THeMIS ADDER Weaponised Unmanned Ground Vehicle First Live Firing Test

Milrem and ST Kinetics conducted the first live fire tests of their weaponized unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), the THeMIS ADDER in November. Armed with ST Kinetics CIS-50 heavy machine gun, the UGV live firing test revealed an interesting concept of operation.  The tests are expected to pave the way for autonomous robots to eventually be deployed as part of an infantry squad or even replace ground troops on the battlefield. The video showed two version of the UGV and hinted at collaborative engagement with an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that provided targeting information.

New Atlas

Hong Kong Seized Singapore's Terrex Armoured Infantry Fighting vehicle

Hong Kong customs officials confiscated nine Terrex armoured infantry fighting vehicles during a routine inspection. The military were being shipped from Taiwan to Singapore. Investigation by Hong Kong is on-going.

scmp.com

cna

Singapore Order H225M and CH-47F

Singapore has ordered Airbus H225M Super Puma as a replacement for its medium lift helicopter fleet and the CH-47F Chinook to partially replace its existing Chinook heavy lift helicopters.

It was previously reported that Singapore delayed a $1 billion procurement program to replace its existing AS332M Super Puma following the fatal crash of a H225 in Norway.

The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) operates a mix fleet of AS332M Super Puma and CH-47D/SD Chinook.

RSAF CH-47SD Chinook and AS332M Super Puma deployed for Ex Wallaby 2015 in Rockhampton, Australia - Photo from http://cqplanespotting.blogspot.com

todayonline.com

reuters.com

Zhuhai Airshow: China Invests in Jet Engine Development

Aero Engine Corp of China (AECC) was put on public display for the first time at the Zhuhai Airshow. While nothing substantial was on display (not surprising, considering that AECC was only set up in August), it show China's determination to complete the last piece of puzzle in developing world class combat aircraft.

AECC bring together 96,000 employees in more than twenty jet engine companies, repair firms and academic institutes from all over the country. AECC was funded to the tune of 50 billion yuan ($7.40 billion) in registered capital from the State Council, the Beijing government and state-owned aircraft manufacturers.


Wall Street Journal

SCMP

scmp.com\

Indonesia Experiments With X-18 Fire Support Vessel AKA Tank Boats

The head of Technology and Defence Industry Directorate of Indonesian Ministry of Defense, Brigadier General Jan Pieter Ate revealed that the Indonesian military has ordered a prototype Fire Support Vessel AKA "Tank Boat" by PT. Pindad an d PT. Lundin Industry.  The prototype will undergo operational test and evaluation (OT&E) before being accepted for production. It is not clear whether the vessel will be operated by which service, the army,navy or the marines.

The X-18 Fire Support Vessel (FSV) will be tested for coastal and riverine operations. The 18m 4-men crew catamaran will be propelled by two waterjets that push the vessel to a maximum speed of 40 knots.

The main armament is a Cockerill 105 mm hig pressure cannon, which is equivalent to the fire power of armoured tank. The main gun is complemented by SAAB's Battle Management System and its Trackfire Remote Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS) with a 7.62mm machine gun. The FSV will carry a rigid inflatable boat on the rear deck with room to carry 20 fully equipped troops.

The FSV could operate in shallow water around island chains, riverine deltas and the shallow seas off the coastlines. It 0.8 meter shallow draught and waterjet propulsion allow the FSV to operate in such environment without running aground or fouling its propulsion. A gyro stabilizer system will ensure that the vessel will not be thrusted back by the recoil of the main gun when it is fired. The vessel is expected to bob on the water instead.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) is reportedly interested in ordering 100 vessels. The project was first reported in 2015.



Asian Defence & Technology

Popularmechanics

China and Malaysia Sign Agreement On Navy Vessels

Malaysia and China have signed an agreement on the joint development of littoral mission ships. According to Hishammuddin, the minister for defence “On November 5, 2016, the Defence Ministry will sign a contract for the procurement of Littoral Mission Ship (LMS) with SASTIND (The State Administration for Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense of China), which is an important essence of the official visit of the Prime Minister to China by the end of the month,”



CNA

North Korea is Building New Ballistic Missile Submarine: Reports

The North Korea Intellectuals Solidarity (NKIS), a North Korean dissident organization based in Seoul claims that North Korea has been developing a new 3000-ton ballistic missile submarine since 2009. If true, the new submarine will be significantly larger than the 1,650-ton (submerged) Gorae (or sometimes called Sinpo-class because of the location of first sighting) ballistic missile submarine (SSB) currently in service with the Korean People’s Navy (KPN).

The US-Korea Institute at Johns Hopkins University also came to the same conclusion based on its analysis of commercial satellite images. Its published a report on its website, 38 North that "strongly suggests that a naval construction program is underway at North Korea's Sinpo South Shipyard, possibly to build a new submarine," .

Other than the Gorea, the KPN’s submarine fleet consists of around 20 Romeo-class 1,800-ton diesel-electric boats and 40 domestically-built 370-ton Sang-O-class diesel-electric mini-submarines as well as and approximately 10 130-ton Yono-class midget submarines.

Comparison of Submarine Strength - Source: Yonhap News Agency.

straitstimes.com

38north.org

thediplomat.com

Bigger Australian Military Training Areas and Facilities for Singapore

Singapore has been granted 25 years access to Queensland's Townsville Field Training Area and an expanded area in Shoalwater Bay. The number of Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) troops able to train in these areas will increase from 6,600 a year currently to 14,000. SAF troops currently train for six weeks a year at Shoalwater Bay, but this will be extended to 18 weeks for both sites. The Singapore Army is largely made up of conscripts who serve for two years each.  Hence, training is a major preoccupation of the army.

The Townsville site will be used mainly for army and air force training whereas Shoalwater Bay will be available for all three services -army, air force and navy.

Singapore will build new facilities that allow for complex training. These include a brand-new range where weapons, such as long-range artillery and Apache attack helicopters, can conduct live firing exercises. It will also build an urban warfare training facilities with multi-storey buildings.

Singapore and Australia will jointly develop the two training areas, with the Republic committing A$2.25 billion (S$2.38 billion) for the building of the joint military facilities over the next 25 years.
Although Singapore is funding the work, it will remain Australian property and will be mainly used by the Australian Defence Force.

