Insider knowledge for the discerning defence and security professional

Issue #20 February 2019

VIRTUAL TRAINING TAKES UK CARRIERS EXTEND L-38NG TRAINER THE NEXT LEAP COMBAT CONTRACT MARKET PROSPECTS THE VIPER STRIKES CHIMING IN ON BELL’S MIDDLE EAST CONTRACTS

INTERVIEW AIRBUS ROTARY PLANS

FALCO TO MONITOR BRAZIL ADOPTS FRANCE PLANS EU BORDERS ITALIAN LMVS 2019 SSN ORDER

ii :: Defence Industry Bulletin i Land

Brazilian ARES eye to field trial its TORC30 RCWSVictor M.S. Barreira

RES Aeroespacial e Defesa, a launchers. Other main fittings armored vehicle. An initial batch ABrazilian operation of Elbit include Elbit Systems E-LAWS of 81 stations was previously Systems is aiming to integrate and laser warning system and the delivered. ARES has also developed trial its TORC30 modular remotely- commander’s and the gunner’s the STARMAX portable training controlled weapon station (RCWS) sights by Elbit Systems. Optionally, system to train gunners of REMAX on 90mm-turreted EE-9 Cascavel it can include launcher for anti- 3. A new and updated version of 6x6 light reconnaissance tank of tank guided missile and gunshot REMAX is being developed. Brazilian Army. detection kit. It is controlled by 10.4” LCD display of Elbit Systems The REMAX 3 mainly include The TORC30 was jointly developed with gunner control handle unit. 7.62mm MAG58 or 12.7mm M2HB with Army Technological Center machine gun, four smoke grenade (CTEx) between 2012 and 2016 A project designated as the VBR- launchers and OIP Sensor Systems for low-level air defence and MSR was launched in 2017 aimed EOPTRIS 2.0 electro-optical payload. reconnaissance roles by tracked at to modernize the EE-9 Cascavel or wheeled armoured vehicles. fleet as an intermediate solution Initial 13 UT30BR remote- Development was financed by before the so-called VBR-MR 8x8 controlled weapon stations armed Brazilian Innovation Agency (FINEP) vehicle project with 105mm-turret with Northrop Grumman MK44 through the Development and is re-activated. Brazil currently Bushmaster 30x173mm automatic Innovation Support Foundation fields around 400 of the EE-9 cannon was earlier supplied by of the Brazilian Army (FAPEB) in Cascavel in M II, M VI and M VII AREs for the VBTP-MSR Guarani accordance with the contract by versions. vehicle. A UT30 Mk2 version is CTEx. available in both manual and Local company, Equitron remote configurations armed with The low-profile two-axis gyro- Automação, previously modernized MK44 Bushmaster cannon, coaxial stabilized turret incorporating one chassis and turret of the EE-9 MAG58 machine gun and launcher modular armour package of NATO Cascavel in accordance with the for anti-tank guided missile. STANAG 4569 level 2 standard with contracts of the army War Arsenal potential grow up to level 4, is of São Paulo (AGSP). A small batch of ARES’ REMAN armed with 30x173mm Rheinmetall manually operated weapon stations MK30-2/ABM air burst ammunition ARES is currently supplying the were recently supplied to Brazilian cannon with 150 rounds and 50 Brazilian Army with 215 REMAX Army for evaluation on VBTP-MSR rounds magazines; coaxial 7.62mm 3 remotely-controlled weapon Guarani. FN Herstal MAG58 machine gun; stations for the service’s Iveco and eight 76mm smoke grenades VBTP-MSR Guarani 6x6 amphibious

TORC30 medium-calibre weapon station here mounted to EE-9 Cascavel tank. Source: ARES

1 :: Defence Industry Bulletin Land

Thales unveils NUADA training platform Oliver Austin

hales has begun showcasing believe NUADA will simplify the However, delivering coherent TNUADA, its new platform for process,” said Benoit Plantier, VP training to all trainee participants coordinating networked training Training and Simulation at Thales. requires a networked synthetic and simulation for military and training system comprising of any security personnel. number of simulators, a network to link them up and a whole set of Training providers witnessed Demand for infrastructure tools and services the first public demonstrations including exercise control tools, in Orlando on November, synthetic training computer generated forces and with programme managers role-player applications. showing ways in which the and the use of technology simplifies planning, NUADA offers key functionality preparation and delivery of simulators to for geographically distributed training in networked simulation teams to coordinate networked environments. train equipment training over distance, including: management of requirements and The platform intends to enable operators is rising resources to create a programme of teams to work seamlessly together training events, automation of the in a collaborative environment, deployment of multiple simulation regardless of location. They can environments and enables schedule, create and track an event The demand for synthetic training multiple events to be launched programme in ways that may and the use of simulators to simultaneously; integration of third be more effective than existing train equipment operators are party products, acting as the “glue” methods, thereby using fewer rising as it provides increasingly to bring a large number of tools resources and reducing the overall realistic models that are largely together; and allowance of events cost of training. less expensive than traditional to be repeated and assets to be methods. Networking is the saved, stored and reused. “Deliverers of networked next generation of training and simulation training have to simulation, offering collective coordinate numerous work streams environments in which dispersed using different tools and deliver military units can train and prepare it all as a coherent package. We for missions together.

NUADA training cockpit. Image: Thales

Defence Industry Bulletin :: 2 Land

Streit Group showcases vehicle portfolio for UAE Oliver Austin

n November 26, 2018, armoured the vehicle capabilities on land has since expanded its presence Ovehicles manufacturer and water. This was done in to 25 countries, including 12 STREIT Group produced a live conjunction with RAK SWAT teams, manufacturing facilities. Beyond demonstration of its range of undertaking manoeuvres in APCs military and local authority options, vehicles for officials in the United and MRAPs, such as the Scorpion, it also has products in the Cash- Arab Emirates, including the newly Typhoon, Gladiator, and other In-Transit, luxury and personal launched Streit Marine, several mainstays within the portfolio. protection ranges. armoured boats and the all-terrain SHERP. The Canadian-owned company has The demo battled a raft of PR issues in recent The demonstration at Mina Al Arab, years, including being fined in 2015 Ras al Khaimah, was hosted by simulated assault by the US government for illegally STREIT Group Chairman Guerman exporting vehicles to countries like Goutorov, who welcomed His attack situations Nigeria, UAE, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr the Philippines, and more recent Al Qasimi, Member of the UAE demonstrating the accusations that their vehicles have Supreme Council, International been spotted operating in Sudan members of the Ministry of and Yemen in spite of export bans. Defence, Ministry of Interior, vehicle capabilities Ambassadors and other customers on land and water from across the world. The demo simulated assault Founded by Goutorov almost attack situations demonstrating three decades ago, Streit Group

Streit Group offerings include the Spartan APC, used by police and military. Image: wikimedia

