29 Januari 2012

Grenate launcher MGL Mk-1 (photo ; BaoDatViet)

Institute of the General Armament Department of Defense Industry of Vietnam has successfully made sizes 40mm grenade launcher.

The scientific staff of the Institute of Armament (General Department of Defense Industry) completed the study design, trial manufacture of hand-held grenade launcher loader revolver type size 40mm MGL Mk-1 (grenade launcher).

Trial-manufactured products, including grenade launchers and optical viewfinder RDS sync type, the test has achieved the requirements set out in terms of skills, tactics.

Gun weighs 6.3 kg; revolvers contain up to 6 rounds, firing rate 18phat/phut, loader can automatically after each shot. Guns used to be the size 40mm ammunition as the M406 bullet damage, fire smoke M79T.

Hand grenade launcher to fire semi-automatic revolver type size 40mm MGL, the military is using more water because of advantages such as high-speed shooting, big powerful, compact structure, which can be equipped for personal use in accordance with division-level units.The study of the experimental success of this gun opened up the possibility of mass production to put our equipment in the military.

With the experimental success grenade launcher, the authors have completed the construction of the document: Drawings and technical conditions of a grenade launcher; drawings and technical conditions of RDS type optical viewfinder ; user manual grenade launcher.

Remarkable success of the writer's work is formed methodological weapon system in the absence of template; well combine theoretical study with experimental development, to address emerging issues students consistent with the level of science and technology in the country; be more creative in choosing working principles, construction plans, as well as technology solutions designed to produce good quality products to meet the requirements set out.

(BaoDatViet)

26 Januari 2012

Soldiers of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) equipped with F88 assault rifles. (photo : Defpro)

Bringing together unique Australian and Austrian expertise, Thales Australia and Steyr Mannlicher have signed an agreement to cooperate on global market opportunities. Steyr Mannlicher is the original designer of the Australian Defence Force’s F88 assault rifle, which was manufactured and subsequently developed further by Thales Australia.

Under the agreement the two companies will refresh their longstanding cooperation in military markets, with Thales Australia taking the formal lead in Australia and New Zealand. This will benefit customers by sharing R&D to drive product improvements, working towards common supply chains where appropriate, and streamlining service delivery.

Chris Jenkins, Thales Australia’s CEO, said: “This agreement represents the continuing evolution of our Soldier Systems business. Steyr Mannlicher has a long history and a global market outlook which, combined with our expertise delivering and upgrading infantry weapons, will allow us to collectively build on our vast knowledge and networks to offer streamlined, cost-effective solutions to customers.”

“Both companies employ world-class weapon designers and experts, and our combined capabilities will make this a compelling team. We have invested significantly in weapon development in Australia, and are eager to offer Australian innovations through Steyr Mannlicher to the rest of the world. The current development of the next generation weapon under the LAND 125 3C program is the most recent example of the innovative work being done at Lithgow.

”Thales Australia and Steyr Mannlicher have been working together since 1986 to deliver assault rifles, and since then have continuously improved weapon performance and enabled the integration of a wide range of third-party accessories. The SA2 currently in service demonstrates the continuing evolution of this capability.

Over the past few years, Thales Australia has built on its traditional expertise in the precision manufacturing of small arms at the Thales-owned Lithgow facility in New South Wales, to offer a wider range of services including engineering, design, procurement, logistics and project management. The company also supports a range of third-party weapons currently in use by the Australian Defence Force.

(Thales)

18 Januari 2012

APC Amphibi buatan PT. Wirajayadi Bahari (all photos : Wirajayadi Bahari)

Rapim TNI 2012 Gelar Alutsista Produk Indonesia

[JAKARTA] Rapat Pimpinan (Rapim) TNI 2012 yang berlangsung di Markas Besar (Mabes) TNI diwarnai acara gelar Static Show Alat Perlengkapan Pertahanan (Alpahan) Produksi Industri Dalam Negeri. Di dalam tenda, terdapat 38 stand yang menampilkan sejumlah peralatan dan perlengkapan militer.

Sementara di luar tenda, memamerkan berbagai kendaraan tempur serta alat berat militer. APC Amphibi merupakan kendaraan tempur untuk mengangkut pasukan pendarat marinir produksi TNI Angkatan Laut (AL) dan PT Wirajayadi Bahari.

"Hasil produksi telah diuji coba dan memenuhi standar dan keselamatan TNI AL serta ergonomis sebagai kendaraan tempur amphibi, yang memenuhi standar operasional TNI AL," kata Owner PT Wirajayadi Bahari, Bintoro, di Mabes TNI, Jakarta, Rabu (18/1).

Dia menjelaskan, proses pembangunan dilakukan di Denhar Lanmar Surabaya. APC Amphibi yang diproduksi juga dapat disejajarkan dengan produk sejenis dari negara lain. "APC Amphibi ini tidak kalah dengan negara luar," jelas Bintoro.

