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CHINESE COAST GUARD MULTI-MISSION COUNTERING IEDs MARITIME HELICOPTERS SINGAPORE COUNTRY FOCUS FRIGATES/CORVETTES INFANTRY SUPPORT WEAPONS ANTI ACCESS/AREA DENIAL

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safran_IntelEmbarque213x286_VA.indd 1 09/04/2019 16:57 Contents MAY 2019 VOLUME 27 / ISSUE 3

Stephen W Miller examines the latest 06 machine guns for infantry squads.

HMAS Ballarat’s embarked Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk helicopter conducts a forward passenger transfer with HMAS Rankin inside Cockburn Sound, Western Australia during early 2018. (RAN) RAINING LEAD 12 20 24

FRIGATES FILL SUB HUNTERS ARE THE MARITIME GAP IN DEMAND THE NEED FOR SEAD Budgets in Asian Pacifi c can be more Andrew Drwiega reviews multi-mission Anti access / area denial (A2/AD) has justifi ed for ‘workhorse’ frigates and maritime helicopter developments and become a hot topic in the Asia Pacifi c corvettes, says Tim Fish. requirements in Asia Pacifi c. region as Dr Tom Withington explains. 28 32 36 42

SINGAPORE’S ROADMAP FOR BLAST COAST GUARD NEXT GENERATION ANALYSTS WITH MUSCLES PROTECTION FORCE Countering IEDs is a skill that COLUMN The Chinese Coast Guard is a has been hard won and JR Ng reports on plans to Columnist Ben Ho takes a look force to bew reckoned with and should not be forgotten as modernise Singapore’s tri-service at Malaysia’s Light Combat has not stopped growing as Grant Turnbull discovers. capability to 2030 and beyond. Aircraft requirement. JR Ng reports.

| MAY 2019 | 03 Index of Advertisers ASELSAN 15 Editorial COLLINS AEROSPACE 17 CONTROP 29 DSEI 39, COVER 4 D&S THAILAND COVER 3 GENERAL ATOMICS COVER 4 IAI 13, 19 HEEDING LEONARDO 5 LIMA 41 THE WARNINGS NEXTER 25 PBS VELKA 27 he Easter Sunday multiple suicide bombing attacks against civilians at prayer in churches and SAFRAN COVER 2 others beginning their day at tourist hotels mainly around Colombo, the Sri Lankan capital, SRC 11 claimed the lives of at least 310 people and injured over 500 at time of writing. The attack represented not just an atrocity in that country but ranks as one of the worst attacks in the TAR IDEAL 23 Tannals of modern day terrorism. UTC AEROSPACE 9 Unfortunately Sri Lanka is no stranger to mass slaying. In 1990 the Tamil Tigers (LTTE) massacred *ENTIRES HIGHLIGHTED WITH RED NUMBER IS between 600 and 774 unarmed police offi cers on 11 June 1990 during their separatist war with the Sri FOUND IN SUPPLEMENT Lankan government. While the 1990 attack was carried out by a known terrorist organisation, the LTTE again demonstrated Advertising Offi ces surprise and determination by attacking Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo’s international France/Spain airport, on 24 July 2001. The attack destroyed or damaged nearly half of Sri Lankan airlines fl eet of Stephane de Remusat, REM International intercontinental aircraft and had a deep effect on not only the Sri Lankan government and people, but Tel: (33) 5 3427 0130 also commerce. Tourism plunged by around 15 percent by the year’s end. E-Mail: [email protected] Germany In contrast, the Easter Sunday attacks were carried out by an almost unknown terrorist organisation, Sam Baird, Whitehill Media National Thowheed Jamath (NTJ), a splinter group of the Sri Lanka Thowheed Jamath (SLTJ), which Tel: (44-1883) 715 697 Mobile: (44-7770) 237 646 was reportedly not considered to be a highly ranked terrorist threat. Daesh has claimed responsibility E-Mail: [email protected] which would account for the coordinate nature of the attack and the planning behind it. They have Turkey / Eastern Europe / UK prosecuted suicide attacks internationally for many years. Zena Coupé Tel: +44 1923 852537, [email protected] However, although the series of attacks is now being analysed by the Sri Lankan security services and Nordic Countries/Italy/ Switzerland arrests have been made as this issue goes to print, it is emerging that foreign intelligence sources were Emanuela Castagnetti-Gillberg warning of impending attacks on multiple occasions in the weeks leading up to the event. Tel: (46) 31 799 9028 E-Mail: [email protected] A BBC online report on Tuesday 23 April stated: “Addressing reports that offi cials had had prior Russia intelligence of forthcoming attacks, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said: ‘We must look into Alla Butova, NOVO-Media Ltd, why adequate precautions were not taken. Neither I nor the ministers were kept informed.’” Tel/Fax: (7 3832) 180 885 Mobile : (7 960) 783 6653 Email :[email protected] Political turmoil is partly being blamed on why intelligence warnings, particularly from Indian USA (East/South East)/Canada (East) sources, were not properly followed up and orders given for security to be increased, particularly when Margie Brown, Blessall Media, LLC. ‘churches’ appear to have been highlighted by the intelligence agencies as likely targets. Tel : (+1 540) 341 7581 Email: [email protected] As was reported in this column in the June/July 2018 issue of Asian Military Review, the defence USA (West/South West)/Brazil/Canada (West) ministers of Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia, meeting during the Defence Services Asia exposition in Diane Obright, Blackrock Media Inc Kuala Lumpur in April 2018, warned of a growing regional threat to peace once Daesh had been defeated Tel : (+1 858) 759 3557 in Syria and Iraq. Malaysian Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein warned delegates: “Given that Email: [email protected] SE Asia is in Daesh’ crosshairs - from returning fi ghters, local groups or lone wolves - they will seek All Other Countries to exploit the vulnerable hotspots in our region.” He cited the fi ve month long siege of Marawi in the Jakhongir Djalmetov, Media Transasia Limited Philippines as an example of growing organisation within the Asia Pacifi c’s extremist groups. Tel: +66 2204 2370, Mobile: +66 81 6455654 Email: [email protected] Intelligence is a precious and time sensitive commodity that requires rapid dissemination to those Roman Durksen, Media Transasia Limited tasked with defeating the threat and protecting those who may be in harm’s way. Tel: +66 2204 2370, Mobile +66 83 6037989 E-Mail: [email protected] Andrew Drwiega, Editor-in-Chief

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04 | ASIAN MILITARY REVIEW | Naval Pedigree

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Untitled-2 1 4/23/19 2:49 PM land warfare USAF

The light machine gun offers effective suppressive fires for the infantry squad. Typically these, like the US M249 SAW from FN (shown), use the same ammunition as the squad’s riflemen.

RAINING LEAD Still master of the battlefield for well over a century, no infantry formation today would wish go into a conflict without the latest machine guns and squad automatic weapons. by Stephen W. Miller

kilful employment of the Although well aimed shots by individual of the company or may be attached to machine gun and the squad riflemen offer a valuable contribution a platoon where terrain dictates or a automatic rifle are keys to by themselves they cannot replace the mission requires. LMGs/ARs are organic a successful defence and destructive power and physiological to the squad/small unit and are integral attack. Their positioning impact of the machine gun. to its tactics. andS direction is a primary concern of These weapons fall into two groups small unit leaders at squad, platoon, the medium or support machine guns Crew Served Machine Guns and company level. Their accurate and light machine guns (LMG) or squad Medium machine guns (MMG) are belt and sustained fires suppress enemy automatic rifles (AR). The former are fed and manned by a crew of two. They fires, neutralise opposing crew served manned by a gun crew and are directed use either a bipod or, more effectively, weapons and can disrupt and defeat by the company commander. They a tripod mount with a traverse and even a determined dismounted assault. support the manoeuvre and defence elevation (T&E) mechanism. The T&E

06 | Asian Military Review | land warfare

FN’s MAG 58 and the US model M240

is one of the most popular medium USArmy machine guns. This disintegrating belt fed weapon has an integral bipod and also fires from a tripod. The former is used to provide firing stability when used in a meeting engagement but the tripod offers superior accuracy in the defence and as a base of fire.

allows precise adjustment of fires A number of initiatives have sought to design allows it to be converted to and even provide indirect ‘plunging’ enhance the reliability and lethality of the 7.62mm NATO if desired. fires against targets in defilade using MMG while also reducing its weight. Sig GD-OTS’s Lightweight Medium advanced gunnery. The bipod is used Sauer and General Dynamics Ordnance Machine Gun (LWMMG) weighs less deploying from the march and fires from and Tactical Systems (GD-OTS) have than 11kg (22lbs). Kevin Sims, senior a prone position. Generally they use a developed guns using a .338 calibre market development director stated that mid calibre with 7.62mm most common. (8.5mm) Norma Magnum round. With “the critical factor that must be addressed The crew served machine gun’s sustained greater muzzle velocity it is effective to in fast firing guns using high performance fire capability makes it pivotal in both the 2,000m (further than the 7.62mm M240’s rounds like the .338N is mitigating defence and attack. 1,200m). With a terminal performance recoil. LWMMG does this with our The Fabrique Nationale (FN) MAG58/ four times greater than standard 7.62mm patented Short Recoil Impulse Averaging M240 and Russia’s PK/PKM are likely the NATO ammunition it penetrates personal technology. It efficiently and significant most widely used and reliable machine body armour at longer range. reduces recoil improving target retention guns. Both are gas operated firing from Sig Sauer unveiled its MMG in during firing.” The effective range is an ‘open bolt’ for heat management in October 2018. Cory McQuilkin, product over 1800m with a rate of fire of 500rpm. sustained firing. They feed ammunition manager for Sig, shared that “the design This allows for grazing fires, where the feed from a belt located in a box or assault addresses some of the long identified height of the trajectory remains close to pack. Each has a rear stock, changeable shortcoming of previous machine guns the ground. This is a critical to delivering barrel, 800-1200 meter effective range and including being able to be feed from “final protective fires” in the defence. typically employing a moderate rate of fire either the right or left and the possibility GD-OTS .338 also uses a specifically of 650-750 rounds per minute (rpm). The for a receiver feed cover that opens to designed polymer case which is 20 lightest M240L is 10.1kg (22.3lb) while the the side rather than straight up. It can percent lighter than metal. The gun can PKM is 7.5kg (16.53lb) without the tripod. also accept a suppressor and has an be used with a bipod, M192 tripod and These guns are the ‘benchmark’ against adjustable gas block.” The gun has has gun mounting points compatible which future MMGs are measured. 600rpm rate of fire plus at 9.09kg (20lbs) with vehicle mounts. Advanced Medium Machine Guns is lighter than the M240. Its modular Both Sig Sauer and GD-OTS have

