New Maritime Security System Debuts at Exercise Northstar

SOTF troopers storming the hijacked MV Avatar after rappelling from a Super Puma helicopter.

It looked like any ordinary commercial ship approaching Singapore's shores, but the seemingly innocuous merchant ship was on a sinister mission.

Initially bound for Port Klang, the merchant vessel MV Avatar was hijacked in the South China Sea.
Armed with explosives, the hijackers demanded the release of some detained terrorists. Failing which, they would sail the MV Avatar into Jurong Island and detonate the ship.

This was the scenario participants at Exercise Northstar VIII were faced with on 25 Nov. The exercise, which simulated multiple terrorist attacks at various locations in Singapore, was held from 10 to 25 Nov to test the whole-of-government approach in handling such emergencies.

In response to the hijacking simulation at sea, exercise participants despatched two patrol vessels from the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Police Coast Guard (PCG) to flank the MV Avatar while they negotiated with the hijackers.

When negotiations stalled and the MV Avatar proceeded at full speed towards Jurong Island, the Special Operations Task Force (SOTF) moved in. The SOTF troopers approached via two Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats (RHIBs) and a Super Puma helicopter, and proceeded to board and storm the ship while the another helicopter provided air cover.

The hijackers were subdued and control of the ship was gained four nautical miles (approximately 7.4 km) away from Jurong Island.

This successful operation was made possible through a well-oiled National Maritime Security System (NMSS). Involving various maritime security agencies, the new framework enables the early detection of maritime threats and provides a timely and coordinated response to these threats.

It comprises a National Maritime Sense-making Centre (NMSC), which collates and analyses maritime information round-the-clock, and a National Maritime Operations Group (NMOG), which carries out operations to neutralise maritime threats.

Deputy Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs Teo Chee Hean, who visited the final day of Exercise Northstar, also officially launched the Singapore Maritime Security Centre in Changi Naval Base.

After observing how the NMSS was tested through the simulated hijacking incident, he commented on the importance of the NMSS: "There's so much traffic in the maritime domain going on around us; we're one of the busiest ports in the world, so to be able to detect, sense-make and understand the threats developing and to pre-empt them before they occur is a very important first step.

"The second step is to be able to respond and interdict any such threats, and the final step... is to mitigate these threats if they do develop," he added.

Besides the sea simulation, Exercise Northstar also featured a chlorine leak simulation followed by blasts caused by vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Jurong Island on the same day. This simulation saw the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) containing the crisis, evacuating and treating casualties together with personnel from the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and the Ministry of Health.

Speaking to local media after observing the successful completion of the exercise, Mr Teo said: "This year's Exercise Northstar has tested our resilience in both the maritime and land domains... Exercises such as this are useful as they help all participating parties to be better prepared for any eventuality that may arise."

He also cautioned against complacency, saying: "We can never be too ready, so we always have to keep on practising. We must understand that the threats are unpredictable, so we cannot just be training for a specific threat, but we must have the flexibility to respond as the threats evolve."

This year's Exercise Northstar - the eighth in the series since it was started in 1997 - involved about 700 personnel from 18 agencies, including the SAF, SCDF, Singapore Police Force, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA), the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore and the Singapore Customs.

Besides Mr Teo, Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Defence and National Development Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman and senior officials from various ministries were also present to witness the exercise.

New Cutting Edge Missile Defence System for ANZAC Ships

All eight of the Royal Australian Navy’s Anzac Class frigates will be upgraded with an advanced Anti-Ship Missile Defence system, total cost is $650 million, including the funds already spent upgrading HMAS Perth.

Minister for Defence Stephen Smith and Minister for Defence Materiel Jason Clare today announced that the Government has approved the upgrade of all eight of the Royal Australian Navy’s Anzac Class frigates with an advanced Anti-Ship Missile Defence system.

The total project cost is in excess of $650 million, including the funds already spent upgrading HMAS Perth.

The ANZAC Class Anti-Ship Missile Defence (ASMD) project has also been removed from the Projects of Concern list.

The 2009 Defence White Paper outlined the Government’s intent to put all of the ANZAC Class ships through an ASMD upgrade program, subject to the successful outcome of at-sea trials on the first ship.

The upgrade of HMAS Perth as the lead ship for the ASMD program was successfully completed earlier this year.

Following exhaustive testing, including in theUnited States, the Chief of Navy agreed to the operational release of the system in July 2011.

Government has now approved the installation of the system on the remaining seven ships of the ANZAC class by 2017.

Minister Smith said this was the latest weapon in Navy’s arsenal and meant the Navy’s ANZAC frigates would be a lot more capable.

At the moment our ANZAC frigates can track and destroy one target at a time.

The new system is able to identify, track and guide missiles to multiple targets at the same time.

Minister Clare said the project was a great Australian success story – cutting edge technology developed right here inAustraliaby CEA Technologies.

The remaining upgrade installation and integration work will be undertaken by the ANZAC Ship Integrated Materiel Support Program Alliance, comprising SAAB Systems, BAE Systems and the Defence Materiel Organisation.