3 :: Defence Industry Bulletin The world's premier online FUTURE The whoelrilcdo'sp tperre fmoireurm online MFUILTIUTARREY The whoerllidc'osp pterer mfoierur monline HFMUEILTLIUITCRAOERPYTER helicopter forum OMHNEILLLIITICNAOERP Y2T0E19R HO20EN-2LL1 IMICNaOrEcP h2T0E1R9 O20N-2L1 IMNaErc h2019 Survivability in the future and 20-21 March minimising risk: How sSuurrvviivvaabbiilliittyy w inil tl hbee fduetfuinree da nind the cmoimnimngis yineagr rsi sakn:d H hooww industry is Ssuurrvviivvaabbiilliittyy iwn itllh bee f udteufrinee adn idn the working to protect rotary aircraft mfcrooinmmimi neilgse iycnetgra orrinss ikac:n wHda ohrwofawr ein adnudstry is sowuthorverkirv ihanibggi htlio-tl ype vrwoeitl let bhcter e rdoaetfsai.nrye dai irnc rtahfet cforommin egl eycetarrosn aicn dw haorfwar ien daunsdtry is wotohrekrin hgig tho- plervoetel tcht rreoattasr.y aircraft from electronic warfare and

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The Austro-Asian artillery alternative Georg Mader

For smaller or (chronically) underfunded armies, heavy mortars – like those with 120mm calibre –have developed into an acceptable alternative to ‘classic’ artillery. Today, a matured 155mm capability requires a heavy self-propelled (and thus special) vehicle. This means spending several years in the procurement cycle and one or two zeros added to the price tag. Recent combat experiences, such as the Ukraine conflict, are however suggesting ‘swift’ firing position changes, a practice naturally challenging for drawn heavy mortars. There are up to a few minutes to the enemy‘s fire response – at best. For this much-needed mobility, an innovative niche concept-agreement for fire support was presented in Paris this year. Under Austrian leadership and with ammunition from Hirtenberger (HDS), an unexpected joint weapon approach is emerging from Singapore. HDS senior staff gave us the details…

t Eurosatory, Hirtenberger Eastern Ukraine, where whole units support-vehicles are required to ADefense Systems (est. 1860, were literally wiped out by very carry a sustainable amount of and often referring to itself as accurate indirect Russian MLRS- ammunition. And with CONFRAG ‘The Mortar Company’) presented artillery fire…” you need less ammunition, which a product-related collaboration- Barth further underlined the will make a difference in the project with ST-Engineering benefits of the concept with ST, 120mm mortar market. Kinetics (their former Land- in that “the sophisticated recoil Systems Department) from damping of the SRAM down to less “It’s a good situation for customers Singapore, centred around their than 26 tons makes it possible to to not have to qualify everything futuristic 120mm SRAMS or ‘Super be fired from a variety of wheeled from scratch – no qualification Rapid Advanced Mortar System’. or tracked vehicles, already of the weapon and independent Through HDS’s UK office, the introduced on the market or in the qualification of the ammunition. organisation was targeting the inventory of various armed forces. We can therefore anticipate European market, an otherwise The system can be installed on an increase in demand from difficult prospect for a medium-size 4x4 platforms or ‘Hägglund’-type customers, while the market for company from SE-Asia. The fire- vehicles retrospectively, as well as mobile and vehicle-mounted control system and various types of of course on the whole range of 6x6 mortar systems and via third- NATO-qualified ammunition have and 8x8 multi-purpose wheeled party vehicle manufacturers also already been approved in Europe or tracked multi-purpose vehicles. looks convincing. Taking the recent thanks to the Austrian element. Subsequently, for customers – success of the Rheinmetall/KMW Among the munitions, in addition unlike with self-propelled artillery Boxer in Australia and the UK’s to smoke, light- or IR-(parachute) – the budgetary and logistical effort interest, we’re closely following bombs, they now offer a highly to tender, acquire and operate a these developments.” explosive solution in the form of whole new and dedicated vehicle HE CONFRAG Mk.3, with 60 percent is avoided. On the other hand, in Prior to the agreement with HDS, increased splinter effect (or, using utilising a heavier system like a the SRAMS system already became the technical term, lethality). 120mm, larger vehicles or more operational with the Singaporean CONFRAG is also offered for the 60mm and 81mm launchers in the HDS portfolio.

According to HDS Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Carsten Barth, “the background of this idea is to provide the ability for accurate fire support, while being mobile in a short amount of time is essential, as counter-battery fire capabilities improve and the time between first firing and response fire decreases to just a few minutes. That is likely too short for a towed system to get away in time. This is what European armies have learnt since 2014 in The SRAMS lighter weight comes in response to the need for ‘shoot-and-scoot’ tactics. Image: G. Mader

Defence Industry Bulletin :: 5 Land

effector and opens up a range of small target-marking charge was application variants. The computer- allowed to be used in these demos. assisted fire control automatically Therefore expectations of intense, takes the data from the handheld shattering firepower were replaced of the forward observer – who may with tiny grey puffs that were be out in the field dismounted or in barely visible to the naked eye another vehicle (or a helicopter) – at observer distances. However, and marks targets up to a distance what was demonstrated very well of 9,000m out while computing the – thanks to two loaded grenades relevant ballistic data. It uses laser during a fast-rate firing of up to 10 target acquisition, a GPS navigation rounds per minute – was the semi- system and a digital map. automatic loading-system (ALS) which lifts the ammunition along Paris witnessed HDS-mediated and over the mouth of the 2.1 m live firing demonstrations, which long barrel and its double-sided would otherwise have been difficult muzzle blast diffuser in seconds, to organize in Europe for the ST inserting it from the front. The Demonstrations taking place in the team’s chief engineer James Teow diffuser reduces the high blast Triesting valley. Image: G. Mader Soon Ng and General Manager overpressure to below the allowable Chor Kiat Tan. Similar tests were limit for the crew to operate safely Armed Forces on the Bronco all- witnessed in September at the during prolonged or rapid firings. terrain tracked carrier (ATTC), Austrian Federal Army‘s firing and with the UAE on its Denel range in Felixdorf, run by their Nevertheless, any trade-off between OMC RG31 Mk.6E mine-protected department of armaments and mobility and firepower calls into armoured vehicle (MPV), called the defence technology. At only a few question the size of the mortar Agrab (Scorpion) MK2. The UAE kilometres from HDS head office and the concept of its operational bought 46 Agrabs in a 2007 contract, and production site in the Triesting deployment. A heavier system – like then worth 390 million Dirham valley south of Vienna, guests a 120mm – might require a larger (US$ 106m). The 3-man operated included military, government and vehicle to carry a serious amount 10-ton vehicle carries 46 mortar industrial representatives from of ammunition. While SRAMS rounds in two carousels and has countries such as Germany, Latvia, can be installed and operated on two further racks for another 12 Estonia and Slovenia – all potential a 4×4, this case will likely require rounds. While TV images captured customers that the Singaporeans a higher number of additional the system deployed in the Yemen get less opportunity to meet. support vehicles for a successful War, UAE’s ammunition is not from Defence Industry Bulletin was also deployment. This may in turn HDS but from local manufacturer in attendance. lead to higher support costs and International Golden Group. an increased number of crew to Because of the rigid (yet operate a single unit. Therefore, to HDS’s fully electronic Arc Fire fire understandable) safety introduce such a concept remains a control system – with components requirements of the Austrian question of assessment. from Rockwell Collins – allows a military, only (blue) training completely autonomous use of the ammunition with a correspondingly