| may 2019 | 07 LAND WARFARE

usually is belt-feed with a higher rate of IWI fi re while the later resembles a rifl e and uses a magazine. Each has benefi ts and drawbacks but also often refl ect different employment priorities. FN’s Minimi or M249, although referred to as a Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW), is more appropriately a light machine gun. Chambered for 5.56x54mm the 10kg (22lb) it is belt feed from a 200 round cloth pouch or plastic box. Using its bipod it effectively engages targets to 800m providing suppressing fi res for squad manoeuvre. The US Army and Israel’s Negev 5.56 mm LMG Marines fi eld one per fi re team/section draws for its medium machine thus providing two to three SAW per 7.62 mm gun sister design (shown). squad. The M249, as with most LMGs, The objective of Israel Weapon trades rate of fi re for accuracy. The Industry (IWI) the developer as to provide a extremely reliable focus is on placing more rounds around weapon for small infantry units. It a target as much to discourage the target differs in that it can use either a from showing himself as to hitting box or a magazine feed. him. As the SAW gunner is limited in the ammunition he can carry he usually fi res in short bursts with a practical rate responded to the US Special Operations suppressive capability and simplicity. of fi re of around 100rpm. South Korea’s Command (SOCOM) and US Marine NG7’s fi ring rate of 850-1150rpm places Daedoo K3 5.56mm LMG and Hsing- Corps (USMC) requirement for a new a number rounds on target allowing Ho’s Republic of China (Taiwan) Type 75 LMMG. This requirement also envisions a gunner to shift targets quickly. The are similar to the Minimi. The K3 is used the .338 weapon replacing some of the .50 NG7 is derived from the 5.56mm Negev by Korea, Thailand, Columbia, Indonesia, calibre heavy machine guns as well. light machine gun but uses only belted South Africa and the Philippines. Germany’s Heckler & Koch, designer ammunition and has quick-detachable The belt feed LMG at the squad level of the MG34 and MG42 MMG’s of World barrels with handles. In addition to bi- has disadvantages. Since it uses belted War II fame, has presented the MG5 to pod operation the 7.6kg gun has a tripod ammunition squad members cannot succeed the German Army’s current MG3. and is mounted on vehicles. exchange magazines. Second, its rate of It retains the 7.62x51mm NATO round fi re tends to expend more ammunition using disintegrating belts and fi ring from Light/Squad Machine Guns and especially used by an untrained soldier. an open bolt. It has selectable rates of fi re Automatic Rifles The LMG is also of limited in house to of 680, 740 and 800rpm. The A2 Infantry The capability of the MMG to deliver house fi ghting where teams must clear variant with a short 460mm (18 inch) sustained fi res also results in its principle buildings in close combat. A fi nal concern barrel weights 9.90kg (22lb) and has 1,200- drawback - higher weight. This is a is, though lighter than medium machine 1,500m reach with its soft recoil Feldafette concern for small units where individual guns, LMGs remain heavier than the tripod mount. Hot barrels can be changed mobility is critical. A gun was needed to latest individual assault rifl es. without need for special gloves. provide high fi repower but at less weight. IWI addresses some of these concerns Russia is upgrading its infantry The debate has been whether this weapon in its Negev 5.56mm LMG. It is fed by support weapons with production of should be a light machine gun (LMG) either a 150 capacity belt or standard the PKP ‘Pecheneg’ (designation 6P45) or automatic rifl e (AR). The former 30 or 35 round magazine and weighs replacing the current PKM. Developed by the TSNIITochMMash Research Institute, the new weapon has a heavier barrel and ST-K forced-air cooling to eliminate the need to change barrels in sustained engagements. At 8.7kg it has a top carry handle, an integrated bi-pod and optical sight mounts. A belt feed 7.62x54 mm weapon it fi res 650rpm. It is specifi cally intended for dismounted infantry use and has seen service with Russia’s Internal Affairs, The Ultimax 100 Mk8 developed by ST Engineering Land Systems is an Spetsnaz and select army units. upgraded model of its Mk5. New features Israeli Weapon Industry (IWI) include a semi-automatic fire mode and developed the Negev NG7 7.62x51mm at quick-change barrel. At 5kg for the basic the request of the Israeli Army. The army system it is the lightest LMG. sought a gun with good range, lethality,

08 | ASIAN MILITARY REVIEW |

LAND WARFARE USMC

The US Marines decided to return to the magazine fed automatic rifle as the primary weapon for the fire team Automatic Riflemen. They are acquiring the H&K HK416 which with some features requested is called the M27.

7.6kg (16.7lb). It has both semi and weight from 17.6lb of the M249 to 9.4lb in which will also use new 6.8mm longer full automatic fi ring capability. Tom our equivalent LSAT gun. Our work has range ammunition. The objective an Alibrando, head of IWI LE sales shared successfully applied the CT concept to Army spokesperson shared “is to have that “a key requirement in the design 7.62, 5.56 and 6.5mm and to combat rifl es, the range and fi repower of a machine of Negev was that it be reliable and LMGs, and MMGs.” gun with the precision and ergonomics simple to use and maintain refl ecting the of a rifl e.” The intent is to have and conscript nature of the army.” Negev has Automatic Rifles (AR) Automatic Rifl e to replace the M249 and been adopted by 21 countries. An alternative to the LMG are automatic new service rifl e to replace the M4. The Chartered Industries (CTI) and ST rifl es such as the US Browning Automatic NGWS is a fast program seeking to fi eld Engineering Land Systems has developed Rifl e (BAR), British Bren Gun, and new guns, new ammunition and an its Ultimax 100. At 4.9kg (10.8lb) in the Russian Degtyaryov all introduced in the advanced sighting system by 2022. As Mark 3 model it is possibly the lightest 1930s but used into the 1970s. Largely of January 2019 AAI Textron Systems, LMG fi elded. Chambered for 5.56mm it replaced in the 1980s by LMGs the FN America, General Dynamics OTS, uses a special 100 round drum magazine, Automatic Rifl e is making a comeback. Sig Sauer, and PCP Tactical have Army has a modest 400-600 round rate of fi re The US Marines have elected to replace contracts to provide NGS-AR prototypes and a quick change barrel. Ultimax the M249 at the squad with the H&K for technology evaluation. A Request for has exceptionally low recoil due to M27 magazine fed automatic rifl e. User Proposal (RfP) for the NGWS that will be its ‘constant recoil’ design where the evaluations concluded that a more evaluated for production and fi elding is bolt carrier rear motion is buffered by accurate but less rapid fi ring weapon was expected to be released later in 2019. the resistance of return springs. This better suited to the fi re team. An H&K facilitates accuracy and weapon control. spokesperson explained: “The M27 is Dominating the Battlefield The gun is typically fi red with its bipod essentially our HK416 with modifi cations The power of well placed and properly and has a top off-set carry handle. It is in and accessories required by the Marines. manned and supported machine guns service with fi fteen armies. It has greater accuracy and allows the should not be underestimated. Even AAI Textron has been perfecting a automatic rifl eman to use magazines on today’s ‘high tech’ battlefi eld the new approach to the LMG in its LSAT. passed from other fi re team members. machine gun remains the greatest threat It reduces weight by using telescoped This assures his ability to continue to to dismounted manoeuvre, the key to polymer case (CT) ammunition. Wayne provide effective fi res on targets.” The successful defence, and the most effective Pender, senior vice president Applied French Army and US Marines are also facilitator in the attack. It is important Technology and Advanced Programs adopting the HK416/M27 as a standard to remember that the main battle tank indicated that “the advantages of the infantry rifl e which could allow any was specifi cally developed in 1916 to telescoped case ammunition have been rifl eman to assume the AR role. overcome the dominance of the machine demonstrated. This included the ability The US Army is seeking a “Next gun. In the dismounted ground battle to reduce the squad automatic weapon Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW)” that dominance continues. AMR

10 | ASIAN MILITARY REVIEW | COUNTER-UAS TECHNOLOGY CHOSEN BY THE U.S. MILITARY

srcinc.com/silentarcher

Untitled-1 1 1/22/19 9:43 AM sea power

The Indonesian Navy (TNI) has commissioned two Martadinata-class frigates based on the Damen

SIGMA 10514 PKR frigate design. Should funds be US Navy available up to four more may be required. KRI Raden Eddy Martadinata (331) seen here preparing to receive fuel from the U.S. Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Rappahannock (T-AO-204), during an underway replenishment in the South China Sea on 21 May 2018.

FRIGATES FILL THE MARITIME GAP While the budget for large capital ships is hard to find in the Asia-Pacific region, the market for cheaper ‘workhorse’ frigates and corvettes is growing. by Tim Fish

rigate and corvette shipbuilding which frigates and corvettes are being warfare, piracy, cyber threat…).” programmes in the Asia-Pacific built and the capability that these ships The rapid expansion of the China’s region are moving at difference have reflects the better share of budgets People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) paces across the various that navies are attracting. has been the catalyst for a number of frigate sub-regions. There is a mix The maritime threats to the Asia-Pacific and corvette programmes. Dr Collin Koh ofF countries that have their own naval are increasing. A spokesperson from Swee Lean, from the Institute of Defence manufacturing base and are building French shipbuilder Naval Group told and Strategic Studies at the S. Rajaratnam their own surface combatants and others AMR: “In the Asia Pacific region, the School of International Studies (RSIS) in that either buy ships from abroad or navies are facing both traditional threats Singapore told AMR that although the are attempting to develop the capacity (other navies, missiles…) but also a PLAN has grown it has focussed on larger of their own shipyards. The scale with resurgence of asymmetric threats (mine ships like the Type 055 destroyer, aircraft

12 | Asian Military Review | Naval Electronic Warfare For Every Wave or Form

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The Indian Navy is receiving an additional batch of two Talwar-class (Project 11356) frigates from Russia like the INS Tarkash shown here, that are based on the new Admiral Grigorovich-class frigates. The pair will be commissioned after 2022.

carriers and submarines rather building 2018. A further six ships are expected as and Chinese Coast Guard presence in large numbers of frigates and corvettes part of a long-term programme to replace these areas,” Collin said. A final design is “because the PLAN does not have infinite older frigates and corvettes with a total expected to emerge it the next couple of funding so has to prioritise.” of 22-24 new ships. Collin said that the years and it is estimated a new ship will But despite this, the PLAN does have Daegu-class are larger and capable of enter service in the 2025 timeframe. one frigate programme for a larger Type blue water operations compared to the 054B Jiankai III-class, potentially up to FFX-I Incheon-class that came before, Shipbuilding potential 4,500 tonnes which Collin said appears to which is more akin to a light frigate In South East Asia, the encroachment of be an anti-air warfare (AAW) optimised or corvette. the PLAN means that states are putting version of the 4,000t Type 054A Jiankai Like the PLAN, the Japan Maritime some resources towards renewing major II-class anti-submarine warfare (ASW) Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) is focussed combatant ships. Although efforts are and general purpose (GP) frigate. The new on building helicopter carriers and mixed across the sub-region and restricted ships are being built by China Shipbuild ing destroyers, but there are plans to build by budgetary issues it is where there is the Industry Corporation (CSIC) and will a new 3,500t destroyer – known as the most business potential for international have more vertical launch cells for 30DX – but is in fact a frigate-sized vessel. shipbuilders and designers. surface-to-air missiles and long-range This is intended to replace the Abukuma- According to Enrico Bonetti, senior land attack or anti-ship cruise missiles. class and Asigiri-class light destroyers. A vice president of international naval The first units are under construction and contract for the first two ships has been business at Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, are due to enter service soon. awarded to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries prospects in SE Asia have led the company In terms of corvettes, Collin said (MHI) and Mitsui Engineering and to establish an office in Singapore where it that the PLAN only has the Type 056GP Shipbuilding (MSE), which will delivery is interested in the Philippines, Indonesia and Type 056A ASW vessels that are the vessels to the JMSDF from 2022. A and Singapore. “geared towards littoral operations in the total of eight ships are expected. “We see trend for naval vessels starting South China Sea”. He added that serial Meanwhile Collin said that the from 2000t displacement up to about production of the ships has been stable JMSDF are looking to build a new class 4,000t displacement,” he said. “There is with deliveries undertaken since 2013 of 12 ships displacing about 1,000t that a desire for flexibility in designs that are and any further corvette classes or sub- will be “optimised for surveillance in the modular and adaptable, particularly for classes they can be expected to be based South China Sea”. He expects it to be a the combat system, with the possibility on the Type 056. naval Offshore Patrol Vessel more heavily to upgrade the life of the vessel when Meanwhile the Republic of South armed than similar ships in the Japanese the budget is available.” He added: Korea Navy (RoKN) has been taking Coast Guard (JCG). “It highlights that the “The concept of fitted for but not with is delivery of its FFX-II Daegu-class frigates. JCG is stretched and the JMSDF has to something that is inherent in the proposals The first-of-class was built at Daewoo step in to support it with vessels in this that we are required to provide.” Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering category that can sustain the presence in The Philippines is sourcing its new (DSME) and commissioned in March the South China Sea to counter the PLAN combatants from South Korea and has