Dia berharap, alat utama sistem senjata (alutsista) dalam negeri dapat diandalkan di kemudian hari. "Alutsista dalam negeri harus jadi andalan dan kebanggaan Indonesia," tandasnya. [CKP/L-8]

(Suara Pembaruan)

18 Januari 2012

F-35 JSF manufacturing (photo : fm.sap)

BAE Systems Australia and Rosebank Engineering will build two new facilities in South Australia after winning a $177 million contract to manufacture tail fins for the US government’s Joint Strike Fighter defence aircraft.

The duo will use SA government funding to build the two new advanced titanium aerospace component manufacture and processing capabilities at Edinburgh Parks.

BAE Systems Australia will build Australia’s largest advanced aerospace components factory, which will produce long, thin titanium parts for the Joint Strike Fighter Vertical Tail Fin.

Though the company has been making the parts at an existing Edinburgh Parks site since July last year, government funding will allow it to upgrade the plant for raised output.

At full rate production, the new site will be able to deliver 70 aircraft sets per annum, with over 30 parts in each set.

Each part, which consists of highly complex shapes and fine tolerance, requires five axis machining, which can range from one to 50 hours per component.

The parts will be treated at a new metal finishing plant to be built by Rosebank Engineering.
According to SA Premier Jay Weatherill, who visited Lockheed Martin’s Joint Strike Fighter factory in Fort Worth, Texas yesterday, the vertical tail fins are a major structural element of the aircraft, turning it during flight.

BAE Systems Australia and Rosebank Engineering reportedly won the contract, which is worth approximately $177 million, over the United Kingdom.

The $600 billion Joint Strike Fighter project will produce more than 3,000 aircraft over the next 25 years for the United States and its allies.

“Defence will form the foundation of South Australia’s advanced manufacturing future and provide highly-skilled jobs,” said Weatherill.

“Already we have a strong reputation both nationally and globally for our expertise in defence manufacturing.

“These new capabilities open up a raft of opportunities in other aerospace, commercial and defence projects.”

Defence Industries Minister Jack Snelling said Rosebank Engineering’s high-precision, advanced machining facility will be a major boost to SA’s defence manufacturing industry.

“Rosebank’s facility will be capable of supporting large JSF parts at full rate production,” said Snelling.

“This combined capability does not currently exist in Australia. Its establishment in Adelaide will drive long term growth and job security in South Australia.”

(Manufacturer's Monthly)

17 Januari 2012

TT400TP project ship -HQ-272 (all photos : QDND/BaoDatViet)

HQ 272 ships cannon military HQ from Hong Ha Shipbuilding Company (General Department of Defense Industry) shall be delivered to the Navy to put to use. This is the first warship production by Vietnam.

The ship is very modern design, more features, when Vietnam combat at sea, equipped with weapons, modern weapons such as AK 630 guns, combination of low altitude air defense missiles, radar systems, system identify the enemy, electro optic systems, cannon ammunitions, rockets. It is able to continuously operate offshore for 30 days and nights at sustained winds of force 9-10 and waves of force 8. The ship has an operating range of 2,500 miles.

After two years of implementation, the ship HQ 272 was tested and fired live ammunition test, all parameters are guaranteed by design. Navy ships are, the design agency and the Council accepted the Ministry of Defence appreciated the technical quality, fine art, gain full technical features, strategy as approved by the General Chief of Staff of Vietnam People's Army.

Admiral Pham Ngoc Minh, Deputy Commander Chief of Navy, said the ship HQ 272 will contribute to increased combat power for Vietnam Navy, and most importantly, Vietnam is gradually mastering shipbuilding technology, created the initiative in ensuring the technical, equipment, facilities, weapons for national defense and security tasks.

According to Minh, the ship will make the trip patrols to protect sovereign waters, islands and continental shelf of the country.

(VNExpress)

05 Desember 2012

Type 209 submarine (photo : TKMS)

Indonesia Buying Submarines from S Korea on Technology Transfer Terms

BATAM, KOMPAS.com - Indonesia has signed a contract with a South Korean shipbuilding company on the purchase of three submarines with emphasis on technology transfer in the manufacturing process, Deputy Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoedin said.

Under the contract, South Korea’s Daewoo Shipbuidling and Marine Engineering (DSME) would build two of the submarines in Korea with the participation of Indonesian personnel in the manufacturing process and the third one in Indonesia in the dockyard of PT PAL in East Java, he said.

"The purpose of the US$ 1.80 billion scheme is also transfer of technology in the building of submarines," Sjafrie said.

Meanwhile, Maj Gen Ediwan Prabowo, head of the defense ministry’s defense facilities agency, said the first submarine would be entirely built in South Korea with 30 personnel of PT PAL participating in the project as interns.

The PT PAL people would be assigned to master the designing phase of the submarine building project and participate in preparations to construct the second submarine. Later, Indonesia would send up to 130 shipbuilding personnel to Korea to be involved in the process of making the second submarine.