SRAMS SPECIFICATIONS

Main weapon calibre (mm) 120 Depression (degree) 40 Rate of fire (rds/min) 10 Traverse arc (degree) ± 40 Weight (kg) 1,200 Loading Sys Semi- Barrel length, inclusive of Blast Diffuser 2,1 auto (m) Recoil Force (t) < 26 Firing range (m) 9,000 First Round (sec) after 60 Elevation (degree) 80 Crew 3

6 :: Defence Industry Bulletin Land

Italy sells Brazilian Army second-hand LMVs Eugenio Po

nder a contract of Sete Lagoas plant. The LMV was purchased by the Army in 360 Uapproximately $4.3 million introduced into the Italian Army in units. The VTLM-1 received all of its (16m Real), Brazil obtained 16 2006 with the VTLM demarcation improvements through feedback second-hand 4x4 LMV (Light (Veicolo Tattico Leggero Multiruolo, from the operational employment Modular Vehicle) LINCE (Lynx) Light Tactical Multi Role Vehicle). of the VTLM in Afghanistan. In armoured vehicles from Italy. 2012, Iveco DV designed a further These vehicles, designed and evolved variant called VTLM-1A manufactured by Iveco DV (479 vehicles delivered to the (Defense Vehicles) in Bolzano, The LMV was Italian Army, plus another 193 are former Italian Army LMV in a VTLM-1A under option) with VTLM-K2 configuration that will introduced upgraded ballistic protection, crew be completely reconditioned (for compartment volumes, armament, a unitary cost of around 170,000 into the Italian electrical system and other euros). Army in 2006 characteristics. These LINCE-K2 units will be While waiting for the new VTLM- delivered to the Gabinete de with the VTLM 2, the Italian Army started a Intervention Federal en el Estado programme for the upgrade of the de Rio de Janeiro (Rio de Janeiro’s demarcation older VTLM in 2014 in its initial Federal Intervention Cabinet) configuration – as refitted vehicles, and have no connection with the augmented with a few VTLM- acquisition of the LMV by Brazilian The Italian Army acquired 1 and VTLM-1A improvements, Army (VBMT-LR, Viatura Blindada more than 1,000 vehicles in this and named the VTLM-K2. The Multitarefa – Leve de Rodas, initial configuration. The VTLM- modifications took these vehicles to programme) locally produced 1 appeared in 2011 as the first a new standard “halfway between” under licence by Iveco do Brazil upgrade variant of the LINCE, the VTLM-1 and VTLM-1A.

Brazil Army personnel attended a driving and maintenance course in Italy to manage the new LINCE-K2 armoured vehicle. Source: Brazilian Army

Defence Industry Bulletin :: 7 Land

Market acceptability of HIMARS Debalina Ghoshal

he Lockheed Martin-developed to South Syria for better combat sensors, spare and repair parts, test TM142 High Mobility Rocket capability. This was the first time sets, batteries, laptop computers, System (HIMARS) is a multiple the US used HIMARS in Syria. In publications and technical data, launch rocket system (MLRS) 2016, there were also reports that facility design and training system that has been used during the Department of Defence was equipment – was worth US$1.25 Operation Enduring Freedom and planning to place HIMARS in Turkey billion. This deal would not only Operation Iraqi Freedom. Several and Northern Iraq to prevent ISIS strengthen Romania’s defence countries have since taken active cross-firing from Syria. HIMARS was capability but also strengthen NATO interest in recent years, leading to expected to strengthen the combat conventional deterrence. this technology making an impact capability of the Iraqi Security on both the defence market and the Forces (ISF). Poland has also taken interest in frontlines. developing a programme similar Trends in HIMARS sales to HIMARS in cooperation with The artillery piece can be the Polish Armament Group and transported by C-130 aircraft and HIMARS has found a market in Lockheed Martin. Unlike Romania, other large aircraft, and they are Asian – including West Asia and Poland is more interested in joint used to fire Army Tactical Missiles South East Asia – and European production of the system rather (ATACMs), as well as guided rockets. countries. In August 2017, the US than acquiring the same assets According to Lockheed Martin State Department cleared a HIMARS or capability. This would be a Missiles and Fire Control Camden sale to Romania for 54 units. lucrative offer for Lockheed Martin Operations Director, Colin Sterling, Among Middle Eastern countries, as cost of production is relatively the HIMARS launchers are “combat Jordan and the UAE have bought low in Poland. Aside from keeping proven” and have been in services the HIMARS and amongst South costs low, Poland is seeking self- since 2005. The weapon system East Asian countries, purchase sufficiency and promotion of its is “all-weather, 24/7 lethal and has been made by Singapore. For local defence industry, a model responsive, precision strike weapon all these countries, the desire to known as ‘Polonisation’. system.” achieve long-range precision strikes has been the key driver. All of these nations and prospective The system was also used in customers have a common reason the 2010 Operation Moshtarak, The sale of HIMARS to these to choose HIMARS – the system’s the largest offensive against the countries fall under the US Foreign proven success rate in real-time Taliban. In 2016, the US Pacific Military Sales (FMS) scheme, and war. But in addition, all these Commander Admiral Harry Harris has been particularly appealing countries share strong alliances has requested the US Army to to Washington as an approach with the United States and the deploy the HIMARS in the South to promote political stability and purchase is as much a facilitator of China Sea in response to the economic growth in regions where bilateral cooperation as it is an aid growing Chinese assertiveness in there is American strategic interest. to defensive countermeasure. the region. Singapore received its first HIMARS Lockheed Martin has traditionally In May 2016, the director of launcher in 2010, and in 2011 the outsourced the production of international business development same was commissioned by the HIMARS to external manufacturers. at Lockheed’s Missile and Fire Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) fleet However, with the growing demand Control Unit, Tom Stanton had in 2011. For Singapore, as stated for HIMARS, the organisation may identified the Asia-Pacific, Europe by Minister for Defence Dr. Ng Eng soon start domestic production of and the Middle East as “fertile Hen, the HIMARS would enable the system. This would not only grounds” for the sale of HIMARS. the SAF to “respond decisively help Lockheed to reassess the As of May 2016, a total of 480 to new challenges and changing cost of the system but also enable HIMARS were sold to domestic and circumstances in its operational the option of delivering weapon international customers. environment.” systems within the stipulated time frame without – something often In June 2017, it was reported that Romania’s HIMARS deal – too dependent on the efficiency of the HIMARS was moved by the including related support, such outside contractors. US Army from the Jordan border as communication equipment,

