The Pakistan Navy has claimed that it is capable of deploying strategic weapons at sea if and when the government makes a decision to do so.
The government had so far not decided to deploy strategic weapons at sea, Chief of Staff Vice-Admiral Asif Humayun said while speaking at a workshop organised in the southern port city of Karachi on Tuesday.
Humayun told participants in the workshop, the navy is "fully capable" of deploying strategic weapons at sea if the government made such a decision.
He did not give details about how the strategic or nuclear weapons would be deployed and neither disclosed whether Pakistan has developed a capability to launch missiles from submarines.
In the context of the changing complexion of the war on terror, the Pakistan Navy has to do more to ensure a secure environment, he said.
The navy's role in the region was discussed in the context of its capability to protect Pakistan's territorial integrity and keep sea lanes safe from terrorists and non-state actors in the region.
Humayun said the navy should be provided more warships and submarines to augment the country's defence capabilities and meet regional maritime needs.
The navy's annual budget of Rs 27.5 billion was the lowest of the three services as the budgets of the Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Army are Rs 71 billion and Rs 141 billion, respectively.
Another senior officer, Commodore Tahseenullah Khan, said the Pakistan Navy had formally communicated to the government its requirements for acquiring new submarines and it was up to the government to finalise a deal.
The deal for new submarines would include transfer of technology, similar to the deal for three Agosta-class French submarines.
The participants of the workshop were informed that the navy is trying to acquire long-range maritime patrol aircraft and drones as an alternative to the ageing French Atlantique reconnaissance aircraft.
The navy is also acquiring seven P3C Orion surveillance aircraft from the US.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Pak Navy Capable of Deploying Strategic Weapons At Sea
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Israel Asks to Buy F-35s (Pentagon)
Israel has asked to buy up to 75 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters in a deal worth as much as $15.2 billion if all options are exercised, the Pentagon said Sept. 30.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency said the sale initially would be for 25 fighters designed for conventional take off and landing.
But Israel would have the option of buying another 50 of the aircraft, either designed for conventional take off and landing or for short take off and vertical landing, the agency said.
"The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as 15.2 billion dollars," it said in a statement.
The F-35 is a stealthy new multi-role fighter built by Lockheed Martin that is intended to replace the F-16.
Israeli officials have said they plan to buy 100 fighters over the next decade.
It was unclear how soon delivery of the aircraft might begin.
The DSCA disclosed the proposed sale in a notification to Congress, which has 30 days to raise any objections to the sale. A deal would then have to be concluded with the Israelis.
"It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability. This proposed sale is consistent with those objectives," the DSCA said.
"Israel needs these aircraft to augment its present operational inventory and to enhance its air-to-air and air-to-ground self-defense capability," it said.
Self-Destruct Cluster Bombs By Israel
The Israeli army is equipping itself with self-destruct cluster bombs in order to lower the number of civilian victims of this type of weapon, used in the 2006 war in Lebanon, military radio said.
The army has reduced its purchases of U.S. made cluster bombs, instead buying Israel-made M-85 cluster bombs, which contain a mechanism to destroy themselves if they fail to explode immediately on impact, according to the report.
Cluster munitions spread bomblets over a wide area from a single container.
The United Nations estimates that a million cluster bombs were dropped on Lebanon by Israel between July 12 and August 14 in 2006 in the conflict with Hezbollah.
About 40 percent of these did not explode on impact and are spread among villages and orchards in the south of Lebanon.
According to a U.N. report in June, at least 38 people have been killed and 217 wounded by bomblets exploding since the end of the fighting.
The Israeli government's Winograd Commission of enquiry into the mistakes of the Lebanon war recommended the army use fewer cluster bombs in future to reduce civilian injuries.
In May, delegates from 111 countries agreed a landmark treaty in Dublin to ban the use, production, transfer and stockpiling of cluster munitions by its signatories.
However, the agreement lacked the backing of major producers and stockpilers including Israel, China, India, Pakistan, Russia and the United States.
Self-Destruct Cluster Bombs By Israel
The Israeli army is equipping itself with self-destruct cluster bombs in order to lower the number of civilian victims of this type of weapon, used in the 2006 war in Lebanon, military radio said.
The army has reduced its purchases of U.S. made cluster bombs, instead buying Israel-made M-85 cluster bombs, which contain a mechanism to destroy themselves if they fail to explode immediately on impact, according to the report.
Cluster munitions spread bomblets over a wide area from a single container.
The United Nations estimates that a million cluster bombs were dropped on Lebanon by Israel between July 12 and August 14 in 2006 in the conflict with Hezbollah.
About 40 percent of these did not explode on impact and are spread among villages and orchards in the south of Lebanon.
According to a U.N. report in June, at least 38 people have been killed and 217 wounded by bomblets exploding since the end of the fighting.
The Israeli government's Winograd Commission of enquiry into the mistakes of the Lebanon war recommended the army use fewer cluster bombs in future to reduce civilian injuries.
In May, delegates from 111 countries agreed a landmark treaty in Dublin to ban the use, production, transfer and stockpiling of cluster munitions by its signatories.
However, the agreement lacked the backing of major producers and stockpilers including Israel, China, India, Pakistan, Russia and the United States.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Latest-Generation Laser Engagement System for US Army
U.S. Army Soldiers at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California, will begin training this year with a new and improved version of the U.S. military's laser engagement training system. The new MILES Individual Weapon System, or MILES IWS, is manufactured by Cubic Defense Applications, the defense systems business of Cubic Corporation and features lighter weight components to lighten the load of Soldiers on the move during combat training exercises.
Shipments of MILES IWS to Fort Irwin began in July and will continue through December. To date, 4,000 systems have been delivered. Fort Irwin is the first large-scale fielding to take place under Cubic's contract with the Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training and Instrumentation (PEO STRI). Ultimately, Fort Irwin will receive 14,000 systems.
Cubic is also under contract to deliver systems to Fort Bliss and Fort Hood in Texas, and to U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Department of Energy and U.S. Defense Threat Reduction Agency customers.
Cubic's first U.S. Army delivery of MILES IWS was to the Soldier Battle Lab at Fort Benning, Georgia, which conducted effectiveness and suitability testing on the system. A lab report issued earlier this year concluded, "Overall, the MILES IWS is more effective and suitable in a training environment than current MILES. The system requires less time to mount, less time to align, and maintains alignment resulting in more Soldier confidence and better use of training time..."
The report continues, "The MILES IWS provides more realism in training through more accuracy primarily attributed to alignment retention and weight reduction. The system provides Soldiers with a user friendly and rugged replacement for the current MILES."
Like its predecessor systems, Cubic's MILES IWS allows troops to train with actual weapons during force-on-force exercises. Cubic's laser transmitters and detectors are attached to the trainee's weapon, helmets and training harness. Tracking devices keep track of each trainee's position location, while other MILES IWS components provide real-time feedback on weapon engagements, and record the event for after-action review.
"Cubic is proud to deliver this greatly improved system to Fort Irwin, one of the nation's premier predeployment training sites," said Ray Barker, executive vice president for Business Development and Strategy for Cubic Defense Applications. "MILES IWS offers superior training over basic MILES and has long-term sustainability because it is easy to upgrade. It is interoperable with previous configurations of MILES and with the Initial Homestation Instrumentation Training System (I-HITS), the U.S. Army's new deployable combat training center. MILES IWS is giving the U.S. Army and PEO STRI good value now and into the future."
Cubic Defense Applications (CDA), one of Cubic Corporation's major segments, is a world leader in realistic combat training systems, mission support services and defense electronics. The corporation's other major segment, Cubic Transportation Systems, designs and manufactures automatic fare collection systems for public mass transit authorities.
Delivery of 10,000 MRAP in Iraq , Very Soon
The 10,000th mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle is scheduled to be delivered to troops supporting Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom Sept. 25 by Air Mobility Command Airmen.