"Eventually, we hope the third submarine can be wholly built at the dockyard of PT PAL in Indonesia so that local human resources can gain full submarine building competence," he said.

Ediwan said the government expected the first submarine to be completed in 2015, the second in 2016 and the third in 2017. "With the acquisition of the three new submarines, the Indonesian Navy’s combat and deterrent capability will be significantly enhanced."

(Kompas)

23 Desember 2011

Cheongung medium range SAM, can reach target at 40km range (photo : Defense Update)

South Korea unveils a new medium-range surface-to-air missile the Cheongung M-SAM

In December 2011, South Korea unveils its new new medium-range surface-to-air missile. The Cheongung missile will be deployed from 2013. In the second phase from next year until 2018, the ADD plans to turn the Cheongung into a ballistic interceptor missile, which would lay the groundwork for a Korean version of the Patriot Advanced Capability (PAC)-3.

Staff of the Agency for South Korean Defense Development demonstrate the Cheongung surface-to-air missile at the Daejeon headquarters of the Army.

South Korea Korea is the fifth country after Russia, France, Taiwan and Japan to have developed such a weapon. The U.S. is currently developing a high-tech medium-range surface-to-air missile in cooperation with Italy and Germany, under the name of MEADS (Medium Extended Air Defense Missile Systems).

The new SAM called ‘Cheongung’ (Iron Hawk) can intercept targets at altitude up to 15 km and at a range of about 40 km. LIG Nex1 plans to begin production in 2012 and according to the original schedule, begin replacing the first MIM-23 Hawk batteries beginning 2013.

Following the induction of the new Cheongung Seoul plans to offer the missile for export. Seoul estimates the market potential of such missiles at over US$2.3 billion. Apparently, the Russian Company that developed the system, Almaz Antey, thought the same as they kept the program alive after transferring the prototypes to Korea. The Russian version known as Vityaz could be ready to replace first generation S-300PS (5V55R) missiles, covering a similar intercept envelope, by the end of their service in 2015.

The South Korean Agency for Defense Development began development of the Cheongung in 2006, but started research in 2001 based on Russia's S-400 missile system. In cooperation with Russia, a Korean engineering team replaced a massive Russian radar system with a small device, which can be installed on a truck. The team also began research on a missile propulsion system based on the small Russian-made 9M96 missile. The radar is installed at the head of the missile to let it trace its own target.

(Army Recognition)

17 Desember 2011

Malaysia memesan 6 fregat Gowind - Littoral Combat Ship yang akan diserahkan dalam 3 tahapan pembangunan lima-tahunan Malaysia : RMK-10, RMK-11, dan RMK-12 (image : DCNS)

KUALA LUMPUR, (Bernama) -- Unit kepada Boustead Holdings Bhd, Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd telah diberikan kontrak bernilai RM9 bilion oleh Kementerian Pertahanan.

Kontrak itu ialah untuk penghantaran enam unit generasi kedua "Patrol Vessels Littoral Combat Ships" (Frigate Class) kepada kementerian, kata syarikat dalam kenyataan kepada Bursa Malaysia Jumaat.

Niaga janji itu meliputi reka bentuk, pembinaan, peralatan, pemasangan, pelaksanaan, integrasi dan pengujian ke atas keenam-enam kapal itu, katanya.

"Kontrak itu bernilai RM9 bilion, akan dilaksanakan dalam tempoh tiga Rancangan Malaysia, 10, 11 dan 12," katanya.

Penghantaran pertama dijangka pada 2017 dan disusuli oleh yang lain setiap enam bulan selepasnya.

(Bernama)

08 Desember 2011

Rigid Inflatable Boats/RIB made in North Sea Boats Indonesia (photo : North Sea Boats)

CTRM Aero Composites Sdn Bhd got the thumbs up today as an internationally recognised expert incomposites research and technology by Indonesia-based North Sea Boats (NSB).

Their track record landed them in a synergy with NSB to develop, produce, market, sell and service advancedtechnology composites marine vessels.

In a statement here, NSB managing director John Ivar Allan Lundin said the vessels would be for the defenceand security market in the Asean region in particular as well as the international market.

The partnership agreement signing between CTRM subsidiary CTRM Composites Engineering (CTRM CE) and NSB were held today at the on-going Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) 2011.

Expanding on this synergy, CTRM CE chief executive officer Mohd Shafee Mohd Ali said the partnershipwould fuse regional technology expertise and foster greater co-operation between regional industry playerslike CTRM CE and NSB.

This, he said, would pave the way for superior production of high performance marine vessels. "With NSB’sexpertise in designing and developing high performance marine vessels for defence and security purposes and CTRM’s cutting edge in composites fabrication, we expect to achieve a superior production," he said.