14 | Asian Military Review | new ASELSAN_Asian_Military_Review_17April.pdf 1 4/17/19 10:00 AM

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2500 design from French shipyard Naval Group but built under technology transfer agreement by Boustead Naval

Mike1979 Shipbuilding in Malaysia. The first-of- class is due to be commissioned in 2019 with all six inservice by 2023 although delays are expected. “In all these countries there is conflict as the navies are pushed from one side from a matter of urgency to get new ships and improve the fleet and that would privilege a direct procurement from a foreign country to provide a turnkey solution,” Bonetti said. “The other side is the strategic need to increase autonomy and capability in-house. Naval shipbuilding activities are a labour intensive business that can provide a lot of jobs in-country so there are political issues driving this matter,” he added. The two countries that are developing serious naval capabilities are Vietnam and The Vietnamese Navy is receiving Singapore that are providing the budgets six new Gepard-class (Project and political commitment to procuring 11661E) frigates from Russia. surface and sub-surface platforms. The Vietnamese Navy is receiving six new Gepard-class (Project 11661E) frigates bought two ships from Hyundai Heavy are built at DSNS with the remaining four from Russia. Built at Zelenodorsk Industries to the HDF-3000 design and at PT Pal in Indonesia. Shipyard the first four have been delivered called the Jose Rizal-class. Steel was cut However, Bonetti said that Indonesia and a further two were ordered in 2014 but on the first vessel in October 2018 with is looking for more frigates that “the construction has yet to start. Alongside delivery expected in 1Q 2020 and ship two budget is available”. Fincantieri can offer its six new Kilo-class diesel-electric attack will follow by September 2021. Like the larger vessels like heavy corvettes or submarines, also delivered from Russia, RTN the Philippines Navy wants more light frigates in excess of 3,000t similar to the Vietnamese Navy has become one ships and there are plans for a corvette- that being built for Qatar or more typical of the strongest maritime forces in the type vessel. A Request for Information corvette-sized vessels around 2,000t region. Collin said that the Kilos are fitted (RFI) was released in September 2018 based on the Abu Dhabi-class ships built with the Klub anti-ship and land attack but according to Collin the current for the UAE Navy. But Collin believes that cruise missile and it is possible that the state of funding “remains a perennial if there is any progress in shipbuilding new Gepards could be fitted with them problem” and it is likely to be some time it is likely that it will be for further four too. However, the Vietnamese Navy is before further ships are ordered. Bonetti ships in the Martadinata-class. also facing funding constraints and it is confirmed that Fincantieri had responded The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) has unclear when construction will start on to the RFI. Dutch shipbuilder DSNS has bought a ship based on the DW3000 the final two ships. also responded. design from DSME, which is a variant Under the Singapore Armed Forces In Indonesia Collin said that funding of the Daegu-class FFX-II for the RoKN. modernisation plan 2020-2030 there are is still an issue and that any further Named Tachin, it was handed over to plans for a new class of corvette known developments in shipbuilding programmes the RTN in December 2018 and will be as a Multi-Role Combat Vessel (MRCV) are unlikely to take place until after the commissioned in 2019 for use as a carrier for the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) Presidential Election in April 2019. escort. There is an option for a second that will replace the Victory-class missile “The priority now is that much of ship to be built locally under a technology corvettes from about 2025. According the focus is to convince voters they are transfer agreement but this has not been to Collin the ships will be much larger keen on projects for social and economic exercised therefore it is likely that Tachin than the 600t Victory-class, networked uplift and the need to control inflation. So will remain the only new ship in the RTN and have an emphasis on unmanned there is little focus on defence spending for some time. vehicle operations. He believes it will be a right now which would be sensitive,” he Malaysia is suffering from financial smaller version existing RSN frigates and explained. The Indonesian Navy recently constraints and apart from its six new will be built by ST Marine in Singapore commissioned two new PKR frigates Maharaja Lela-class frigates there are with weapons and sensor procured called the Martadinata-class in 2017 and unlikely to be any further frigate or from overseas integrated into a locally 2018. The pair are based on the SIGMA corvette programmes forth-coming. The developed combat management system. 10514 design from DSNS and were built frigates could be classed as light frigates In South Asia the main rivals are in modules. In each ship, two modules or corvettes and are based on the Gowind India and Pakistan. The Indian Navy

16 | Asian Military Review | ALPHA BRAVO COLLINS

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INS Tarkash sailing past the O2 Arena in London on 10th May 2017.

has the Project 17A frigate programme corvette capability the IN has plans for a Shipbuilding and Engineering Works for seven ships that will be delivered by new corvette class to follow-on from the (KSEW) under licence with a technology 2025. These are being built to an Indian four Kamorta-class (Project 28). The Anti- transfer agreement. Delivery is expected design by Garden Reach Shipbuilding Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft from 2023. and Engineering (GRSE) and Mazagon (ASWSWC) programme is for 16 hulls In Oceania, only Australia is building Docks (MDL) and follow on the from with production split between Cochin new frigates for the Royal Australian the Project 17 Shivalik-class frigate. This Shipyard Limited (CSL) and GRSE. The Navy under its SEA 5000 Hunter-class programme is being used to enhance companies are calling for international frigate programme that will see nine India’s shipbuilding capabilities. shipbuilders to assist with design work new ships delivered from the late-2020s Fincantieri is supporting the P-17A and engineering studies to help develop through the 2030s. The ships will be programme and Bonetti said that it has their designs. Bonetti said the corvettes built to the Type 26 ASW frigate design teams located at both GRSE and MDL. are “peculiar designs” and Fincantieri from BAE Systems in a new shipyard “We have been contracted to provide was not involved in the programme as its being constructed at ASC Shipyard in expertise in modular construction and company strategy is to provide existing South Australia under the government’s improving the production capability designs for modification rather than Continuous Shipbuilding Programme. of the yards by improving the process develop new designs for the IN. He said ASC will be tutored by ship designer in shipbuilding. The yards in Mumbai the “appetite is much less” for design BAE Systems on how to build complex and Calcutta have a very conventional work because “development costs are warships and learn from the mistakes approach to shipbuilding and we suggest barely covered by the contract”. experienced from the earlier Hobart-class some initiatives and we support them In Pakistan because of recent tensions destroyer programme. in construction, monitoring the process with India, Collin said that the focus As the requirements for more frigates from the detailed design and starting of will on the Air Force and Army with the and corvettes grows in the Asia-Pacific production – the whole process,” he said. Navy “likely to remain the poor cousin countries are adopting different strategies Meanwhile the IN is receiving an to the other two services.” Despite this for the development and procurement of additional batch of two Talwar-class it has a frigate programme for Type 054A new ships. Whilst countries in North East (Project 11356) frigates from Russia ships from China and has ordered four Asia will continue to design and build that are based on the new Admiral ships that are due to be operational by its own highend warfighting ships, the Grigorovich-class frigates. The pair will 2021. For corvettes the Pakistan Navy other regions will have to decide what be commissioned after 2022. A further has ordered four Ada-class corvettes kinds of ships they need quickly and two ships are slated to be built by Goa from Turkey. The first pair will be built by what programmes can be used to enhance Shipyards to the same design and will be Istanbul Naval Shipyard in Turkey with incountry shipbuilding capability for the commissioned after 2027. To increase its the following two to be built at Karachi long-term. AMR

18 | Asian Military Review | MARKETING PROMOTION

IAI PRESENTS NEW ANTI-SUBMARINE CAPABILITIES FOR UAVS pril 18, 2019- Israel Aerospace Industries transmission of the sonar for many hours, (IAI) is upgrading its capabilities for the operators who are located on land and can maritime arena with anti-submarine monitor the situation over multiple shift, and most capabilities in its marine Unmanned importantly, the absence of risk to human life. AerialA Vehicle (UAV). The new capabilities respond Moshe Levi, IAI executive vice president to the need arising from the discontinuation of general manager of the military aircraft group, the “Shahaf” manned Sea Scan maritime jet by commented, “The maritime Heron UAV has the Israeli Navy and the growing use of IAI Heron proved its e cacy for the Israeli Navy as well as UAVs for maritime patrol missions, which created for other clients. The addition of anti-submarine a need in anti-submarine capabilities launched capabilities expands the UAV’s operational directly from the UAV. The maritime UAV, which scope, while opening up new markets for IAI. As carries a range of dedicated payloads, now has the home of the world’s advanced technologies, two new payloads for submarine detection: the IAI is thrilled and proud to become one of the Sonobuoy (acoustic detector) and the MAD fi rst to o er a solution of this type. In an age (Magnetic Detector). with growing submarine threats, the use of these The Sonobuoy is a small, lightweight systems will improve nations’ security across innovative sonar fl oat which is hurled out of the the seas, including in their economic water and UAV with a parachute. Part of the Sonobuoy seaports.” submerges in the water and part of it remains above water, emitting and receiving acoustics Israel Aerospace Industries: signals in high seas. The fi ndings are transmitted IAI Ltd. is Israel’s largest aerospace and Defense in real-time to the UAV’s control post. The MAD Company and a globally recognized technology is a UAV-mounted device that detects and alerts and innovation leader, specializing in developing on submarines through identifi cation of changes and manufacturing advanced, state-of-the- in the magnetic fl ow (metal objects detection). art systems for air, space, sea, land, cyber and The two detectors complement one another: homeland security. Since 1953, the company the Sonobuoy is used for searching a broad has provided advanced technology solutions areas while the MAD is used to verify that the to government and commercial customers object is a submarine, including an up-to-date worldwide including: satellites, missiles, weapon location. The UAV carries several Sonobuoys, systems and munitions, unmanned and robotic which it hurls accurately into the sea whenever systems, radars, C4ISR and more. IAI also the presence of a submarine is suspected. designs and manufactures business jets and The use of UAV-mounted anti-submarine aerostructures, performs overhaul and maintenance means o ers signifi cant advantages, including on commercial aircraft and converts passenger aircraft longer stay time (dozens of hours on air), back- to refueling and cargo confi gurations. air power

SUB HUNTERS ARE IN DEMAND The rise in the number of submarines being operated in Indo-Pacific waters has naturally led to a corresponding need for platforms, particularly maritime multi-mission rotorcraft, to deal with them. by Andrew Drwiega

Since 2014, China has launched capability, Henry Boyd, a research fellow corresponding need to find, fix and if more submarines, warships, principal for Defence and Military Analysis, also necessary attack them. amphibious vessels and auxiliaries at the IISS, suggested in an October 2017 The pursuit of additional anti- than the total number of ships currently blog that the People’s Liberation Army submarine warfare helicopters, known serving in the navies of Germany, India, Navy (PLAN) will “focus on improving as the Maritime Operation Helicopter Spain, Taiwan and the United Kingdom,” quality rather than expanding quantity” (MOH) batch-2 for the Republic of stated Nick Childs, senior fellow for and would retain a total number of Korea Navy (ROKN) is still alive after Naval Forces and Maritime Security, submarines around 58. This total was the United States government made a International Institute for Strategic likely to comprise: four nuclear powered late intervention on Lockheed Martin’s Studies (IISS), on 1 May 2018 in a blog ballistic submarines (SSBNs); six attack behalf. Leonardo, who had believed the entitled: “China’s naval shipbuilding: submarines (SSN/SSGN); and around 48 competition to be a done deal after its delivering on its ambition in a big way.” diesel-electric powered submarines (SSK). rivals - Lockheed Martin/Sikorsky and According to a briefing held at the Asia However, more recent reports suggest that NH Industries - did not submit proposals Society in Hong Kong by David Shear, the there is an ambition to have double the by a deadline leaving the way open for former US assistant defence secretary for number of SSBNs to allow two to be at sea Leonardo. Asian and Pacific security affairs on 21 at any one time (working on the recognised The ROKN already operates eight March, 2019, the South China Morning Post principle that a total of four are required to Leonardo AW159 Wildcats following reported that “an estimated 228 full-sized ensure one is constantly deployed). a decision by South Korea’s Defense submarines [were] operating in the East Acquisition Program Administration and South China Seas – a number that is Republic of Korea Navy (DAPA) in January 2013 to acquire the expected to rise to 300 within a decade.” There has been a reaction throughout helicopters ahead of Sikorsky’s MH-60R While many nations are ensuring the Indo-Pacific region to the increased Seahawk. that they have a “me too” submarine focus on submarines activity with a Lockheed Martin is trying to tie

