20 Januari 2012

In 2008, the country had the world's fourth-largest per capita defense expenditure, behind only Israel, the US and Oman (image : ASDNews)

Singapore has the largest defense expenditure in South East Asia, and, in 2008, the country had the world’s fourth-largest per capita defense expenditure, behind only Israel, the US and Oman. The country’s defense expenditure is high due to the small size of the country’s armed forces and consequent ever-present requirement to upgrade the country’s defense equipment and procure advanced technology in order to compensate for the country’s lack of manpower (reference figure).

Singapore has the largest defense expenditure in the South East Asian region, and the country’s defense spending is expected to increase substantially by 2016. The country’s defense expenditure is primarily driven by the threat of terrorist organizations such as Jemaah Islamiah, and the country’s focus on the protection of important trade routes, such as the Strait of Singapore and the Strait of Malacca, from the threat of piracy. Singapore’s army is relatively small, resulting in the country using technology as a force multiplier, another factor which increases its defense expenditure. The country’s small size also renders it unable to provide adequate training facilities for its armed forces personnel. As such, the country relocates army training facilities to foreign countries, a decision that creates the need to purchase training stations and detachments overseas.

From 2011 to 2016, (the forecast period), Singapore is expected to invest in advanced technology for its armed forces, including purchases in areas such as such as stealth technology, unmanned technology and precision guided systems. Homeland security expenditure is also expected to increase the demand for CCTV, advanced electronic systems and biometric checking.

As Singapore is investing in advanced technology for its armed forces, it requires technology transfer agreements for all defense procurements in order to ensure future repair and maintenance and to enable the customization of equipment in accordance with the country’s needs. Additionally, Singapore’s FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) policy allows foreign defense companies to establish a fully-owned subsidiary in the country and, in order to further encourage investment, favorable tax laws also exist for foreign companies.

Singapore procures the majority of its defense equipment from foreign companies, with its defense imports driven by the country’s policy of utilizing technology to improve the efficiency of its armed forces. Some of Singapore’s major defense imports include arms, ships, missile systems and armored vehicles. Historically, the largest supplier of arms to Singapore was the US; however, from 2005 to 2010 (the review period), countries such as France and Germany have made substantial inroads into the country’s defense industry.

The Singaporean Government prefers technology transfer agreements for defense equipment acquisitions, and, as a result, this is the most common route for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to enter the domestic defense industry. In order to procure spare parts and other common equipment, the government also has an online portal, the Ministry of Defense Internet Procurement System (MIPS), through which registered suppliers are issued with a smart card, and only such companies are allowed to enter the bidding process for defense equipment. Defense suppliers obtain a smart card through registration with the defense ministry. Additionally, Singapore has devised an innovative procurement method through lease-to-own arrangements, a policy that substantially reduces initial capital investment, gives Singapore early access to advanced defense equipment and reduces Foreign Military Sales (FMS) commission. Foreign OEMs can therefore enter Singapore’s defense industry by offering equipment through lease-to-own arrangements.

Singapore is a relatively small country, with a total land mass of 710 square kilometers. The size of the country limits the land available for the establishment of manufacturing facilities, a factor which acts as a barrier for foreign companies considering investing in Singapore. The country’s declining birth rate, small population and resultant labor shortage also act as barriers to entry. The country’s acute land shortage is reflected by the fact that the Singaporean Government trains military personnel at foreign facilities.

(ASDNews)

13 Januari 2012

NSmen from the 285th Battalion, Singapore Artillery participating in a battalion live-firing exercise involving the Singapore Light Weight Howitzer, Pegasus. (photo : Mindef)

Permanent Secretary for Defence Development visits Artillery Exercise in New Zealand

Permanent Secretary for Defence Development Dr Tan Kim Siew visited Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) troops participating in the annual artillery exercise, codenamed Exercise Thunder Warrior, at the Waiouru Training Area in New Zealand, today. During his visit, Dr Tan witnessed a battalion live-firing exercise involving the Singapore Light Weight Howitzer, Pegasus and interacted with SAF troops participating in the exercise.