8 :: Defence Industry Bulletin April 29 - May 1 │ Detroit, MI SPRING

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France plans to order final Barracuda SSN in 2019Victor Barreira

he French armament In December 2006, DGA awarded ship missile and 533mm Naval Tprocurement agency, the the overall Barracuda contract to Group F21 heavyweight torpedo. Direction Générale de l´Armement Naval Group as the programme It will also includes provisions (DGA) will order the sixth and final prime contractor and to for special operations forces Suffren-class Barracuda nuclear- Technicatome as nuclear power deployment in immersion. powered attack submarine in 2019 plant prime contractor. The firm for the French Navy. order placed at the same time Other main equipment include called for the development and SYCOBS (SYstème de COmbat pour The submarines FS Suffren, FS construction of first-of-class FS Barracuda et SSBN) integrated Duguay-Trouin, FS Tourville, FS De Suffren and initial through-life combat management system (CMS). Grasse and FS Rubis were ordered support for all six submarines. Safran Defense Electronics and in 2006 2009, 2011, 2014 and 2018 Thales are other major contributors respectively, to progressively The final integration and testing to French Barracuda program. replace the six existing Rubis-class activity of first-of-class FS boats, thus contributing to the Suffren is currently ongoing, with The Barracuda type features renewal of France’s naval forces. commissioning by the French Navy surface displacement of 4,700 tons The fleet will integrate the navy’s scheduled for 2020. Commissioning and submerged displacement of Oceanic Strategic Force, the FOST of units was initially due to take 5,100 tons, measures 99.9m in (Force Océanique Stratégique). They place in 2017. length and 8.8m in diameter for will be operated by the Nuclear a top speed of 25 kts, and hosts a Attack Submarines Squadron, the The Barracuda will be armed with crew of 63. ESNA (Escadrille des Sous-marins MBDA MdCN (Missile de Croisière Nucléaires d’Attaque (ESNA) from Naval) tactical cruise missile, MBDA Toulon naval base. Exocet SM39 Block 2 Mod 2 anti-

The six Barracuda nuclear-powered attack submarines will be commissioned by the French Navy from 2020. Source: DGA

Defence Industry Bulletin :: 10 Sea

Cyprus orders second OPV 62 from Israel M. Mazumdar

he Cyprus Ministry of Defence Cypriot naval force as Commodore for the Greek Coast Guard, six for Tis understood to have signed a Andreas Ioannides P61 in January the Azerbaijan Coast Guard and contract with Israel Shipyard for a 2018. Israel Shipyard has found now two to Cyprus. It is unclear second OPV 62 (Saar 62) offshore considerable export success with if Cyprus will eventually move patrol vessel to be delivered in the OPV 62 design with 13 hulls forward with an earlier plan to early 2020. Earlier this year, the first sold to four customers – two for acquire a total of four Saar 62 hulls. OPV 62 was commissioned into the the Equatorial Guinean Navy, three

Third US Navy DDG1000 destroyer launched M. Mazumdar

he third and last ship of the install various weapons, sensors destroyers have also undergone a TZumwalt DDG1000 class and communications systems. mission reorientation since late destroyer – Lyndon B Johnson DDG Lead ship USS Zumwalt DDG 1000 2017 from land attack to surface 1002 – was launched on 9 December recently completed this process warfare through the integration at General Dynamics Bath Iron at San Diego and it is slated to of Standard SM-6 missiles Works. Meanwhile, the second of undergo its Combat Systems and possibly other anti-ship class – USS Michael Monsoor DDG Ship Qualifications Trials as missiles. This was brought about 1001 – arrived at its homeport of part of its ongoing Operational primarily by the lack of affordable San Diego on 07 December where Test & Evaluation phase ahead ammunition for the ships’ much it will be commissioned in late of a planned Initial Operational touted Advanced Gun Systems. January 2019. Capability (IOC) in Fiscal Year 2020. In fact, the US Navy may remove the AGS from the ships if it fails to DDG 1001 will then begin its Overall, the (approximately) $23 develop a new round, according to extensive combat system activation billion, three-ship project has top USN officials. process – a lengthy ‘post-delivery been problematic and continues availability’ dockyard phase to to experience cost overruns. These

11 :: Defence Industry Bulletin Sea

Taiwan awards missile corvette contract M. Mazumdar

aiwan’s Lung Teh Shipbuilding by November 2021 according to utility of these small craft from TCo has been awarded contracts Taiwanese sources. Taiwanese lawmakers. These craft to build 11 Tuo Chiang-class are understood to be 21.4m, 45 ton missile corvettes and four small, Taiwan’s Ministry of National stealthy craft whose design and high-speed minelayers for the Defence also plans on ordering prototype building is to begin in Taiwanese Navy. Deliveries of the 45 small missile boats against 2019 according to navy’s Chief of catamaran hulled Tuo Chiang-class an earlier plan to order 60 of Staff Vice Admiral Lee Tsung-hsiao. guided missile corvettes is slated these hulls. The reduction is The planned entry into service date for completion by 2026 while the due to budgetary constraints for these craft would not be earlier minelayers are slated for delivery and scepticism on the tactical than 2021.

Iranian frigate progress M. Mazumdar

he Iranian Navy has inducted two in previous designs. The ships’ submarines Ghadir 942 and 955 in Tits third home-built frigate range is over 8000 nm. It also sports late November. There are conflicting under its Mowj programme. The a new single-barrelled CIWS called reports as to whether these are new 96m Sahand, built at Bandar Abbas, Kemand. The ship was inducted build hulls or modernized hulls or a was inducted into the IRIN on 1 into service with what appears to combination of one upgraded hull – December, 2018. Unlike the previous be a complete sensor fit though Ghadir 942 – and one new build hull designs closely resemble the IRIN officials have noted that the Ghadir 955. IRIN officials also said Vosper Mk design, the Sahand has frigate could be fitted with Iran’s that Ghadir 955 is the fourteenth a ‘stealthier’ appearance with slab Asr phased array radar system. submarine built in Iran. sided superstructure arrangement as well as four engines – believed The IRIN also inducted into service to Caterpillar diesels – instead of two Ghadir (Qadir) class midget