20 | Asian Military Review | air power

AN/AVS-9 night vision goggles. It is unlikely that the Philippine The size of the ROKN AW159s defence budgets will be able to afford any make them very capable of operating further additions to this small fleet. from the Incheon-class guided missile/ coastal defence frigates. They are fitted Royal Malaysian Navy with Leonardo’s Seaspray 7000E multi- Leonardo has also offered the AW159 to mode active electronically scanned the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) which array (AESA) radar together with an has a stated intent to further develop

Commonwealth of Australia electro-optical thermal sensor with a its existing Leonardo Super Lynx 300 reported range of 190 nautical miles (360 helicopter which operate in the in the kilometres). A decision is expected in the ASW and ASuW roles. A Leonardo next few months according to sources spokesperson told AMR that the RMN close to the competition. is currently also considering various upgrade/modernisation options for its Philippines Navy six Super Lynx 300 fleet which first came Leonardo has already been successful into service in 2003. In October 2018, the with another maritime customer, the Super Lynx 300 flight logged a total of Philippine Navy. The company has just 10,000 hours completed the predelivery inspection of In May 2018, the UK Royal Navy’s two AW159s at its Yeovil factory earlier 847 Naval Air Squadron, presented its in April, and will be delivering the aircraft AW159 Wildcat helicopter to Malaysia’s to the Philippines Navy during May. Armed Forces for detailed inspection and During the signing of the contract on test flights at Royal Malaysian Navy Base 30 March, 2016, Defense Secretary Voltaire Lumut and Leonardo Helicopters’ facility T. Gazmin underlined the importance of at Subang Airport, near Kuala Lumpur. the acquisition, stating that it was “the country’s first anti-submarine warfare Indonesian Navy capability as the AFP moves towards Airbus Helicopters has had limited attaining a minimum credible deterrence success in the Indo-Pacific region with posture.” The helicopters are likely to its maritime AS565 MBe Panther. A total be used not only maritime patrolling of 11 were procured by the Indonesian Sikorsky’s MH-60R has and deterrence, especially in the face government for the Indonesian Navy - become a popular maritime of China, but also against insurgent Tentara Nasional Indonesia-Angkatan ASW and ASuW helicopter groups operating within the Philippines Laut (TNI-AL) - with the first three thanks to service with the US themselves. being delivered in November of 2016. Navy and RAN. ROKN together both an Indian multi-role helicopter (MRH) requirement for 24 Sikorsky MH-60R helicopters, which has been approved by the US State Department under the Foreign Military Sales (PMS) procedure, with the ROKN opportunity. The Indian order is worth $2.6 billion with $840 million on offer for the 12 new ROKN helicopters. Among the equipment that the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has approved for sale to India in support of the MH-60R sale are the following: 30 Telephonics APS-153(V) multi-mode radars; 60 GE T700-GE-401C engines; 30 Raytheon AN/AAS-44C(V) multi-spectral targeting systems; 54 embedded global positioning system/ inertial navigation systems (EGI) with selective availability anti-spoofing modules An AW159 of the Korean (SAASM); 1,000 AN/SSQ-36/53/62 Navy launching a Rafael sonobuoys; and a broad selection of Spike-NLOS missile. missiles, torpedoes, radios and 70 Harris

| maY 2019 | 21 air power PTDI

Airbus AS656 MBe Panthers delivered by PT Dirgantara Indonesia to the Ministry of Defense for the Indonesian Navy.

The contract is with Indonesian partner and FN Herstal GAU-21 12.7mm crew the suite of training devices to support PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) who served machine guns. the MH-60R are two Tactical Operational is responsible for the assembly and Sensors include Telephonics APS-153 Flight Trainers (TOFTs) which comprise outfitting for role of the Panthers. By multi-mode maritime surveillance radar full-motion flight simula-tor and weapons January 2019, PTDI had delivered 10 of which is operated through the Lockheed tactics trainer for rear-crew sensor the 11 helicopters. Martin Common Cockpit avionics suite, operators. According to CAE, the RAN The Panther’s ASW suite includes a which allow the crew independent MH-60R TOFTs were the world’s first dipping sonar and the ability to launch views of information available through MH-60R simulators certified to Level torpedoes. The Panther is powered by the radar. D, the highest qualification for flight two Safran Arriel 2N engines giving it a For its primary task of submarine simulators. top speed of around 165kts over a range hunting, there is a Raytheon AQS-22 The NH Industries NH-90 NATO of 780km. Airborne Low Frequency Sonar (ALFS) Frigate Helicopter (NFH) has not met which is effective up to a depth of around with any great success in the Indo-Pacific Royal Australian Navy over 750m (2,500 feet). The AN/AQS- region, losing out to the MH-60R and An upgrade programme has already 22 dipping sonar has multi-frequency AW159s for maritime orders. The NH-90 been approved by the DSCA under FMA operation which allows it to adapt to Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTL) has to provide the Royal Australian Navy varying environmental conditions. The been introduced as the MRH-90 into the (RAN) with an upgrade programme for its helicopter can also launch up to 25 active, Australian Army as a utility helicopter, Sikorsky MH-60R multi-mission helicopters passive or bathymetric buoys. which has also been qualified for naval at an estimated cost of $360 million. The Finally it also deploys with an AAS- resupply. Eight were also acquired Australian Government approved the 44C multispectral infrared targeting by the Royal New Zealand Air Force acquisition of 24 MH-60R Seahawk in system which provides long-range (RNZAF) but deployment away from the 2013 at a cost of over $3 billion to replace surveillance, target acquisition, tracking, mainland has proved difficult without an the older Sikorsky S-70Bs. The upgrade range finding and laser designation for automated blade and tail flowing system programme would occur over 10 years. the onboard weapons. which would make it suitable for longer The RAN has acquired the MH-60R While at sea the MH-60Rs of 725 term shipboard operations. Seahawk as its next generation submarine Squadron operate off the Anzac Class NH Industries has introduced a hunter and ASuW helicopter. It has a frigates and the new Air Warfare ‘hybrid’ helicopter called the NH-90 range of around 245nm with a maximum destroyers with the remainder staying Maritime Tactical Transport which will weight of 10,660kg (23,500lb) and a speed at the home base of HMAS Albatross feature elements from both of the initial of up to 180kts. in Nowra, New South Wales. It is here variants, but will lend itself to maritime Weapons include the Raytheon Mk54 at HMAS Albatross that all training is operations by incorporating folding main Lightweight Torpedo, Lockheed Martin carried out through CAE USA, the prime rotors and tail-boom, as well as a more AGM-114N Hellfire laser-guided missiles contractor for MH-60R at Nowra. Within resilient undercarriage. AMR

22 | Asian Military Review | PROTECTING YOUR SKIES

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An EA-18G Growler, assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133, taxies on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), 30 March, 2019.

Figures produced by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, say that in recent years China has imported, or is in the process of importing, 46 medium and high-altitude SAM systems. It states that these have included SA-15s acquired from 2000. These have been supplemented with SA-10s Grumble systems, and more recently the S-400, six batteries of which were purchased in 2015. According to Meia Nouwens, research fellow for Chinese THE NEED FOR SEAD defence policy and military modernisation at the International Institute of Strategic The United States and her allies in Asia-Pacific Studies (IISS), a London-based think tank, the PRC, maintains an array of short and face an Anti-Access/Area Denial (A2AD) threat medium range, and long range/high from two significant actors in the region; the altitude SAMs in service. These include Chinese variants of Soviet/Russian People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the systems such as the HQ-2 family based upon the Lavochkin OKB S-75 Dvina (SA- Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). 2 Guideline) high-altitude SAM as well as domestic products like the Shanghai by Dr. Thomas Withington Academy of Science and Technology HQ-6 short/medium range SAM. Nouwens n the air domain, these A2AD if not impossible. Since the end of the continues that the PRC maintains threats have manifested themselves Cold War, popular concerns regarding several advanced Russian-origin high- in the procurement by both nations collateral damage during air operations altitude system such as the Almaz-Antey of Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) could mean that rules of engagement S-300PMU1 (SA-20A Gargoyle) and systems designed to increase the may prevent the destruction of that radar S-300PMU2 (SA-20B Gargoyle). An costI in blood and treasure to any nation should it be located close to civilians, or upgraded version of the S-300V (SA-12 or coalition planning to perform an civilian infrastructure. Finally, destroying Gladiator/Giant) has been developed by intervention against either nation or their such a target could overburden available the PRC known as the HQ-18. According interests. aircraft and ordnance needed elsewhere to the Missile Defence Advocacy Alliance, During air operations, Ground- to engage other targets. For these reasons this could engage targets at a range of Based Air Defence (GBAD) threats are it may be necessary to suppress some air between 22nm (40.7km) and 54nm (100km). engaged by Destruction/Suppression of defences, rather than destroying them The alliance stated that “the S-300V family Enemy Air Defence (D/SEAD) efforts. D/ outright. It is the kinetic and electronic is one of the most capable aerial defence SEAD forms part of the wider Offensive capabilities to support SEAD in the Far systems in the world, and an upgraded Counter Air (OCA) battle. OCA is defined East which are the subject of this article. Chinese version should worry Western by the US Department of Defence (DoD) defence agencies.” as “offensive action in support of the Regional Threats While North Korea may lack the offensive counter-air mission against The DPRK and PRC arguably pose the sophisticated SAMs in China’s possession, surface targets that contribute to the most significant A2AD threat in the it boasts a formidable array of ground- enemy’s air power capabilities.” The region. Air defence is central to China’s based air defences. The country may DoD definitions continue that SEAD is A2AD posture. The US Secretary of operate several hundred S-75 Dvina, “that activity which neutralises, destroys Defence’s 2018 report to Congress on Almaz-Antey S-125 Neva/Pechora (SA-3 or temporarily degrades surface-based Military and Security Developments Goa) and KB Design Bureau S-200 (SA-5 enemy air defences by destructive and/ involving the PRC stated that “China has Gammon) systems. Open sources have or disruptive means.” A central tenet of a robust and redundant (Integrated Air stated that these may have received SEAD holds that destruction is preferable Defence System/IADS) architecture over numerous upgrades during their service to suppression as it removes a threat land areas and within 300 nautical miles lives. Similarly, North Korea may possess for a prolonged period. It is better to (556 kilometres) of its coast.” The report an indigenous SAM known as the KN- destroy a radar than render it temporarily posits that China is capable of developing 06. This weapon may have similar unserviceable. Nevertheless, this may advanced missile technology, stating capabilities to early versions of Russia’s not always be possible. The exact that “the majority of China’s missile S-300P. The KN-06 is thought to have physical location of the radar maybe programmes … are comparable to other been tested and deployed in 2017. It unknown, making its attack difficult international top-tier producers.” may have a range of up to 81 nautical