MRAPs were introduced in 2007, and AMC Airmen have been working around-the-clock planning, coordinating and executing air transport missions to rush the lifesaving vehicles to Iraq and Afghanistan.
Using a variety of aircraft, including C-5 Galaxies, C-17 Globemaster IIIs and contracted AN-124s, AMC officials have transported nearly 3,000 -- roughly one third -- of the total number of MRAPs delivered to the warfighters.
MRAPs are constructed with V-shaped hulls and a raised chassis design to deflect underbelly blasts, and have proven to be lifesavers against improvised explosive devices, small arms fire and mines.
"Our Airmen are directly helping to keep our troops on the ground safer," said Gen. Arthur J. Lichte, the commander of Air Mobility Command. "I'm extremely proud of them and their efforts to speed the delivery of this lifesaving equipment to our forces."
The efforts of AMC's Airmen are part of a multiservice effort to quickly get the vehicles in the hands of troops on the ground. The Air Force was the primary delivery option for MRAPs until December, when the Navy also began transporting the vehicles.
"It's a great feeling to deliver MRAP vehicles to the (area of responsibility) because of the impact on safety it provides other servicemembers," said Master Sgt. Bill Lesage, a C-17 loadmaster with the 14th Airlift Squadron at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C. "At the end of a long duty day, you really feel a sense of accomplishment knowing that the MRAP is saving lives."
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Atomic Submarines for India
A top Pakistan Newspaper "Jang" has claimed that Russia has provided India with two Atomic Submarines after a secret deal between two countries.One of the Submarine named as "Mittri" is old version. Other submarines is reported as "JONI" . This news is being circulated in Pakistan media.It is going to be a great threat for Pakistan. India has not still rejected this claim of "JANG" newspaper.
Indian Admiral has also declared that India will be able to build a nuclear submarine in the next year.
First Littoral Combat Ship Delivered to US Navy
The Lockheed Martin led industry team delivered the nation's first Littoral Combat Ship, Freedom (LCS 1), to the U.S. Navy on 22 September 08. The delivery milestone marks the Navy's preliminary acceptance of LCS 1, clearing the way for the ship's crew to prepare her for commissioning and service.
The 378-foot Freedom -- a survivable, semi-planing steel monohull -- will help the Navy defeat growing threats and provide access and dominance in the littoral battlespace. Reaching speeds over 40 knots and displacing 3,000 metric tons, Freedom is a fast, maneuverable and networked surface combatant with operational flexibility to execute focused missions, such as mine warfare, anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare and the potential for a wide range of additional missions including maritime interdiction and humanitarian/disaster relief.
In 2004, the Navy awarded a contract to the Lockheed Martin team to develop the first LCS. Construction began in February 2005 and Freedom was christened and launched in September 2006. This represents less than half the time typically required to design, build, launch and deliver a first-in-class combatant. Freedom successfully completed sea trials in August 2008 and will be commissioned on November 8, 2008 in Milwaukee, WI and eventually home-ported in San Diego, CA.
The Lockheed Martin-led industry team for LCS also includes naval architect Gibbs & Cox, ship builders Marinette Marine, a subsidiary of The Manitowoc Company, Inc. and Bollinger Shipyards, as well as best-of-industry domestic and international teammates to provide a flexible, low-risk war fighting solution.
Headquartered in Bethesda, MD, Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2007 sales of $41.9 billion.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
New-Generation Strategic Missile Test By Russia
Russia tested a new-generation strategic missile from a submarine, the latest launch of a multiple-warhead weapon designed to breach anti-missile shields.
A new-generation Bulava ballistic missile was successfully fired from the White Sea to the Kura testing site in Kamchatka in Russia's far east.
The Bulava was fired by the Dmitry Donskoi nuclear submarine off the northwest coast of Russia, can be equipped with up to 10 individually targeted nuclear warheads.
The test comes amid Russian anger at US plans to locate a powerful missile-tracking radar in the Czech Republic as well interceptor missiles in Poland to combat what it says are threats to global security.
Analysts say Russia has moved to upgrade its missile systems to counter the US shield, which Moscow sees as an attempt to undermine its nuclear deterrent. Washington insists the shield is far too small to defend against Russia and is meant to protect against "rogue states" like Iran.
The test came three weeks after Russia test-fired an intercontinental Topol RS-12M missile, also designed to avoid detection by missile-defence systems.
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev promised a "military response" to a US-Polish agreement last month to set up the US interceptor missiles.
A Russian general was later quoted as saying Russia could aim intercontinental missiles at the sites.
US-Russia relations recently hit a post Cold War low after Moscow sent tanks into neighbouring Georgia in what it said was a bid to protect its citizens in the breakaway region of South Ossetia from a Georgian attack.
The Bulava missile, which has a range of 8,000 kilometres (5,000 miles), was first tested successfully in December 2005.
It is the sea-based version of the Topol-M, designed to be fired from Moscow's new Borei class of submarines.
Friday, September 19, 2008
New Body Armor for Australian Troops... Using Latest Shield Technology
Honeywell announced its Spectra Shield II ballistic material will be a key component in a new body armor system for the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
Honeywell's latest shield technology will be used in protective hard body armor plates as part of the new Modular Combat Body Armour System (MCBAS). Manufactured by Australian Defence Apparel (ADA), the modular system provides protection for the neck, chest, upper and lower arm, groin and buttock, and upper and lower leg.
Honeywell launched Spectra Shield II last year as a new line of Spectra fiber-based materials with improved ballistic stopping capability for body and vehicle armor. Spectra Shield II has demonstrated up to 20 percent greater ballistic performance than Honeywell's standard Spectra Shield product line, which already uses one of the strongest man-made fibers in commercial use today. Pound for pound, Spectra fiber is 15 times stronger than steel yet light enough to float.
Spectra Shield II incorporates Honeywell's newest and improved fiber, Spectra S3000, which was developed specifically to help armor manufacturers and the military counter new ballistic threats.
Honeywell's patented Spectra Shield and Spectra Shield II materials are used in advanced armor systems for a wide a range of ballistic protection and security applications -- from bullet-resistant vests, breastplates, and helmets to combat vehicles and military aircraft -- where lightweight solutions and durability are critical.
Honeywell Spectra Shield products are manufactured by bonding parallel strands of fiber in place with an advanced resin system. In addition to Spectra fiber, Honeywell adapts this technology to other fibers, including aramid.
Spectra fiber is made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene using a patented gel-spinning process. The fiber exhibits high resistance to chemicals, water, and ultraviolet light. It has excellent vibration damping, flex fatigue and internal fiber-friction characteristics. It also has up to 60 percent greater specific strength than aramid fiber.
In addition to armor, Spectra fiber also can be used for high-performance marine applications such as lifting and mooring lines, industrial slings and security netting, as well as for novel curtains used to protect windows and doors during hurricanes.
Honeywell maintains an active Spectra fiber and ballistic material research and development program aimed to meet increased demand for its high performance armor materials.
Honeywell Specialty Materials, based in Morristown, N.J., is a $4.9 billion, global leader in providing customers with high-performance specialty materials, including fluorine products; specialty films and additives; advanced fibers and composites; intermediates; specialty chemicals; electronic materials and chemicals; and technologies and materials for petroleum refining.
Honeywell International is a $38 billion diversified technology and manufacturing leader, serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes and industry; automotive products; turbochargers; and specialty materials.