All construction will be conducted through Australian tendering procedures. The master planning process for developing the Townsville site will be conducted over the next two years, with construction expected to start in 2019.

straitstimes.com

Singapore to pay $2bn to use Qld bases

Boost for defence and jobs

USS Coronado Deploys to Singapore

Straits Times 17 Oct 2016.

The first of the Independence class Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) has been deployed to Singapore. USS Coronando (LCS-4) docked in Singapore's Changi Naval Base on 16 Oct 2016 after participating in the multi-national RimPac 2016 (Rim of the Pacific exercise).

Previously, the Freedom class LCS, USS Freedom (LCS 1) and USS Fort Worth (LCS 3) were rotated for deployment to Singapore.

Coronado is also the first LCS to deploy with the Harpoon over-the-horizon anti-ship The inaugural launch of a Harpoon Block 1C missile from a LCS was successfully conducted during RimPac on 19 July.

straitstimes.com

janes.com

Japan Mulls Indigenous Stealth Fighter

The Japanese government will have to decide between developing an indigenous advanced stealth fighter (an industry-pleasing move) and a cheaper, more cost effective conventional fighter jet (prudent spending of the taxpayers’ yen).

In March, the Defense Ministry issued a request for information (RFI) for foreign joint development of the new fighter, which would replace the ageing F-2 and operate alongside Lockheed Martin’s new F-35s JSF and still potent F-15s.

So far, Boeing and Lockheed Martin have responded to the RFI.

The new fighter, dubbed the F-3, could cost Japan as much as $40 billion, depending on the specifications chosen. It would be a major component of the future air force with over a hundred to be purchased for service. This is based on a one-to-one replacement of the F-2, of which 141 (funding was later approved for 130) were initially to be purchased before cost and technical problem forced the procurement to b pared down to 94.

Proponents of the stealth fighter aim to build an aircraft more advanced than the F-22 Raptor, which the United States refused to sell to Japan.

The Mitsubishi Heavy Industries X-2 stealth demonstrator has just made a successful maiden flight in April 2016. It can potentially be the basis for a much larger new stealth fighter.

On the other hand, building a cheaper and less technologically advanced fighter would be able to secure overseas sale to offset the developmental cost and life cycle cost.

A final decision on the project is expected by early 2018.



Japanese Self Defense Force F-2 fighters during the 2016 exercise Cope North Guam.

japantimes

defenseindustrydaily.com

janes.com

China's People Liberation Army's Z-18 Medium Helicopter

The Z-18 is a medium transport helicopter in service with the People Liberation Army (PLA). It was publicly revealed in 2014.  It is said to be developed from the Avicopter AC313, an updated design based on the Harbin Z-8. The Z-8 is a development of the Aérospatiale SA321 Super Frelon.

chinamil.com.cn

British Red Arrow Aerobatic Team To Buzz Downtown Singapore

The Red Arrow will be putting a free 30 minutes aerobatic performance over Marina Bay in Singapore on 13 Oct 2016.

Fans of the Red Arrows can use the hashtag #RedArrowsinSG across all social media platforms to get up to date information on the team's movement.

Straitstimes

Philippines Army Selects Turkish Night Vision Devices

The Philippine Army has selected Turkish company, Aselsan to supply helmet-mounted/weapon-mounted monocular night vision devices (NVD) as well as weapon-mounted infrared aiming devices and laser zeroing devices. Most of these devices will be delivered to the army’s Special Operations Command (SOCOM). This will be a PHP712.069 million ($15.4 million) contract for 4,464 A100 monocular devices.  The A100 monocular NVD weighs 320g and offers a 40º field of view and 1x magnification. The A100 monocular NVD has an advantage when compared to standard binocular night vision goggle. The user maintain adaptation to ambient light viewing and will not experience adjustment problem after the goggle is removed from the eye. The A100 can also be used as a rifle scope when it is mounted together with day sight optics.

A notice to proceed was issued by the Philippines in July and first deliveries could commence in the second quarter of 2017 with completion in late 2017 or early 2018. These new systems will allow Philippine soldiers to fight more effectively at night and in low-light conditions.

Shephardmedia

Aselsan

Singapore Commissioned Elta Systems ELM-2311-based Safari Weapon Locating Radar

The Singapore Army has commissioned the SAFARI Weapon Locating Radar (WLR) into service. The new WLR joined other types of WLR already in service with the Singapore Artillery, namely, AN/TPQ-36, AN/TPQ-37 and ARTHUR.  Similar to the ARTHUR WLR which is mounted on a Bv206 vehicle, the SAFARI is mounted on the larger BRONCO all terrain vehicle.  The BRONCO will confer superb mobility as compared to the original 6 x 6 truck. The new radar appears to be the
Elta Systems ELM-2311 CRAM (Counter Rocket, Artillery, Mortar) CRAM system.
AN/TPQ-53 which has a 360 degree coverage mode.



Detail of the new SAFARI WLR and its performance was not revealed. However, the performance should be an improvement on the Swedish designed ARTHUR WLR. The ARTHUR WLR was previously deployed to Afghanistan in 2009 to provide force protection for International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) personnel in Tarin Kowt. It boosted a 100% detection rate over its 15-months deployment. The ARTHUR WLR has a detection range of up 60 km and can be brought into action with 5 minutes by a crew of 11 men. It was first introduced into the Singapore Armed Forces service in 2003.


According to Elta, the ELM-2311 is a 3D Active Electronically Scanned Array radar with a persistent surveillance sector mode of 120º or 360º rotating mode. 




In separate news, a possible sale notification of six AN/TPQ-53V target acquisition radar systems was registered with the US Congress in 2013.[This post previously identified the AN/TPQ-53 as the radar for the SAFARI WLR. This is an error.]

Singapore Army Facebook Page

MINDEF

DSCA.Counter-fire-acquisition-radar-systems

Land Forces 2016: GBAMD Systems Vying for Land 19

Land 19 Phase 7B will see enhanced Ground Based Air and Missile Defence (GBAMD) capability for the Australian Defence Force (ADF). This will include a deployable short-range GBAD (Ground Based Air Defence) system to replace the in-service Saab RBS 70 MANPADS by the early 2020s. A medium-range GBAMD missile system will be acquired in the mid-to-late 2020s. In addition, the ADF wants enhanced counter-rocket, artillery and mortar (C-RAM) capability which would be complemented by a gun system as a last line of defence.