Minister Clare said that the ASMD upgrade program is a good demonstration of how the Projects of Concern process can effectively manage difficult projects and deliver successful national security outcomes for Australia.

Malaysia Requests AIM-9X-2 Sidewinder Block II Missiles

AIM-9X2 air-to-air missile

WASHINGTON – The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress today of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Malaysia for 20 AIM-9X-2 SIDEWINDER Block II All-Up-Round Missiles and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $52 million.

The Government of Malaysia has requested a possible sale of 20 AIM-9X-2 SIDEWINDER Block II All-Up-Round Missiles, 8 CATM-9X-2 Captive Air Training Missiles, 4 CATM-9X-2 Block II Missile Guidance Units, 2 AIM-9X-2 Block II Tactical Guidance Units, 2 Dummy Air Training Missiles, containers, missile support and test equipment, provisioning, spare and repair parts, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical data, U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance and other related logistics support. The estimated cost is $52 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country that has been, and continues to be, an important force for political stability and economic progress in East Asia.

The Royal Malaysian Air Force is modernizing its fighter aircraft to better support its own air defense needs.

The proposed sale of AIM-9X-2 missiles will enhance Malaysia’s interoperability with the U.S. and among other South East Asian nations, making it a more valuable partner in an increasingly important area of the world.The proposed sale of this weapon system will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The prime contractor will be Raytheon Missile Systems Company in Tucson, Arizona. There are no known offset agreements in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will require travel of U.S. Government or contractor representatives to Malaysia on a temporary basis for program technical support and management oversight.

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 and does not mean the sale has been concluded.

SINGAPORE CONDUCTS LIVE-FIRING EXERCISE IN US

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is conducting a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) live-firing exercise, code-named Daring Warrior, from 21 October to 7 November 2011, at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, USA. The exercise involved 234 personnel from the Headquarters, Singapore Artillery, Headquarters 3rd Division Artillery and 23rd Battalion, Singapore Artillery as well as the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF).

In conjunction with Exercise Daring Warrior, the SAF and the US Army conducted a bilateral air-land integrated live-firing exercise, involving US personnel from the 214th Fires Brigade Headquarters, as well as 1-14th and 2-5th Field Artillery. The two-day bilateral exercise, which ended today, involved the SAF's HIMARS and Apache AH-64Ds helicopters. The US also participated with their HIMARS, F-16 and F-18 fighter aircraft, as well as Ground Liaison and Targeting teams.

The Commander of the SAF Training and Doctrine Command Brigadier-General (BG) Lim Hock Yu and the Commanding General of the US Fires Center of Excellence and Fort Sill Major-General (MG) David Halverson were present to witness the exercise. Highlighting the value of Exercise Daring Warrior, BG Lim said, "Exercise Daring Warrior provides an excellent opportunity for the SAF to maintain the operational capabilities of its HIMARS and to conduct air-land integration training. It also opens up a channel for professional and operational exchanges between the SAF and the US Army." Likewise, MG Halverson added that "the exercise was a great environment for the soldiers to operate in a joint training situation". In addition, he said, "As we train together to develop proficiencies and certifications, we are also working to take the training to the next level. We have a great coalition team with the military forces of Singapore."

Exercise Daring Warrior 2011 is the second HIMARS live-firing exercise conducted since the SAF took delivery of the HIMARS in July 2010. The SAF and the US Army also conducted a joint live-firing exercise during the previous Exercise Daring Warrior, in November 2010. Training in the US enables the SAF to build up its operational capabilities and readiness. It also facilitates sharing of knowledge between the two armed forces. The US' support for the SAF's training in the US reflects the long-standing and excellent defence relationship between the two countries.

LM develops MH-60R variant

Lockheed Martin is developing a cheaper variant of the MH-60R naval combat helicopter ordered for the RAN without a dipping sonar but with increased range and a reconfigured cabin.

George Barton, the company’s director of naval helicopter programs, mission systems and sensors division, told ADM’s Julian Kerr in Owego, New York State last week that Denmark had been briefed on the project and a number of other countries were interested.

These are understood to include Qatar.

Barton said the US Navy, which has now taken delivery of 108 of an eventual 300 MH-60R, was not involved in the project which was being self-funded by Lockheed Martin.

The new variant would retain its air to surface warfare; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR); and search and rescue capabilities.

The dipping sonar and associated equipment could be retrofitted if required.

Removal from the cabin of the dipping sonar, the sonobuoy launcher and the acoustic processor rack would increase to 10 the number of passengers able to be carried compared to three with the sonar equipment in position, and eight with just the dipping sonar body temporarily removed.

Barton confirmed the proposed variant, now in the concept design stage, would be cheaper than the current production model, for which Australia is the first international customer.

Although range depended on a number of factors, an increase of about 20 per cent was likely on a typical mission out to 120 nautical mile, requiring an on-station time of 1 hour 45 minutes. - Julian Kerr Owego, NY

General Dynamics Awarded $1 Billion to Upgrade Canadian LAV III Vehicles

EDMONTON, Alberta and LONDON, Ontario – The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, and the Honourable Julian Fantino, Associate Minister of National Defence, announced today that the Government of Canada has awarded a contract valued at C$1.064 billion (US$1.052 billion) to General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada to incorporate a comprehensive upgrade package into the Canadian Army's fleet of LAV III combat vehicles.