SA-manufactured Armoured Vehicle, New Version
BAE Systems South African business, Land Systems OMC, has launched the RG31 Mk6E, which would debut at the African Aerospace & Defence 2008 show in Cape Town on Wednesday. The RG31 Mk6E is the latest version of the company's explosive mine resistant personnel carrier RG series of vehicles, which are manufactured in Johannesburg. The RG31 is a 4x4 mine-protected vehicle with a V-shaped hull that protects the crew against anti piercing rifle fire, anti-tank mine detonations, and a number of improvised explosive devices. We are confident that this latest development, will further entrench our South African business as the world s leader in mine protected vehicle technology, said Land Systems South Africa MD Johan Steyn. Among the latest developments incorporated in the RG31 Mk6E were new anti-mine seats, which provide enhanced protection to the occupants from lumbar spinal injuries caused by the shock-waves associated with land mine detonations. The seats incorporate shock attenuation crushable elements developed at Land Systems OMC. Tests have shown that these absorb some of the vertical impulse associated with mine blasts, reducing the likelihood of injury during large landmine explosions. Earlier RG-series vehicles could also be equipped with the new seats. Land Systems OMC s RG-series of products have boosted South African exports by more than R3,5-billion, since the company received a Canadian armed forces order for RG31 Mk3 vehicles in 2003. Steadily increasing orders for vehicles, spares and support from new customers around the globe have also boosted exports. The RG series builds on the three decades of experience we have gained in South Africa, through vehicles such as the Casspir, Mamba and Mfezi. Its success is a result of our ongoing investment into ever improving the vehicle s protection levels. We achieve this by applying new concepts and designs influenced by customer and operator feedback and simulation, explained Steyn.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Israel Grounded its Cobra Helicopters
News
Israel's air force has grounded its fleet of Cobra helicopters after two Israeli soldiers died when one of the aircraft crashed on Sept. 10 near the northern town of Afula.
The helicopter that crashed was carrying a large amount of explosives, which caused a fire, military radio reported.
An early report from army radio suggested the crash might have been sparked by a midair collision between the two aircrafts.
But a witness told public radio that he had seen the helicopter lose a rotor before hitting the ground. Investigators are now looking for technical faults.
Monday, September 15, 2008
India Tested Again Missile , 'Astra'
India's indigenously developed, beyond visual range air-to-air missile. 'Astra' was successfully test-fired on Saturday 13 Sep 08 from the integrated test range at Chandipur in Orissa.
First Ever F-16s For Jordan
After the necessary modifications Jordanian pilots are receiving their training in Belgium (OCU Squadron at Kleine Brogel air base) before returning with their mounts to their country.
The Royel Jordanian Air Force already operates 33 surplus USAF F-16A/B air defense fighters, part of which is to be upgraded to MLU standards, and 3 former Koninklijke Nederlandse Luchtmacht (Dutch air force) F-16BMs.
The Belgian aircraft involved are:
-- F-16AM: serial numbers FA-58, -60, -61, -65, -66, -73, -74, -75, -76, -78, -88, and -90.
-- F-16BM: serial numbers FB-04 (replaces FB-01 previously announced) and FB-08.
On Tuesday September 9th 2008 five of these aircraft had their Belgian nationality markings removed and replaced by the Royal Jordanian Air Force markings and serials.
Four of these aircraft are to fly to Jordan via Aviano airbase in Italy and are therefore equipped with three drop tanks giving the needed range to the aircraft. It was initially said that the aircraft were to be refuelled in the air by tankers but apparently in a last minute change this was abandoned.
The aircraft which are involved in the flight on 10 September are former FA-58 ("140"), FA-61 ("142"), FA-73 ("145"), FB-04("138") and FB-08 ("139"). FA-73 was the spare aircraft in case of technical problems with one of the other aircraft but it remained at Kleine Brogel as everything went very smoothly.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Israel Acquiring GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency(WASHINGTON) notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Israel of GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs as well as associated equipment and services.
The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $77 million.
The Government of Israel has requested a possible sale of 1,000 GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs (SDB1), 150 BRU-61/A SDB1 Mounting Carriages, 30 Guided Test Vehicles, 2 BRU-61/A SDB Instrumented Carriages, 7 Jettison Test Vehicles, 1 Separation Test Vehicle, 2 Reliability and Assessment Vehicles, 12 Common Munitions BIT and Reprogramming Equipment with Test Equipment and Adapters, 3 SDB1 Weapons Simulators, and 2 Load Crew Trainers.
Boeing GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bomb
During Operation of Allied Force in Kosovo and most recently during Operation of Iraqi Freedom F-15E aircrews had to strike military targets that were often located in a dense urban environment like Bagdad or Fallujah among the civilian population. The large concern for collateral demage among civilians once again validated the USAF's push for a more accurate weapon that could take out the target more effectively with less collateral demage.
The solution to this need is the GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bomb, which is currently being tested on the F-15E Strike Eagle by the 40th Flight Test Squadron at Eglin AFB, Florida.
GBU-39/B Specifications
Primary Function: Air-to-Ground precision guided glide bomb
Manufacturer: Boeing (McDonnell Douglas)
Guidance System: Advanced Anti-Jam GPS aided Inertial Navigation System (AJGPS/INS)
Warhead: 250-lb multi-purpose penetrating and blast-fragmentation warhead
Range: > 60 nm
Ceiling: 9,100 m (30,000 feet)
Length: 1.80 m (70.8 in)
Wingspan: 1.38 m (54.2 in)
Diameter: 0.19 m (7.48 in)
Launch Weight: 130 kg (285 lbs)
Unit Cost: US$ 64,000 (in full-rate production)
Inventory: 24,000 planned
Saturday, September 13, 2008
AH-64D APACHE Longbow Helicopters for Saudi Arabia
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency(WASHINGTON) notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Saudi Arabia of AH-64D APACHE Longbow Helicopters as well as associated equipment and services.
The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $598 million.
The Government of Saudi Arabia has requested a possible sale of 12 AH-64D Block II APACHE Longbow Helicopters, 30 T700-GE-701D Engines, 12 Modernized Targeting Acquisition and Designation Systems/Pilot Night Vision Sensors, 4 each AN/APG-78 Fire Control Radars and AN/APR-48 Radar Frequency Interferometers, 28 M299 HELLFIRE Longbow Missile Launchers, 12 AN/ALQ-144C(V)3 Infrared Jammers, 12 AN/APR-39A(V)4 Radar Signal Detecting Sets, 12 AN/ALQ-136(V)5 Radar Jammers, 12 AAR-57(V)3/5 Common Missile Warning Systems, 36 Improved Countermeasures Dispensers, and 12 AN/AVR-2B Laser Warning Sets.
Also included: composite horizontal stabilators, Integrated Helmet and Display Sight Systems, repair and return, transportation, depot maintenance, spare and repair parts, support equipment, publications and technical documentation, U.S. Government and contractor technical support, and other related elements of program support. The estimated cost is $598 million.
Saudi Arabia will use the AH-64D for its national security, and protecting its borders and oil infrastructure. The aircraft will provide the Saudi military more advanced targeting and engagement capabilities. The proposed sale will provide for the defense of vital installations and will provide close air support for the Saudi military ground forces. This sale also will increase the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) APACHE sustainability and interoperability with the U.S. Air Force, the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, and other coalition air forces. Saudi Arabia will have no difficulty absorbing these helicopters into its armed forces.
AH-64A Apache
Between 1984 and 1997, Boeing produced 937 AH-64As for the U.S. Army, Egypt, Greece, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The combat-proven AH-64A is still in service and includes the following features:
* Two high-performance turboshaft engines and maximum cruise speed of 284 kph
* Laser, infrared, and other systems (including target acquisition designation
sight/pilot night vision sensor) to locate, track, and attack targets.
* A combination of laser-guided precision Hellfire missiles, 70mm rockets, and a 30 mm automatic cannon with up to 1,200 high-explosive,dual-purpose ammunition rounds
AH-64D Apache and AH-64D Apache Longbow
The combat-proven AH-64D Apache and AH-64D Apache Longbow share the following history and characteristics:
* Testing in the late 1990s, delivery in 1997, in production for the U.S. Army and
several international customers.
* Selection by the U.S. Army, Egypt, Greece, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, The Netherlands,
Saudi Arabia, Republic of Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom.
* Ability to assimilate advancements in digital connectivity, sensors, weapon
systems, advanced training devices, and maintenance support systems.
Apache Longbow Enhancements
The radar-equipped AH-64D Apache Longbow features numerous enhanced capabilities, including:
* Longer-range weapons accuracy and all-weather/night fighting.
