai kendaraan pengangkut personel tempur. 

"Bicara soal spesifikasi, Panser Cobra ini memiliki beberapa spesifikasi yang mumpuni," demikian tulis pernyataan Komite Kebijakan Industri Pertahanan (KKIP), dikutip dari laman resminya, kkip.go.id.

Turret Ares UT30 Mk II dengan kanon Bushmaster 30mm (photo : Ares)

Spesifikasi Panser Cobra 

Panser Cobra memiliki kubah tempur tanpa awak U30 MK II buatan Elbit System. 

Elbit System adalah perusahaan yang mengkhususkan diri dalam pembuatan kendaraan dan alat tempur asal Brasil. 

Untuk persenjataannya, Panser Cobra dibekali dengan meriam kaliber 30 milimeter (mm) Bushmaster MK 44. 

Meriam kaliber ini dibuat oleh Northrop Grumman, perusahaan asal AS yang memiliki beberapa divisi perusahaan, mulai dari penerbangan hingga penyediaan alat tempur. 

Sementara itu, persenjataan sekunder pada Panser Cobra dibuat oleh Pindad, yakni senapan mesin sedang (SMS) 7,62 mm.

Panser 8x8 Cobra tampak belakang (photo : bmpd)

Dimensi dan pelindung Panser Cobra 

Varian senapan mesin sedang Pindad ini dioperasikan dengan mekanisme gas operated yang menghasilkan rate of fire 650-1.000 peluru per menit dan jarak efektif 1.000 meter. 

Soal ukuran dimensinya, Panser Cobra memiliki panjang 7,5 meter, lebar 2,67 meter, dan tinggi 2,1 meter. Bobot tempurnya mencapai 17,6 ton, dan apabila ditambah add-on armor menjadi 22 ton. 

Bicara soal kapasitas, Panser Cobra ini dapat diawaki tiga orang, yakni komandan, pengemudi, dan juru senjata. 

Untuk kabin belakang dapat menampung hingga delapan pasukan bersenjata lengkap dengan muatan bawaan mencapai 8,5 ton. 

Pada bagian luar Panser Cobra menggunakan add-on passive armour buatan Rafael, Israel. Lapisan ini mampu menahan laju munisi SMB kaliber 14,5 mm.

Panser Cobra mempunyai kemampuan amfibi (photo : Indomiliter)

Pertahanan dari ranjau darat 

Kemudian, pada bagian bawah lambung Cobra dilapisi SSAB ARMOX 500 yang sanggup bertahan dari ranjau darat. 

Pada bagian depan, Panser Cobra dilengkapi dengan perisai pemecah gelombang air atau ombak. 

Dengan ditenagai mesin diesel Cummins EURO III berdaya 455 horsepower atau tenaga kuda, Panser Cobra dapat melaju di jalan datar keras dengan kecepatan mencapai 105 kilometer per jam dan kecepatan di air 10 kilometer per jam. 

Pada bagian palka pengemudi juga telah dipasangi sistem penglihatan malam Combined Day/Night Day (CDND-1). 

CDND-1 terdiri dari dua prisma yang dipotong dari kaca optik khusus untuk bidang pandang yang ekstra luas yang dilengkapi dengan filter anti-laser untuk panjang gelombang 800, 900, 1064, dan 1540 nm.

(Kompas)

Australia’s First MC-55A Peregrine is Spotted

27 Mei 2022

The Australian MC-55A bears features of both the conformal AEW and SIGINT versions of the G550, as well as other unique modifications (photo : Aaron Perlupo)

The first known MC-55A for Australia has been seen flying in the US since March as part of a test programme.

The unique configuration of the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) MC-55A Peregrine airborne ISR and EW aircraft has been revealed by images posted on social media in recent weeks.

An MC-55A bearing the civil registration ‘N540GA’ has been observed conducting flights from Gulfstream’s facility in Savannah, Georgia, since March. This is believed to be the first of four aircraft for the RAAF, all of which had been ferried from Savannah to Greenville, Texas, several years ago for modification by prime contractor L3Harris.