The Request for Tender (RfT) for Land 19 Phase 7B will be issued in the last quarter of 2016. The previously issued Request for Information (RfI) specified a sensor suite, effector suite (i.e. weapon) and C4I system that can absorb the existing functionality of Phase 7A. Multiple sensors and weapons may be specified by the tenders.

European consortium MBDA is proposing their Enhanced Modular Air Defence Solutions (EMADS) for the short-to-medium range solution, combined with the Mistral MANPADS for the lower level threats. The EMADS has two versions, the Common Anti-air Modular Missile (CAMM) and CAMM-ER (Extended Range). The EMADS offers a layered defensive range of 25km or 45km for the extended range option. It uses a soft vertical launch which confers a 360 degree coverage.

Saab is offering the RBS 70NG. Australia already operates the RBS 70, which was recently updated with IFF Mode 5, and the Giraffe AMB radars. Australia also purchased the Giraffes plus SRCTec Light Counter-Mortar Radars as part of Land 19 Phase 7A as an urgent requirement for C-RAM protection for Australian troops in Afghanistan. The RBS-70NG will add an auto-tracker. At Land Forces 2016 in Adelaide, Saab exhibited a scale model of a three-tube launcher mounted on a Thales Hawkei vehicle. The associated Giraffe 1X radar could also be mounted on a Hawkei to provide a mobile capability for the GBAD system. Rheinmetall may cooperate with Saab to its 35mm Revolver Gun for the last ditch gun system requirement. Northrop Grumman informed that it was working towards an MoU with Saab among other companies. Northrop Grumman is prime integrator for the US Army’s Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System (IBCS) and is a potential bidder for the Land 19 Phase 7B.

Rafael may offer a solution based on its battle-proven Iron Dome. The system achieved a 90% interception rate in more than 1700 launches while protecting Israel. Each truck mounted launcher can carry 20 missiles. A useful load for combat persistence. The Iron Dome has a range of up to 70km.

Raytheon and Kongsberg are partnering to offer the Medusa, an improved NASAMS 2 system (National Advance Surface to Air Missile System) based on the AIM-120 AMRAAM. Each battery would have 12 launchers. Each launcher is loaded with 6 AMRAAMs. Future growth is possible with the longer range AMRAAM-ER missiles that is currently under development.



Shephardmedia

defencetechnologyreview

mbda-systems

ADM

Tenders.gov.au

Commentary on J-15 Fatal Crash

Chinese observers commented on the finding of the cause of fatal J-15 crash on 27 April 2016.  There was interest on whether this indicated a delay in operationalising the Liaoning, China's sole aircraft carrier. Meanwhile, other Chinese media published reports on the largest complement of aircraft yet seen on the Liaoning - a total of eight J-15 fighters and two helicopters.

SCMP

Japan to Beef Up F-15 Fleet to Counter China

The Japan Defense Ministry is requesting additional funding for maintenance of the hard used F-15J fleet which have been scrambled more often to counter Chinese fighters. It is asking to buy more missiles to increase the number of air-to-air missiles available for each fighter.

It was reported that The Japanese Self Defense Force aimed to double the number of missiles carried by each F-15J to 16. However, this is not practical.  While the F-15J can carry up to 16 air-to-air missiles, flying often with live missiles will reduce their service life significantly. Carrying a full load of missiles also serves no practical purpose other than for saber rattling.  Without air-to-air refuelling, a Japanese fighter is unlikely to stay in aerial combat over the disputed air space long enough to need 16 missiles. The Chinese is not going to offer a mass gaggle of targets for a Japanese fighter to ripple off 16 missiles. It is more likely that the Japanese are replenishing their missile stock.  Some of their existing missiles are probably down for repair.  Flying will subject the sensitive seeker head to degradation from the elements.

Nikkei Asian Review

Japan Offering Larger Coast Guard Ships to the Philippine

Japan and the Philippine have begun talks for two 90-meter multi-role response vessels for the Philippine Coast Guard as part of a military aid deal. This is to help the Philippines patrol the disputed South China Sea.

The two brand-new ships will be in addition to ten 44-meter multi-role response vessels, worth 8.8 billion pesos, that Japan will be delivering between 2016 to 2018. The first 44-meter vessel is expected to be delivered in September 2016. These ships have a standard cruising speed of 16 knots, and a range of 1,500 nautical miles. They will be deployed to various PCG Districts across the country, including Manila, La Union, and Puerto Prinsesa.  The ships will be named after the primary lighthouses in the country to denote the importance of the lighthouse to the maritime community.




Straits Times

Depart of Transportation and Communication, Philippine

philstar

China's Fifth Generation Stealth Fighter J-20

Video footage of a J-20 taking off. Much is still unknown about this aircraft which is still in developmental stage. The first photograph was 'leaked' on the internet in Dec 2010, showing a prototype aircraft performing a runway test. The first flight was conducted on 11 Jan 2011.

The J-20 is assessed to have started low rate initial production stage in 2016. It is assessed to have stealth features such as recessed weapon bays (two lateral bays and one larger main weapon bay). It is also equipped with infra-red distributed aperture and electro-optical sensors flushed under the fuselage to allow for stealth mode targeting without using the radar.

Defense-update

scmp

V-280 Valor Tilt Rotor Aircraft

The Bell V-280 Valor tilt rotor aircraft is presented as a potential replacement for the US Army's UH-60 Black Hawk. It certainly has impressive performance as compared to the Black Hawk. Able to carry 14 troops in addition to 4 aircrew at a speed of 280 KTAS for up to a combat range of between 500 nm to 800 nm. Load carry capacity is more than 12,000 lb. The latest UH-60M Black Hawk can carry 11 troop at 151 kt to a combat range of up to 120 nm.

The V-280 Valor is smaller than the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey which can carry 24 troop and 3 aircrew. But this also means that it is cheaper and easier to produce. The first flight of the V-280 is expected in Sep 2017.