* Detection of objects (moving or stationary) without being detected.
* Classification and threat-prioritization of up to 128 targets in less than a
minute.
* Integrated sensors, networking, and digital communications for situational images
awareness, management of the combat arena in real time, and digital transmission
of and target locations to joint operations battlefield commanders.
The AH-64 Apache has been developed since its inception using incremental technology insertions at regular intervals to ensure that the world's most capable multi-role combat helicopter meets the needs of the warfighter today and in the future.
Second Test of Raytheon's Standard Missile-6 By US NAVY
The U.S. Navy conducted the second test of Raytheon Company's Standard Missile-6 extended range anti-air warfare missile on Sept. 5.
Using the newly developed SM-6 active seeker, the missile intercepted a BQM-74 aerial drone. The active seeker, employing the U.S. Navy's legacy command system, autonomously acquired and engaged the target.
The SM-6 integrates the legacy standard missile airframe and semi-active guidance technology with the power of the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) active seeker.
The SM-6 provides advanced anti-air warfare and over-the-horizon capabilities against aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles. The over-the-horizon capabilities allow the missile to engage a target beyond the ship's line of sight.
Raytheon Company, with 2007 sales of $21.3 billion, is a technology leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 86 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 72,000 people worldwide.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Light Anti-Armor Weapons (M72A7) for Israeli Armed Forces
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Israel of M72A7 Light Anti-Armor Weapons (LAAWs) as well as associated equipment and services.
The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $89 million.
The Government of Israel has requested a possible sale of 28,000 M72A7 66mm Light Anti-Armor Weapons (LAAWs), 60,000 M72AS 21mm Sub-Caliber Training Rockets, spare and repair parts, support equipment, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor engineering and logistics personnel services, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $89 million.
Israel’s strategic position makes it vital to the United States’ interests throughout the Middle East. Our policy has been to promote Middle East peace, support the Israeli commitment to peace with other regional Arab countries, enhance regional stability, and promote Israeli readiness and self-sufficiency. It is vital to the U.S. national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability. This proposed sale is consistent with those objectives.
The proposed sale will enhance the foreign policy and national security objectives of the U.S. by providing the Israeli Government with a lightweight assault rocket that will enable Israel to maintain its operational capability, and provide greater mission flexibility to deter aggression in the region. Israel will have no difficulty absorbing this weapon capability into its armed forces.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not affect the basic military balance in the region.
The principal contractor will be Talley Defense of Mesa, Arizona. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.
Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives to Israel.
There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.
This notice of a potential sale is required by law; it does not mean that the sale has been concluded.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
After 2016, Russian Navy will have New Carrier Fighters
Russia's new carrier-based fighters will replace the Su-33 naval fighter in service with the Russian Navy after 2016.
The Su-33 (NATO reporting name 'Flanker-D') is a carrier-based multi-role fighter, which can perform a variety of air superiority, fleet defense, air support and reconnaissance missions. The aircraft entered service with the Russian Navy in 1995 and are currently deployed on board the Nikolai Kuznetsov aircraft carrier.
"The Russian Navy will adopt new carrier-based aircraft after 2016," said Maj. Gen. Nikolai Kuklev, the deputy commander of Russia's naval aviation.
At present, Russia are considering modernization and extension of service life for the Su-33 aircraft. It will certainly stay in service until 2015.
He said the Navy will hold a tender on the new carrier fighter after 2010, which will involve the Su-27KUB Flanker and MiG-29K Fulcrum fighters.
"Both aircraft have advantages and disadvantages. For instance, the Su-27KUB is heavier, but has a longer flight range. MiG-29K is lighter but its combat range is shorter," Kuklev said, adding that a "golden average" has to be chosen.
At present, Russia has only one operational aircraft carrier, the Nikolai Kuznetsov, which was commissioned in the early 1990s and has recently re-entered service after a prolonged overhaul.
The ship, also known as Project 1143.5 heavy aircraft carrier, is currently deployed with Russia's Northern Fleet and has recently participated in a two-month tour to the Mediterranean as part of Russia's plans to resume its continual presence in different regions of the world's seas.
"We are considering extending the service life of the carrier. It will stay in service until 2020 and may be even until 2025," Kuklev said.
The general also confirmed that a decision to build new aircraft carriers for the Russian Navy had been adopted.
Russia's Navy commander, Adm. Vladimir Vysotsky, said in July that the Navy command had decided to form in the future 5-6 aircraft carrier task forces to be deployed with the Northern and Pacific fleets.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Archer Artillery System 4 Swedish Armed Forces
The Archer artillery system will soon be in service. The government has made a decision on continued development and procurement of this modified Howitzer 77B.
“With the new gun we will have one of the world’s best systems with precision bombardment,” says Thomas Lindell, Acting Commander at the Artillery Regiment A9.
The decision is seen as an expression of Sweden’s will to strengthen its artillery capability, and a sign of Sweden’s commitment to intensified cooperation with Norway on national security.
The government considers that joint development and procurement of Archer together with Norway creates conditions for an improved ability to collaborate in international operations. There are also opportunities to share the costs of teaching and training soldiers and costs for logistics, maintenance and modification of the systems.
“All experience at international level underlines the need for modern artillery units,” says Thomas Lindell.
The cooperation with Norway also includes procurement of the remote-controlled weapon station Protector.
The mandate of Parliament is required before Swedish procurement of this system. The government is expected to seek this mandate in its budget proposal for 2009.
Archer Facts:
-- Dumper truck with ballistic protection
-- Calibre: 15.5 cm (155 mm)
-- Muzzle velocity: 945 m/s
-- Range: 50 km with precision-guided shells
-- Based on the Howitzer 77 B, but with a barrel 2 metres longer
-- Top road speed: 70 km/h
-- Crew: 3-4: vehicle commander, driver and 1-2 operators
-- Ammunition: 21 projectiles carried on board the vehicle
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Russia and Georgia in Battlefield
Russian premier Dmitry Medvedev called a halt to Russian operations into Georgia just as IDR was going to press. It was too early to judge how final the decision is and what the repercussions will be - accusations and recriminations were still flying back and forth over who had initiated operations - but several points can be drawn out of the situation so far.
Firstly, Russia did not appear to use its more modern weapons in this short campaign, as the units nearest to Georgia were equipped with older equipment, much of it fielded over 20 years ago. However, in large numbers and with substantial air support, they proved to be more than adequate to carry out their mission against Georgian forces.
Both sides deployed similar ground forces. Russia used itsT-72 series main battle tanks (MBTs) fitted with explosive reactive armour, BMP-1 and BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), BTR-80 series armoured personnel carriers (APCs) and MT-LB multipurpose tracked vehicles.
In addition, Russian air assault units played a key role and were able to rapidly deploy BMD-1 and BMD-2 air assault vehicles (AAVs) and BTR-D airborne armoured carriers with organic fire support provided by 120 mm 2S9 Anona self-propelled gun/howitzers.
Russia also deployed a number of 2S3 152 mm series self-propelled gun/howitzers and various multiple rocket launchers to provide indirect fire support to their rapidly moving units, while 2S6 Tunguska, SA-19 'Gopher' and manportable systems provided air defence.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Boeing, US Navy Offer Super Hornet for Denmark Fighter Competition
Boeing and the U.S. Navy delivered a proposal Aug. 15 offering the advanced F/A-18E/F Super Hornet to the Royal Danish Air Force as part of Denmark's New Combat Aircraft competition.
Boeing received a Request for Information from Denmark in May. The stated initial requirement is for 48 aircraft.
"The winner must present a good balance of capability, cost and risk, and be able to provide Danish industry with a viable and competitive long-term partnership," said Dan Korte, vice president and general manager for Global Strike Systems, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems. "We believe the Super Hornet is the best-value option and offers a winning solution for Denmark's fighter requirements."