(Shephard)

PT Pindad dan Dislitbangad Uji Inovasi Munisi Sniper Terbaru

26 Mei 2022

Produk munisi MU2-M A1 dan MU2-M A2 (all photos : Pindad)

PT Pindad melaksanakan uji sertifikasi produk munisi MU2-M A1 & MU2-M A2 kaliber 7,62 x 51 mm 175 grains HPBT pada rabu, 25 Mei 2022 berlokasi di Lab Dislitbangad & Lapangan Tembak Pussenarmed Kodiklat TNI AD, Batujajar, Kabupaten Bandung Barat. Kegiatan uji dilaksanakan dalam rangka pengujian dan sertifikasi produk munisi inovasi PT Pindad, MU2-M A1 & MU2 sesuai dengan tolok ukur SST (syarat-syarat tipe) yang telah ditentukan dan kedepannya dapat memenuhi kebutuhan munisi untuk seluruh jenis senjata sniper standar NATO kaliber 7,62 x 51 mm. Kegiatan uji sertifikasi produk dihadiri oleh Direktur Teknologi & Pengembangan PT Pindad Sigit P. Santosa, VP PM & K3LH Prima Kharisma, VP Inovasi Windhu Paramarta, Kadislitbangad Brigjen TNI Terry Tresna Purnama beserta jajaran.

Pelaksanaan uji Sertifikasi produk munisi MU2-M A1 & MU2-M A2 terbagi menjadi dua kegiatan utama, yaitu uji laboratorium dan uji lapang. Uji laboratorium merupakan pengujian spesifikasi dan data teknis produk munisi MU2-M A1 & MU2-M A2 sesuai dengan SST yang telah ditentukan. Kegiatan pengujian laboratorium meliputi uji berat dan dimensi, jenis penggalak dan kepekaan penggalak, jenis dan kelas isian dorong, kuat tarik anak peluru, keretakan / cacat selongsong, tanda-tanda munisi serta kemasan dan kantung munisi.

Uji lapang merupakan pengujian produk munisi MU2-M A1 & MU2-M A2 dengan cara ditembakkan menggunakan produk senjata penembak runduk Pindad SPR 3, berlokasi di lorong tembak Dislitbangad & lapangan tembak Pussenarmed Kodiklat TNI AD Batujajar. Kegiatan pengujian lapang meliputi uji kecepatan peluru, rentang kecepatan peluru, ketelitian tembak, tekanan gas rata-rata, daya tembus plat baja dan kelancaran kerja pada kondisi normal serta kondisi khusus (kedap air & ketahanan terhadap suhu rendah dan tinggi).

Untuk uji ketelitian tembak dengan penembakan berjarak 100m & 300m berlokasi di lorong tembak Laboratorium Dislitbangad. Sedangkan untuk penembakan berjarak 600m & 900m berlokasi di Lapangan Tembak Pussenarmed Kodiklatad Batujajar.

(Pindad)

Latest Batch of MPAC's Now Armed with Spike ER Missiles & Mini Typhoon Remote Weapon Stations

27 Mei 2022

MPAC with hull number BA-492, BA-493, and BA-494 equipped with Spike-ER missiles and Mini Typhoon RCWS (photos: AFP Modernization Program Updates)

The Philippine Navy's 4th batch of Multi Purpose Attack Crafts have completed their installation of new weapon systems and additional armoring and now back in service as Missile Equipped MPAC's.

The boat from the Philippine Navy's 4th Boat Attack Division of the Littoral Combat Force and were upgraded under the Philippine Navy's MPAC Combat Systems and Capability Upgrade Project.

The Typhoon MLS-ER missile launcher and the Mini Typhoon Remote Controlled Weapon System can be seen installed on all 3 boats.

With this, it can be confirmed, that Philippine Navy now has 6 missile-armed MPAC's and the project is completed.

(DA-REAL)