The LAV III Upgrade Project will modernize 550 vehicles, significantly enhancing their survivability, mobility and firepower and extending the fleet's lifecycle to 2035.

Survivability upgrades will include the introduction of double-V-hull technology, an innovative enhancement developed by General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada engineers, as well as add-on armour protection and energy-attenuating seats. Together, these improvements will provide crew members greater protection against mine blasts, IEDs and other threats.

The upgrades represent the latest armoured-vehicle technologies developed by General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada's engineers and its Canada-wide supplier base. Significant work will be performed at General Dynamics' facilities in London, Ontario, and Edmonton, Alberta, as well as the company's nationwide network of over 400 Canadian suppliers. All regions of Canada will benefit from this work, which is expected to be completed in 2017.

"Canadian soldiers need the best tools for the job and deserve the best protection we can give them," said Danny Deep, vice president of General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada. "This contract will enhance the LAV III fleet's survivability, operational capability and long-term performance through the addition of cutting-edge technologies. It will also provide much-needed job stability throughout Canada's high-value defence sector."

The LAV III's automotive performance, handling characteristics and payload capacity will be optimized by the addition of mobility system upgrades such as a more powerful engine, more robust driveline and suspension, and a height management system (HMS). The 25mm turret's crew ergonomics will be improved by incorporating larger hatches, and its capabilities will be enhanced by the addition of the latest technologies, including improved fire control, thermal, day and low-light sights, and data displays.

South Korea to Gift Corvette to Philippines Navy

Po Hang class corvettes (photo : Chosun)

Po Hang Retires To The Tropics

South Korea is donating one of its recently retired Po Hang class corvettes to the Philippines Navy. The Po Hangs are 1,200 ton warships that first entered service in 1984. Since then 24 have been built. Each is armed with four Harpoon anti-ship missiles, one 76mm cannon; two twin 40mm automatic cannon, six torpedo tubes and twelve depth charges. The crew of 95 also operates radar and sonar. Top speed is 59 kilometers an hour. Two Po Hangs have been retired so far, and one was sunk by a North Korean torpedo last year.

The Philippines is an island nation, with 7,100 islands to defend. Long crippled by corruption and bad government, the Philippines have never had much money to spend on the military (or anything else.) Wealthier nations have found it good diplomacy to donate military equipment to the Philippines. The Filipinos appreciate it; because donated military gear is something the thieving politicians have a hard time stealing.

Russian Marines To Get New Tracked Amphibia

The new vehicle will be designed by JSC Kurganmashzavod and will be capable to move both on land and at sea staying afloat even in strong sea disturbance. (image : Kurgan)

Russian defense ministry ordered a new tracked combat vehicle to be designed specially for the Navy but not refitted from army hardware. According toIzvestiya, new self-propelled vehicle will be capable to move both on land and at sea staying afloat even in strong sea disturbance. The new naval combat vehicle will be designed by JSC Kurganmashzavod.New vehicle will be based on multipurpose tracked carrier which will be also used in other types of combat vehicles for the Army, Airborne Troops, and air defense mounts. Naval version will be equipped with engine-driven screw making possible to sail at speed up to 25-30 kph.By initial estimates, naval tracked combat vehicle will be fielded in 2015-2016. The military expect new vehicle to widen the range of tasks. In particular, landing troops will reach coast in half an hour during over-the-horizon discharge. Currently used BMP-1 and BMP-2 are non-effective in sea disturbance, so are not frequently used in landing drills.At present, landing troops are mostly delivered by navy-adapted BTR-80 armored personnel carriers, landing ships or boats. According to a source, defense ministry does not order the latter ones focusing on procurement of French Mistral-class assault landing docks capable to put afloat troops beyond the horizon.It was reported late in 2009 that all marine units would be completely rearmed by 2015. Procurement of new hardware will be carried out under State Arms Program 2011-2020. The document provides deliveries of main battle tanks T-90, infantry combat vehicles BMP-3, armored personnel carriers BTR-82A, combat reconnaissance landing vehicles BRDM-3, 120-mm self-propelled guns 2S31 Vena, modernized small arms, grenade launchers, and antiaircraft assets.

Mobile infra-red provides secure comms on Type 45

New infra-red short-range mobile comms system has been installed on the HMS Daring, Dauntless and Diamond.

An infra-red short-range mobile communications system from Link Microtek has been installed on the first three of the UK MoD’s fleet of Type 45 Destroyers, providing officers on the bridge with a completely secure and interference-free voice communications facility.

Designed and manufactured by Link Microtek’s Azdec subsidiary, the Infra-Com system offers a versatile and effective communications solution that fully satisfied the MoD’s TEMPEST requirements.

Other than the link from headset to battery pack, the system has no wires and therefore gives operators complete freedom of movement while enabling them to speak to each other or to link into the ship’s main communications system via a central base station.

As Infra-Com does not use radio technology, no-one can listen in or target on emissions from the system.