The Super Hornet variant offered to Denmark is based on the F/A-18E/F model flown by the U.S. Navy and the 24 F/A-18Fs currently being produced for the Royal Australian Air Force. The Block II Super Hornet is the first operationally deployed strike fighter incorporating next-generation capabilities, including the Raytheon-built APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar.
"The Super Hornet has been a model acquisition program for the United States and the U.S. Navy, one that has continued to add capability while decreasing cost over its lifetime," said U.S. Navy Capt. James Kennedy, F/A-18 International Business deputy program manager. "The Super Hornet, with its small logistics footprint and high mission-readiness rates, will stand well in the competition since it enhances effective deployment in international operations. With the AESA radar now fully onboard, the two-seat F/A-18F is providing unmatched aircrew situational awareness and taking air combat capabilities to new levels, as we can now seamlessly execute same-time air and ground missions. This is truly an aircraft that delivers tomorrow's capabilities today."
Boeing has delivered more than 360 Super Hornets to the U.S. Navy, all on or ahead of the original production delivery schedule. Australia has ordered 24 Super Hornets to bolster its fleet of F/A-18 Hornets, and Boeing is in discussions with several other international customers about their interest in procuring the Super Hornet.
On July 30, Boeing delivered a proposal to the Brazilian Air Force offering 36 Super Hornets for Brazil's F-X2 fighter competition. On Aug. 4, Boeing submitted a comprehensive industrial-participation proposal to the government of India in support of the company's offer of 126 Super Hornets to the Indian Air Force for India's Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft program.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32.1 billion business with 71,000 employees worldwide.
ICBM (Anti Missilie Shield) designed to overcome Missile shield By Russia
Russia test-fired an intercontinental missile designed to avoid detection by missile-defence systems, raising the temperature in a tense stand-off with the West over Georgia.
The Topol RS-12M intercontinental ballistic missile was launched from the Plesetsk cosmodrome in northern Russia and flew 6,000 kilometres (3,700 miles) to hit a target on Kamchatka Peninsula in the far east, a military spokesman said.
The test was meant "to develop equipment for potential combat use against ground-based ballistic missiles," Alexander Vovk, a spokesman for Russia's strategic nuclear forces, said in televised remarks.
The test came barely a week after the United States completed an accord with Poland on basing anti-missile interceptors in the east European country and as Russia accuses NATO of building up its naval presence in the Black Sea.
But analysts said the launch was likely planned in advance and not directly linked to soaring tensions with the West over Russia's conflict with ex-Soviet Georgia.
The stand-off has deepened since President Dmitry Medvedev's announcement that Russia was recognising South Ossetia and another rebel region, Abkhazia, as independent states.
Russia has been upgrading its Topol missiles in response to US plans to develop a missile-defence shield using ground-based interceptors, analysts said.
Russia is saying once again that has the opportunity to overcome US missile defence.
Possibility are that the test was timed to coincide with tensions over Georgia.
The Topol was first tested in 1983 but Russia has in recent years been adapting it to include countermeasures against missile defence, with the last test-firing in December 2007.
These missiles will be stationed alongside Russia border.
Washington's plan to site elements of a missile shield in Poland and the Czech Republic has angered Moscow despite US assurances that the plan does not threaten Russia and is meant to protect against "rogue states" like Iran.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Formidable-Class Frigate for Singaporean Navy
DCNS, a world leader in the design and realisation of advanced naval defence systems, today announced the completion of the New Frigate Programme for the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN), with the delivery of RSS Supreme (73). This also marks the achievement of a comprehensive technology transfer to Singapore Technologies Marine (ST Marine) at the local shipyard providing turnkey shipbuilding.
In 2000, DCNS was awarded a contract to build six Formidable-Class Frigates as part of the New Frigate Programme, outlined by Singapore’s Ministry of Defence through the Defence and Science Technology Agency (DSTA). As part of this contract, based on its history and experience in building naval defence systems, DCNS focused on ensuring a full technology transfer to ST Marine.
The delivery of RSS Supreme (73) and the technology transfer to ST Marine underscores and cements the commitment of DCNS to enabling the Republic of Singapore Navy to become a world-class defence force. As Europe’s leading naval defence systems provider, DCNS can greatly contribute to governments in the Asia Pacific region that are looking to develop their naval defence systems to address growing security requirements.
The first frigate, RSS Formidable (68), was built at the DCNS shipyard in Lorient, France. The five following frigates were built in Singapore by ST Marine under DCNS supervision.
The completion of the technology transfer is a testimony of the strong partnership between the two companies. “ST Marine is very glad to have had DCNS as a partner in the last eight years to work on the RSN’s New Frigate Programme to replace the Missile Gun Boats. This partnership has culminated in the delivery of a fleet of highly capable frigates to the RSN", said CHANG Cheow Teck, President of ST Marine.
DCNS and ST Marine are thankful to DSTA and the RSN for their strong and continuous support throughout this successful program.
RSS Supreme (73) together with RSS Stalwart (72) are expected to be commissioned in the first quarter of 2009. The first four Formidable-Class Frigates are currently in operation and are already participating in advanced combat exercises with foreign navies, abroad. The 3,200 -tonne, 114 -metre long Formidable-Class Frigates, are regarded as the Singapore navy's most powerful warships.
The design of the Singapore Formidable-class frigates is based on the French Navy’s La Fayette Class Frigate, which boasts significant anti-air, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. The design of the frigates also has effective stealth capabilities, which reduce visibility of the frigates on radar screens, enhancing their survivability during combat.
Formidable-class frigates are also reputed for their advanced electronic systems, capable of preventing modern network-based attacks. These features have enabled the Republic of Singapore Navy to better fulfill its mission of protecting Singapore's coastlines and safeguarding its waters.
DCNS commenced operations in Singapore in 2002 and today has a team of 40 staff based in Singapore, which will continue to provide service and support to the RSN here. Globally, DCNS has the broadest range of naval defence capabilities and services, spanning from warships to nuclear submarines.
The DCNS Group is one of Europe’s leading players on the world market for naval defence systems. To meet customer demands for more comprehensive and integrated systems, DCNS acts as prime contractor for naval shipbuilding, integration and support by combining its own development, marketing and production capabilities with those of selected partners. The DCNS Group employs 13,000 people and generates annual revenues of around EUR 2.8 billion.
ST Marine, the marine arm of ST Engineering, provides turnkey building, repair and conversion services for a wide spectrum of naval and commercial vessels. In shipbuilding, it has the proven capabilities to provide turnkey solutions from concept definition to detailed design, construction, on-board system installation and integration, testing, commissioning to through-life support.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Iran About to Produce Domestically Built Submarine
Iranian state television has reported the launch of a domestic program to produce a midsize submarine built completely by the state. The submarine program - named Ghaem - was inaugurated by Iranian Defense Minister Gen. Mostafa Mohammed Najjar on August 25.
Because of arms embargoes placed on the revolutionary Islamic regime, Iran is forced to utilize a significant level of resourcefulness within its own defense industry to produce and maintain the bulk of its own military material.
Iran has been in the midst of producing its own coastal class of submarines with - according to the state-run media - a level of success. The first of the Ghadir class was launched in May 2005, with a second purported to have been produced.
The basic characteristics of this class are that their displacement is 120 tons, with a length of 30 meters, and can carry a crew of 32.
The Iranian Navy also has three Kilo class submarines acquired from Russia in the 1990s.
The USA’s New Littoral Combat Ships (Development)
The Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) is the U.S. Navy’s newest surface combatant class. Optimized for shallow seas and operations within 100 miles of shore, but deployable across the ocean, LCS ships are a centerpiece of the USA’s new focus on littoral warfare. They will help to counter growing “asymmetric” threats like coastal mines, quiet diesel submarines, global piracy, and terrorists on small fast attack boats. They will also perform intelligence gathering and scouting using helicopters and UAVs, offer some ground combat support capabilities, and share tactical information with other Navy aircraft, ships, submarines, and joint units. Swappable “mission modules,” UAV robot aircraft, and robotic UUV and USV vehicles will give these small ships the specialized capabilities they require for each of these roles – and the quick-replace adaptability they need to keep up.