Defence Industry Bulletin :: 12 Sea

Elettronica is working on a ‘naval DIRCM’ Eugenio Po

lettronica Group (ELT) is working forces can engage their targets cascade is the latest development Eon a naval application of DIRCM with a variety of IR weapons (from in laser technology, and represents (Direct Infra Red Counter Measures) MANPADS to anti-tank systems) a step forward from conventional technology for improving its soft against which a DIRCM system can semiconductor lasers. QCL energy kill anti-missile capability. This be an effective soft kill solution. is generated directly in the band ‘naval DIRCM’ represents a new Even in conventional warfare of interest, optimising the power development programme entirely scenarios a “naval DIRCM” can consumption at the same time as built on the company’s internal be a game changer because of output beam. funds. the spreading of some new light anti-ship missiles equipped with The ‘naval DIRCM’ system is able This new system is a spin-off of IIR seekers and because of the to coordinate a number of DIRCM EuroDIRQM: an innovative DIRCM arrival of new generation anti-ship (each ship needs more than one using the new QCL (Quantum missiles with dual-mode seekers DIRCM to protect the vessel on Cascade Laser) technology, (IIR and radar). 360o) and to employ DIRCM and developed primarily for airborne flares in close cooperation. Both applications. According to The ‘naval DIRCM’ is composed by these capacities are the result of Elettronica Group this represents electro optical sensors and large Elettronica studies and have been the very first application of band DIRCM “effectors”. patented by the company. a DIRCM system in a naval environment. The Italian company DIRCM laser propagation can This technology has already been decided to start developing the be obtained using ELT-designed, tested with success in naval system after some internal studies multiple band, laser system. ELT scenarios with the support of the devoted to figuring out future major laser, based on European Quantum Italian Navy. After another two/ threats. The results suggested that Cascade Technology, is able to three years of tests at sea (with missiles with IR and IIR (Imaging generate beams from typical the Italian Navy support) and the Infra Red) seekers will become far IR countermeasure, mid-wave, industrialization of the technology more common in asymmetrical infrared bands up to the innovative may ready the system for the conflicts. set of cold bands, designated export market. to overcome specific maritime In coastal operations irregular weather conditions. Quantum

ELT’s existing DIRCM solutions, such as its fiber-laser turret, have so far been air-based. Source: ELT

13 :: Defence Industry Bulletin Sea

Mexico welcomes corvette launch M. Mazumdar

n November 23, the Mexican shipyard in Salina Cruz, Mexico years subject to funding, although ONavy launched its first using modules built both in the no further contracts have been corvette the 107.14m, 2565 ton Netherlands and in Mexico. The announced with Damen. The ARM Reformador under its long heavily armed corvette – officially Mexican Navy also commissioned range ocean patrol ship or Patrulla classed as an offshore patrol vessel its seventh Oaxaca class Offshore Oceánica de Largo Alcance (POLA) - it is expected to be delivered to Patrol Vessel, ARM Jalisco PO-167 programme. Built to Damen’s the Mexican Navy by April 2020. on the same day. This OPV was Sigma 10514 design, the ship was Currently, plans call for as many launched in July 2018 at ASTIMAR assembled at the ASTIMAR 20 naval as 8 POLA hulls to be built over 20 20.

Australian oilers arrive M. Mazumdar

avantia launched the first of Ntwo large Supply-class fleet replenishment oilers for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) in late November. The 2016 contract to build these vessels, valued at (US) $494 million, calls for the delivery of the first ship Supply in 2019 and the second Stalwart in 2020. Towards this, Navantia commenced work on the second ship in early April 2018. These ships will replace the RAN’s extant fleet oilers HMAS Success and HMAS Sirius.

RoK Navy spend on submarine rescue M. Mazumdar

aewoo Shipbuilding & Marine DEngineering Company (DSME) announced in early December that it had been awarded a $397 million contract by South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) to build and deliver a submarine rescue vessel under the ASR-II programme by 2022. The 5,200 ton rescue vessel will have a ‘moon pool’ to launch and recover deep sea rescue submarines (DSRV) at wave heights of 4m, a significant improvement over the South Korean Navy’s extant ASR 1 vessel which can operate a DSRV at wave heights of 2m.

Defence Industry Bulletin :: 14 Sea

Pakistan inducts MPAs M. Mazumdar

he Pakistan Navy inducted the charges. While Aerodata supplied in Karachi, Karachi Shipyards & Tfirst of two ATR 72 maritime the mission systems, Germany’s Engineering Works (KSEW) revealed patrol aircraft which were fitted Rheinland Air Service, as the that the Chinese-origin Hangor with mission systems by and prime contractor, performed the class submarines for the Pakistan two refurbished Mk Sea King physical installation and aircraft Navy have a displacement of 2,800 helicopters – one Mk 3A Search & modifications. Delivery of the tons and a length of 76m. Eight of Rescue variant and an Mk 4 troop second ATR72 to the Pakistan Navy these AIP equipped submarines carrying variant – in December. The is scheduled for the first quarter are planned for induction with Sea Kings are from a batch of seven 2019, according to Aerodata. four to be built at KSEW from 2020 surplus Sea Kings acquired from onwards. the UK in 2016-2017. While two of the airframes will be used for The Pakistan Navy also launched a spares, at least three including one Delivery of the large 80.8m, 3,000 ton survey ship more Mk 4 (and possibly five) are at Jiangsu Dajin Heavy Industries being returned to service. second ATR72 to Company Limited in Yang Zong, China. The survey vessel is The Pakistan Navy ATR72’s the Pakistan Navy expected to join the Pakistan Navy are fitted with an Aerodata AG Fleet by August 2019. integrated mission system that is scheduled for is largely comprised of Italian supplied systems including the the first quarter Seaspray 7300E radar, an ESM and ELINT system from Ellectronica. 2019 A US supplied FLIR systems Star Safire III electro-optical system is fitted as well. These aircraft At the recently concluded 2018 are fitted with pylon mounted edition of the International Defence lightweight torpedoes or depth Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS)