24 | Asian Military Review | air power

miles (150 kilometres), and could have flown in the vicinity of Lebanon and the USAF’s Lockheed Martin F-16CJ been developed from technology secretly Syria. This has almost certainly been with two units: the 13th and 14th fighter supplied by Russia or China, according to to gather data on the Russian electronic squadrons, based at Misawa air base in the Centre for Strategic and International order of battle. It is not unreasonable to Japan. These are reinforced by four navy Studies’ Missile Threat website. assume that US allies in the Far East may squadrons of Boeing F/A-18E fighters Several of these SAMs have already have been briefed by US officials on the which can deploy the AGM-88B and the been encountered by the US and her allies. characteristics of Russian air defences in more advanced AGM-88E. Two Marine The SA-2, SA-3 and SA-5 have been used Syria vis-à-vis the proliferation of such Corps units; VMFA-242 and VMFA-121 against the US during the Vietnam War, threats in the Asia-Pacific. are equipped with the Boeing F/A-18C/D against Israel during the War of Attrition and Lockheed Martin F-35B respectively; and Yom Kippur War, and during US- Regional Responses which can also deploy the AGM-88. led interventions in Iraq, the Balkans Moreover, local actors are in possession Importantly, the US Navy has a squadron and more recently Syria. However, the of SEAD capabilities which can be used of Boeing EA-18G Growler electronic HQ-7, HQ-9 and HQ-10 have yet to against these GBAD threats. The challenge warfare aircraft located at Iwakuni airbase be encountered in a conflict. That said, will be in ensuring that state-of-the-art in Japan. This is an important shot in the Russian systems, and those Chinese systems such as later S-300 versions, and arm for regional SEAD capabilities, and systems based upon this technology, the S-400, can be successfully neutralised such aircraft would invariably play an have been encountered in previous wars, with these capabilities. US allies in the Far important part during any showdown and the S-300 and S-400 have both been East possess a potent array of SEAD assets with the DPRK or PRC. deployed to Syria. This may have given and there are over 370 aircraft capable These US capabilities are bolstered the US and allied nations the chance of deploying Anti-Radiation Missiles by the SEAD-capable aircraft of regional to gather intelligence regarding these (ARMs) in the region. The US Navy, air US allies. The Royal Australian Air Force weapons and their modus operandi. Such force and Marine Corps deploy around (RAAF) has a dedicated EW unit equipped intelligence can be fed back into future 120 aircraft at bases in Japan which can with the EA-18G deploying the AGM- SEAD tactics and doctrine. For example, all deploy Raytheon’s AGM-88 series 88B/E. These jets would no doubt work for the last two years US Air Force RC- ARM. This remains the standard SEAD closely with their US Navy counterparts 135U Combat Sent ELINT aircraft have weapon in the region. The fleet includes during any crisis. Beyond the EA-18Gs

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2,697 aircraft, 101 of these were dedicated to SEAD. Eight years later during Operation Unifi ed Protector over Libya, 23 SEAD assets were deployed as part of a multinational force of over 260 aircraft for a campaign lasting 220 days. Based on these fi gures, SEAD assets have comprised on average fi ve percent of the total force needed to support a specifi c Office of Naval Intelligence air campaign. These efforts have also seen on average almost 500 ARMs being fi red, although this ranges from the low China’s anti-access area denial defensive hundreds during the Libya intervention layers illustrated by the to in excess of 1,200 during Desert Storm. US Navy in 2016. Of course, the quantity of SEAD aircraft and weapons required to support an air campaign will rise and fall according to the aircraft of choice for SEAD elsewhere led coalition deployed over 4,400 military threat. However, on paper at least, both in the region is the F-16 series. Acquired aircraft, 110 of which were dedicated to regional air forces and the regional US by the Republic of Korea (ROK) and SEAD. The lion’s share of these aircraft presence possess the SEAD assets needed Taiwan; a total of circa 240 airframes can were provided by the US. This SEAD to assist a large scale air operation. deliver the AGM-88B. According to the force comprised around three percent Stockholm International Peace Research of the total number of aircraft deployed Future Capabilities Institute over 400 AGM-88s of varying to support 43 days of air operations. Despite the region’s current SEAD marques have been acquired by countries Operation Deliberate Force mounted capabilities, there is room for improvement. in the region. The ROK has also acquired over Bosnia-Herzegovina in 1995 saw Many regional actors continue to use the up to 100 Israel Aerospace Industries’ NATO deploy 600 military aircraft. These AGM-88B. More recent marques offer Harpy loitering ARMs which would have were supported by a SEAD force of 54 improvements in lethality and precision. a key role to play in suppressing DPRK planes. Thus SEAD assets comprised As the US Navy and RAAF are procuring air defences during hostilities. nine percent of the total number of the AGM-88E, allied air forces would This combined force of aircraft aircraft deployed for an air campaign be advised to follow suit. This missile and weapons is reinforced by a fl eet of of 41 days duration. Similarly, during includes a Global Positioning System/ SIGINT (Signals Intelligence) planes. Operation Allied Force waged to stop the Inertial Navigation System (GPS/INS). Japan possesses the largest regional ethnic cleansing of the Kosovar Albanian This allows the GPS coordinates of a fl eet of SIGINT platforms, operating population in the Balkans province of hostile radar to be programme into the four Lockheed Martin EP-3Cs and Kosovo, out of 1,191 aircraft deployed weapon. This helps to prevent it breaking the same number of Nihon Aircraft over 150 were dedicated to SEAD for the lock should the targeted radar stop its Manufacturing Corporation YS-11EAs. 78 day campaign. Interestingly, although transmissions realising it is under attack. These are reinforced by the ROK’s two it was thought that the US-led coalition Both the US Navy and RAAF would Dassault Falcon-2000 SIGINT aircraft had destroyed much of Iraq’s air defences likely bring this missile to the fi ght in and the single SIGINT-confi gured during Operation Desert Storm, and the any future crisis. Expanding the local air Lockheed Martin C-130H used by Taiwan. subsequent enforcement of the northern forces which use advanced versions of the Nevertheless, regional ELINT assets and southern No Fly Zones over the HARM beyond these two services would are being overhauled. Japan is currently country, the US still assembled a large bring a qualitative improvement to SEAD fl ight-testing its new Kawasaki EC-2 SEAD force in preparation for 2003’s lethality, not to mention interoperability, ELINT platform which may replace Operation Iraqi Freedom. From a fl eet of logistics and economies of scale benefi ts. the EP-3C. This reported to be one of the most advanced such aircraft in the world. Similarly, the Royal Australian Air China's fourth- generation HQ-9 Force is acquiring fi ve Gulftstream MC- surface-to-air missiles. 55 SIGINT jets which are expected to be delivered over the next fi ve years.

Adequate? Are such capabilities adequate? A cursory examination of recent operations involving SEAD provides an indication of the force weight needed to support an air campaign against an actor with an integrated air defence system. During Operation Desert Storm mounted in 1991 to evict Iraqi forces from Kuwait the US-

26 | ASIAN MILITARY REVIEW | air power

Regional actors may also want to their investment in SEAD cooperation Recent investments in such capabilities consider the EA-18G. This jet offers a and training. Where possible local air by Australia and Japan illustrate that conventional fighter/ground attack forces should work hard to forge SEAD regional actors take these threats seriously. aircraft matched with a dedicated EW/ doctrines that can work in a unilateral An examination of previous operations SEAD capability. The EA-18G would be and multilateral fashion. Working closely against adversaries possessing integrated an ideal platform for the AGM-88E/F. with the US in the SEAD domain is also air defence systems show that, on average Its acquisition by regional actors would imperative. Any future regional conflict five percent of the total force is required to likewise improve interoperability. Such will see Uncle Sam providing considerable support a prolonged air campaign. While a purchase by Japan or Singapore would SEAD assistance. Harmonising SEAD this is not a hard and fast rule, what is not provide two of the most advanced air doctrines, tactics and procedures with one in dispute is that regionally, the US and forces in the region with a potent SEAD another, as well as with the US, will pay allied nations possess the SEAD assets to capability. Should the EA-18G acquisition dividends. Equally important is investing wage a large and prolonged air campaign. not materialise, Japan and South Korea, in threat data collection and management. Nonetheless, improvements can be both of which are acquiring F-35 variants, Air forces can benefit from excellent EW made. Regional actors should consider should consider procuring the latest training courses provided commercially, updating their anti-radar missiles and HARM models to equip them. alongside advanced software which ELINT fleets, and possibly procuring While the region is witnessing an not only enhances how air forces collect SEAD assets such as the EA-18G. overhaul of ELINT gathering assets as ELINT, but how they manage and share Efforts must continue to deepen SEAD mentioned above, this is another area this information. interoperability, alongside investment which requires investment. Taiwan’s in EW training, and ELINT analysis and ELINT C-130H is now almost 40 years Conclusions exploitation systems. During the Second old. A replacement will be needed in the Actors in the Far East face a clear and World War, the first dedicated air defence next five years. One option for Taiwan, present threat from the proliferation of suppression force, the Royal Air Force’s and other nations, is to acquire a roll-on/ advanced air defences with the acquisition 100 Group had the motto ‘confound and roll-off ELINT system. This could allow an of such weapons by the DPRK and PRC destroy’. By investing in SEAD capabilities aircraft to be used for other missions when driving such concerns. The US and her now, regional air forces can build on solid not required for intelligence gathering. regional allies already possess dedicated foundations to ensure that if hostilities Finally, regional actors must continue SEAD assets to counter these threats. commence, they can do just that. AMR

| may 2019 | 27 sea power

COAST GUARD WITH MUSCLES The China Coast Guard has ‘bulked up’ the size, numbers and firepower of its ships, blurring the traditional role usually associated with such organisations.

by JR Ng

he China Coast Guard (Zhōngguó Hǎijĭng, or CCG) is believed to be the world’s largest coast guard and serves as a coordinating agency for law enforcement as Twell as maritime search and rescue (SAR) in the territorial waters of the People's

Republic of China. Ministry of Natural Resources The CCG was originally the maritime security arm of the Public Security Border Troops, a paramilitary organisation under the Ministry of Public Security (MPS). However, in March 2013 the central government in passed the State Council Institutional Reform and Functional Transformation Plan, which The CCG is rapidly expanding its mandated the restructuring of the then- fleet with large and well-equipped State Oceanic Administration (SOA) – a ships. CCG 2401, commissioned in civilian agency under the State Council – 2014, displaces 4,000 tonnes. and the incorporation of all maritime law enforcement units into the CCG under SOA command from July 2013. responsibilities subsumed into the newly civilian control of the State Council and This arrangement turned out to be formed Ministry of Natural Resources, the SOA, reports in state-owned media relatively short-lived. Oversight of the while the CCG was transferred from including the China Daily and Global CCG under a civilian administration civilian control to the People’s Armed Times newspapers have suggested that resulted in co-ordination challenges Police (PAP) from July 2018, ultimately the enforcement powers of the CCG with People’s Liberation Army Navy returning it under the umbrella of the would have been expanded under new (PLAN) in maritime security operations, Central Military Commission (CMC). legislation, enabling the service to “play prompting the government to introduce Although there appears to be no a bigger role in emergencies and crises, another round of reshuffling. In March seismic changes in the assigned missions including war”. 2018 the SOA was dissolved and its from when the CCG was under the PAP commander General Wang

28 | Asian Military Review | SEA POWER via FJYS forum via Chinese internet sources

The CCG is rapidly modernising and expanding its fleet with high-end capabilities. Seen on the left is the Type 818 cutter, which is based on the navy's Type 054A frigate design.