This year's exercise is conducted from 6 to 22 January 2012 and involves about 600 personnel from the 23rd, 24th and 285th Battalions, Singapore Artillery (SA). The 285th Battalion is made up of Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) who are undergoing their battalion evaluation in New Zealand.

Chief of Army Major-General (MG) Ravinder Singh, visited the exercise yesterday with New Zealand Army Chief MG Timothy Keating, where he witnessed the battalion live-firing and interacted with the SAF troops. MG Ravinder Singh, who is in New Zealand for his introductory visit, also called on MG Keating in Wellington today as part of his visit.

Exercise Thunder Warrior has been conducted annually in New Zealand since 1997 and underscores the close and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and New Zealand. The SAF and the New Zealand Defence Force interact extensively through a wide range of bilateral and multilateral training exercises, professional exchanges and courses. Both armed forces also interact regularly under the ambit of the Five Power Defence Arrangements.

(Mindef)

10 Desember 2011

A Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) F-15SG fighter aircraft deploying a Laser Joint Direct Attack Munition (LJDAM) during Exercise Forging Sabre 2011. (all photos : Mindef)

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) successfully conducted an integrated live-firing during Exercise Forging Sabre 2011 in Phoenix, Arizona, USA earlier today (Singapore time). Held from 28 Nov to 11 Dec 2011, the exercise involves more than 450 personnel from the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and the Army as well as assets such as F-15SG and F-16C/D fighters, and Apache AH-64D and Chinook CH-47 helicopters from the RSAF. Exercise Forging Sabre 2011 is the third instalment in the series which began in 2005.

The integrated live-firing, orchestrated by the exercise command post staffed by officers from the air force and army, involved multiple sensor and shooter platforms and was witnessed by Chief of Air Force, Major-General (MG) Ng Chee Meng and other senior SAF officers. Besides the deployment of advanced strike munitions, including Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs) and Hellfire missiles, the exercise also saw the RSAF's F-15SG aircraft dropping Laser JDAMs for the first time against mobile targets in day and night mission scenarios.

Speaking after viewing the integrated live-firing, MG Ng noted that Exercise Forging Sabre 2011 provided an excellent opportunity for the SAF to validate its integrated strike capabilities in a realistic and challenging environment. He said: "I am very impressed by our people's combat proficiency, professionalism and dedication. I saw for myself today how our airmen and soldiers worked to bring together a sophisticated suite of both sensors and shooters, like our F-15SGs, F-16C/Ds and Apaches, to effect an integrated strike against a variety of targets, including mobile targets. This in itself is a very complex operation and I think they have done very well." MG Ng also noted that the US' support of the Forging Sabre series of exercises was a testament to the long-standing and excellent defence ties between Singapore and the US. Besides interacting with SAF personnel participating in the exercise, MG Ng also took the opportunity to meet family members of SAF servicemen in the RSAF's F-16C/D training detachment at Luke Air Force Base.

Training in the US enables the SAF to build up its operational capabilities and readiness. Apart from supporting the conduct of training exercises such as Forging Sabre, the US also supports the RSAF's F-15SG, F-16C/D, Apache AH-64D and Chinook CH-47 aircraft training detachments in the US.

(Mindef)

See Also :

Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) and Laser JDAM

Inert Laser Joint Direct Attack Munitions loaded onto a Republic of Singapore Air Force F-15SG aircraft during an arming demonstration.

The Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) is a guidance kit developed by Boeing which converts an unguided bomb into an accurately-guided and all-weather "smart" munition that can be launched 15 nautical miles from its target. The kit consists of a Global Positioning System and Inertial Navigation System fitted at the tail end of a bomb body, as well as aerodynamic body strakes to provide additional stability and lift. The Laser JDAM (LJDAM) is a JDAM guidance kit enhanced with a laser seeker that provides terminal guidance and improves precision accuracy.

The Republic of Singapore Air Force's ability to deliver JDAMs and LJDAMs against a variety of targets, including mobile targets, in day and night mission scenarios contributes significantly to the Singapore Armed Forces' integrated strike capabilities.