15 :: Defence Industry Bulletin Sea

UK QE carriers extend QinetiQ combat system support Oliver Austin

inetiQ has confirmedQueen “The success of the NCSISS two Aircraft Carriers will cover a QElizabeth Class Aircraft Carriers has enabled us and our range of advanced communications have been added to the Naval partners to ensure the UK Royal systems for the planning and Combat Systems Integration Navy’s surface fleet is at peak delivery of joint air and maritime Support Service (NCSISS) it provides operational performance at all activities and other critical in partnership for the Royal Navy. times. Receiving confirmation operations. The work will also of the contract extension which cover the Combat Management Confirmation of the $11.3 million includes the largest warships Systems and weapon control contract extension follows the in the Fleet demonstrates the systems, as is already the case company’s announcement earlier unique capabilities, resources and with other platforms in the Royal this year of a $29m redevelopment expertise we have at Portsdown Navy’s surface Fleet. Engineers project to create a new UK Centre Technology Park. from QinetiQ and its NCSISS of Excellence for Maritime Mission partners will use the sophisticated Systems near Portsmouth. “It is also very timely news as we shore based test environments at progress with our plans to extend Portsdown to evaluate the complex The NCSISS was first signed in our capabilities and create a truly mission systems of the two Carriers 2012 and is delivered by QinetiQ world class centre for innovation, to minimise the amount of testing and BAE Systems in collaboration integration and testing of Maritime on the platforms themselves and with Defence Equipment & Support Mission Systems.” to maximise their operational (DE&S). The service removes risk in availability and deployment. the development, integration and Jo Osburn, Head of Maritime testing of ship mission systems and Combat Systems at Defence QinetiQ’s new development enables the Royal Navy to deploy Equipment and Support programme at Portsdown and take full advantage of the latest said: “Extending the NCSISS Technology Park is being technologies. arrangement to include the Queen undertaken in partnership with the Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carriers Solent Local Enterprise Partnership The new contract extension will has provided a facility to test and and will include the formation of a see the Royal Navy’s flagship, HMS assure new capabilities ahead of new Innovation and Collaboration Queen Elizabeth, and its sister installation into the platform. Hub for other specialist maritime ship, HMS Prince of Wales, added businesses. Construction and to the advanced systems testing “QinetiQ’s role in supporting refurbishment work is due to begin and evaluation programmes being the Combat System Enterprise on the site in 2019. Following an delivered by the QinetiQ and its through NCSISS will enable agile earlier NCSISS contract extension, partners’ team of specialists based Operational Support to this new QinetiQ engineers at Portsdown at Portsdown Technology Park. class of warship for her current are already undertaking test and equipment, as well as de-risking evaluation programmes for the “We are passionate about delivering the addition of the new systems Royal Navy’s new Type 26 Global world-class systems for the UK and equipment planned in the near Combat Ships, which are due to front line,” says Steve Fitz-Gerald, to medium term” enter service in the 2020s. QinetiQ Managing Director of Maritime, Land and Weapons. The contract extension for the

Image: UK MOD

Defence Industry Bulletin :: 16 Sea

NATO deploys IoT satellite tech for oceanography research Oliver Austin

cientists from NATO’s Science solutions to address defence which includes an integrated GPS Sand Technology Organisation and security needs of the NATO receiver, simplex transponder (NATO STO) are deploying an IoT Alliance. The data is helping CMRE and motion sensor. Leveraging solution using GPS trackers and to measure and understand sea Globalstar’s fast-moving LEO satellite communications to further currents with the aim of gaining spacecraft and SPOT Trace’s long their understanding of the world’s a deeper understanding of the battery life, research teams hope oceans. changing sea environment and to to benefit from high frequency inform NATO operational planning. sampling, up to every five minutes, Research teams from the NATO and more precise, granular tracking STO Centre for Maritime Research The research examines horizontal than has been possible with other and Experimentation (CMRE), based motion in the sea and how solutions. in La Spezia, Italy, are embedding surface properties are transported low-cost SPOT Trace devices – deeper into the water column. NATO STO CMRE is conducting conventionally employed as mobile, This will lead to a greater several studies in parallel. One, anti-theft devices – in freely drifting understanding of changes in sponsored by the US Office of buoys and setting them afloat in maritime characterisations such Naval Research, is using SPOT the Mediterranean and in Arctic as temperature change, acoustic Trace-equipped drifters to conduct waters to monitor surface drift propagation, and the movement oceanographic studies in the behaviour. SPOT Trace tracks the of biogeochemical properties (e.g. Alboran Sea in the Mediterranean, movement of these ‘drifters’ and phytoplankton) and pollutants such between the Iberian Peninsula and transmits their position data over as plastic. North Africa. a Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network provided by With a requirement to track large In addition, CMRE’s own studies of Globalstar Europe Satellite Services. quantities of drifters, SPOT Trace’s drift movement in the seas of the low device cost and affordable data Arctic will see buoys deployed in The CMRE carries out oceanography charges were understood to be key the Barents Sea and further into and ocean acoustics studies factors in NATO’s procurement Arctic waters in mid-2019. as part of innovative and field- decision. Buoys are fitted with a tested Science & Technology (S&T) tiny (7x5 cm) SPOT Trace device

The technology will help to study glacial changes in the Arctic among other areas relevant to NATO forces. Image: USN

17 :: Defence Industry Bulletin Air

INTERVIEW: Bell to complement the ‘Zulu’ with a light-attack 429 Georg Mader Following the confirmation of Bahrain’s order for 12 Bell AH-1Z Vipers, Bell Helicopters managing director of the Middle East & Africa, Sameer Rehman, spoke to Defence Industry Bulletin about the wider scope and current status of Bell’s various platforms and projects.

DIB: Mr Rehman, what was agreed and these aircraft have been placed same can be said for the Czech between Bell, US DSCA (Defense in storage. Furthermore, the AH-1Zs Republic. Security Cooperation Agency) and that have been built for Pakistan the Royal Bahraini Air Force (RBAF)? is not the same aircraft that is DIB: You mentioned Japan. That is a being built for Bahrain. The RBAF very interesting market. S. REHMAN: The RBAF Air Vice is receiving a completely different Marshal, Sheikh Hamad bin aircraft. S. REHMAN: I agree. But, it is a well Abdullah bin Al Khalifa, confirmed known market for Bell. We were 12 AH-1Z Zulu Cobras for the air DIB: What is the market potential the first OEM to deliver military force. This procurement comes six for the ‘Zulu Cobra’? helicopters in 1954 to the JGSDF months after the US Department and since then, we have delivered of State approved the deal under S. REHMAN: We are hopeful that 1,500 aircraft in Japan, including the FMS process. In fact, that is we can build on Bahrain‘s export the UH-X and V-22 for the JGSDF why LtGen Hooper was also in success. There is interest in the AH- programs. Did you know that the attendance. 1Z from the UAE, Australia, Brazil, BELL-505 is already operated by the Croatia, Czech Republic, Japan, Japanese Coast Guard for training? This deal – which is the first export Malaysia, Poland and Thailand. In In addition, the Bell-429 is used by of its type – has a value of $911.4 addition, Romania has issued a air medical teams like Naka Nikhon million and the aircraft will be letter of request to buy 21 Bell UH- Air Services and Nishi Nippon delivered in the second half of 2022. 1Y ‘Venoms’ and 24 AH-1Z ‘Vipers’. Airlines. Both, Japan and Thailand, Furthermore, CEO of Bell, Mitch From what we hear, Romania’s’ are operators of legacy Bell models Snyder, also surmised that the Zulu leadership is acting with a level of - presenting an obvious path to represents one the most advanced speed and rigour that is unmatched future sales. helicopters in production and they across Europe. would help protect the Kingdom for Bangkok intends to replace its many decades. Amongst its most In October 2017, our CEO spoke to fleet of eight AH-1F Cobras; sophisticated features include a Romania’s defence minister in DC meanwhile, Tokyo will phase out weapon-system that is proficient to discuss future collaborations the 71-strong inventory of AH-1S in engaging air-targets and a with the Romanian Armed helicopters - built by former Fuji target-acquisition-system that is Forces, with a focus on our H-1 Heavy Industries [now Subaru] - one of the most precise systems platform around overhauled and under its recently launched AH-X integrated within a rotary-wing transferred AH-1W. His delegation contest. Any deal with Japan is platform. was also briefed on our innovative likely to include a significant technologies focus on Advanced industrial component. Its previous Tiltrotor Systems. UH-X competition for 150 utility DIB: Aren’t Pakistan also planning helicopters was won by a Bell/ to use the aircraft? It’s safe to say Romania has a Subaru team with a modified robust aviation industry, and we version of the 412EPI, which will S. REHMAN: The US government are interested in working with IAR also be locally manufactured. halted all FMS-deals to Pakistan, Brasov for the H-1 program. The