The competitor to V-280 under the multi-service Future Vertical Lift (FVL) programme is the Boeing Sikosrky SB-1 Defiant, a co-axial rotor helicopter based on Sikorsky’s S-97 design. The rear mounted pusher propeller will enable the SB-1 to attain speed of up to 250 knots. The SB-1 will carry 12 troop and 4 aircrew.

scmp.com

flightglobal

China Develops World Largest Amphibious Aircraft

Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) unveiled the AG600 in Zhuhai on 23 July. With a length of 37 m and a wing span of 38.8 m, the four egines AG600 is the world's largest amphibious aircraft. The turboprop aircraft has a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 53.5 tonnes; a maximum cruising speed of 500 km per hour. With a maximum flight range of 4,500 km, and a maximum endurance of 12 hours, it's envisaged missions are firefighting and maritime surveillance. It requires an open stretch of water that is at least 1,500 m long, 200 m wide, and just 2.5 m deep to take off and land.

Israel Unveil New 8 x 8 Armoured Personnel Carrier

Israel’s Ministry of Defense has unveiled the Eitan, a new 8×8 armored personnel carrier. The armoured vehicle is developed by the Ministry’s Tank Development Program Directorate (Mantak), as a possible successor for the tracked M-113 in Israeli service.  The design took into account the lessons learned in recent combat operations in Gaza. So the 35 tonne vehicle is protected by the Trophy anti-projectile system as well passive measures such as high ground clearance and run flat tyres. The Eitan transport 9 infantry at a maximum road speed of +90 km/h (56 mp/h).

Land 400 Phase 2 Down Select

Australia has down selected BAE Systems and Rheinmetall as potential suppliers of the CRV (Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle) under the Land 400 Phase 2 programme. The two companies will be conducting 12 months of risk mitigation activities funded by the Defence Materiel Organisation. A down select is expected by the end of 2017 with the delivery of the first vehicles to the training units by May 2020. The first cavalry unit is expected to receive their vehicles by July 2021 and all deliveries should be completed by July 2024.

BAE Systems is competing with a variant of the Finnish Patria AMV (Armoured Modular Vehicle). The AMV was also selected for service with Croatia, Finland, Poland, Slovenia, South Africa, Sweden and UAE,

The Rheinmetall's offering is the Boxer, which is in service with the German and Dutch Armies. Rheinmetall in a joint venture with MAN Truck & Bus AG is currently delivering 2536 vehicles (MAN Hx) and 3000 associated specialist modules to ADF under Project Land 121 Phase 3B (Overlander). They won the US$1.45 billion contract in 2013 over the competing vehicles Thlales Australia's Bushmaster Utility and Mercedes Benz Australia/ Pacific's Actros and Zetros vehicles.

The unsuccessful competing vehicles are the Sentinel II (a variant of the ST Kinetic Terrex) and an updated version of the LAV 6.0.

German Army Boxers at Camp Marmal in Afghanistan, 2011. By ISAF Headquarters Public Affairs Office  https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=16209306

Defense Update

Singapore Unveil New Generation Armour Fighting Vehicle

The Singapore Army unveiled the prototype of a new generation of armour fighting vehicle (NG AFV) that will replace its M113 Armour Personnel Carrier. The 29 tonnes vehicle is much larger than the 13 tonnes M113 Ultra. The M113 Ultra is a locally upgraded version of the M113, sporting either a 25mm Bushmaster overhead weapon station or a combined 40mm AGL and 12.7mm HMG. The new AFV is also equipped with a stabilised gun for firing on the move and is connected to the SAF's Battle Management System (BMS).



mindef.gov.sg

Indonesia To Acquire Military Communication Satellite

The Indonesian House of Representatives commission on defence, intelligence, and foreign affairs has approved the defence ministry's request for funding to acquire a US$850 million military satellite from Airbus Defence and Space.

The satellite will be used for military communications on the L-Band frequency and is planned to be launched in 2019. Airbus Defence and Space will also be fully responsible for the launching of the satellite.

janes

The Three Rings: Singapore Armed Forces' Response to a Terrorist Attack

Like many countries, Singapore brace herself against possible terrorist attacks. The leadership has warned the country that a terrorist attack is just a matter of time.

The Home Team comprising of the Singapore Police and other law enforcement and security agencies is the first responder to any reported terrorist attack in the city state.

The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has the elite Special Tactical and Rescue (STAR) team, which is the equivalent of the American Special Weapon and Tactics (SWAT). The STAR specialised in hostage rescue and tackling armed suspects. The STAR, together with the Police K-9 unit (with explosive detector dogs) and the 600 strong Police Tactical Unit (PTU) come under the umbrella of the Home Team's Special Operations Command. The SPF can also call upon troopers from the Gurkha Contingent.

When there is a large scale or multiple terrorist attacks, the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) will be activated to swiftly neutralise the threats and assist in restoring order.

The First Ring : Direct Action

When there is a terrorist attack, the SAF Special Operation Task Force (SOTF) is expected to swing into action to directly confront the attackers. The elites of the SAF comprising of the Special Operation Force (SOF), Singapore Commando and the Navy Diving Unit (NDU) are trained for anti-terrorism duties on both land and sea.

The SOF saw action in 1991 when a Singapore Airlines flight was hijacked and landed at Changi International Airport. The then classified unit stormed the aircraft and rescued all passengers.

The Second Ring : Containment

The Army's newly set up Army Deployment Force (ADF) will be part of the second ring response. The specially trained ADF, supported by armoured Peacekeeper Protected Response Vehicles, forms a security cordon around the area under attack. It will identify and block off the exit points for the area in order to contain the attackers. The ADF is expected to neutralise any attackers that slip through the security cordon. So the Peacekeeper PRV is equipped with a heavy pack. The roof mounted remote control weapon system can be configured with either a 40mm automatic grenade launcher, a 12.7mm Heavy Machine Gun or the 7.62mm Light Machine Gun.

The Third Ring : Stabilise 

In the days after the attacks, more troopers will be activated to augment the SPF in conducting patrols in areas deemed important as part of the measures to restore order and public confidence.