CTRM specialises in the manufacture of composites components for commercial and military aircraft. NSB,based in East Java, has been actively engaged in the design and development of boats used by the IndonesianSpecial Forces.

(Business Times)

08 Desember 2011

Eurocopter EC-130 helicopter (photo : Helihub)

LANGKAWI, (Bernama) -- Composites Technology Research Malaysia Sdn Bhd (CTRM) has secured a RM11 million contract to make and supply composite fenestron to support Eurocopter's production of its EC130 helicopter.

The EC130 is the first helicopter work package awarded to CTRM by any original equipment manufacturer (OEM).

CTRM's group chief executive officer, Datuk Rosdi Mahmud, said the deal was extremely significant to the company in its strategy to acquire more work packages from OEM, or Super Tier 1, especially for diversification into rotary wing aircraft.

"Even the contract value was not comparable to fixed-wing aircraft programme, but the 'value-for-money' in terms of manufacturing and product technology is appealing.

"The success of this strategic partnership signifies Eurocopter's confident in CTRM's capability in taking on more complex component work and assembly of aircraft composites structures," he told a media briefing after the signing of the agreement here today.

Also present was Air Force Chief Gen Tan Sri Rodzali Daud.

Rosdi signed the agreement on behalf of CTRM and Eurocopter was represented by Lambert.

This contract, he said, would initiate composite helicopter technology to CTRM which was already well-established and recognised within the EADS family for fixed-wing parts, and would pave the way for a long-term bilateral cooperation.

Meanwhile, Eurocopter's senior vice-president and head of customer relations, Olivier Lambert, said the cooperation between CTRM and Eurocopter was a new step towards strategic industrial partnership that the company intended to develop in Malaysia.

(Bernama)

08 Desember 2011

Erieye AEW&C (photo : quintinsmith_ip)

Defence and security company Saab has signed an Industrial Cooperation teaming agreement with DRB-HICOM. The purpose is to offer the most competitive and attractive proposal to the Government of Malaysia regarding delivery of a high performance and cost efficient Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading solutions, products and services ranging from military defence to civil security. DRB-HICOM is a leading company in the Malaysian automotive and defence industry. The companies combined competencies and capabilities will ensure that the most cost efficient solution will be offered to the Government of Malaysia.

The agreement between Saab and DRB-HICOM will include offering of technology transfer, bringing employment and expertise to Malaysia.

Malaysian Defence Minister Dato’ Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi witnessed the signing of the teaming agreement at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) in Malaysia. The agreement was signed by Gunilla Fransson of Saab and DRB-HICOM’s Abdul Harith Abdullah.

"I'm delighted that we today are formalizing our long lasting relationship. With this teaming agreement, Saab is further reinforcing its long term commitment to the Malaysian defence and civil security market", says Gunilla Fransson, Senior Vice President and head of Saab business area Security and Defence Solutions.

Saab has a long history of supplying high performance, cost efficient defence systems to the Malaysian Armed Forces. Systems like navy and army radar systems, airborne self-protection systems for helicopters and fighters, naval command and control systems and army support weapons, including anti-tank weapons.

Saab's world class, long range Erieye AEW&C system have the capability of early detection of air and sea objects. The sophisticated Erieye radar can also detect and track small objects. This includes unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles, as well as wooden fishing vessels and jet skies.

These capabilities give authorities full control of military and civilian airspace and movements at sea. The Erieye system further enhances the possibilities to monitor activities on the sea such as illegal fishery, illegal immigration, smuggling, piracy and also protection of oil and gas installations.

(Saab Group)

08 Desember 2011

Sikorsky S-61 "Nuri" helicopters (photo : Jetphotos)

LIMA, Malaysia - Sikorsky Aerospace Services today announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with AIROD Sdn. Bhd. (AIROD) of Malaysia and Aviation Design Centre Sdn. Bhd. (ADC) to explore aircraft maintenance and support opportunities for Sikorsky’s S-61/H-3 platforms including the most recent variant, the S-61T^™ helicopter. AIROD performs maintenance, repair and overhaul services for various commercial and military aircraft. Sikorsky Aerospace Services (SAS) is the aftermarket division of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).

“This MOU represents the first step in discussing potential support capabilities for the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s S-61 platform. It is our strategic objective to provide customized solutions to a wide range of customers with complex fleet requirements,” said Samir Mehta, SAS Vice-President & Chief Operating Officer.

The S-61 helicopter has a 50-year history of reliably performing missions for the U.S. and foreign militaries. The upgraded S-61 can be outfitted to meet a wide variety of requirements and provides superior value for a mid-size, multi-mission helicopter. As Sikorsky’s launch customer, the U.S. State Department entered into a five-year agreement with the option to purchase up to 110 upgraded S-61 aircraft for passenger and cargo transport missions in support of its worldwide operations. Building on the legacy as one of the most dependable aircraft in the aerospace industry, SAS initiated the S-61 Upgrade Program in early 2010. While pursuing other global opportunities, SAS is currently in contract discussions with potential commercial and military customers throughout Europe and Asia.