At present, 2 teams are competing for the final LCS design. The General Dynamics team is offering a futuristic but practical high-speed trimaran based on Austal designs and experience. The Lockheed Martin team offers a high-speed semi-planing monohull based on Fincantieri designs that have set trans-Atlantic speed records. Team Lockheed’s efforts have run into serious trouble, including cancellation of the contract for their second ship. The General Dynamics/Austal team hit the same rocks soon afterward, in part because of the US Navy’s unusual proposal for future business arrangements.
DID places recent developments in context by explaining a bit more about the US Navy’s new surface combatant; detailing the teams, key time line events, and contract awards under the program to date; and providing additional resources and links to complete our in-depth coverage.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
World Record For Longest Unmanned Flight By Zephyr UAV
Zephyr's reputation as the world's leading solar powered high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) has been reinforced with a world-beating three and a half day flight at the US Army's Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona.
The solar powered plane flew for 82 hours 37 minutes, exceeding the current official world record for unmanned flight which stands at 30 hours 24 minutes set by Global Hawk in 2001 and Zephyr's previous longest flight of 54 hours achieved last year.
The UK Ministry of Defence has funded the development of Zephyr to date and has partnered with the US Department of Defense (DoD) under their Joint Capability Technology Demonstration (JCTD) Programme - which is designed to move urgently needed technologies rapidly into the hands of US forces in the field.
The US DoD funded the demonstration flight under the Programme and this was the first time the two governments have participated in a joint demonstration of a HALE UAV.
JCTD projects are specially tailored to meet the needs of US combatant commands. Zephyr is supported by USCENTCOM, the combatant command with responsibility for Iraq and Afghanistan, along with the Office of Secretary of Defense (OSD) for Advanced Systems and Concepts (AS and C) and the US Army Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC).
Launched by hand, Zephyr is an ultra-lightweight carbon-fibre aircraft. By day it flies on solar power generated by amorphous silicon solar arrays no thicker than sheets of paper that cover the aircraft's wings.
By night it is powered by rechargeable lithium-sulphur batteries, supplied by SION Power Inc, which are recharged during the day using solar power.
The flight trial at Yuma took place between 28 and 31 July in the harsh conditions of the Sonoran Desert in mid summer with temperatures up to 45oC (113oF).
Zephyr was flown on autopilot and via satellite communications to a maximum altitude of more than 60,000ft. The trial included a military utility assessment of a US Government communications payload.
The trial is a step towards the delivery of Zephyr's capability for joint, real-time, battlefield persistent surveillance and communications to forces in the field at the earliest opportunity.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Russia Agrees to Transfer T-90 Tank's Key Technology
After months of acrimony, Russia has finally agreed to transfer key technology for the frontline T-90 tanks enabling Indian armament factories to now go ahead and produce these weapon platforms indigenously.
Russians have finally agreed to supply specifications of the T-90 tank barrels by end of this year
The delay in providing the specifications had held up the indigenous production of the T-90 tanks at the Avadi Heavy Vehicles Factory.
India and Russia have signed agreements for delivery of almost 1,200 T-90 tanks at
a cost of a staggering US 1.2 billion dollars.
The deal, concluded in three tranches over the past five years, also specifies transfer of technology for production of another 1,000 to 1,500 tanks in India.
At the 8th meeting of the Indo-Russian working group on shipbuilding, aviation and land systems, Moscow also agreed to full product support for indigenous production of these tanks.
With this crucial agreement, it has become apparent that the Indian army would continue to rely on the Russian tanks as its main battle tanks. This is significant as the indigenous Arjun tanks have yet to pass the crucial induction trials.
Though the Ordnance Factories Board had concluded the technology transfer agreement with Russia way back in 2001, Moscow's reluctance to part with key barrel specifications had held up the indigenous production of the tanks.
At the meeting co-chaired by Ajay Acharya, Additional Secretary, Defence Production, and his Russian counterpart Karavaev Igor Evgeniyevich, New Delhi also submitted its technical requirements for the joint development of a futuristic 5th generation fighter aircraft.
Though the aircraft design is yet to be finalised, the two countries have agreed to step up efforts to ensure that the new fighter enters flying service by 2015.
The key working group met within the framework of the Indo-Russian intergovernmental commission military technical cooperation and also took up issues for supply of Russian sub-systems for India's new range of P-17A warships.
Russia has also agreed to open cooperation with the bluechip public sector undertaking Hindustan Aeronautics Limited as an offset partner for future programmes.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Iran Sent a Home-Built Rocket into Space
Iran sent a home-built rocket into space in a move that triggered US concern over possible military use will be able to take a satellite into low orbit around the earth.
Defence Minister Mostafa Mohammad Najjar vowed that Iran will soon put its own satellite into orbit, after a dummy was sent into space.
The development was likely to add to international concerns about Iran's nuclear programme, which Western nations fear could be a cover for ambitions to build the atomic bomb although Tehran insists its aims are peaceful.
State television said the Safir (Ambassador) rocket is capable of putting a "light satellite into low earth orbit" between 250 and 500 kilometres (150 and 300 miles) above the earth.
It showed footage of the rocket launch, saying that the Safir is about 22 metres (72 feet) long, with a diameter of 1.25 metres (a little over four feet) and weighing more than 26 tonnes.
Iran's most powerful military missile, the Shahab-3, has a diameter of 1.30 metres and measures 17 metres in length.
Sunday's launch raised concerns in Washington that the rocket technology could be diverted to military use.
Initial state media reports in Iran said that the rocket had carried the nation's first home-built satellite Omid (Hope) but this was later denied by officials who said only a test satellite had gone up.
However, the defence minister said on Monday: "Iranian experts can put the national satellite into orbit in the not too distant future."
In February, Iran triggered international concern when it said it had sent a probe into space on the back of a rocket to prepare for a satellite launch, and announced the opening of its space station in a remote western desert.
At that time, officials had said the Omid satellite would be sent into space in May or June.
President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has made Iran's scientific development one of the main themes of his presidency, asserting that the country has reached a peak of progress despite international sanctions and no longer needs to depend on foreign states for help.
However, Iran's claims about its military and technological capabilities are often greeted with scepticism by Western experts.
Reza Taghipour, the head of Iran's space agency, also unveiled plans on Monday for more satellites, including one to be built with and for Islamic countries, state television reported.
He said construction of the Besharat (Good News) satellite would begin in Iran once it had financing from the Organisation of the Islamic Conference, adding that high costs were an obstacle to space development.
He also said Iran hoped to broadcast television programmes via its own satellite in the next three years and said seven universities were also working on their own small satellites.
Iran has pursued a space programme for several years, and in October 2005 a Russian-made Iranian satellite named Sina-1 was put into orbit by a Russian rocket.
India Received First Indian Built Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer
BAE Systems Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) handover the first HAL built Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) to the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The aircraft is the first of 42 Hawk aircraft being built under license by HAL, and is the 15th Hawk advanced jet trainer handed over to the IAF following 14 which have been delivered from BAE Systems in the UK.
The Indian Air Force has selected Hawk as the ideal platform for training its next generation of frontline pilots.The aircraft will join the fleet of BAE Systems built Hawks that have recently commenced training the next generation of Indian Air Force pilots at Air Force Station Bidar.
BAE Systems is the premier global defence and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and customer support services. With approximately 100,000 employees worldwide, BAE Systems' sales exceeded 15.7 billion (US $31.4 billion) in 2007.
MORE INFORMATION
The IAF first felt the need for an AJT in 1982. To fill the quantum difference in the skill and judgement levels required by a young fighter pilot as he transits to state of the art fighters such as the Su-30 MKI, Mirage 2000 and MiG-29, the Hawk-132 would adequately serve as lead trainer for these advanced aircraft.