In addition, its signals are completely immune to electromagnetic interference – even severe energy pulses.

Infra-Com is now fully operational on the bridge of HMS Daring and Dauntless and is undergoing final trials on HMS Diamond.

It will also be installed on HMS Duncan, Dragon and Defender in due course.

Providing multi-channel, full-duplex communications, Infra-Com is a robustly designed system comprising a compact base station, a number of fixed infra-red antennas, a choice of noise attenuating or ultra-lightweight headsets, operators’ belt-mounted battery packs/control units, and a central battery-charger unit.

The system’s low-level infra-red digital encoding technology poses no health hazard even though it is capable of covering areas up to 10,000 square metres.

USN to operate with nine CSGs by year's end

The US Navy (USN) will operate with nine carrier strike groups (CSGs) by the end of the year, reducing the effectiveness of the service's 11-carrier force.

The service plans to dissolve CSG Seven, previously attached to USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in reaction to a short-term reduction in carrier capability following the planned decommissioning of USS Enterprise (CVN 65) in 2013 and before the first next-generation Gerald Ford-class carrier (CVN 78) commissions in 2015.

According to a 1 August memo from the office of the Chief of Naval Operations, a CSG will be relocated from Naval Station Everett, Washington, to Naval Station San Diego, California, to shore up the loss when CSG Seven stands down in December. CSG Nine from Everett will replace CSG Seven. CSG Nine is currently composed of USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), Carrier Air Wing Two and elements of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) Nine.

Next year Abraham Lincoln will begin its mid-life refuelling and complex overhaul (RCOH), which will take four years to complete and keep the carrier out of the fleet for the duration of the repairs and refuelling.

Currently USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) is undergoing that process, which is expected to be completed by late 2012 or early 2013.

India to Help Vietnam Build a Submarine Fleet

Kilo submarine of the Indian Navy

In the framework of building a strategic partnership, the Indian Navy will help Vietnam develop Navy submarine fleet. Cooperation in the field of defense is a fundamental part of the framework to build a strategic partnership between India and Vietnam.

Like Vietnam, the staff of the Indian Army in general and in particular the Navy has a lot of equipment originating from the Soviet Union and Russia. India is one of the foreign country to use as soon as Kilo submarines, with rich experience. Indian Navy ready to share this with Vietnam for the Navy plans to build a submarine fleet in time to Kilo.

An official of the Indian Navy, said: "We are helping Vietnam to build their submarine fleet. Our experience in the operation of Kilo submarines will be shared with them.

" The official declined to provide information, whether the crew Vietnam has provided practical experience on the Kilo submarines in India or not.

With his rich experience of India will help Vietnam build a submarine fleet. In the photo, an Indian naval officers outside observers by Kilo submarine periscope.

Vietnam has officially announced the purchase of six diesel-electric submarines from Russia in 2009 and most recently, Defense Minister Phung Quang Thanh has also spoken to confirm the construction of a submarine fleet of about 5-6 yearsto.

Currently in the Indian Navy personnel are 10 class diesel electric submarines Sindhughosh, this variant is exported to India's Kilo submarines of Project 877EKM.

Mr. Uday Bhaskar, director Institute of Oceanography Commodore stressed that Vietnam is an important strategic partner of India, we have much in common in the historical issues. "We both have a lot of weapons and equipment from Russia, so that India can bring technical assistance to Vietnam," he said.

Earlier during the visit of Indian Defense Minister AK Antony to Vietnam in 2010, the Indian side pledged to help Vietnam strengthen the modernization of the military, especially naval.

These include programs to upgrade the ships from the Soviet Union, also in the framework of the visit, the Indian Navy has transferred to Vietnam a lot of technical equipment to upgrade the fleet from Soviet Union.

Taiwan's 'Carrier Killer' Aims To Sink China's Carrier

Hsiung Feng III misille

TAIPEI - In the event of war, Taiwan plans to sink China's new aircraft carrier, the Varyag, with its new "aircraft carrier killer" missile, the ramjet-powered supersonic anti-ship cruise missile Hsiung Feng 3. The revelation was made Aug. 10 on the same day China launched the Varyag for its first sea trials.

The disclosure came during a preshow media tour of the biennial Taipei Aerospace and Defense Technology Exhibition (TADTE). Journalists inspecting the Hsiung Feng 3 were shocked to see a large mural of the Varyag being attacked by three Hsiung Feng 3 missiles. Two of the missiles impact the carrier's starboard bow and starboard quarter, with a third missile is en route to the ship.

THIS MURAL WAS displayed at the Taipei Aerospace and Defense Technology Exhibition showing Taiwan Hsiung Feng 3 missiles attacking the new Chinese carrrier, Varyag. (photo : Wendell Minnick/DefenseNews)

The mural was reminiscent of similar displays at the 2010 Zhuhai Airshow in China, where anti-ship missiles were depicted attacking and sinking U.S. aircraft carriers.

The unveiling of the display comes at an uncomfortable time for Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou. Since coming into office in 2008, Ma has eased cross-Strait tensions and signed historic economic agreements with China.