While the forces brought to bear on any attackers seem overwhelming, the leadership is taking no chances. Especially in the wake of terrorist attacks that had occurred in major cities in Europe and elsewhere.


todayonline.com

STAR

SQ117 Hijack

Singapore Delays Super Puma Replacement Buy After Norway Crash

Singapore has apparently delayed a decision on a $1 billion replacement programme of its AS332M Super Puma after the crash of a civilian Airbus H225 in April. The H225 is a modernised version of the Super Puma. The military version, the H225M was the frontrunner to clinch the order according to some sources. The Republic of Singapore Air Force operates a fleet of AS322M Super Pumas with an average age of 27 years. It seems that Singapore is awaiting clarity over the cause of the April 29 crash which killed 13 oil rig workers and air crew off the coast of Norway.

yahoo.com/news

Businesstimes

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Indian Shipbuilder Wins Contract for Philippine Frigates

India's state-run Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) Ltd has emerged as the winner for Philippine Navy's long-drawn light frigate modernisation programme.  GRSE is the lowest bidder in a field that started with six potential suppliers, including South Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries Inc., Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co. Ltd. and Navantia S.A. of Spain. The purchase of new frigates was authorised in 2013 after the failed negotiation for a pair of ex-Italian Navy Maestrale-class frigates.

GRSE's winning design is based on the Indian Navy's Kamorta-class anti-submarine corvette. The Philippine Navy specified a requirement for a 2,000-tonne frigate that is at least 95 meters long and can accommodate a 12-ton helicopter. The Komorta is over 3000-tonnes and hence, will have plenty of growth potential.

UPDATE: GRSE has been disqualified from the tender.  Apparently, the company was assessed to be at risk of not having the necessary financial capacity to fulfill the contract.  The next lowest bidder, Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI). HHI's proposed design is slightly larger than GRSE's.


HHI offered a variant of its HDF 3000 class multipurpose frigate, which is already in service with the Republic of Korea Navy.  The HDF 3000 is 114 m long, 14 m wide with a draught of 4m and a displacement of about 3,200 tonnes at full load. It is capable of achieving a maximum speed of 30 kt. The maximum sailing range is 4,500 n miles at a more economical speed of 13 kt. The Philippine had specified a vessel with a minimum length of 95m and displacement of 2000 tons.

Photo of HDF3000 class frigate, Incheon.
By 대한민국 국군 Republic of Korea Armed Forces - 20130626 대한해협 전승행사 (4), CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=36996908

Janes

defensenews

manilalivewire

Philippine Navy's Strategic Sealift Vessel

Philippine Navy's Strategic Sealift Vessel, SSV LD601 was launched as BPR Tarlac. The warship has been delivered to Philippine and now in the country, fittingly before the 118th Anniversary of the Philippine Navy on 20 May 2016.

SSV BRP Tarlac prepares to be docked in Manila on 16 May 2016, following a two-week long voyage from Indonesia. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez) 

President of Philippine Office

philstar

The Strategic Partnership between the Kangaroo and the Lion: Australia and Singapore Deepen Defence Ties

Australia and Singapore has signed a joint declaration on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement. A major feature of the CSP is the expanded scope and depth of defence cooperation. The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is allowed to expand existing training facilities to boost the number of troops on training from 6000 to 18000 each year. Singapore will invest about A$2.25 billion to upgrade the training facilities near the city of Townsville and at Shoalwater Bay.

Currently, the Singapore Armed Forces used Shoalwater Bay Training Area to conduct the Exercise Wallaby series. Joint tri-service exercises with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in the form of Exercise Trident were also conducted when troops were deployed for Exercise Wallaby.

A  Lowy Institute paper on the defence and security aspect of the CSP argues that both countries should seek to expand defence ties further beyond the use of training space. Interestingly, the paper also acknowledged the long list of engagements between ADF and SAF.  It remains to be seen what other areas that the two advance military forces will cooperate on.

channelnewsasia.com

Straits Times

World Affairs Journal

China's People Liberation Army (PLA)'s Slick Recruitment Video

"With duty always on the mind,
Enemy always in sight,
Always shouldering responsibilities,
With a strong will.
War can break out at any time.
Are you ready?......"



The slick recruitment video includes images of China’s first aircraft carrier, latest tanks, combat aircraft and ballistic missiles.

scmp.com

Royal Malaysian Air Force Jet Trainer Crashed

17 May 2016: A RMAF MB-339CM crashed earlier today. The two pilots ejected safely. According to RMAF, the Kuantan Air Base aircraft encountered technical problem at around 12.54pm during on a training sortie. The aircraft crashed into a paddy field in Kampung Serun, Nenasi, about 50km from Pekan town.

Photo from New Straits Times

This is the second RMAF aircraft crash in three months. On 26 February, a CN-235 transport aircraft made a crash landing in the water near the coastline of Kuala Selangor. The aircraft apparently experienced engine problem and made an emergency landing. All crew and passengers were unharmed but a local villager apparently drowned while trying to reach the crashed aircraft to rescue those onboard.

Video of Crashed CN-235

nst.com

Recent Indonesian Navy (Tentara Nasional Indonesia Angkatan Luat) Development

Submarine Force


On 24 March 2016, South Korea's Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (DSME) launched the first of three diesel-electric submarines ordered by Indonesia. The 61 metres long DSME 1400 design or Chang Bogo-class is a development of the Type 209/1200 licensed to DSME by Germany's HDW (now ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems). Delivery is planned for March 2017. The third submarine will be built in Indonesia by the state-owned shipbuilder PT PAL.


The facility for building submarine in Surabaya, Indonesia is currently under construction and is expected to be finished in September 2016.


Fast Attack Craft

Indonesia has ordered a KCR-60M (Kapal Cepat Rudal 60 metre) Fast Attack Craft, missile (FAC-M). This is the fourth FAC-M of this class to be acquired by the Indonesian Navy. Delivery of the first three FAC-M was completed in Sep 2014. Back then, TNI-AL had expected to procure a fleet of at least 16 KCR-60M. This programme apparently took a back seat for the last few years to the Klewang-class stealth attack craft programme. The first of the 63 metres wave-piercing trimaran was launched in 2012 but was destroyed in a fire a month later. The replacement vessel was due to be delivered in early 2016 (total order for four vessels) but the programme was indefinitely suspended last year. The original plan was for a fleet of around 20 vessels to patrol the littoral waters of Indonesia. 