(Mindef)

08 Desember 2011

Singapore needs long range patrol aircraft (photo : pprune)

Singapore's Ministry of Defence is likely to spend US$23 billion (S$29.6 billion) on purchases of patrol aircraft, helicopters and other military equipment by 2015, according to a new report by IHS Jane's.

Mr Nicholas de Larrinaga, emerging markets analyst at IHS Jane's, said that Singapore's defence budget was seen rising by more than 50 per cent between 2010 and 2015 to more than US$14 billion.

Singapore allocated US$9.39 billion for defence in its budget for the fiscal year beginning April 2011, a rise of 5.4 per cent from 2010/11.

IHS Jane's said Singapore was an attractive choice for Western defence firms because of its relative transparency and its commitment to open-market acquisitions.

(Straits Times)

07 Desember 2011

Soldiers from SAF and RBLF during Exercise Maju Bersama (photo : Cyberpioneer)

BERAKAS GARRISON – Bilateral exercise namely "Exercise MAJU BERSAMA 2011" between Royal Brunei Land Forces (RBLF) and Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has been launched successfully this morning at the First Battalion RBLF Parade Square, in Berakas Garrison. This year’s exercise was conducted by the First Batalion RBLF as the exercise is organized in every two years.

Officiating the opening ceremony was the Guest of Honour, Brigadier General Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Yussof bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Commander of RBLF. Also attending the ceremony was representative from SAF, Brigadier General Lim Hock Yu, Commander of TRADOC.

The aims of the exercise are to strengthen diplomatic ties and mutual understanding between the RBLF and SAF. Also to enhance cooperation and understanding on doctrine and operational procedures between the two countries. This exercise is expected to be completed until 14 December 2011.

(Brunei Mindef)

02 Desember 2011

RSS Archer conducting sea trials as part of its operationalisation process following her return to Singapore. (all photos : Mindef)

Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen officiated at a ceremony to mark the commissioning of the Republic of Singapore Navy's (RSN) first Archer-class submarine, RSS Archer, at Changi Naval Base this morning. During the ceremony, Dr Ng presented the commissioning warrant to Commanding Officer, RSS Archer, Lieutenant-Colonel (LTC) Jack Nyeo. Dr Ng also visited RSS Archer where he was briefed by LTC Jack Nyeo on the enhanced capabilities of RSS Archer.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Dr Ng highlighted that the RSN would continue to build up and modernise its maritime warfare capabilities to better safeguard Singapore's interest. "The strengthening of our submarine capability is in line with this overall development plan to allow the RSN to better exploit the underwater dimension in maritime operations," said Dr Ng. He added that, RSS Archer, as the first Archer-class submarine, significantly enhances the RSN's submarine capability and strengthens Singapore's ability to contribute to the peace and stability of the region.

The Archer-class submarines were acquired from the Royal Swedish Navy in 2005 and RSS Archer was launched on 16 June 2009 in Karlskrona, Sweden. The first Archer-class submarine arrived in Singapore on 17 August 2011 and had successfully conducted various system verifications and sea trials in local conditions as part of its operationalisation process. With the enhanced capabilities and combat system such as the Air Independent Propulsion and advanced sonar systems, the Archer-class submarines will increase the RSN's operational readiness to better secure the seaward defence of Singapore. The pioneer crew of RSS Archer had completed comprehensive training comprising a Submarine System Training Phase, where they were taught to operate the various advanced systems, as well as a Team Training phase, where mission-oriented trainings were conducted.

Also present at the ceremony were Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman, Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Neo Kian Hong, Permanent Secretary (Defence Development) Dr Tan Kim Siew, Chief Defence Scientist Quek Tong Boon, Chief of Navy Rear-Admiral Ng Chee Peng as well as senior officers from the SAF.

(Mindef)

29 November 2011

SOTF troopers storming the hijacked MV Avatar after rappelling from a Super Puma helicopter. (all photos : Mindef)

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.

(Mindef)

21 November 2011

Singapore and Malaysian troops perfecting their urban drills together on 17 Nov. (photo : Mindef)

For six days beginning 15 Nov, a total of 400 personnel from the Singapore and Malaysian armies have been hard at work perfecting their moves together in a bilateral exercise codenamed Semangat Bersatu.