“AIROD is pleased to explore collaboration directly with the OEM, and we look forward to working closely with SAS in the support of S-61 aircraft,” said Tan Sri Dato’ Ahmad Johan, Chairman, AIROD Sdn. Bhd.

“We are very pleased to sign this MOU with both SAS and AIROD and to discuss support opportunities regarding Sikorsky’s S-61 Upgrade Program. This opportunity aligns with our objective to advance ADC’s aerospace capabilities,” said Major General Dato’ Ir. Ibrahim Bahari, Chief Executive Office, ADC.

Aviation Design Centre Sdn. Bhd. (ADC) was established in 1997 with the aim of sustaining the growth of the aviation industry and promoting advanced aerospace technology in Malaysia. ADC is currently an ISO 9001:2008 certified company and also complies with the Department of Civil Aviation Malaysia (DCAM) and other Regulatory Airworthiness requirements.

AIROD, a wholly owned subsidiary of National Aerospace & Defence Industries Sdn. Bhd. (NADI), was established in 1976 primarily to embark on “self-reliance” as a defense strategy and to spearhead the development of the aerospace industry in Malaysia. Today, AIROD is a leading MRO and modification center with world-class facilities to support various fixed and rotary wing aircraft for both civil and military aircraft market.

Sikorsky Aerospace Services, a Sikorsky company, provides comprehensive support to rotary and fixed wing operators worldwide. It offers its military and commercial customers a full portfolio of aftermarket support services, including material distribution, MRO, aircraft modifications and life-cycle support. Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. United Technologies Corporation, based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries worldwide.

(Sikorsky)

07 Desember 2011

A model of the Boustead Gowind Frigate displayed at Lima 2011. (photo : Malaysian Defence)

A Malaysian government-linked shipbuilder said Wednesday it expects to finalise the sale of six naval vessels developed by French navy equipment manufacturer DCNS next month.

Boustead Naval Shipyard was selected by the Malaysian navy earlier this year to build the six corvettes, which are designed for coastal patrol activities.

Zainal Abidin Ahmad, Boustead's assistant general manager, said the two companies would present final design specifications to the navy this month.

"Our expectation is to get it (the deal) signed in January," Zainal said at a maritime and aerospace show on the Malaysian resort island of Langkawi.

The vessels weigh 2,400 tonnes, are 100 metres (330 feet) long and can each transport one EC275 helicopter made by Eurocopter, a subsidiary of EADS.

Zainal said Malaysia's navy had yet to choose how to arm the vessels.

The design is still under wraps and the size of the deal has not been disclosed.

However, industry analysts say the cost of one corvette runs to more than 100 million euros.

In landing the order, state-controlled DCNS beat out bids by Germany's TKMS and Dutch firm Damen.

DCNS already had a relationship with Boustead through a joint venture in 2009 to maintain two Diesel-propelled Scorpene submarines used by the Malaysian navy.

The corvettes, which can stay at sea for three weeks, are designed to navigate coastal areas and island groups to fight piracy and patrol fisheries, according to DCNS.

DCNS has sold 11 frigates to Malaysia's neighbour Singapore, five of which were built in the city-state.

(MSN News)

07 Desember 2011

CyberEye UAV (photo : Sapura)

Malaysian company Sapura Secured Technologies is marketing four unmanned air vehicles (UAVs).

The security company launched its UAV unit in 2008 under the name Cyber Tech, which is located in Perth, Western Australia.

CyberWraith target drone (photo : Sapura)

The company's most ambitious UAV is the Cyber Eye, which weighs 65kg (143lb) and can have a 15kg sensor payload added to this. Sapura said it is suitable for military applications as well as crop monitoring.

Sapura said it has sold "more than five" Cyber Eyes in Australia, Thailand and Europe. One of its customers is an air force, but the company declined to provide further details.

CyberQuad hovering urban aerial vehicle (photo : Sapura)

The company is also marketing the Cyber Hawk, a 20kg UAV with an endurance of 6h, and the 1kg Cyber Quad micro air vehicle. The four-propeller Cyber Quad comes in two sizes, and is targeted at the law enforcement market.

(FlightGlobal)

01 Desember 2011

KS-550A Mini-Sub concept for RoKN (all photos : Network54)

South Korea's Agency for Defence Development (ADD) has unveiled an innovative mini-submarine concept - known as the KSS 500A - for the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN).

The 37 m-long craft is intended to form the basis for a replacement of the two surviving Dolgorae-class mini-submarines, which entered service in the early 1980s. Design work is believed to have started in 2008 and the ADD is now selecting key systems suppliers.

According to a model and accompanying data released at the Marine Week 2011 exhibition in Busan in early November, the KSS 500A has a beam of 4.5 m, surfaced displacement of 510 tons and maximum diving depth of 250 m.