Indonesia Launching Low Cost Competitor to Twin Otter

Indonesia's state-owned PT Dirgantara (PTDI) is launching the N219, a 19-seater twin propeller passenger aircraft later this year. It is attractively priced and is set to make a splash in the small passenger aircraft market segment. It's main competitor will be the popular DHC-6 Twin Otter. PTDI has produced under license many types of aircraft including the NC-212i, CN-235-220 and Super Puma helicopters. However,the N219 will be the first locally developed aircraft. Being an archipelago, the local market should provide a strong base for this type of aircraft.

CNA

PTDI

Philippines Upgrades Air Surveillance Capability Amidst Rising Tension In South China Sea

Philippines has confirmed the purchase of three IAI Elta Systems ELM-2288 air defense and air traffic control radars. The first system is expected to be delivered by Nov 2017 with the rest in May and November 2018. The radars will be operated by the Philippines Air Force. Typical fighter detection range is more than 300km for the medium range, transportable version and more than 480km for the extended range fixed installation version. The new radars will bolster Philippines' air surveillance capability of its air space and over the contested South China Sea.

Philippines lay claim to the Scarborough Shoal which is disputed by China. Other overlapping claims in the South China Sea include Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan. The disputed areas also overlapped the EEZ claimed by Brunei and Indonesia. In recent weeks, both Indonesia and Vietnam have arrested Chinese fishermen and detained their vessels. On 19 Mar, the Chinese Coast Guard intervened in the Indonesia incident by ramming the detained fishing vessel. The Indonesian disembarked from the fishing vessel to defuse the tension but the fishermen were arrested. On 4 Apr, Vietnam seized a Chinese fishing boat which it claimed was illegally intruding into Vietnam territory waters.



IAI Elta

Arthur, G. (2016, March). "Manila finally confirms Israeli radars". Digital Battlespace, 8(2), 2.

Singapore Airshow

Aircraft model display showing almost all the manned aircraft types in service with the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF). A good mix of high end fighters, helicopters and support aircraft, as  well as force multipliers in form of tankers and AEW. 

See if you can identify these aircraft - F-15SG, F-5S, F-16C, F-16D+, M-346, KC-135R, C-130, F50, G550 AEW, CH-47SD, AH-64D, S-70B, AS332M, EC-120.

Guess which manned aircraft is not represented? 

Singapore Airshow: US Marines F-35 Combat Ready

Lieutenant-General Jon Davis, Deputy Commandant for Aviation,  HQ Marine Corps, declared that the Marines' F-35B are combat ready despite various reports criticising the performance of the troubled aircraft.

“We have developed workarounds to get around any deficiencies we have seen out there. Right now, operating capabilities and advantage we get from this airplane far outweigh any deficiencies.”

“We are operating the airplane, training in the airplane, making us ready to deploy to the Pacific.”

The US Marine Corps will be deploying one of their first F-35B unit to Japan in January 2017. Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan within a year. VFMA-121 “Green Knights,” was declared Full Operationally Capable in August 2015. It is currently operating from Yuma AZ and is scheduled for rotatio to Marine Corps Air StationIwakuni. An initial deployment of pilots alongside 10 aircraft will be relocated first , with another six scheduled for July 2017.

Full-scale mock up of the F-35 Lightning II at the Singapore Airshow 2016

CNA

Bloomberg

Singapore Airshow Opens

The most important airshow in Asia run from 16 Feb to 21 Feb 2016 in Singapore. Visitors can view the F22 Raptor, F-15SG, Block 52 F-16C in the Black Knight aerobatic team colors, Block 52 F-16D+, F-18F, G550 Airborne Early Warning, AH-64D Apache attack helicopter, MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft, A-400M transport, C-17 Globemaster, just to name some of the aircraft on static display. In the air, the Royal Malaysian Air Force Su-30 amazes with its aerobatics alongside the Rafale, F-16, F-15SG, AH-64D and T-50.

OSMINT will be highlighting some of the exhibits over the next few days.

Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean speaking at the opening ceremony of the Singapore Airshow

US Pacific Command Mull Basing of Logistics Support Vessels in Singapore

The Pacific Command want to base some of its Logistics Support Vessels (LSVs) in Singapore by late 2016 or early 2017.

The LSV is essentially the equivalent of a navy landing ship but operated by the US Army. It is a heavy watercraft used for transportation of personnel, equipment and supplies.

Currently, the United States is allowed to rotate up to four of her Littoral Combat Ships to operate from Singapore. A P-8A Maritime Patrol Aircraft was also deployed to Singapore for a short detachment recently.

Photo of US Army LSV. Image from www.globalsecurity.org

CNA

Japanese Stealth Fighter Prototype Unveiled

Japan unveiled its first stealth fighter technology demonstrator - X-2 Shinshin. Previously known as the Mitsubshi ATD, the X-2 will make its maiden flight in Feb 2016. The X-2 may be the precusor to a new stealth fighter to be developed later as Japan will need to replace its existing F-15J and F-2 fighter around 2028.

The X-2 will have vector thrust paddles on the engine nozzles of the twin Ishikawa Heavy Industries low-bypass turbofan engines. The paddles will allow the pilot to control the direction of the exhaust, thereby increasing an aircraft's maneuverability tremendousy. The engine is a new design, each providing around five tons of thrust. The X-2 also has angled twin vertical stabilizers set at an even steeper angle, similarly to that initially proposed for the F-15 Silent Eagle. The angled stabilizers were later dropped from the stealth fighter proposal offered to South Korea. Boeing cited limited cost effectiveness as a reason for the change.

asia.nikkei.com

popular mechanics

Specialised Marine Craft - RSN's High Speed Interceptor

janes.com

Thailand Signs Contract for Second River Class Offshore Patrol Vessel

Shipbuilding company, Thailand Dock has signed a contract with BAE Systems to license build a 90 metre Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) for the Royal Thai Navy.  This will be second vessel of this type.  The first warship was commissioned as HTMS Krabi in 2013.