Culminating in a full-troop exercise, Exercise Semangat Bersatu provided soldiers from the 4th Singapore Infantry Regiment (4 SIR) and the 1st Battalion Royal Malay Regiment (1 RMR) with many chances to share professional experiences.

At the closing ceremony held on 21 Nov in Singapore, Chief of Army Major-General (MG) Ravinder Singh said: "As the security issues that our countries face become more challenging, our two armies must be ready to cooperate to achieve our common goals and interests. I believe that the exercise provides an excellent platform for us to facilitate mutual learning and increase the interoperability between our armies."

He was joined by his counterpart General Datuk Haji Zulkifli bin Haji Zainal Abidin, who added: "I am sure that all participants have benefited from the exercise, especially the Malaysian soldiers, who have learnt a lot about the conduct of urban operations."

Prior to the closing ceremony, both men observed the conduct of an urban operation training drill which saw soldiers from both sides working closely with each other to achieve their mission objectives.

On the ground, sentiments were similarly upbeat. "The level of cooperation was very high," said Captain Edwin Chua, a Platoon Commander in 4 SIR. "Initially there were some challenges because of language differences, but we overcame that because both sides made every effort to communicate."

"We worked well together even though we follow different doctrines, especially in the area of tactics during urban operations," said Sergeant Henri Purna Irawan Bin Basir, a Section Commander in 1 RMR.

This year marks the 17th time that the two armies are training together in this series of exercise. First conducted in 1989, Exercise Semangat Bersatu provides an excellent opportunity for both armies to strengthen professional interactions and enhance mutual understanding between personnel.

(Mindef)

18 November 2011

HMAS Sirius replenishment ship (photo : RAN)

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) conducted a bilateral maritime exercise, Singaroo, from 14 to 17 November 2011. Hosted by Singapore, this year's exercise was the 15th in the series held since 1995.

The exercise comprised a shore phase with operations planning held at the Changi Naval Base, as well as a sea phase which was carried out in the South China Sea. The sea phase included helicopter operations and air defence serials. The RSN participated in the exercise with RSS Formidable (Formidable-class stealth frigate) and a Sikorsky S-70B naval helicopter, while the RAN participated with HMAS WARRAMUNGA (ANZAC-class frigate) and HMAS SIRIUS (replenishment vessel). The Republic of Singapore Air Force also provided four F-16 fighter aircraft for the air defence serials.

S-70B of The Royal Singapore Navy (photo : Cyberpioneer)

Exercise Singaroo is one of many bilateral interactions between the Singapore and Australia defence establishments. Both countries enjoy a close and long-standing defence relationship. Apart from exercises, both armed forces also interact frequently through visits, professional exchanges, and military courses, and work together in close partnership in the multinational reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan.

(Mindef)

02 November 2011

The Singapore Armed Forces' HIMARS in action during the live-firing exercise. (photo : Mindef)

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.

(Mindef)

Singapore Airlines said on Thursday the Competition Commission of Singapore had approved its proposed alliance with Virgin Australia.

The alliance involves code-sharing on each other's flights, better flight schedules and connections, access to more airport lounges, as well as greater opportunities to earn and redeem frequent flyer miles, the Singapore flag carrier said.

Virgin had been looking for a partner in Asia after forming alliances and partnerships with Delta Air Lines, Etihad and Air New Zealand.

The alliance is aimed at connecting Singapore Airlines' international network with Virgin's routes within Australia and in the Pacific.

Source: Reuters

12 Oktober 2011

VT Miltope has potential to earn up to US$250m over the five-year IDIQ contract. (photo : miltope)

Singapore - ST Engineering's US subsidiary, VT Miltope, today announced that it has teamed with General Dynamics C4 Systems on the Common Hardware Systems-4 (CHS-4) programme. General Dynamics C4 Systems was recently awarded the five-year Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract with a potential value of US$3.7b if all options are exercised by the Army Contracting Command-Aberdeen Proving Ground (ACC-APG). VT Miltope has the potential to earn up to US$250m (about S$323.7m) over the life of this contract.