Defence Industry Bulletin :: 18 Air

DIB: Can you tell us about the autopilot and a very powerful geography by Swiss EMS ‘Air market in Australia? P&W207 engine-package. The fleet Zermatt’ in an alpine SAR role! has seen a mix of public, corporate Also, the Canadian Coast Guard S. REHMAN: From what I hear, and military usage. Our base for uses a mix of 16 ‘429’ and ‘412’ in there will be strong competition. this model is well diversified. very extreme conditions. Another As Canberra considers options to operator is Jamaica. Two ‘429’s were replace its fleet of 22 Airbus ‘Tigers’ In our region, the ‘429’ is operated delivered to the Jamaica Defence in the mid-2020s, expectably, there by several agencies in both training Force (JDF) in summer 2018, with will be competition from Airbus and law-enforcement capacities. a third scheduled for 2019. They and Boeing, the latter with the For example, a Kuwaiti agency is will be used to complete a range AH-64E Apache. However, the AH- flying it in the EMS-role. In addition, of missions including, search 1Z has a built-in ‘marinisation’ the aircraft can be configured and rescue, medical evacuations, from the expeditionary operations with a hoist, clamshell doors and natural disaster relief, national of the USMC. That could be a key a variety of customer-defined security and military training. consideration for the Australians, equipment. But most importantly, who want the aircraft to operate it is a full IFR helicopter, which can DIB: Is Australia a governmental from their amphibious assault be safely operated by one pilot and user? ships. which is instrumental in navigating Category-A conditions with an integrated avionics glass cockpit. S. REHMAN: Yes, the Royal DIB: What can you tell us about the Australian Navy uses the ‘429’ as Bell-429, regarding governmental a training helicopter. Other police and military use? DIB: The ‘429’ may be a possible forces include the Indonesian solution for other European Police, the Swedish National Police, S. REHMAN: The ‘429’ was designed countries such as Austria. The and the Philippine Police, the to be a multi-mission helicopter, full-IFR capabilities would be Royal Thai Police, the NYPD, the not only for corporate charter particularly beneficial with twin- Turkish Jandarma and the Slovak but for law-enforcement and engines because of the high- Police service. Indeed, the ‘429’ is coast-guards etc. Accumulatively, altitude, mountainous topography a success story all over the world, all 300 delivered ‘429s’ recently as well. embedded in more than 920 law accomplished 330.000 flying-hours. enforcement or governmental It was certified to amendment 44 of S. REHMAN: Indeed. The ‘429’ is configured Bell aircraft. Part-27 rotorcraft. With that comes operated successfully in high- advanced technology, a four-axis altitudes and mountainous

Royal Australian Navy Bell429 in rope-exercise. Image: G. Mader

19 :: Defence Industry Bulletin Air

RBAF AH-1E. Image. G. Mader

DIB: There was a sand-brown DIB: What weapons can be laser-guided rockets [See DIB #19 p. model of an armed ‘429’ at the last mounted on the ‘429’? 18-24]. A similar package on a ‘429’ IDEX in Abu Dhabi. If customer would be great to see. requests weaponisation, would it S. REHMAN: We have a long-term be similar to the UAE’s ‘407MRH’, plan to develop a militarized ‘429’, S. REHMAN: Interesting! How was with an integrator like ‘Northstar’? but we are still focusing on our the demonstration? twin-engine light-attack helicopter S. REHMAN: There are armed configuration. With the ‘heavy DIB: Not as loud as I anticipated! ‘407’s in use by nations all over the punch’ solution we officially But, the laser-guided ‘Hydra’ was world, such as Iraq. In Iraq’s case, confirmed today with the 12 AH-1 very precise. And the flares were October saw the US DSCA delivered ‘Zulu’ for the RBAF, we want to nice, of course. Where will newly the required certification notifying complement that with the light- manufactured ‘429’ aircraft be Congress of a possible FMS-sale to attack element based on the ‘429’. manufactured? Iraq of five Bell 407GX helicopters, It is a big subject not only with together with the associated rocket countries in Europe but also here S. REHMAN: The airframes of launchers, machine guns and in the Middle-East. We are able our ‘429’s are all manufactured countermeasures. This will help to respond to such RFPs with our in Canada, since the production compensate for the combat loss of variety of platforms. certificate is held by our Canadian seven IA407 helicopters in recent facility. However, they can be years. DIB: Like to the demand for door- outfitted or customized to specific guns, for example? requests in our Prague-facility and The ‘GX’ is an upgrade from Singaporean-facility. the current IA407 configuration S. REHMAN: There are door-guns and also includes the Advanced on the ‘407’. A standard package DIB: Mentioning Prague, didn’t Precision Kill Weapon System of armament for a military or Bell recently secure its first export (APKWS) launchers known from weaponized helicopter could sale of the UH-1Y ‘Venom’ in the the AH-1Z. I should also add we involve .50 calibre, or 7,62mm guns country? have recently completed successful and ‘Hellfire’-type missiles like on Bell 407GXP high-altitude the AH-1Z. The ordinance you see S. REHMAN: 12 UH-1Y ‘Venom’ demonstrations on the Chinese on a ‘Zulu’, you may also see on a aircraft were selected by the Czech Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Without light-attack platform proposed by Republic in 2017 to replace their Mi- a doubt, the 407 is a helicopter Bell. 24s, but after elections and changes designed for harsh environments, in the administration to the current whether it is cold, hot or high DIB: We witnessed a live-firing in Czech government, the process altitude, the aircraft is consistently Hungary of Airbus’ H-145M, with towards finalisation has been re- reliable and efficient. guns and unguided as well as started and we are supporting this.