The 90 metres OPV is based on BAE Systems' 80 metres long River class vessel, three of which has been in the Royal Navy service since 2003. Three new OPVs are being built for the Royal Navy. The British Government has also committed to buy more OPVs. BAE Systems has also delivered to the Brazilian Navy, three OPVs between 2013 and 2014.


The Building of HTMS Krabi

Asian Defence Technology

Singapore Airshow: Bell Helicopter Eyeing Asian Government Market

Bell helicopters have been highly visible during disaster relief efforts around Asia - from the Fukushima nuclear crisis in Japan in 2011, to Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines 2013, the Nepal earthquake in 2015 and fighting the 2015 Indonesia forest fires. So amid a drying up of demand for helicopter offshore oil and gas rigs, Bell Helicopter is eyeing more deals with government agencies such as law enforcement and fire fighters.

Bell will be displaying several aircraft models at the aircraft static display for the Singapore Airshow, including the Bell 407, Bell 429 and Bell 505. A Bell Boeing MV-22 Osprey Tilt-Rotor Aircraft from the US Marines will be on display as well.

Ahead of the Official Singapore Airshow, Bell Helicopter says it is looking to sell more choppers to governments for disaster relief amid sliding demand for aircraft supporting offshore oil and gas rigs. Linette Lim with more: http://bit.ly/1maBsmC
Posted by Channel NewsAsia Singapore on Tuesday, February 2, 2016

CNA

Singapore Airshow 2016

Something to look out for next month, 15 - 21 Feb. Every two years, high-powered government and military delegations, as well as senior executives from defense industry from around the globe attend the Singapore Airshow to network and seal arm deals.  The Singapore Airshow is Asia's largest Airshow and defence exhibition. So this is the place to be for aerospace companies.

Other than the static aircraft display and aerial displays, the event features the Singapore Airshow Aviation Leadership Summit, which this year attracts an unprecedented network of international senior commercial & government delegations. There other two other strategic conferences that focus on technology, namely the A*STAR Aerospace Technology Leadership Forum and the Singapore Aerospace Technology and Engineering Conference (SATEC).

The statuc aircraft display includes the F-35 Lightning II, F-22 Raptor, F-15SG Strike Eagle, F-16C/D+ Fighting Falcon, F/A-18E Super Hornet, RSAF G550 Airborne Early Warning Aircraft, USAF E-3 Sentry, USN P-8, AH-64D.


singaporeairshow

Indonesia Orders Badak 6x6 Direct Fire Vehicle

Indonesia has ordered 50 units of the Badak (Rhino) 6 x 6 Direct Fire Vehicle (DFV). The Badak DFV is a variant of the Anoa 6 x 6 fitted with a two-men turret and armed with a 90mm low pressure cannon.

PT Pindad also announced that they will be launching a new 7.62mm assault rifle, the SSX. Also in the pipeline, is the development of a battle tank with a 105mm gun.

metrotvnews

janes.com

Australia Rebuilding Conventional Capabilities

After years of fighting insurgents and militants in Afghanistan and Iraq, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is taking steps to rebuilding its conventional warfare capabilities. One of the capabilities which may not be very useful in fighting insurgents but is critical for manoeurve warfare is combat bridgings. The ADF has ordered a number of tactical combat bridges from UK-based WFEL in a deal worth GBP53 million (USD75 million).

The contracts are for the provision of WFEL's Medium Girder Bridges (MGB) and Dry Support Bridges (DSB). They will provide temporary bridging over wet or dry gaps in unfavourable terrain, during combat situations or for logistics support during natural disasters.

The ADF MGB will be double-storey, link-reinforced bridge sets which can span up to 49 metres. These bridges will be supplemented by additional equipment which will allow bridges of up to 76m to be constructed, using WFEL’s portable pier sets.

For rapid crossing of gaps, WFEL will supply the DSBs which can be launched by eight people in under 90 minutes, from the ADF’s RMMV Rheinmetall MAN 10 x 10 armoured logistics vehicles.

Animation of DSB

WFEL

Philippine Navy Seeks Support for Missile Corvette

The Philippine Navy is set to receive a Po Hang class missile corvette from South Korea. The ex-Mokpo (PCC 759) was transferred after the ship was decommissioned from the South Korea Navy. The 88m, 1200-tonne corvette will be refurnished before starting service with the Philippine Navy. The Philippine is seeking logistics support for the weapon and communication equipment in a tender valued at US$232,160.

Image from Manila Live Wire

Manila Live Wire

Janes

Janes

Royal Malaysian Air Force Received Second A400M

RMAF's second A400M on test flight in Spain before delivery to Malaysia

The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) has received its second A400M Atlas transport aircraft from Airbus Defence & Space. Malaysia is the first export customer for the A400M, having placed a $2.5 billion order for four A400M in 2005.  The first aircraft was delivered on 17 March 2015. The remaining two A400Ms are expected to be delivered this year. With far superior performance than the existing C-130 operated by RMAF, the A400M will greatly improve the strategic and tactical airlift capability of the RMAF.

New Straits Times

The Star

Indonesia- South Korea Fighter Aircraft Development

KAI and South Korea’s Defence Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) along with Indonesian Airframer PTDI will work together to design the Korean Fighter eXperiment (KF-X)/ Indonesian Fighter eXperiment (IF-X), a 4.5 generation stealth multi-role fighter. PTDI will send 100 engineers to South Korea in May to take part in the structural design of the aircraft and other stages of development. Lockheed Martin will be providing aviation-related technologies and expertise.

The South Korean Government will fund 60% of the development costs, while the remaining 40% of funding is expected to be shared by KAI and Indonesia. Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) has signed a joint development contract with Indonesian Ministry of Defence’s Preparatory Power Bureau on the funding. About one % of the total Indonesian project spending will be invested by April this year. Indonesia's funding will increase to over two %, starting from 2017. In total, Indonesia will invest an estimated 1.6 trillion won ($1.3 billion) or 20 % of the developmental cost (estimated at 8.6 trillion won/ $7.1 billion). Indonesia will receive one prototype for service testing as well as technical informations and drawings for the KF-X.

The maiden flight of the KF-X is planned for 2020 with the completion of development by 2026. Korea is expected to buy 120 aircraft and Indonesia 80.  KAI estimates that there is a potential export market of 600-700 aircraft.