It will provide three military rugged products that will meet V2 and V3 CHS-4 environmental and Electromagnetic Interferences (EMI) requirements. These products are the Enhanced / Rugged Handheld Terminal Unit, Rugged Portable Digital Assistant, and Notebook Computer Unit.

"VT Miltope is proud to team with General Dynamics, a leading integrator of secure communication and information systems and technology, on this important IDIQ programme. We are committed to providing the Army soldier with rugged, reliable computers that meet their operational needs." ~ Julie A. BRIGGS, President and CEO, VT Miltope.

The IDIQ contract allows the US Army the flexibility to acquire items defined in the contract, within stated limits, over the five-year period.The contract is not expected to have any material impact on the consolidated net tangible assets per share and earnings per share of ST Engineering for the current financial year.

(STEngg)

29 September 2011

The Iron Dome (photos : xairforces, csmonitor, noah eshel)

The "Iron Dome" system deployed to protect the Israeli population from short-range rockets is also efficient against aircraft up to an altitude of 32,800ft (10,000m).

A Rafael source said that during the deployment of the first three systems the Israeli air force has learned about the extra capability.


"It will serve as another layer in our anti-aircraft deployment that consists of upgraded Hawk and Patriot missiles," the source said.

In the past few months, Iron Dome batteries have intercepted more than 90% of the BM-21 Grad and Kassam rockets launched from Gaza into Israel.

A mobile defence system aimed at intercepting short-range rockets and artillery shells, Iron Dome avoids causing collateral damage by detonating a target warhead away from the defended area. Its interceptor has an effective range up to 70km (38nm), according to Rafael.

Foreign sources have indicated that Singapore has already purchased the Iron Dome system, with other countries also likely to show interest.

(FlightGlobal)

15 September 2011



Tarian was developed as a lightweight modular system designed to replace the traditional bar or slat armor at a weight saving of up to 98%. (photo: Defense-Update)



AmSafe Industries, Inc., the leading provider of engineered restraint systems to the aviation, defence and specialty vehicle markets, today announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Singapore Technologies Kinetics Ltd (ST Kinetics) for the marketing of its innovative rocket propelled grenade (RPG) protection system, Tarian.



The MOU outlines plans for both companies to collaborate with the aim of ST Kinetics to offer AmSafe’s RPG protection as an option on its vehicles and market Tarian in territories where they already have a strong presence.



ST Kinetics is the land systems and specialty vehicle arm of Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd. An AmSafe Tarian RPG protection system fitted on to a ST Kinetics Warthog all terrain vehicle, a variant of the highly successful Bronco, is on display at the DSEi conference being held September 13 – 15 in London. The Warthog is currently in service with the UK MOD.



“Our world class Tarian system provides the lightest and most effective RPG protection solution for the Warthog vehicles and we are delighted to be working together to provide enhanced vehicle functionality to military customers worldwide,” said Neal McKeever, vice president defence for AmSafe.



"We are pleased to collaborate with AmSafe to offer Tarian protection systems to our global customers as an enhanced protection at lower weight for improved survivability," said Mr. Patrick Choy, Executive Vice President, ST Kinetics.

Tarian was developed as a lightweight modular system designed to replace the traditional bar or slat armour at a weight savings of up to 98%.



The Tarian technology has been rigorously tested—in the UK by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, an agency of the Ministry of Defence, and in the US by its Department of Defense counterpart DARPA—to include over 650 live firing shots. This testing has verified both a high level of performance and a multi-hit capability inherent in the Tarian technology.



(Shephard)

14 September 2011

ST Kinetics Spider Light Strike Vehicle (photo : Cyberpioneer)

ST Engineering today announced that its land systems arm, ST Kinetics, has won a contract worth S$68m from the Singapore Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) through an international tender, to supply its new generation Spider Light Strike Vehicles (Spider LSV) and spares. Delivery is expected to take place over 2013-14.

Designed with a unique center drive configuration allowing for weapon systems to be mounted on both sides of the driver, the Spider LSV incorporates a state-of-the-art electronic controlled engine, a 4-speed automatic transmission and an enhanced suspension system capable of high cross-country manoeuverability. The Spider LSV has an increased seating capacity for a crew of six and is heli-portable.