The Haijing 3901 and its sister ship are believed to be the largest remains unclear, although some China- South China and East China Seas. For coast guard ships in the world. based commentators have noted the example, CCG vessels were involved potential of the service being deployed in a stand-off with the Philippine Coast for joint military drills and other routine Guard over the disputed Scarborough Ning was quoted by the China Daily drills with the PLAN. Shoal in 2012, which resulted in China noting that the CCG has benefi ted from seizing and blockading the shoal up to “new command systems, operational More than meets the eye October 2016, when the CCG vessels left mechanisms, and co-ordination patterns” CCG assets have often been deployed for the waters without an announcement. that has conferred new status and powers missions beyond the service’s declared In February 2017, CCG vessels sailed beyond its earlier mandate under civilian law enforcement and maritime security near the disputed Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands administration. However, the role of the remit. Its vessels have regularly been – which are controlled by Japan but also CCG during periods of tension or confl ict involved in territorial disputes in the claimed by China – in the East China Sea,

Please visit us at IMDEX Asia 2019 in Singapore | MAY 2019 | 14-16 May 2019 - Booth M19 29 sea power Xinhua

The CCG's MA60 maritime patrol aircraft is believed to have been deployed on missions in the South China Sea.

covers the disputed Islands.

Xinhua ‘High end’ capabilities China now possesses a coast guard fleets that can even overmatch some of the naval forces in the Asia Pacific region. Indeed, the predecessor of the CCG under MPS command had already received retired PLAN surface combatants that were partially disarmed and refurbished for coast guard duty. More recently, the CCG embarked on a sustained effort to modernise and expand its fleet, commissioning of a large number of modern, purpose-built ships, with over 100 new ships entering service over the last seven years. The fleet size is now under- The first MA60H maritime patrol stood to number well over 200 vessels. aircraft was inducted into CCG service These include the largest coast guard ships during a ceremony in June 2017. in the world: two 12,000 tonne, 165m long cutters that far outclass any other ship operated by regional coast guards reportedly entering their 12 nautical mile that Chinese ships entered Japanese including Japan’s 6,500 tonne Shikishima- (nm) boundaries before moving to the waters off the islands and followed two class cutters – and are even 50 percent contiguous zone just outside territorial days after then-US Secretary of Defense larger than the US Navy’s 9,800 tonne waters. Japanese media noted that the Jim Mattis visited Tokyo and reiterated Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruisers. intrusion marked the fourth time in 2017 that the defence treaty with Japan also Commissioned into the CCG as

30 | Asian Military Review | sea power

to recapitalise its fleet with new and more capable surface combatants, it is likely that the CCG will benefit from yet more of the former’s divested naval platforms. Although the CCG has traditionally possessed a modest air arm, the service has nevertheless made some effort to inject new capability into it given the Chinese Internet sources vast maritime territory that has to be monitored. Chinese media has reported that the CCG received its first Xian Aircraft Industries MA60 twin-turboprop aircraft configured for maritime patrol missions The Type 818 cutter seen in April 2016, following successful final armed with a 76 mm main airworthiness trials. The aircraft, which gun and 30 mm support guns. has also been referred to as the MA60H, is equipped with a chin-mounted electro- optical surveillance system and a ventral surveillance radar. The aircraft has also been modified for extended range patrols with auxiliary

Japan MoD fuel tanks fitted to the sides of its fuselage and can carry additional fuel tanks on underwing pylons. It is not known how many had been acquired by the CCG.

What next for the CCG? With its current and future capabilities, the restructured CCG under the aegis of the CMC has turned out to be a maritime CCG vessels are often seen constabulary force quite unlike its with powerful weaponry on patrol in the East China Sea counterparts elsewhere in the region. The time and resources invested in boosting the service’s capabilities also indicates Haijing 2901 and 3901 respectively and naval gun as its primary weapon and a that the central government is eyeing a built by Shanghai’s Jiangnan Shipyard, pair of Type 630 30mm close-in weapon more active presence in the East China the cutters can attain a reported a systems (CIWS), mounted on either side Sea and Taiwan Strait. For instance, the maximum speed of approximately 25kts on top of the helicopter hangar. However, CCG could be deployed along the vital and are both heavily armed for coast the PLAN’s original anti-submarine and sea lines of communication (SLOC) to guard ships with 76mm rapid fire guns anti-ship weapons, as well as its surface- and from China, safeguarding the as well as close-in auxiliary and anti- to-air missiles, have been removed. country’s Maritime Silk Road in the aircraft machine guns. The vessels are Other naval designs have also been near future. also equipped with a stern-mounted leveraged for constructing CCG ships. These new measures have been put helicopter deck and hangar facilities that The Huangpu shipyard in Guangzhou, into practice in recent training exercises can accommodate medium-lift rotary southern China, has constructed new in Chinese territorial waters. In May wing aircraft as well as unmanned aerial coast guard ships based on the hull of the 2018, state-linked media reported that vehicles (UAVs). PLAN's 1500 tonne Type 056 Jiangdao- a joint task group comprised of naval, In May 2017, the Chinese government class corvettes. coast guard, and civilian vessels patrolled announced that Haijing 3901 completed Equipping the CCG with such waters off the Paracel Islands together for its maiden voyage in the South China Sea platforms will likely facilitate integration the first time. In early August of the same carrying a crew of 17 law enforcement with PLAN assets, potentially exploiting year, it was also revealed that the PLAN’s personnel and two unspecified UAVs, common communications facilities, sharing Southern Theatre Command conducted a spending 19 days patrolling the waters intelligence data on shipping, and joint exercise with the CCG. around Chinese-held islands to “protect allowing both forces to build a common The CCG is without doubt providing China’s maritime rights”. operational picture for improved maritime the central government with a greater The CCG also operates at least six 3,500 situational awareness. This will boost range of operational flexibility and tonne, 134m long Type 818 patrol ships the ability of CCG ships to respond diplomatic options in politically sensitive derived from the hull of the PLAN’s Type quickly to situations that the central areas, given that naval platforms, with 054A Jiangkai II-class frigate. Like the government might consider detrimental their array of lethal weapon systems, cutters, the patrol ships are heavily armed to national interests. present a greater risk of minor incidents for coast guard vessels with a 76mm PJ-26 Moreover, with the PLAN continuing escalating into serious skirmishes. AMR

| may 2019 | 31 LAND WARFARE

BLAST PROTECTION Skills learned in detecting and defeating improvised explosive devices (IEDs), often a weap-on of choice encountered in asymmetric warfare, must be taken forward as armies raise their focus back to peer conflict.

by Grant Turnbull

he Improvised Explosive Device neutralisation; and electronic and physical nologies can include long-range electro- (IED) has become synonymous protection. Most militaries attempt to optics, usually fitted to aerostats to catch with modern warfare, giving field capabilities that address all three teams planting IEDs, as well as sensors asymmetric forces a deadly categories in order to have a full spectrum that can be carried by soldiers or vehicles tool that can strip away the of counter-IED technologies. This ensures to give advance warning of devices. Ttechnological advantages of an oppos- the safety of personnel against a range of Metal detectors have become standard ing force. These often rudimentary IED threats, including concealed roadside issue for dismounted forces during recent devices can cause significant casualties, bombs, or person- and vehicle-borne COIN operations, with companies such limit movement, decrease tempo during devices (PBIEB/VBIED). as Vallon becoming synonymous with the operations, and sap morale of units. The A key part of countering IEDs is Afghanistan conflict (in the British Army, effect of the IED goes far beyond the blast ensuring that devices are found before the lead squad member who would alone, meaning countering such devices they are triggered, whether by a vehicle/ sweep for IEDs would be referred to as is a high priority during operations. soldier passing over a pressure plate, the ‘Vallon man’). These detectors work The technology that a military command wire, or remotely via a radio by emitting an electromagnetic pulse and fields in order to counter IEDs can be frequency signal. Unsurprisingly, detection processing the received signal. An object broadly grouped into three categories: technologies have seen a huge spike in is detected when the received signal scanning and detection; defusing and demand over the last decade. These tech- differs from its previous state, and thus a

32 | Asian Military Review | LAND WARFARE US Army U.S. Air National Guard U.S.

A U.S. Army Husky improvised explosive device detection vehicle, leads a convoy during route clearance operations at McCrady Training Center, Eastover, S.C., in 2014. The unit’s mission is to locate improvised explosive devices during mounted convoy operations and dismounted walking patrols and dispose of IED’s once located. U.S. Army U.S.

A Stryker lies on its side aftrer surviving a buried IED blast in 2007.

Soldiers from the 364th Engineer visual, audible and vibratory warning is Platoon (Area Clearance), use hand- held mine detectors to sweep a path given to the operator. up to the M1271 Mine Clearing Vehicle The sensitivity of detectors has during the extraction and recovery improved over time to enable the detection exercise at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. of low-metal content IEDs, which predo- minantly use wood or plastic instead of metal. The detection of non-metallic decision about their threat level within a overcome by improving hardware, auto- objects has also been improved with the very limited time frame while keeping a matic target recognition algorithms, and introduction of dual-sensing technologies safe distance.’ Although GPR has unique addressing system integration aspects.” that incorporate additional ground- capabilities as a buried object detector, it The US Army also operates a range penetrating radar (GPR) functionality, is still a sophisticated engineering tool of GPR technologies, including being in both handheld and vehicle-mounted and its behaviour must be interpreted in the original operator of the HMDS. A confi gurations. For vehicle-mounted the context of its operating environment.” single Husky achieved ‘materiel release’ applications, a widely-deployed asset An ADF spokesperson stated: “One in 2008 and was sent for initial trials to has been the highly-protected Husky of the major challenges in IED detection Afghanistan soon after. So successful Mounted Detection System (HMDS), using GPR is caused by the local was the initial deployment that 200 which features a front-mounted GPR array variation in terrain and climate, and the units were rapidly fi elded and remained from Chemring Sensors and Electronic variety of IEDs encountered. The GPR’s in Afghanistan for the remainder of Systems (CSES). The Australian Defence operating environment can alter the target Operation Enduring Freedom. Force (ADF) uses a suite of handheld and response signature or mask it. The key CSES is currently delivering a vehicle-mounted GPR solutions for challenge of GPR as an IED detection multi-year engineering contract to add counter-IED mis-sions including the HMDS. tool lies in achieving a high rate of threat additional sensor modali-ties, as well According to the ADF, ‘standoff IED detection while maintaining a low level as to conform to the next generation of detection involves the detection of of false alarms in different operational information assurance requirements, suspected threat objects and making a environments. These challenges need to be according to John Domitrovits, vice