Notably, there are no onboard electrical generators; all electrical power is provided instead by two banks of lithium ion batteries. While the Dolgarae-class boats require frequent snorkelling, the KSS 500A is designed to require minimal snorkelling during a typical three-week patrol.

The streamlined sail houses up to four masts for electro-optic, radar, satellite communications and electronic security measures systems, and there is a fifth - modular payload - mast for launching small unmanned aerial vehicles.

The pressure hull has four compartments: combat information centre, machinery room, special forces area and accommodation/messing. Weapons and sonars are installed in the forward section, while the integrated electric motor with coaxial flexible payload module (FPM) occupies the aft section.

Control surfaces include two bow-mounted dive planes and an X-shaped stern. A podded motor, stator and rotor propel the submarine at a cruise speed of 5-7 kt, although a sprint speed of 20 kt is possible. However, the endurance of 21 days and range of 2,000 n miles at low speeds are severely curtailed at higher speeds.

Although the boat can be operated by a crew of five, the design complement is 10 persons using a two-watch system. Up to 14 special forces personnel can also be embarked. The FPM at the stern allows the deployment of divers, swimmer delivery vehicles and unmanned underwater vehicles.

Armament comprises tubes for two heavyweight torpedoes and four lightweight torpedoes, located close to a payload interface module containing two box launchers: one for vertical-launch missiles, the other for mines. The KSS 500A is considerably larger than the Dolgorae-class boats. Built amid much secrecy, three Dolgoraes were commissioned in 1982-83 with pennant numbers 051-053. The legacy craft are about 25 m in length with a surfaced displacement of 250 tons. It is understood that five new mini-submarines are required by the RoKN, although induction timelines could not be ascertained.

(Jane's)

28 November 2011

Aladin mini UAV (photo : Defense Industry Daily)

GERMAN aviation firm EMT plans to manufacture Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones in Malaysia by June next year via a local partner.

EMT has roped in Drei Sohne Technologies (Deutschland) Sdn Bhd (DST) as its sole Asian region sales and marketing representative.

"We are planning to send the first of a 15-member technical team to Germany for training soon," DST managing director Azmi Mustapha said.

"The principal team from EMT will also be coming here later to assist us," Azmi added.
DST was established in Kuala Lumpur on December 20 last year.

It deals in the sales, servicing and marketing of EMT UAV systems for reconnaissance and surveillance purposes such as military operations, border control, search and rescue, disaster management and specialised missions.

Established in 1978, EMT has over 30 years of experience in the UAV systems industry. This ranges from research and development, manufacturing and continuous system improvements using the latest and state-of-the-art German technologies, to real reconnaissance and surveillance missions in the combat fields of Afghanistan, Macedonia, Kosovo and Pakistan in extremely harsh environments.

EMT's growing family of drones covers the range of micro drones, mini drones and larger tactical drones.

DST is identifying a suitable location for the plantwith an initial investment of RM5 million, said Azmi, who has been living and doing business in Germany for 20 years.

He currently jets between Germany and Malaysia, besides visiting other Asian countries as sole distributor of EMT.

Fancopter UAV (photo : EMT)

"I choose Malaysia as I want the country to be the first to be exposed with this technology that is now being used all around the world.

" It gives me satisfaction to put the country on the world map as one of the manufacturers of drones for the global market," he said.

DST plans to manufacture FANCOPTER, a micro aerial reconnaissance and surveillance system, and ALADIN, a mini aerial reconnaissance system, here.

"We have also received the nod from EMT for the maintenance, repair and overhaul of their drones," Azmi said.

He said the drones can be used in a variety of situations. They are not only useful for surveillance and piracy control, but also in the event of natural disasters.

"Imagine that you are facing a natural disaster such as flood or landslide. Instead of sending people over there to check out the situation, you can use drones to obtain all the data needed for further action.

"This will cut the time, cost and, at the same time, ensure the safety of rescue workers," he said.

DST had on April 26 this year done an EMT UAV presentation to the Ministry of Defence. In July, it did a presentation at the Brunei International Defence Exhibition.

Next month, DST will participate in11th edition of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition that will run from December 6 to December 10.

(Business Times)

26 November 2011

Ocean surveillance ship named HSV-6613 Giáo Su Vien sĩ Tran Đai Nghĩa (all photos : QDND, ttvnol)

QĐND Online - in Danang, Song Thu Co. Ltd. (a member of the General Department of Defense Industry) held a ceremony to hand over the sea vessel surveillance called HSV-6613 Giáo Su Vien sĩ Tran Đai Nghĩa, Admiral Pham Ngoc Minh, Deputy Commander, Chief of Navy has attended.

HSV Tau - 6613 designed by the Damen Group (Netherlands) and constructed in the Song Thu Company contributions to overcoming the lack of equipment for research, survey, surveying the sea, all set chart warning waters of Vietnam, creating favorable conditions for exploration, exploitation, controlling and protection of marine resources.