Another varian of th Spider - LSV with 120mm SRAMS-Super Rapid Advanced Mortar System (photo : XTemujin)

"We are extremely pleased that MINDEF has selected the Spider LSV. This is an excellent testimony to ST Kinetics' continued focus to innovate through smart engineering, effective solutions to meet our customers' evolving operational needs." ~ SEW Chee Jhuen, President, ST Kinetics.

This contract is not expected to have any material impact on the consolidated net tangible assets per share and earnings per share of ST Engineering for the current financial year.

(STEngg)

13 September 2011

Singapore (right) and Australian Main Battle Tanks involved in manoeuvre training. (photo : Mindef)

Singapore and Australian Armies in Bilateral Armour Exercise

The Singapore and Australian armies conducted a bilateral armour exercise, Exercise Matilda, at the Mount Bundey Training Area (MBTA) in Darwin, Australia. Held from 28 August to 16 September 2011, Exercise Matilda 2011 involved 100 personnel from the 48th Battalion, Singapore Armoured Regiment (48 SAR) who conducted bilateral training with their Australian Defence Force (ADF) counterparts from the 1st Armoured Regiment. During the exercise, both sides conducted a series of tactical missions together and exchanged information on Main Battle Tank (MBT) operations and tactics. The exercise culminated today in manoeuvre training involving the MBTs of both armies.

Highlighting the value of Exercise Matilda, Lieutenant Colonel Lim Kah Keng, Commanding Officer of 48 SAR, said, "Exercise Matilda 2011 is important because it provides an opportunity for the SAF armour to operate alongside the ADF in vast manoeuvre space and challenging live firing conditions to hone gunnery competencies. The exercise also allows soldiers from both armies to interact and learn from each other."

The exercise is a testament to the close and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and Australia. The SAF and the ADF interact extensively through multilateral training exercises, visits, professional exchanges, and military courses, and work together in close partnership in the multinational reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan.

(Mindef)

06 Agustus 2011

HIMARS - High Mobility Artilerry Rocket System (photos : Cyberpioneer, Area51)

Pinpoint accuracy over distances as long as 70 kilometres. This is just one of the capabilities which the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) brings to the table.

On 5 Sep, the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) officially welcomed the HIMARS into its fold with a ceremony to mark its commissioning and the operationalisation of the first HIMARS battery at Khatib Camp.

During the ceremony, Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen saw a demonstration of the deployment and operation of the HIMARS as part of a networked force that included other land platforms.

In his speech, Dr Ng said: "The successful induction of the HIMARS reflects well on the ability of the SAF to respond decisively to new challenges and changing circumstances in its operational environment."

Equipped with the Battlefield Management System (BMS), the HIMARS is fully connected to its command headquarters and Strike Observer Mission Teams on the ground. Other SAF air and land platforms, such as fighter aircraft and infantry fighting vehicles, are also connected via the BMS.

With the enhanced situational awareness and transmission of critical battlefield information provided by the BMS, the HIMARS can quickly respond to calls for fire and deliver precision fire on targets.

Deadly accurate and mobile, each HIMARS launcher can dispatch its six rockets within 45 seconds to targets 70km away with an accuracy of 10 metres. Its 6.6 litre turbo-charged diesel engine powers the almost 16-ton behemoth to a top speed of 94kmh.

"With its long range and speed, the HIMARS can stay well behind the front line. When opposing forces open fire, we are able to stay well out of its range but yet still be able to deliver accurate counter-fire." explained Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Koh, Commanding Officer, 23rd Battalion Singapore Artillery (23 SA).

While the Singapore Army's 3rd Generation transformation leverages on technology that provides superior weaponry and reduces reliance on manpower, it translates into heavier responsibilities for the three-man crew which operates each HIMARS launcher. "It is ultimately the professionalism and commitment of our people that will translate the latest weapon systems into effective capabilities," said Dr Ng.