The Hawk-132 is a variant of the highly successful BAE Systems Hawk AJTs. It incorporates an open architecture mission computer, glass cockpit and a state of the art avionics suite including a new generation Inertial Navigation System with GPS (INGPS).
Hawk-132 is also equipped with several Indian components such as the communication sets, identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system and the radio altimeter.
In addition to being an AJT, the Hawk-132 is fully combat capable and can carry air-to-air missile and air-to-ground strikes. It can also be used as a lightweight fighter.
The contract for the supply of the Hawk AJT was signed between the IAF and BAE Systems in 2004. The deal envisaged a supply of 66 aircraft.
The first batch of 24 aircraft will be built at the BAE Systems' facilities in Brough in East Yorkshire (UK), with flight-testing taking place at Warton. The remaining 42 aircraft will be manufactured under licence in India through a partnership with the public sector Hindustan Aeronautics Limited in Bangalore.
The Bidar airfield, which is located in northwest Karnataka, will serve as the main operating base for the Hawk. This base has been a training establishment for trainee IAF pilots since 1963.
India would be the third biggest customer for Hawks, closely following in the footsteps of the British Royal Air Force and the South African Air Force.
The Hawk is in worldwide operation with 800 plus aircraft in use by 17 customers and 22 armed forces. The trainers have generated over 1.5 million flight hours in experience.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Thales Successful in Live Firing Test of ESSM
On 2 June the new ESSM (Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile) control capability on board of the Hellenic Navy's HS Salamis of the Hydra class proved to be successful.
In the live firing test, the Thales STIR fire control system guided the ESSM missile with such accuracy to an IRIS drone at a range of approximately 5 NM, that the missile fully hit the drone. This test demonstrates once again the high level of accuracy provided by Thales systems and the experience Thales possesses with controlling ESSM missiles.
In May 2007 Thales was awarded a contract by the NATO SeaSparrow Project Office to upgrade the SeaSparrow FCS on board of the Hydra class frigates of the Hellenic Navy to an ESSM-capable FCS, and to act as system integrator for this project incl. the re-integration of the modified GMVLS Mk48.
The selection of Thales as system integrator was a logical one, as the Hydra-class vessels are already equipped with the Thales Combat Information System, one MW08 surveillance radar and two Thales STIR weapon control systems per ship. The Hydra class vessels were commissioned between 1992 and 1998 and consist of four frigates displacing about 3400 tons each.
Following the live firing test on HS Salamis the other three ships of the Hydra Class will be upgraded in 2008 and 2009. The Hellenic Navy is the fourth Navy Thales has supplied with ESSM capabilities. The other three are the Canadian, German and Netherlands Navies
Delivery of TrackSouth African Gripen
South Africa has taken delivery of its third and fourth Gripen multi-role fighter aircraft, which arrived in Cape Town this week.
South Africa has ordered 26 Gripen aircraft from a Saab-BAE Systems consortium as part of its 1999 Strategic Defence Procurement programme.
These modern Gripen C/D fighters are replacing the South African Air Force’s (SAAF) fleet of obsolete Cheetah and Mirage F1 aircraft, enabling the SAAF to simultaneously downsize its fighter inventory while maintaining its full operational capability for national defence and regional peace missions.
Deliveries of the nine dual-seat and 17 single-seat Gripens are on schedule and will be completed by 2012. South Africa’s Gripens will be operated by 2 Squadron at Air Force Base Makhado in the country’s Limpopo province.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Test for FCS Technologies by U.S. Army
Two-foot long vertical takeoff UAVs, 30-pound tactical robots equipped with infrared cameras, and groups of small, static ground sensors all sent battlefield images in real time through a high-bandwidth network from a mock-combat village set up near Fort Bliss, Texas, to U.S. Army Future Combat Systems (FCS)-networked Humvees several hundred yards away.
It was a significant step for the FCS network, which used software-programmable Joint Tactical Radio Systems (JTRS), high-bandwidth Soldier Radio Waveform (SRW) and next-generation FCS computer technology to move images and information with greater effect than previously demonstrated.
The July 27-31 live exercise, called a Preliminary Limited User Test, was the first time FCS technologies were put to the test with infantry brigade combat teams in tactical, combat-like scenarios. Battlefield commanders [in the test] were able to use this equipment in live, evolving scenarios.
Prior to this test, FCS was able to demonstrate moving images with SRW between FCS-networked vehicles and Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS) placed in static positions on the battlefield to beam back images of enemy activity. However, in recent months the FCS program has been able to add the Micro Air Vehicle (MAV) UAV and the Small Unmanned Ground Vehicle (SUGV) robot to the high bandwidth Soldier Radio Waveform network, enable them to send real-time images as well.
The FCS spinout technologies, which include the Micro Air Vehicle UAV, Small Unmanned Ground Vehicle tactical robot, Tactical and Urban Unattended Ground Sensors, Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System (NLOS-LS), FCS-networked vehicles (B-kits) and the first increment of the FCS network, are slated to field with Infantry Brigade Combat Teams (IBCTs) by 2011. The test was the first major FCS exercise since the Army's June decision to field FCS technologies with IBCTs instead of the previously planned Heavy Brigade Combat Teams.
The B-kits include early versions of FCS software, computers and battle command technologies outfitted on current force vehicles such as Humvees, Bradleys and Abrams tanks; the gear, used on Humvees in the test, includes the FCS computer called Integrated Computer System (ICS), a middle-ware operating system called System of Systems Common Operating Environment (SOSCOE), JTRS Ground Mobile Radio (GMR) and Force Battle Command Brigade-and-Below (FBCB2)/Blue-Force Tracking display screens.
During the exercise, FCS computers in B-kit Humvees were able look at live images from nearby MAVs designed to hover and stare above potential enemy locations.
Future FCS capabilities
As more lines of software code for the FCS network are finished and SOSCOE further evolves, B-kit and FCS vehicles will be able to display much larger amounts of information such as full-motion, real-time video from nearby UAVs.
FCS plans to field improved radios as they become available, such as JTRS Handheld Manpack Small Form Fit (HMS) radios for the UGS, SUGV and dismounted soldier.
155mm Naval Gun for U.K. , By BAE
The possibility of British warships firing 155mm artillery is a step closer to reality after an announcement from BAE Systems that it has signed a deal with the Ministry of Defence to build a gun to undertake land-based firing trials next year.CORDA, BAE's consulting arm, together with the company's Land Systems business in Britain and defense research company QinetiQ, hope to start live-firing trials in fall 2009 with a 155mm naval gun based on the British Army's AS90 self-propelled howitzer system.BAE said it is also exploiting the capabilities of other company business units such as Armament Systems in the U.S. and Bofors in Sweden.
The Armament Systems division is already in the latter stages of developing a similar system for the U.S. Navy - the 155mm Advanced Gun System destined for the force's DDG 1000 destroyer program.
No more than two DDG 1000s are likely to be built rather than the seven planned, but the AGS could find its way onto up-rated Arleigh Burke DDG-51 destroyers likely to be built in their place.
If the 4 million pound ($7.55 million) British contract goes according to plan, BAE hopes to move to a full technology demonstrator program ahead of possible retrofitting of the gun to existing Type 23 frigates and Type 45 destroyers, as well as an upcoming generation of warships known as the Future Surface Combatant.
This latest contract is the third phase of work that kicked off in 2006 as part of a three-year MoD research program known as Maritime Surface Effects. Eight different study programs are looking at issues such as coastal suppression, naval fire support, offensive and defensive surface warfare, and the role of unmanned surface vehicles.
BAE said in a statement that replacing the current 4.5-inch gun with a 155mm system would increase the range and effect on targets while also reducing costs by using the same gun and ammunition as the British Army.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Third Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Squadron
The US Marine Corps (USMC) has announced that it is on course to stand up its third unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) squadron on 12 September.
Unmanned Aerial Squadron (VMU) 3 will be based at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) at Twentynine Palms in California and is being created to provide additional reconnaissance capability as well as assisting in the training of ground units.