This type of steel hull ships, unrestricted activity level, consistent with hydrographic features survey and marine survey measurements, meet standards and regulations for decentralization of shipbuilding steel shell of TCVN 6259/2003 Vietnam Register, Lloyd Register, as well as conventions and other regulations related to the survey ship, surveying the sea. The vessel line shape and drive systems for adaptive purposes, can be easily rotated even in narrow waters, storm strength on level 12.

The ship is powered by four diesel combination generators, two Azimuth propeller, a propeller nose with the equipment information, navigation, weapons and other modern devices. The scope of operation of the ship is 5000 nautical miles at an average speed of 10 knots.

The ship’s design meets capability allows continuous operation at sea for 60 days and nights. The basic specifications of the ship as follows: Length overall: 66.3 m, maximum width: 13.2 m, depth: 6.5 m, draft at full load 4m, full displacement : 1550 tonnes.

Ship HSV-6613 was officially started in July - 2008, ship was launched in October - 2010. Until this time used for training and sea-trials conducted by military service.

(QDND)

24 November 2011

Artist's impression about PAK-FA in Indian colour scheme (image : Livefist/Parijat Gaur)

Indian aircraft maker Hindustan Aeronautics published a few promising fighter specifications FGFA (Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft), created in cooperation with Russia on the basis of combat aircraft T-50 (PAK FA). According to the description, the Indian version of the aircraft will be network-centric and will act in a group with other FGFA even in areas with "poor communication".

FGFA length was 22.6 meters, height - 5.9 meters, and maximum takeoff weight - 34 tons. The aircraft will be able to fly to a distance of 3.88 kilometers and a speed of two Mach numbers (2.3 thousand kilometers per hour). Will be installed on FGFA engines with thrust vector control management and a maximum deviation of the nozzles 15 degrees.

Each of the two engines of the fighter will be able to develop a thrust of 1,400 kilograms-force (13.7 kilonewton). Probably, this parameter contains an error. For comparison, the turbojet engine AL-41F1S (installed on the Su-35s) is capable of a thrust of 8.8 thousand kilograms-force, and 15 000 pounds-force in regime afterburner.

At the end of September 2011 it became known that the command of the Indian Air Force has selected engines for future fighter aircraft, but did not specify what kind. Reported only that the power plants will be stronger for FGFA AL-41F1 ("Item 117"), intended for prospective fighter T-50.

FGFA will be able to fly at supersonic speed in cruise mode, and maneuver at supersonic speed. In the inner compartment of the fighter can be placed in a mass of weapons to 2.25 tons, and on external pylons - weighing up to 5.75 tonnes. Indian fighter jet fuselage will be made with the use of stealth technology. It should be noted that the development of FGFA in the design stage, so many options listed HAL, can change in one direction or another.Specifications PAK FA until classified.

The contract for the joint development of FGFA was signed by Russia and India in late 2010. Indian version of the aircraft will be established on the basis of the PAK FA, but it will be different from the last version with a single and a double cockpit, engines and airborne equipment. Earlier it was reported that the first flight is scheduled for FGFA 2015. Indian Air Force is going to adopt a 250 fighter FGFA.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited

Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA)

The proposed FGFA will have air combat superiority, high tactical capability, group action capability in the regions even with poor communication support. The aircraft will have advanced features like

 Increased Stealth - Low radar cross-section (RCS), Internal deployment of weaponry

 Supersonic cruise and supersonic maneuvering capability

 Data link and network centric warfare capability.

Technical Parameters

-Length : 22.6 m
-Height : 5.9 m
-MTOW : 34 Ton
-Range : 3880 km
-Speed : 2 Mach
-Max Weapon Load : 2.25 Ton (Int.) & 5.75 Ton (Ext)
-Thrust Vectoring : With Jet Nozzle (±15 º)
-Engine Thrust : 2X1400 kgf

FGFA will be co-developed with Russians. Sukhoi Design Bureau (SDB) has been selected as the Russian agency for this development project.

(Lenta)

18 November 2011

Government Arsenal's product (photo : GA)

MANILA (Xinhua) -- The Philippine government signed Thursday a contract with a Canadian contractor for the acquisition of 335.8 million pesos (7.72 million U.S. dollars) worth of equipment to boost the production of ammunition for government troops.

Government Arsenal Director Maj. Gen. (ret.) Jonathan Martir signed the contract with Andre Nazarian, president of the Waterbury Farell in a simple ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo.

The contract binds the foreign firm to deliver a multi-station bullet assembly machine, a case manufacture equipment, and cartridge assembly equipment within 18 months upon the opening of the letter of credit.

"Our acquisition of these equipment shall certainly enhance the capability of our Government Arsenal to manufacture high-quality, safe, and reliable ammunition for our Armed Forces and other government law enforcement agencies," Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said.