This message was not lost on each of the crew members who work as a tightly integrated team to operate the HIMARS. "When the fire mission comes down, all three of us are very independent and we know exactly what to do," said Full-time National Serviceman 3rd Sergeant Daniel Tan, citing the comprehensive training which the Battery has undergone in the past 12 months.

The SAF took delivery of the HIMARS in July last year, and conducted its inaugural battery live firing in November 2010 in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, US.

The HIMARS, which is operated by Bravo Battery of 23 SA, provides artillery forces with precision fire power, enhanced mobility and advanced networking capabilities.

(Mindef)

See Also :

High Mobility Artillery Rocket System

The High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) provides artillery forces with precision fire power, enhanced responsiveness, mobility, protection, and also networks soldiers and air and land weapon platforms, thus facilitating the delivery of information, and fires in the battlefield.

The key features of the HIMARS are:

Enhanced Fire Power
The HIMARS carries a single pod of six Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS) rockets and is designed to launch the entire MLRS family of munitions. The Guided MLRS M31 Unitary rockets used are 227mm surface-to-surface inertial guided and Global Positioning System-aided weapons. Each rocket contains a single 200-pound class controlled fragmentation high explosive unitary warhead capable of providing lethal and precise fires. The HIMARS is able to strike targets as far as 70 km away.

Enhanced Responsiveness
The HIMARS requires less than 20 seconds to be prepared for firing and a full launcher load of six rockets can be fired within 45 seconds.

Enhanced Mobility

The HIMARS is powered by a 6.6-litre, six-cylinder turbo-charge diesel engine that delivers 330 horsepower, providing a top speed of 94km/h. This allows for rapid withdrawal after launching of munitions, enhancing crew and equipment survivability.

Enhanced Protection

The HIMARS is equipped with the Increased Crew Protection cabin, which is designed to protect the three-man operating crew against plume gases, rocket launch debris and small arms.

Enhanced Networking Capabilities

The HIMARS is equipped with the Battlefield Management System (BMS) which enables it to connect with the Artillery Headquarters and Strike Observer Mission Teams on the ground as well as other air and land platforms, such as infantry fighting vehicles, main battle tanks, attack helicopters and fighter aircraft. With enhanced situational awareness and transmission of key battlefield information provided by the BMS, the HIMARS can respond quickly to call-for-fires and deliver precision fires on enemy targets.

(Mindef)

24 Agustus 2011

The upgraded RSN missile corvette RSS Valiant firing against an air drone target simulating a missile attack on the ship. (photos : Mindef)

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) conducted a live-firing of the Barak anti-missile missile in the South China Sea earlier today as part of the annual Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise which the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is conducting with the United States Navy (USN). The missile was fired by the upgraded RSN missile corvette (MCV) RSS Valiant against an air drone target simulating a missile attack on the ship. The target was successfully destroyed.

Commanding Officer RSS Valiant, Lieutenant Colonel Goh Kian Ngiap said that the exercise was valuable to both the RSN and USN. "The CARAT exercise is a great opportunity for both the RSN and USN to interact and exercise with each together. Many good ideas were exchanged, and the bonds of friendship strengthened," said LTC Goh. In addition, RSN personnel who took part in the exercise found value in working alongside their USN counterparts. Weapon Systems (Control) Operator Military Expert 1 William Kang, who fired the Barak missile said, "This was a wonderful learning experience for me in exercising with personnel from the USN. It was also excellent to see the entire crew's teamwork in action and executing the successful missile hit."

Barak - short range surface to air missile with operational range 10-12 km (photo : Rafael)

Present at the firing was Minister of State for Defence and Education Lawrence Wong, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Defence and National Development Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman, Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Neo Kian Hong and Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Ng Chee Peng. Similar missile firings have been conducted in previous CARAT exercises. The exercise is presently ongoing and will conclude on 29 Aug 2011.

(Mindef)

17 Agustus 2011

RSS Archer, which arrived from Sweden today, berthed at Changi Naval Base.(photo : Mindef)

The Republic of Singapore Navy's (RSN's) first Archer-class submarine, RSS Archer, arrived at Changi Naval Base (CNB) from Sweden earlier today. Chief of Navy, Rear-Admiral Ng Chee Peng, and other senior naval officers were present at CNB to witness its return.