Military officials denied that calling Hsiung Feng 3 the "aircraft carrier killer" or displaying a mural of a missile attack on the Varyag were intended to send Beijing a political message. In the past, the Taiwan military often used ambiguous phrases to describe the "enemy" without mentioning China. Therefore, the Hsiung Feng 3 display was out of synch with normal military protocol that avoids enraging China.

Hsiung Feng 3 supersonic anti-ship cruise missile powered by ramjet

The military-run Chungshun Institute of Science and Technology (CSIST) produces the Hsiung Feng family of anti-ship missiles, including the Tien Kung (Sky Bow) air defense missile and the Tien Chien (Sky Sword) missile.

CSIST is working on a highly classified missile system called the Hsiung Feng 2E, which is reportedly a land-attack cruise missile capable of hitting targets on mainland China. This missile has never been displayed to the public and the military refuses to discuss its existence. Another missile program considered secret is the Tien Chien 2A, which is reportedly an anti-radiation missile designed to destroy ground-based radar systems.

A CSIST official said the Hsiung Feng 3 has been outfitted on the 1101 and 1103 Perry-class frigates for testing. "We began building the Hsiung Feng III around five years ago."

Hsiung Feng II missiles

The military might field the missile inland along the coast to fend off a Chinese invasion armada, he said. The Hsiung Feng 3 has a reported range of 130 kilometers.

Also on display at TADTE was the new Tien Kung 3 (Sky Bow) air defense missile. The Tien Kung is based on the U.S.-built Patriot missile defense system. Details of its probable deployment are classified.

Vietnam to Buy More Missiles Coast

Bastion P long range coastal defense anti ship missile

NPO Mashinostroenia Group began preparing contracts to sell missile systems Bastion-P for the coast of Vietnam.

NPO Mashinostroenia Group began preparing export contracts coastal missile system Bastion-P with Vietnam not through arms export company Rosoboronoexport. Funding for this contract is taken from the Russian state credit for Vietnam.

Currently, the two sides are determined the preliminary conditions of the export contract: the exact amount of equipment purchase, the size of the Russian state credit and the transfer deadline.

A source close to the Russian Finance Ministry, Russia is negotiating with Vietnam on credit to buy Russian weapons.State credit scale has not been identified as "directly dependent on the number of weapons procurement, which it is currently being discussed." "One of the parties to the contract will be NPO Mashinostroenia. That role is defined for the NPO and the company is negotiating with Vietnam to provide a system Bastion. " This source also said the transfer of missiles to Vietnam can take place not earlier than in 2013-2014 by the Russian side to prepare and have added to the budget law to provide credit export to Vietnam.

A source close to Rosoboronoexport, 10/08 Thursday, said, "credit problems related to Vietnam to buy Russian weapons are at the stage to discuss and reach the final."

NPO Mashinostroenia has allowed himself of Russian President Dmitri Medvedev to prepare the export contract, although it has not been formalized legally. This group will only be signing export contracts through Rosoboronoexport if not get this right legally.

A source in the Russian president's office revealed that President Dmitri Medvedev has been reported from January 6.2011 to plan an independent NPO arms export finished products, the person filing the report, Assistant President Sergei Prikhodko concurrently Chairman of the Board of the NPO Mashinostroenia and President Medvedev wrote up a report is "Yes", however no formal decree of the President.

A source in the field of military technical cooperation, said NPO Mashinostroenia are actually preparing themselves to the world market. By 2007, the NPO has self arms exports and understand Vietnam market, and has been President of Russia permission to continue doing it. Federal Agency for Technical Cooperation, the military announced this Rosoboronoexport.

NPO Mashinostroenia to export in 2007 was independent of some form of military products should have enough experience.In 2007, the export market Russian arms to form a clear and full military semi-finished products passed into the hands of state companies is a Rosoboronoexport act as intermediaries to supply arms.

Regulation on the subject of military technical cooperation is not empowered to export finished products, but allows to provide spare parts to foreign customers, the components, parts or service modernization and maintenance.

Currently, there are regulations on the subject of military technical cooperation is Rosoboronoexport (intermediate-owned companies), Rostechnologyy (marketing) and 21 firms to develop and produce military goods. Of these, only Rosoboronoexport may export all kinds of military, first of all finished products. The remaining firms can only export spare parts and other components and materials, as well as after-sales maintenance services for the weapons and equipment have been provided earlier.

Rosoboronoexport addition, only two companies may sell finished products to foreign countries - it is in its shipbuilding Zvezdochka Severidvinsk and Admiralteiskye Verfi in St.Petersburg. The two firms are in uniform Shipbuilding Corporation OSK. April 11.2010, Admiralteiskye Verfi announced its development strategy, which proposed to give them "the subject regulations and military technical cooperation."This Regulation will be given full independence group offers its products to world markets without the help of Rosoboronoexport.

Currently, the majority Rosoboronoexport control the export of Russian military. In 2010, Russia sold $ 10 billion of foreign weapons and equipment, including 8.6 channel Rosoboronoexport. Meanwhile, in 2009, the corresponding index is 8.8 and 7.4 billion USD. As of early 2011, the volume of orders Rosoboronoexport is 38 billion USD.