At present, Martir said the Government Arsenal produces 58 percent of the total military requirement on ammunition for small arms like M16, M4 rifle, M4 Carbine rifle, and Minimi squad automatic weapons.

Martir said the defense department will get the funds from the Armed Forces Modernization Program. By next year, he said the Philippines might buy more equipment to manufacture not only ammunition but also assault rifles.

(Xinhua)

17 November 2011

TSAMTO assesses the needs of Malaysian Air Force in modern jet trainer (to replace Hawk) in the amount of 18-24 units. At the same time, according to TSAMTO, purchasing of new jet trainer is unlikely to be realized in the framework of the 10th Malaysia Plan Defense (period 2011-2015), because all procurement programs and their funding for this period has already laid out. Most likely, the purchase can be implemented within the framework of the 11th Malaysia Plan of Defense in the period 2016-2020 (photo : Airliners)

Defense Minister of Malaysia visited Irkutsk Aviation Plant

TSAMTO, As reported earlier, Defense Minister of Malaysia Ahmad Zahid Hamidi visited the Irkutsk Aviation plant - branch of JSC "Corporation" Irkut ".

As the "AviaPort.Ru", quoting a press release "NPK" Irkut ", during the visit of President of" Corporation "Irkut" Alexei Fyodorov presented his guest IAZ main divisions, which produces the Su-30MK and Yak-130 components for concern "Airbus" in the program of international industrial cooperation.

"The purpose of my visit to Irkutsk - personally seen, where a multi-purpose combat aircraft, which is used in Malaysian Air Force. What I have seen here is impressive and amazing. I am absolutely convinced that the future of the aircraft is very bright. We also discuss the possibility of future programs, and Malaysian companies are ready to cooperate in the field of "Irkut" - said Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

In collaboration with the Royal Air Force Malaysia Corporation "Irkut" from 2007 to 2009 posed to this country 18 Su-30MK fighters, known as the Su-30MKM (multi-purpose, commercial, Malaysian). Now discuss the details of yet another contract for the manufacture of multifunctional aircraft.

Irkut's MS-21, baseline model with up to 162 passengers, similar to the Airbus A319, and the Boeing 737-700 (photo : Irkut)

According to Fedorov, "Malaysia for us - not just a customer, for us it is a key partner. We would like to secure a good partnership with the Malaysian aerospace industry."

In addition to the Su-30MKM, the parties discussed cooperation on the project MS-21. It is planned that the first deliveries of these aircraft will begin in Malaysia in 2017.

In addition, the defense minister of Malaysia expressed interest in the project Yak-130 and did not rule out the possibility of cooperation in this area.

Background

Su-30MKM (photo : Airliners)

The contract to supply 18 Malaysian Air Force Su-30MKM worth about 910 million dollars was signed in 2003. Deliveries of fighters under the contract have been completed in the summer of 2009.

Su-30MKM (multi-purpose, commercial, Malaysian) is based on the Su-30MKI developed for the Indian Air Force. At the same time, this machine has a number of differences, as adapted to the requirements of the Malaysian Air Force. In the final part of the tender of the Su-30MKM competed with the U.S. F/A-18E/F.

As part of the Malaysian contract was carried out a large number of technical discussions with suppliers of foreign equipment on the Su-30MKM, in his pairing on the basis of the experience already gained by the Su-30MKI. Much has been done on the organization of international cooperation.

The contract for the supply of 18 Su-30MKM is unique in complexity and has no analogues in Russian practice. Malaysian party chooses suppliers of imported complete set for the Su-30MKM. Moreover, the contract was structured so that Malaysia provided a supply of these products in finished form on the contract. If other similar contracts usually stipulate a list of equipment and the function ends with the buyer, the buyer is assumed greater authority. This selection, coordination and delivery of spare parts as a pilot and production machines.

The company "Thales" as a subcontractor in December 2003 won a contract worth 120 million euros (147 million dollars) to supply avionics for the Su-30MKM.

The second major subcontractor became a South African company "Avitroniks" which has received an order to produce Malaysian Air Force 18 system warning about the threat to the Su-30MKM. The contract is estimated at 20 million dollars.
The third major subcontractor was Indian corporation HAL, which has put completing a $ 30 million dollars for the Su-30MKM.

In 2011, the Malaysian Air Force flight crews began training on a simulator of the Su-30MKM. The simulator was designed by Malaysian firm HeiTech Padu Bhd in conjunction with the "Sukhoi" and includes two jobs for pilots and their computer system training. The Malaysian government has entered into an agreement with HeiTech to develop and produce a simulator for training pilots of the Su-30MKM in December 2006.

At the opening ceremony of the training center for pilots of Su-30MKM Malaysian Air Force in April this year, Defense Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said that "Malaysia is the leader among Southeast Asian countries in terms of training pilots for aircraft such as the Su-30."

(ArmsTrade)