Launched in Karlskrona, Sweden on 16 Jun 2009, RSS Archer is one of two ex-Royal Swedish Navy Vaastergotland-class submarines acquired by Singapore in 2005. RSS Archer has been comprehensively upgraded, refurbished and tropicalised to ensure its suitability for operations in local conditions. Crew members of RSS Archer have also undergone extensive training in Sweden since 2007 to acquire the skillsets needed to operate and maintain the submarine.

RSS Archer will join 171 Squadron, under the RSN's Fleet Command, to enhance the RSN's capability to secure the seaward defence of Singapore and protect our vital sea lines of communication.

(Mindef)

16 Agustus 2011

Singapore, Taiwan and South Korea are planning to upgrade their F-16s with AESA radar (photo : Raytheon)

TAIPEI, Taiwan — At least three Asian nations are planning to upgrade their Lockheed Martin F-16s with active, electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, possibly following the U.S. Air Force’s lead.

Taiwan is seeking U.S. government permission for an F-16 upgrade package that includes AESA radar, targeting pods and missiles. This AESA radar competition in Taiwan—and globally—is between Northrop Grumman’s Scalable Agile Beam Radar (SABR) and the Raytheon Advanced Combat Radar (RACR).

The U.S. government has said it will decide by Oct. 1 whether to sell Taiwan 66 F-16C/Ds and approve an upgrade to the island nation’s approximately 145 F-16A/Bs to bring them to C/D standard. The consensus among U.S. industry executives interviewed by Aviation Week is that the chances of a sale of new F-16s are remote, but the U.S. is likely to approve upgrades. But the extent to which the F-16s are upgraded depends on politics. Industry executives say there is broad support within the U.S. Defense Department to sell AESA radars to Taiwan, as long as some arrangement can be made to ensure the technology is kept away from China.

The executives say the hurdle Taiwan has to overcome is winning over the U.S. State Department, which is concerned about how to maintain good relations with China, particularly considering it is a large holder of U.S. treasury bonds. The U.S. is financially vulnerable at the moment, and its economy needs more exports.

If the State Department blocks Taiwan’s purchase of AESA radar, then that leaves the country with just one more option: buy a more recently developed mechanically scanned radar, such as Northrop Grumman’s APG-68(V)9. If this scenario occurs, then Northrop Grumman is likely to try and placate the Taiwanese by highlighting that with a mechanically scanned radar, Taiwan can make repairs in-country. With AESA radar, the units would have to be sent to the U.S. Also, Taiwan may have an opportunity to produce some parts locally for the APG-68(V)9. Israel, which has one of the world’s most advanced air forces, has mechanically scanned radars because of in-country maintenance support.

Aside from Taiwan, there are others in Asia examining AESA radar for F-16s, namely South Korea and Singapore, industry executives say. One says Singapore has a plan to keep its F-16s in service for at least another 20 years.

South Korea and Singapore’s interest in AESA radar may have intensified in recent months, now that it has become apparent the U.S. Air Force may be going down this path too. The U.S. Air Force Aeronautical Systems Center issued a request for information in late June asking companies about upgrading 300-600 F-16s, starting in 2017.

In addition to the AESA radar, Taiwan also appears to be in the market for targeting pods for its F-16s. At the Taipei Aerospace and Defense Exhibition, Northrop Grumman promoted its Litening II and Lockheed Martin its Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod. Northrop Grumman’s pod is used by a number of F-16 operators, but Lockheed Martin is likely to highlight to the Taiwanese that its Sniper is on U.S. Air Force F-16s, in addition to those of other air forces.

About 700 Sniper systems have been sold and about 500 delivered so far, says a Lockheed Martin executive. The system is “plug and play,” so the pod recognizes the aircraft on which it is fitted and adjusts accordingly. Lockheed Martin has introduced software upgrades so the pod can be fitted to several other aircraft types such as Boeing F-15s, B-52s and AV-8B Harrier jets. This pod also is useful for reconnaissance purposes, so Lockheed Martin is working to have it capable of being fitted on transport aircraft such as its C-130.

(Aviation Week)