It is suggested that, if the direct sales contract Bastion for Vietnam to be signed, then this is the first pain attack on the monopoly of Rosoboronoexport, the export of military products into single products in Russia.

However, expert Konstantin Makienko, Centre for Analysis of Strategies and Technology (TsAST, Russia) is that financial losses due to NPO Mashinostroenie Rosoboronoexport of independent arms exports is not large. "Many do is that contracts with the NPO may be signed, on average provide a system / year.

This system is very powerful, very expensive and very sensitive politically. In this segment, the market will undoubtedly focus on the alternative system is the Bal-E. So Rosoboronoexport possible countermeasures symmetry is to start marketing the system easier to sell than the Bal-E. In 2010, under the contracts signed earlier Rosoboronoexport, Russia, Vietnam has provided a valuable Bastion system USD 150 million.

In the opinion of the Council members under the Ministry of Social Defense, said Ruslan Pukhov, the loss is much greater loss of Rosoboronoexport image

VPA’s Mechanized Infantry Training Crossed The River

Amphibious BMP-1 of the VPA to swim practice crossed the river

The senior officers of Vietnam People's Army has joined the training of command, including performing amphibious tanks, shoot gun.

This is training the army command in 2011 for hundreds of senior officers, was held in April. Here, the amendments in the order the Vietnam People's Army has been introduced to the training.

During training, the senior visiting car amphibious mechanized infantry crossed the river to swim practice.

In addition, senior officers can visit the infantry shoot a gun show to go along with firepower; visit the new defense products are studied, improving the team for training and work practice training of a mechanized infantry unit.

South Korea Develops Vertical Launch for Submarine

After 2018 South Korea plans to build 3,000-ton heavy attack submarines equipped with vertical launching systems that allow a variety of weapons, including long-range cruise missiles, to be deployed. (image : DSME)

Vertical launching system for attack subs developed

Korea has developed a vertical launching system (VLS) to be installed on 3,000-ton heavy attack submarines to be deployed after 2018, according to a shipbuilding industry source, Monday.

Hyundai Heavy Industries and Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering are subcontractors for the heavy attack submarines.

It is the first time that the development of a submarine VLS in Korea has been confirmed. The Agency for Defense Development (ADD) has already developed one used aboard the 7,600-ton KDX-III Aegis destroyer.

A VLS is a modern type of missile-firing system used aboard submarines and surface vessels of several navies around the world. When installed on an attack submarine, a VLS allows a greater number and variety of weapons to be deployed in comparison to using only torpedo tubes.

Following the development of the VLS for subs, top shipbuilders in Korea and the ADD are also on track to develop an indigenous horizontal tube to launch torpedoes, cruise missiles and mines, the source said.

“The development of a vertical launching system has already been completed, while the development of a horizontal launching system is still under way,” the source told The Korea Times, asking not to be identified. “Developing the horizontal launching tube requires more sophisticated technology than the VLS development.

Cheonryong long range cruise missile

”The VLS would be used in launching long-range cruise missiles at key targets in North Korea.

The ADD has developed the 500-kilometer-range, ship-launched Cheonryong, which is a modified variant of the surface-to-surface Hyunmoo III-A ballistic missile. The missile range could be extended up to 1,000 kilometers, according to military sources.

The Cheonryong missiles are believed to have already been modified to be installed on Type-214 subs.

South Korea has successfully developed the Hyunmoo III-C surface-to-surface ballistic missile with a maximum range of 1,500 kilometers, following the deployment of the 1,000-kilometer-range Hyunmoo III-B.

With the VLS development, Korea would have an advantage in selling its submarines overseas in the future, the source added.

Currently, the South operates nine 1,200-ton, Type-209 submarines and three 1,800-ton, Type-214 submarines. They are all diesel- and electric-powered and were all built with technical cooperation from HDW of Germany.

As Germany restricts the transfer of key submarine technology, such as launching tubes, Korea would have difficulty exporting any of those locally-built submarines.

The Navy plans to deploy at least three more Type-214 submarines in the years to come.

Beginning in 2018, Seoul plans to build 3,000-ton KSS-III submarines fitted with domestically-built submarine combat systems aimed at automating target detection, tracking, threat assessment and weapons control.

The heavy attack sub will be armed with indigenous ship-to-ground cruise missiles and be capable of underwater operations for up to 50 days with an upgraded Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system.

Royal Malaysian Navy Plans to Add Ship and ASW Helicopter in 10MP

Among purchase planned in the 10th malaysia plan includes six ASW helicopter

Royal Malaysia Navy Continues to Shine

KUALA LUMPUR, (Bernama) -- With its military spirit, loyalty to the country and undying courage, the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN), which celebrates its 77th anniversary tomorrow, continues to strengthen its force in ensuring the sovereignty and maximum security of the country's waters.

As a branch of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), the RMN remains a division that is credible and ready to face challenges for the people and country.

For example, their success in saving RMN auxiliary vessel Bunga Mas 5 in Aden Bay, Somalia, opened the eyes of the world and also became a landmark in the nation's defence history.