| MAY 2019 | 33 LAND WARFARE Cobham

Cobham has also developed an Unmanned Air System (UAS) version of Amulet, a stand off buried threat detection system. president at CSES. “Subsequent to the initial production - called Standoff “Cobham has developed the Amulet Afghanistan draw-down, the US Army Robotic Explosive Hazard Detection- standoff buried threat detection system, and Chemring have continued to evolve Neutralisation (SREHD), which incor- which can be integrated onto any tactical and enhance both the GPR and HMDS porates the AN/PSS-14 C GPR payload remote-controlled vehicle or robot and it is designated as an enduring onto a Talon IV robot for route clearance platform. The system is suitable for rapid capability that will be used for the next 20 and breaching operations. Indeed, robotics area clearance and capable of detecting plus years,” said Domitrovits. is playing an increasing role in the future both IEDs and traditional Anti-Tank The US Army also fi elds the handheld of IED detection and route clearance mines,” according to company literature. AN/PSS-14 C from L3 Security and operations, particularly as a means of Detection Systems. limiting the number of personnel that are Unmanned Amulet “The AN/PSS-14 C detector utilises dual exposed to an IED threat. Cobham has also developed an sensor detection that addresses current Domitrovits told this publication Unmanned Air System (UAS) version and evolving munitions threats, from that there was currently a concept of Amulet, which incorporates the conventional landmines to buried explosive demonstration effort under-way in South company’s Quadpack four-channel GPR hazards and their associated components,” Korea to integrate CSES’s GPR arrays onto an industrial-sized hexacopter drone. said a US Army spokesperson for Program onto an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV). The UAS can detect both IEDs and mines Manager Close Combat Systems (PM CSES also offers a GPR solution specifi cally from stand-off distances and is fully CSS). “By decoupling the GPR from for UGVs known as R-VISOR, which autonomous with Global Navigation the metal detector (MD), the GPR can leverages technology such as software and Satellite System (GNSS) used to control detect and discriminate larger, deeply graphical user interfaces from the HMDS fl ight and mark threat positions accurately. buried targets from shallow clutter and but allows fi tment on EOD robots such as A collision avoidance system can be fi tted background.” the QinetiQ Talon. R-VISOR has also been and a radio link can relay information “The AN/PSS-14 C implemented a demonstrated on the Aselsan KAPLAN back to a base station and into a wider Counter-Explosive Hazard mode which is EOD robot from Turkey. battle management system. GPR only and in-cludes a parallel algorithm Cobham Antenna Systems has also Company offi cials note that the UAS for processing GPR signals independent proposed its Amulet detection system is covert and can “signifi cantly increase” of MD signals, which allows the operator - which comprises its QuadPack four- the tempo of minefi eld breach operations, to search for and detect completely non- channel GPR array, a high-defi nition especially when compared to handheld metallic targets,” the spokesperson added. camera, control box and Trimble Yuma searches. The US Army is also pursuing a rugged tablet for operator control - as Another robotic counter-IED integration separate programme - now in low-rate part of an integration package for UGVs. has seen Raytheon UK’s GroundEye

34 | ASIAN MILITARY REVIEW | LAND WARFARE

supply its new Centaur UGV, which is a medium-sized system that can provide a standoff capability to detect, identify and dispose of a variety of hazards, including IEDs. The US Army has also contracted QinetiQ North America for its Common Robotic System (Individual) (CRS (I)) programme, kick-starting the service’s fi rst small-sized robotic programme of record. “CRS (I) is a remotely operated, highly mobile, unmanned ground vehicle that is light enough for a dismounted Soldier to carry in a backpack,” said Monica Manganaro, a spokesperson for the Manoeuvre Capability Development Integration Directorate. Recapitalisation of EOD/C-IED robots British soldier using a is also taking place in other countries, Vallon mine detector including the UK, which has selected the during Exercise Spring Storm in Estonia, 2017. T7 platform from Harris, with fi rst units delivered at the end of 2018 and initial operational capability expected by this detection technology fi tted to the Tracked The Japanese MoD’s Ground Systems summer. Hybrid Modular Infantry System (THeMIS) Research Centre (GSRC) also unveiled a The third area of countering IEDs lies from Estonian company Milrem Robotics. a holistic solution last year that in both electronic and physical protection, The GroundEye system allows specialist incorporates active sensors such as radar which is worthy of a feature in its own right. operators to view the exact position, and passive electro-optics to detect IEDs. Most forces now deploy with electronic orientation, size and shape of all The vehicle - based on a Toyota High countermeasure (ECM) technology, both individual components of an emplaced or Mobility Vehicle - features above-surface man-pack and vehicle-mounted, that can suspect IED. It can deliver high-defi nition sensors fi tted atop the crew cabin, with jam incoming radio signals that may trigger imagery in realtime and is designed for data then cross referenced to a database a remote-controlled IED (RC-IED). The day/night operation. of potential threats. In the future, the British Army deploys with the Leonardo GroundEye features an open archi- Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force Guardian system as a ‘Theatre Entry tecture that allows it to be integrated into (JGSDF) could use the vehicles as route Standard’ for dismounts and vehicles, and a wider system incorporating various clearance assets instead of relying on other forces around the world such as the primary sensors, including GPR, Non- dismounted troops. US utilise the AN/VLQ-12 CREW Duke EW Linear Junction Detectors (NLJD) and system to counter RC-IEDs. This system is command wire detectors. A Raytheon Robot EOD seeing ongoing use by special forces in Syria spokesperson noted that the system can After IEDs are detected, through whatever and Iraq. be “operated entirely from a rugged means at the unit’s disposal, the device A vehicle’s physical protection is also tactical computer”, with the sensor will have to be defused and neutralised now at signifi cantly higher levels than automatically geo-tagging all EO hazard so it does not pose a threat to friendly previous years, with militaries prioritising /IED imagery for easy after action review forces or civilians. Robots have been used up-armoured vehicles to ensure that and intelligence collection. in EOD roles for decades and their use occupant survivability is paramount. One possible confi guration for looks set to increase further over the next Mine-resistant ambush protected (MRAP) GroundEye is an array-mounted confi gu- few years, especially as they signifi cantly vehicles are a staple of land forces’ ration, integrated on to any GPR array reduce risk for soldiers. The acquisition inventories today, and future vehicle antenna to give the host system enhanced of counter-IED and explosive ordnance acquisitions are being infl uenced by the IED detection, and full confi rmation and disposal robots ballooned during the lessons learned from the utilisation of diagnosing capability. Iraq and Afghanistan campaigns, with these vehicles in combat. For example, Several companies now offer the hundreds of QinetiQ Talon and iRobot most new vehicles feature V-hull integration of various sensors - including (now Endeavor Robotics) Packbot’s confi gurations as standard as well as electro-optics, radar and millimetre wave purchased as part of programmes such mine-blast protection that conforms to scanners - on board a vehicle platform as the US Army’s Man Transportable stringent NATO standards. to offer a full spectrum of IED detec-tion Robotic System (MTRS) programme. Despite a refocus on peer confl ict, the capabilities. Israel Aerospace Industries Now the US Army is looking to possibility that asymmetric forces will use for instance offers its ELI-3375 Counter- replace these robots after years of IEDs against a technologically advanced IED & Counter Mine Suite (CIMS), which arduous frontline service, which could force persists. This threat requires a range of incorporates above surface detectors have implications for countries around technologies to ensure the safety of personnel, including synthetic aperture radar and the world, including in Asia. which includes detection, neutralisation an optical detection system, as well as As part of MTRS Increment II, the US and protection measures. Countering IEDs subsurface detection with GPR. Army has selected Endeavor Robotics to remains a skill that must be retained. AMR

| MAY 2019 | 35 REGIONAL MILITARIES MINDEF

Singapore plans to replace its Lockheed Martin F-16s with the F-35 JSF by the 2030s. SINGAPORE’S ROADMAP FOR NEXT GENERATION FORCE Thinking ahead, Singapore’s Ministry of Defence already has plans for the modernisation of its armed forces by 2030. by JR Ng

n a budget speech at the Committee least keep pace with inflation". also to address what could its greatest of Supply Debate in parliament on The SAF has benefited from years immediate threat - the dwindling pool 1 March, defence minister Dr Ng Eng of steady funding to become one of the of manpower resources available for Hen revealed plans to further evolve most well-trained and equipped forces in national defence. As Dr Ng has noted the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Asia Pacific. Many have drawn parallels several times in recent years, Singapore’s toI deal with future security challenges with the Israeli Defense Force (IDF), with demography is its greatest defence and highlighted a broad range of new its fighting strength supplied by citizen- challenge with the quantity of conscripts platforms and future capabilities that will soldiers built around a small cadre of expected to fall by 30 percent by around be introduced from this year to 2030. regular troops and its dependence on 2030. Even so, he asserted that the SAF Eng also announced a record $11.4 technologically advanced aircraft, ships, had never planned to rely on numbers to billion (S$15.5bn) defence budget set aside and vehicles to offset its small size and deal with threats. for financial year 2019 – up from $10.9bn associated geopolitical vulnerabilities. (S$14.8bn) over the revised expenditure The sustained investment to modernise Singapore Army for the previous year – although he its defence capabilities is not only aimed The Singapore Army's ongoing vehicle was quick to add that nominal defence at equipping the SAF to deal with the recapitalisation efforts – which have spending over the next decade is expected widening spectrum of security challenges already introduced new capabilities such to grow at 3-4 percent annually, to "at facing contemporary military forces, but as the Krauss-Maffei Wegmann Leopard

36 | Asian Military Review | REGIONAL MILITARIES

2SG main battle tanks (MBTs) that independently of the gunner's sight, as a recovery winch that can pull a load replaced the obsolete AMX-13 SM1 light enhancing situational awareness and of up to 25.5 tonnes. Like the AFV variant, tanks, as well as new protected mobility threat response. A variant of the vehicle the NGARV is equipped with a suite of vehicles such as the ST Engineering equipped with the missile-capable Rafael cameras that improve the crew’s ability Land Systems 4x4 Belrex Protected Advanced Defense Systems’ Samson to operate the vehicle under armour Combat Support Vehicle (PCSV) and MkII RWS was also briefly shown on protection. 6x6 Peacekeeper Protected Response the Ministry of Defence’s (MINDEF’s) The army’s long-range firepower will Vehicle (PRV) – will soon kick up another website, although it was quickly removed also be boosted by the Next Generation gear with a new generation of armoured on the same day of release. Howitzer: a wheeled self-propelled fighting and artillery platforms. The vehicle is powered by an MTU 8V- 155mm / 52-calibre weapon system that The service is set to receive its Next 199 TE20 diesel engine producing around will offer a higher rate of firepower and Generation Armoured Fighting Vehicles 710hp, which is coupled to a Kinetics reduced manpower requirements over the (NGAFVs), which are under production Drive Solutions HMX3000 transmission army’s current towed Field Howitzer 2000 by ST Engineering Land Systems and are and provides a power-to-weight ratio of (FH2000). It will join the service’s existing expected to operate alongside the tracked 24.5hp/tonne for a maximum stated speed Primus tracked 155mm / 52-calibre self- Bionix infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs). of 70km/h and operating range of 500km. propelled howitzer and High Mobility The new platforms will replace its ageing “For the army, the NGAFV will replace Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS). M113A2 Ultra armoured personnel our M113 Ultras as the mainstay of the Although MINDEF has not released carriers (APCs) that have been in use SAF's mechanised forces from this year detailed information about the Next since the 1970s. onward,” Dr Ng announced, noting that Generation Howitzer, ST Engineering According to official specifications, the vehicle will be debuted at the National Land Systems’ 8x8 Advanced Mobile the 29 tonne NGAFV measures 6.9m Day parade, which occurs in August. Gun System (AMGS) design is widely long, 3.28m wide, and 3.2m tall. It will The service had also earlier unveiled seen as the leading contender. be operated by a three-person crew the prototype of an armoured recovery The AMGS design, which will have comprising the driver, gunner, and vehicle vehicle (ARV) variant of the NGAFV a gross vehicle weight of 28 tonnes and commander, and can carry up to eight fully Based on the same chassis and employing measuring 11.5m long and 3m wide, is equipped troops in its rear compartment. many of the same automotive systems expected to offer a maximum road speed It will be equipped with a remote used in the AFV platform for cost savings, of 80km/h and a cross-country speed of weapon station (RWS) and armed with the recovery variant is operated by a crew 30km/h. It will feature a high level of an Orbital ATK Armament Systems Mk44 of three comprising a vehicle commander, automation with automatic projectile and 30mm calibre main gun and a coaxial a driver, and an automotive specialist charge loading capabilities, while its gun 7.62mm machine gun. The RWS is also technician. laying system is interconnected with a fitted with a roof-mounted panoramic The NGARV’s primary equipment fire control system, enabling the crew to sight that enables the commander to includes a telescopic knuckle boom crane perform fire missions within its armoured survey the environment for threats that can be traversed 360 degrees as well crew cabin. MINDEF