Artist's Impression of KF-X

Asian Defence

Yonhap News

New Combat Helmet For US Army

The US Army will be replacing its legacy combat helmet with the LW-ACH (Lightweight Advanced Combat Helmet). The main improvement over the legacy ACH helmet is a 10% reduction in weight. The new helmet manufactured by ArmourSource, weighs about 3 lbs (1.36 kg) compared to 3.3 lbs (1.50 kg) for the older helmet (Note: The weight depends on the size of the helmet. Comparison is made for L-size. The S-size weighs 2.7 lbs (1.22 kg) while the XL-size weighs 3.57 lbs (1.62 kg) ).

The LW-ACH also conform to an improved ballistic protection standard. A side-by-side comparison of the two types of helmet shows that the LW-ACH is rounder than the ACH. The ACH sports is flatter top to bottom shape.



Advanced Combat Helmet


Lightweight Advanced Combat Helmet


Asian Defence

Armorsource

Royal Thai Army Bolsters Air Defence

Oerlikon Skyshield® all-weather short-range air defence system from Rheinmetall

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) has ordered Rheinmetall’s Skyguard 3 air defence gun systems and AHEAD (Advanced Hit Efficiency and Destruction) airburst ammunition. Rheinmetall will supply four Oerlikon Skyguard 3 fire control systems and eight 35mm Oerlikon GDF007 Twin Guns.

Thailand has a number of older air defence systems which will need to be replaced in the future. So more orders may be likely.

The Oerlikon guns are very reliable and capable. They were used to devastating effects by Argentine in the 1982 Falklands War.

In the region, Indonesia and Malaysia also operates the Oerlikon anti-aircraft guns.Singapore operated the Oerlikon guns beginning in 1970. The system was upgraded with the Super Fledermaus Fire Control Radar during service and was retired after 45 years of service.

Malaysia also has a long history of operating the Oerlikon guns with the first order of 16 gun and 4 Skyguard systems in 1988.

In 2013, Indonesia ordered six gun systems. In 2014, a follow-on order for more fire units was placed. The €38 million contract includes training and logistical services for the Indonesian armed forces.

Asian Defence

Asia Pacific Defence Reporter/ Malaysia Order-of-Battle

MINDEF

Rheinmetall

Sipri

URA

Australia Beef Up Chinook Fleet

The United States has approved the sale of three Boeing CH-47F Chinook helicopters to Australia. This will increase the CH-47F fleet in the Royal Australian Army to ten. Seven CH-47F were ordered previously with delivery starting in Mayr 15. The older CH-47D will be withdrawn from service as the new CH-47F are inducted.  The new Chinook will be equipped to operated from the Royal Australian Navy's (RAN's) two Canberra class landing helicopter docks (LHD).  Modifications to the helicopters include rotor brakes and tie-down points for shipboard operations as well as additional crash and ballistic protection for crew and passengers.



townsville bulletin

Janes

UH-60A Black Hawk for RMAF

Four UH-60A Black Hawk from be transferred from Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAF) to the Royal Malaysian Army Air Corps (RMAAC). They will be deployed for operations in East Malaysia.

Indonesia Eyeing Sophisticated Missiles

Indonesia is planning for the procurement of sophisticated air-to-air missiles and air-to-surface missiles. Funding have been approved for the purchase of the Kh-31 Kh-59 and AIM-120 AMRAAM.

In the region, the AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles are in service with Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. Hence,the United States is expected to approve the sale of the missiles to the Indonesian Air Force, Tentara Nasional Indonesia - Angkatan Udara (TNI-AU). The AMRAAM will arm the TNI-AU's growing F-16 fleet. Meanwhile, the Kh-31A/ Kh-31P short-range air-to-surface missiles and the Kh-59ME powered stand-off weapon will increase the lethality of the Su-30 multi-role fighters. TNI-AU is also interested in the procurement of the Su-35.

Janes

Indonesia Navy's New OSV

The Indonesian Navy, Tentara Nasional Indonesia - Angkatan Laut (TNI-AL) inducted two offshore support vessels (OSVs) into service with the Military Sealift Command. The French-bulit KRI Spica and KRI Rigel were delivered under a USD 100 million contract by French shipbuilder OCEA. The 58m ships are each powered by two MTU 8V 400 M53 diesel engines driving two fixed-pitch propellers and has a top speed of 14 kt.  The OSV can operate to a standard range of 4,400 n miles at 12 kt.

The onboard survey equipment include Kongsberg's EA 600 single-beam echo sounder, EM 2040 and EM 302 multibeam systems. The OSV are also equipped with Kongsberg GeoAcoustics' Sonar 2094 side-scan sonar system. The OSV carry remotely operated vessels, the Kongsberg Maritime's Hugin 1000, which can undertake high-speed survey missions at depths of up to 1,000 m and Ocean Modules' V8 which has a manipulator arm for collecting underwater samples. These are the most sophisticated hydrographic survey ships in Asia.

Janes

terasbintang.com

China Overhaul Military Command Structure

China is overhauling her military's command and control organisation. The new structure will be a departure from the present army-centric system towards a joint command structure with equal representation from each services, the army, navy and air force in the higher headquarters. represented.

New commanders are also appointed for the major forces. Three new commanders will head the land forces of the People’s Liberation Army and the new Rocket Force and Strategic Support Force.

General Li Zuocheng, 62, a decorated hero of the 1979 Sino-Vietnamese war and leader of several disaster relief campaigns. He is appointed the commander of the newly established army general command and led the Chengdu military region (covering Guizhou, Sichuan, Tibet and Yunnan).

Lieutenant General Gao Jin, 56, is the new commander of the newly established Strategic Support Force. Gao who has a masters degree from the Second Artillery Engineering University, the only military school to train strategic missiles commanders, has published more than 20 research papers on the use of missiles. He played a key role in standing up Unit 15A, which oversees the development of a new generation of missiles. In 2011, Gao became the chief of staff for the Second Artillery Corps and was promoted to be a lieutenant general in 2013.

Wei Fenghe, 61, was the previous commander of the Second Artillery Corps which renamed the Rocket Force. The Rocket Force commands both nuclear and conventional strategic missiles.




Graphic: SCMP

SCMP