Also, June 20 was a proud moment when the Ops Fajar 8 team recovered commercial vessel MT Bunga Laurel, which had been hijacked by pirates, as seven armed pirates were arrested by the Special Protection Team after exchanging fire from air and sea.

RMN chief, Admiral Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Jaafar, said the naval success upheld the MAF, especially the RMN, to a higher level in the international maritime arena, showing that it is on par with other countries.

He added that the navy also demonstrated their capability to continuously operate in foreign waters with success.

"Ops Fajar is entering its ninth year, and throughout the operation not one commercial vessel owned by the MISC or country was hijacked by armed pirates."

The presence of Ops Fajar also crippled two attempted pirate ships attempting attacks on Chinese commercial vessels, MV Zhenhua 4 on Dec 17, 2008 and Indian commercial vessel MT Abdul Kalam Azad on Jan 1, 2009," he told Bernama in a special interview at his office, here recently.

Abdul Aziz said more of such successes would follow with a proposal for an additional escort vessel by next September, should it be approved by MISC Berhad.

Currently, he said, with only one vessel operating, the task of escorting Malaysian commercial vessels through Aden Bay becomes complicated and time-consuming when there are too many ships to escort.

"Two successful meetings with MISC Berhad discussed the concept, design and characteristics of the second vessel...and come May 5 the development and latest status on the proposal will be discussed in more detail.

"If this happens, the second ship will operate independently, whereby one vessel will escort from the West to East and another from East to West...it will launch operations and movement of Malaysian commercial vessels, as well as enable high returns for MISC," he said.

He added that auxiliary vessel Bunga Mas 5 made history when it became the first auxiliary vessel in the world to be used to fight pirates in Aden Bay.

Ops Fajar was launched following the hijacking of two MISC vessels, Bunga Melati 2 and Bunga Melati 5, in Aden Bay in July 2008 before the Bunga Mas 5, a former MISC Berhad commercial vessel that was renovated into an RMN auxiliary vessel.

It was deployed to escort and protect the country's commercial vessels from threats of pirates in Aden Bay and nearby waters.

The Special Sea Unit (PASKAL), also known as KD Panglima Hitam, was the backbone of Ops Fajar's success with the assistance of the Army Special Operations Group (GGK), Special Air Service (PASKAU) and MISC Berhad crew, who were absorbed into the RMN Volunteer Reserve Team (PSSTLDM).

Abdul Aziz said the RMN would also update its defence system through plans of purchasing the latest defence assets and equipment, as well as replacing old assets in line with their goal to become a more ready and efficient organisation.

He said among the purchases planned in the Tenth Malaysia Plan (10MP)includes six Anti-Submarine Warfare Helicopters, a multi-purpose support ship(MSS) and disaster support ship to boost the country's maritime defence.

For patrol and training purposes, the RMN has also agreed to buy two ships from a local ship building company, NGV Tech Sdn Bhd, and they will be built at the NGV Tech ship dock in Kampung Sinjangkang, Teluk Panglima Garang, with a completion target of two years.

"These normal patrol ships are sophisticated and will be equipped with various weapons to be used as training objects, which RMN personnel will be taught to use.

Regarding the anniversary celebrations, tomorrow which has been themed "Warga Didahulukan, Kesiapsiagaan Diutamakan" (People First, Readiness Now), he said it will be a lively but moderate affair in Lumut to be attended by the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, as RMN Colonel-in-chief.

The navy is seen as more mature in their efforts to strengthen its structure and armada to ensure safety, but despite this heavy responsibility it cannot be denied that the RMN has a praise worthy 77-year track record.Therefore, it is appropriate that the RMN be congratulated for bravely and confidently stepping forward as an able force to dominate military operations and become a versatile armed force in this century.

Diagnostic Review of MRH-90 Multi Role Helicopter Program

MRH90 multirole helicopter

A full diagnostic review of the MRH-90 Multi Role Helicopter Program has now been completed.

The review was ordered in February by the Minister for Defence Stephen Smith and the Minister for Defence Materiel Jason Clare to address delays to the project.

It was chaired by the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Defence Materiel Organisation Mr Warren King supported by a number of independent specialists.

The review has recommended that the project should not be added to the Project of Concern list at this time.

It has recommended that Defence work with the contractor, Australian Aerospace, to implement a remediation plan to improve the availability of the helicopters by addressing engineering and reliability issues.

The project will be the subject of a further diagnostic review later this year to examine the effectiveness of the action taken and whether further action is necessary.

The diagnostic review was ordered to address delays to the project due to a series of key issues including engine failure, transmission oil cooler fan failures and the poor availability of spares.

As reported in both the Defence Annual Report and the ANAO Major Project Report released last year, the project has suffered delays of 12 months for the Navy’s helicopters and 18 months for the Army’s helicopters.

To date, 13 MRH-90 helicopters have been accepted by Defence and are currently being used for testing and initial crew training.