The Navy is still on track to have eight Littoral Mission Vessels by 2020.

| may 2019 | 37 REGIONAL MILITARIES

scheduled to be handed over by 2022. The third and fourth boats – to be named Illustrious and Inimitable respectively – are MINDEF expected to be ready from 2024. The RSN will replace its six upgraded but ageing Victory-class missile corvettes, commissioned between 1990 and 1991 with a yet-unspecified number of new Multi-Role Combat Vessels (MRCVs). Deliveries of this new and unprecedented class of ships, which have been described as modular ‘motherships’ that can simultaneously carry and deploy a variety of unmanned systems, are expected to commence from 2025 through 2030. Although details of these new ships are still scant, an RSN official has been quoted in local media as saying that a typical ST Engineering Land Systems has been selected to supply “strike package” could comprise a pair the Singapore Army with its of MRCVs that are carrying as many as Next Generation Armoured three unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for Fighting Vehicles (NGAFV). sustained airborne ISR missions, as well as two unmanned surface vessels (USVs). “Besides improving capabilities, the The company earlier stated that the ability to act, have also been incorporated new MRCVs will be custom-built for lean AMGS can fire six rounds every three into their design. These include data manning and incorporate technologies minutes with an effective maximum analytics and decision support engines to automate certain functions,” Dr Ng range of 40km with extended range full that have been indigenously developed said in his speech, the design approach bore (ERFB) ammunition. by Singapore’s Defence Science and adopted for the ships is expected to Technology Agency (DSTA). reduce operation costs by up to 10 Republic of Singapore Navy Underwater manoeuvrability in the percent, compared with comparatively Likewise, the Republic of Singapore Navy littoral operating environment has been sized vessels. (RSN) is also committed to modernising optimised with an X-rudder fin design, The RSN’s four 141m Endurance-class its fleet and is set to replace many of its while fuel cell-based AIP propulsion landing ships that were commissioned present assets by 2030. In March 2019, the technology is expected to enable the new between 2000 and 2001 will also be service launched the first of four new- submarines to remain submerged for replaced by an unknown number of larger built and air-independent propulsion approximately 50 percent longer than the and better equipped Joint Multi Mission (AIP)-equipped Type 218SG diesel-electric in-service boats. Ships (JMMSs). Likewise, MINDEF has yet submarines – procured under separate The lead boat, Invincible, will undergo to release any information on these vessels, contracts in 2013 and 2017 – that will sea trials before its expected delivery in although ST Engineering Marine is seen replace the service’s ex-Swedish Navy 2021, while the second, Impeccable, is by some defence watchers as the leading Västergötland class AIP boats by 2025. Under construction in Kiel by ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), the Type 218SG submarine will be operated by a 28-person crew has an MINDEF overall length of 70m with a pressure hull diameter of 6.3m. According to MINDEF specifications, the new boats will displace 2,200 tonnes when submerged and 2,000 tonnes when surfaced and are expected to reach maximum speeds of more than 15 knots when submerged. The boats are armed with eight torpedo tubes, which are reportedly The RSAF is set to 533mm in size, and can be fitted out receive the latest with a wider range of mission payloads. CH-47F version of Advanced automation as well as the Boeing Chinook indigenously-developed sense-making heavy lift helicopter. and “accelerated decision-making support systems” designed to improve crew situational awareness and their

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eight more. He did not provide details of which aircraft variant will be assessed by the RSAF, although earlier media reports have suggested a possible interest in the

Thyssenkrupp F-35B short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) variant. “We have announced our plans to replace the F-16s, which will face obsolescence post-2030, with the F-35s,” he said. “This will mean that the RSAF fighter fleet will consist of F-35s and F-15SGs if plans come to fruition a decade or so from now.” The future combat aircraft mix will be supported by the Airbus A330 Multi- Role Tanker Transport (A330-MRTT), which will replace the ageing KC-135R Stratotanker. At least two MRTTs have been delivered as of writing. The RSAF will also take delivery of the Airbus Helicopters H225M medium- lift and Boeing CH-47F heavy-lift On 18 February 2019, Thyssenkrupp helicopters to replace its existing AS332M Marine Systems held a ceremony to launch the first Type 218SG Super Puma and CH-47D/SD Chinook submarine for the Singaporean Navy. fleets from 2020 onwards, while its in- service Hermes 450 tactical and Heron 1 medium-altitude long-endurance UAVs contender for the JMMS programme with had a favourable experience with the will be phased out in favour of new its track record of securing local naval company’s stealthy La Fayette-class platforms “over the next few years”. shipbuilding contracts. The company is design that forms the basis for its principal The service continues to invest offering evolved versions of the Endurance surface warfare combatants today: the significant time and resources into platform with the Endurance 160/170 Formidable-class multi-mission frigates. improving its Integrated Air Defence landing helicopter dock (LHD) designs. The service is also on track to (IAD) network, bringing online The 14,500-tonne Endurance 160 operationalise all eight of the Littoral several new radar systems such as design debuted as far back as 2010, Mission Vessels (LMVs) by 2020. Built by the ground-based IAI Elta E/LM- depicting a 163.7m long vessel that ST Engineering Marine and derived from 2084 multi-mission radar (MMR) and features a flight deck with capacity for Saab’s Flexpatrol design, these new ships ThalesRaytheonSystems Ground Master up to five medium-lift helicopters or replace its Fearless-class patrol vessels. 200, as well as the airborne E/LM 2083 two heavy lift helicopters, hangar space The eighth and final LMV, Fearless, was Aerostat Early Warning Radar aboard its and maintenance support for up to launched in January 2019. two new 55m TCOM aerostats. seven medium-lift helicopters with their These radars are managed by an rotors folded, and a stern well-deck that Republic of Singapore Air Force indigenous Combat Management System can accommodate up to four landing By the 2030 timeframe, the Republic of (CMS) developed by DSTA, which not craft. Besides rotary aircraft, the ship Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is expected to only fuses information from multiple will also be equipped with extensive replace its fleet of Lockheed Martin F-16C sensors to present a highly detailed air medical facilities and will be capable of and 40 F-16D Block 52/52 fighter aircraft situation picture but is also designed transporting heavy/light wheeled and acquired in the 1990s. These aircraft are to enhance the agility and accuracy of tracked vehicles. presently undergoing a mid-life upgrade air defence personnel in responding to A larger design, the Endurance 170, (MLU) programme and will benefit from incoming threats. was unveiled in 2017. This is envisioned a range of enhancements comprising a In March 2018, the first images of the to have a full load displacement of around new active electronically scanned array service’s new MBDA Aster 30 SAMP/T 17,000 tonnes, increased hangar space for (AESA) radar – believed to be Northrop (Sol-Air Moyenne Portée Terrestre) up to 10 medium-lift helicopters, as well Grumman’s AN/APG-83 Scalable Agile medium-range SAM systems were as an improved armament fit comprising Beam Radar – and updated avionics revealed. The new systems will replace a 76mm main gun, four 30mm secondary including the Link-16 datalink. Upgrade the its upgraded but ageing Raytheon guns, two anti-missile launchers, and a work for the aircraft began in 2016 and MIM-23B Improved Homing All the Way 16-cell vertical launch system for surface- will be completed by 2023. Killer (I-HAWK) missile systems operated to-air (SAM) missiles. Dr Ng revealed during his speech by 163 Squadron, which entered service in That is not to say that foreign designs, that MINDEF will seek an initial order the early 1980s, and will complement the such as Naval Group’s Mistral-class of four 5th Generation Lockheed Martin shorter-range Rafael Advanced Defense projection and command ships, are not F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Systems Surface-to-Air PYthon and DERby in contention, given that the RSN has for further evaluation, with an option for (SPYDER) systems delivered in 2012. AMR

40 | Asian Military Review | Untitled-1 1 4/9/19 4:04 PM ANALYST COLUMN

ASSESSING MALAYSIA’S LIGHT COMBAT AIRCRAFT OPTIONS by Ben Ho

he Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is said As for the Tejas, it has some commonality with the to be on the market for a Light Combat Aircraft RMAF’s logistical base as it is powered by the General (LCA) to augment its existing ‘heavy’ fi ghter fl eet Dynamics F404 engine that is also used by the service’s of Boeing F/A-18 Hornets and Sukhoi SU-30 F/A-18 Hornets. There is also an element of congruence

TFlankers. The LCA, slated for delivery in 2021-2022, is with the service’s mainstay, the SU-30, given that the China News Agency part of the RMAF’s ‘Capability 55’ transformation road- Tejas can accept Russian weapons. However, some parts map aimed at sustaining the service’s capabilities up to of the Tejas’ avionics suite are Israeli in origin, and this 2055. Three platforms are reportedly contenders for the could infl uence Malaysia’s fi nal decision given its stance LCA programme: HAL Tejas (India), CAC/PAC JF-17 towards the Jewish nation. Indeed, should the Indian Thunder (China-Pakistan), and KAI FA-50 Golden Eagle aircraft be chosen, it is not inconceivable that all the (South Korea). But which one of them would be the best ‘Made-In-Israel’ parts would need to be replaced with choice for Malaysia? something more politically palatable. This invariably In terms of performance, the Golden Eagle and Tejas means additional costs. have arguably superior avionics compared to the Thunder. This brings us to the third and last option for the LCA, In other areas such as speed, service ceiling and payload, the FA-50. While the Korean aircraft is the costliest prima however, all three platforms are fairly similar. Any advan- facie, it has a number of advantages.It also has the reliable tage one aircraft has over one or the other two contenders F404 engine, and accepts Western armaments. Logistical is marginal or can be negated in other areas. When commonality with the RMAF Hornet fl eet – checked. operational attributes are more or less the same, com- Likelihood of lower downstream costs – also checked. modisation kicks in. This is an economic situation, where, Moreover, the Golden Eagle is a fairly well-established in the words of leading defence industry expert Richard platform in the region as it is already in service with Bitzinger, there “exists an almost total lack of meaningful Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. Should the differentiation between competing products, and when RMAF get this aircraft, interoperability between its major they are instead sold almost entirely on the basis of price”. regional counterparts during exercises and operations Indeed, Malaysia’s well-documented economic woes would be enhanced. All in all, while it may be the most mean that cost could be the main concern for Putrajaya expensive, the Golden Eagle offers benefi ts, both tangible when it comes to the LCA programme. Based on cost and intangible, that arguably transcends its $30 million alone, the JF-17, with a unit price of some $25 million, price tag. is the cheapest amongst the three contenders. How- While pragmatic reasons as discussed above posit ever, both the Tejas and FA-50 are priced at around $28 the South Korean aircraft as the choice to make, political million and $30 million respectively. Given that Malaysia considerations, like the need to strengthen ties with is reportedly looking into acquiring up to 36 LCAs, a either India or the Iron Brothers (Pakistan-China), may very substantial amount will be saved should the cheapest become overriding. This state of affairs is commonplace option – the JF-17 – be chosen. all over the world, but especially so in South-east Asia, Cost is just one of several drivers behind any one and we may just see it happen again in Malaysia’s LCA arms acquisition decision. That the JF-17 uses a Russian requirement. engine fairly similar to the one used by the now-grounded MIG-29 in RMAF service could also be a factor in Malaysia’s choice of aircraft. The Klimov RD-33 engine had serviceability issues when the MIG-29 was deployed. The JF-17 may therefore not be the best option in terms of Note: Ben Ho is an associate research fellow with the military studies reliability, and it may need signifi cant after-sales support programme at Singapore’s Rajaratnam School of International Studies. and maintenance. E-mail: [email protected]

42 | ASIAN MILITARY REVIEW |

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