According to a USMC spokesperson, VMU-3 will rotate during training and on deployment with VMU-2, which is also based at MCAGCC, and VMU-1, which operates out of Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point in North Carolina.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
MiG-31 Foxhound
MiG-31 Foxhound is probably the best Russian Air-Defense fighter with long-range missiles and highly advanced radar. As one of the later models following a long line of successful Soviet- manufactured aircraft, the Mig-31 Foxhound is an all-weather interceptor plane which entered service in Russia possibly as early as 1976. Touted as the forerunner to the MiG-23, Su-15, and the MiG-25, the MiG-31 Foxhound "B" was endowed with the capacity for two fliers, supersonic velocity close to three times the speed of sound, dual turbofan afterburners, and folding wings. Its aerodynamic design includes a high degree of slope and twin outward cantered fins. As a highly refined aircraft, the current versions of the MiG-31 have introduced many technical innovations to its various combat theatres.
AVIONICS
RP-31 Zaslon radar
The N007 Zaslon was the first phased-array radar to enter service on a fighter aircraft. Zaslon is double the weight of the AWG-9, the largest US fighter radar. The NIIP team believed that the advantages a phased-array radar gave in terms of near-instantaneous scanning and multi-target engagement capability (a typical mechanically-scanned antenna can take 12-14 seconds to complete a scan) were worth the weight and cost penalties. In 1981, MiG-31 aircraft carrying the Zaslon radar entered service with the Air Defense aviation, and became fully operational in 1983. The 1.1m diameter phased array antenna weighs 300kg, the whole radar weighing in at 1000kg. Zaslon uses an Argon-15A computer (first airborne digital computer designed in USSR). Zaslon operates in 9-9.5 GHz band. It detects and engages targets down to 25m, including cruise missiles. Maximum possible search range is 300km for a large airborne target.
Range Search (kms) Track (kms)
Bomber 180-200 120-150
Fighter 120 90
Communication:
R-862 UHF, R-864 HF, P-591 voice warning system, SPU-9 intercom; SRO-2P IFF transmitter and SRZ-2P receiver; SO-69 transponder. Flight: A312 Radikal-NP or A-331 Shoran, A-723 Kvitok-2 Loran. Marshrut long-range and Tropik medium-range nav systems. ARK-19 radio compass, RV-15 radar altimeter, RPM-76 marker beacon receiver. Mission: In four-aircraft group interception mission, only lead MiG-31 is linked to AK-RLDN automatic guidance network on ground; other three MiG-31s have APD-518 digital data link to lead aircraft, permitting line-abreast radar sweep of zone 430 to 485 n miles (800 to 900 km; 495 to 560 miles) wide by 140ยบ sector scanning angles. Semi-retractable Type 8TP IR search/track sensor under cockpit; tactical situation display. BAN-75 command link; APD-518 digital air-to-air datalink; Raduga-Bort-MB5U15K air-to-ground tactical datalink; SPO-155L RHAWS; Argon-15 digital computer.
WEAPONS
The MiG-31 Foxhound was designed to fly high and fast to defeat threats like Pershing-II missile and Sr-71 aircraft with long-range missiles. So to complement the RP-31 Zaslon radar, the R-33 Amos missile was developed. The R-33 is the first Russian air-to-air missile to use an onboard digital computer, which has stable characteristics compared with analogue devices. It is fitted with an active radar proximity fuse and impact fuse as well as with an HE-fragmentation warhead. Much like the American Phoenix, the Amos has a range of 160 Km, and races to the target at Mach 4.5. With a load of Six R-33, the MiG-31 becomes the ultimate launch-and-leave missile platform.
Other weapons include the R-40 Acrid from the MiG-25's arsenal, the R-60 Aphid self-defense missile and R-73 Archer missile was added in later models. A proposed ground-attack variant was to carry missiles like Kh-31, Kh-59 and PGMs, but it did not become operational.
POWER PLANT
Two Aviadvigatel D-30F6 turbofans, each 93.1 kN (20,930 lb st) dry, 151.9 kN (34,170 lb st) with afterburning; internal fuel capacity 19,940 litres (5,268 US gallons; 4,386 Imp gallons) in seven fuselage tanks, four wing tanks and two fin tanks. Provision for two under wing tanks, each 2,500 liters (660 US gallons; 550 Imp gallons); semi-retractable flight refueling probe on port side of front fuselage.
The MiG-25 had a maximum speed of over Mach 3.0 at altitude, but it is said that it seldom achieved that speed as after doing so, the engines broke down and had to be replaced, and also the airframe was subjected to a lot of damage. Whether the same problem has persisted with the Foxhound, only Russians can tell.
MiG-31 Technical Data
Contractor:
Mikoyan-Gurevich RAC MiG (formerly MiG-MAPO)
Country Soviet Union
NATO codename: Foxhound
Function: Strategic fighter-interceptor
Crew: 2
In-service
year:
1982
Engine:
Two Aviadvigatel D-30F6 afterburning turbofans
Thrust:
34,100 lb. each
15,500 kg. Each
Dimensions
Wing span:
44 ft. 1 in.
13.46 m.
Length:
74. Ft 4 in. (including nose probe)
22.69 m. (including nose probe)
Height:
20 ft. 2 in.
6.15 m.
Weight
Empty
48,015 lb.
21,825 kg.
Max. Takeoff
101,640 lb.
46,200 kg.
Performance
Ceiling:
67,568 ft.
20,600 m.
Speed:
1,863 mph
3000 km/h
Range:
1,326 miles (on internal fuel)
2,050 miles (with fuel drop tanks, no missiles)
2,135 km. (on internal fuel)
3,300 km. (with fuel drop tanks, no missiles)
Armament
1 Gsh-23 cannon, R-33 Amos, R-40 Acrid, R-60 Aphid, R-73 Archer, R-77 Adder and R-37 (later models).
Proposed attack version: Kh-25, Kh-31, Kh-29, Kh-59, Kh-59M, KAB-500/1500 and FAB-1500 bombs.
New Anti-ship Missile Test By Iran
Iran on Monday had successfully testfired an anti-ship missile with a range of 300 kilometres (180 miles) that it had developed with homegrown technology so far unused by any other country.
"No enemy vessels would be able to escape it within a 300-kilometre radius from the borders of Iran," the commander of the elite Revolutionary Guards, General Mohammad Ali Jafari, said on state television.
The weapon has been developed entirely using domestic technology and according to our information so far no country has used this technology before.
In the past Iran has often boasted of developing new weapons systems only to be met with scepticism from Western defence analysts.
Jafari said that Iran's arsenal meant it could easily close the Strait of Hormuz, the strategic waterway through which much of the world's oil supplies pass on their way out of the Gulf.
"Given the length of Iran's coast in the Strait of Hormuz area and its special geographical position... Iran has a natural strategic advantage," the Fars news agency quoted the Guards commander as saying.
"And given the equipment our armed forces have, an indefinite blockade of the Strait of Hormuz would be very easy."
Washington has never ruled out a resort to military action over what it charges is Tehran's effort to develop a nuclear weapon.
Iran insists it wants to develop nuclear power for civilian purposes only in the knowledge that its huge oil and gas reserves will eventually run out.
It has warned of a dire response in the event that it comes under attack by the United States or its regional ally Israel.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Deployment of F-22 Raptors To Guam
Approximately 130 Airmen and five F-22 Raptors from Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, are deployed to Guam for two weeks to fulfill security requirements in the Asia Pacific region.
During the deployment, the Airmen will participate in exercises Jungle Shield and Cope Thaw.
Exercise Jungle Shield enhances the 13th Air Force's air defense mission in Guam and ensures the ability to fulfill Operation Noble Eagle responsibilities. F-22 pilots will also take part in Cope Thaw, providing them an opportunity to conduct routine training in an environment different from their home station.
F-22 pilots will fly three primary missions here: defensive counterair, offensive counterair escort, and offensive counterair suppression of enemy air defenses.
Posts