DCI Trains the Malaysian Army

A-109 Low Observation Helicopter of the Malaysian Army

DCI-COFRAS announces the set-up of a tactical course on foreign equipment, which is a big first since the company's creation in 1972. DCI provides the Malaysian Army with a course on the tactical employment of helicopters by day and at night using night-vision goggles. This course is taught on the Malaysian A 109 LOH and has made it possible to apprehend the outstanding added value that helicopters contribute to joint operations, up to patrol level.


The purpose of this course, recently renewed for a foreseeable period of 3 additional years, is to lead to the integration of the airmobile dimension, at heterogeneous module level (helicopters with different or differentiated functions) into air land maneuver planning and conduct.

"Our presence alongside the Malaysian Army shows the recognition of DCI-COFRAS know-how, and ability to transfer, by adapting them, the concepts of operational use to equipment that differs from that in service in the French forces" declares General de Zuchowicz, Executive Vice-President of DCI-COFRAS.

Myanmar to Receive New Batch of MiG-29s from March

MiG-29 of the Myanmar Air Force (photo : Keypublishing Forum)

Myanmar will in March receive the first of 20 RSK MiG-29s ordered under a roughly €400 million ($553 million) deal, with their introduction to more than double the country's MiG-29 fleet.

Ordered in November 2009, the aircraft will be delivered in three configurations, comprising 10 MiG-29B and six MiG-29SE single-seat fighters and four MiG-29UB twin-seat operational trainers.
The acquisition effectively clears the remaining MiG-29B/SE stock at RSK MiG's Lukhovitsy plant, with the airframe parts having been manufactured in the Soviet and Perestroika eras. Myanmar's aircraft will be delivered in an original export configuration, with analogue instruments and Phazotron N-019 radars.

MiG-29 of the Myanmar Air Force (image : Mars Slupsk)

Myanmar previously bought used MiG-29s from Belarus, but approached the type's manufacturer and Russian arms export company Rosoboronexport for help after encountering a high attrition rate. Moscow responded with help on weapons, spare parts and training, including the installation of a simulator at one of its air bases.

Acquiring an additional batch of fighters directly from RSK MiG should radically improve the combat readiness and effectiveness of Myanmar's fleet, sources say. Its air force now has 12 MiG-29s.

Meanwhile, RSK MiG says a new logistics support system to be established in co-operation with Indian companies will enable it to provide increased customer support for the nation's MiG-29s, plus those flown by the air forces of Malaysia and Myanmar.

Thales and Hitech Padu Cooperate for Malaysian Naval Combat Management System

Tacticos 430W (photo : Thales)

HeiTech Padu and Thales Nederland to cooperate in Naval Combat Management System

HeiTech Padu Berhad and Thales Nederland have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that confirms their cooperation in the development of a Malaysian Naval Combat Management System.

Both companies agree that, based on a transfer of technology and the implementation of a sophisticated joint software development environment, the Thales Tacticos Combat Management System offered for the Second Generation Patrol Vessel will be developed and produced in Malaysia. Additionally HeiTech Padu will also be involved in the delivery of the Tacticos system currently built for the modernization of the Kasturi Class.

With the experience of HeiTech Padu to deliver real-time network and software applications for the security and defence domain, Thales is convinced to start a cooperation that will serve the Royal Malaysian Navy with first class systems as well as contribute to the development of the Malaysian defence industry. One of the immediate effects will be the establishment of an in-country support facility.

HeiTech Padu selected Thales Nederland as preferred partner based on the leading position of Thales in Naval Combat Management Systems as well as the extensive and proven track record of Thales in international industrial cooperation.

HeiTech Padu Executive Chairman, Dato' Mohd Hilmey Mohd Taib: "is honoured by the confidence given by Thales for HeiTech to spearhead the integration and localisation of their state of the art Combat Management System. HeiTech is committed to take full advantage of this opportunity and hence contribute significantly to the Malaysian defence industry."

Thales Nederland CEO Gerben Edelijn is proud of this MoU: “This agreement emphasizes the strength of our Tacticos Combat Management System and it reinforces the excellent relation between Thales and its Malaysian partners.”

About HeiTech Padu
HeiTech Padu Berhad, a public listed company on the main board of the Bursa Malaysia is Malaysia's leading Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Solutions Provider. HeiTech has delivered high impact ICT solutions, focusing on niche market segments for the defence and security, insurance, financial, health, education, manufacturing and utility industries. Our testimonies include the delivery of mission critical projects for Malaysian Government agencies. The two decades of collaborative partnership with the Government reflects the trust and confidence in our value proposition and commitment. Capitalizing on HeiTech's technical strength and expertise of more than 1,000 workforce, coupled with our home-grown solutions, we are well poised to deliver breakthrough ICT solutions for Malaysian and beyond.

About Thales
Thales is a global technology leader for the Aerospace and Space, Defence, Security and Transportation markets. In 2009, the company generated revenues of 12.9 billion euros with 68,000 employees in 50 countries. With its 25,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design, develop and deploy equipment, systems and services that meet the most complex security requirements. Thales has an exceptional international footprint, with operations around the world working with customers as local partners.

Thales Nederland employs about 2,000 staff members The company, established in 1922, is one of the leading companies in integrated naval systems for surveillance, weapon control, combat management and system integration worldwide