Defence Industry Bulletin :: 20 Air

Similarly, in October 2017, the S. REHMAN: The Bell-525 at Arlington. What exactly is the US State Department cleared the ‘Relentless’ super-medium purpose of this facility? sale of the platform, associated helicopter was on a good path, but weapons and other equipment to in July 2016 one of the flight-test S. REHMAN: Indeed. This facility Prague to satisfy its requirements. aircraft suffered a fatal break-up in is our expanded Flight Research This approval arrived 17 flight, forcing postponement of the Center (FRC), where state-of-the-art months after a memorandum of test campaign for 12 months. Since facility developments such as new understanding (MOU) was signed then, the program resumed and we cockpit interfaces are developed between Bell and Czech industrial expect a fifth airframe to join the and tested. It houses many of our partners. flight-test fleet in the first quarter newest technology and innovation, of 2019. The program remains on such as the V-280 ‘Valor’, 525 DIB: The successor for the Bell 206 track for certification before the end ‘RASIL’, V-247 ‘Vigilant’ – with a Jet-Ranger is the Bell-505. What can of the year. simulator to be installed in the you tell us about the platform? coming years for this unmanned DIB: One other fascinating project solution – and the Autonomous Pod S. REHMAN: The ‘505’ has over Bell is undertaking is the tilt-rotor Transport (APT). 400 orders as of now, with 100 V-280 ‘Valor’. What is the status of delivered. We just hit 10,000 hours this programme? It was at this site on which Bell on the whole fleet. It has a full pioneers completed some of our two-screen glass-cockpit and it S. REHMAN: I’m not in the ‘Valor’ numerous aviation milestones. For enables cost-effective training. It is programme myself, but it was example, the AH-1T+ ‘Super Cobra’, a turbine powered platform with recently communicated that it was the backbone of the USMC attack a dual-channel FADEC, so you can recognised in Popular Science’s helicopter fleet for decades, made skip the piston engine era once and “Best of ‘What’s New’ Award in the its first flight there in 1983. That for all. Aerospace category” for 2018. The same year the Bell OH-58-Armed award recognises the rapid progress ‘Kiowa Warrior’ prototype also DIB: Interesting. Can you tell me being made to bring revolutionary achieved first flight. FRC also was more about the training facilities? aircraft to the battlefield. Similarly, the focal point for early tiltrotor the Society of Flight Test Engineers research aircraft, that innovative S. REHMAN: Bell has a training awarded the team working on V-22 concept that combined the academy in Texas where we offer Valor the best paper award in the best features of the helicopter ‘flight transition training’. For category “Certification at Warp achieved first flight at this same instance, if a buyer goes for the Speed,” at their 49th International location in 1989. ‘505’, we would provide a two- Symposium. The programme has week standard training course. achieved high-performance with Many organisations around the the latest in vertical and fixed-wing world are looking into the ‘505’ flight in fewer than five years. as the entry-level trainer aircraft for more complicated aircraft like As part of a government technology ‘412’, ‘429’ or ‘525’. The ‘505’ is very demonstration partnership, the easy to fly, even for beginners to Bell V-280 Valor has been flying rotary aviation, and that is one of since late 2017 and is making the major reasons it has garnered steady progress through flight global attention. With regards to the tests, including multiple flights flying-hours needed, it all depends with Army test pilots. In less than on the pilot’s proficiency. a year of flight-testing, the V-280 has already has flown more than 70 DIB: Can you tell us about Bells hours and reached speeds that far other projects. In 2016, a super- outpace similarly sized helicopters, medium ‘525’ was lost in a crash. while showcasing extraordinarily What has happened to this low-speed agility. program? DIB: Bell has opened a new facility

Bell Helicopter types. Image. G. Mader

21 :: Defence Industry Bulletin Air

USAF hoping AI can solve training concerns Oliver Austin

he US Air Force is openly pursuing improved interaction with also benefit as new simulation Tseeking emerging technologies small business. technologies are proving an appeal and ways to apply artificial to the AETC. These including intelligence (AI) and cloud-based In terms of the advanced image generation, visualization systems to improve its approach technology component, USAF and interoperability, which may to air education and training, wants to learn more about help warfighters “keep pace with according to a November request “abundant computer devices, operational training demands to for information (RFI). flexible classroom designs, maximize mission readiness.” innovative visual displays, games The Air Education and Training and simulations, collaborative tools, Deployment of cloud-based Command (AETC) hopes to find and mechanisms that both track systems could help support new methods, processes and and assess an Airmen’s learning multi-system learning, so AETC products that can “maximize efforts.” is looking to source more insight and accelerate learning, both on mobile devices that can keep holistically for all Airmen and for It is possible that the Air Force may training current and relevant individuals.” soon be finding ways to effectively to the student, and promote in- exploit AI, virtual and augmented unit collaborative projects. Big The command has four key reality systems (otherwise known data analytics are also under the investment areas planned for as ‘mixed reality’) for services microscope given its potential to the coming year, comprising like ‘intelligent tutors,’ which harness expanding data sets and emerging technologies, games and can understand and respond in improve decision-making through simulation, experiential learning real-time to individual students’ predictive algorithms for accession, and big data analytics, according abilities as they study and take part certification, attrition and future to the documents published by in exercises. outcomes including course-taking posted by AFWERX, the service’s patterns. technology accelerator dedicated to Gaming and simulation may

AETC classrooms have already adopted various new technologies, including tablet computers. Image: USAF

Defence Industry Bulletin :: 22 Air

Leonardo Helicopters AW-169M for Italy’s special blue-line Eugenio Po

eonardo won a contract by Italy’s The AW-169Ms of Guardia di Surveillance System), M-428 IFF LGuardia di Finanza (custom Finanza will receive a military transponder, V/UHF radio systems police under command of the qualification by the Italian cockpit panels and lighting and Minister of Economy) for a fleet of Directorate of Air Armaments provisions for SPHYDER (Smart 22 new AW-169M helicopters. (ARMAEREO) and will feature a Processing Hyperspectral Detection dedicated configuration including and Reconnaissance System). The contract, valued at $317 rescue hoist, emergency floatation million, includes a comprehensive system and life rafts, wire The LEOSS Electro-Optical system, support and training package cutters, TCAS II (Traffic Collision designed and produced by which could be further extended Avoidance System), NVG (Night Leonardo, is at its first helicopter with optional services valued at an Vision Goggle) compatible cockpit, application. The LEOSS is a newly additional $113m. Deliveries are HTAWS (Helicopter Terrain designed 15 inches EO system expected to start in summer 2019 Awareness Warning System), equipped with Medium Wave IR and to be completed by 2024. advanced communication system, camera, TV camera, laser range OPLS (Obstacle Proximity Lidar finder and laser designator (45.5 kg The new 4.8 ton twin engine System), advanced HUMS (Health of weight). helicopters are designed as the Usage Monitoring System), AFCS “M” version, an evolution of the (Automatic Flight Control System) The AW-169M is the preferred “commercial” AW-169 designed with SAR modes, searchlight, ice machine to meet a requirement for military/government purposes. detector, fast roping and satcom. of the Italian MoD for a ‘light’ The new fleet of AW-169Ms will multirole helicopter to replace a strengthen the Guardia di Finanza The aircraft will be also fitted with fleet of different rotary aircraft capability to perform patrol and a range of Leonardo systems such (NH-500, AB-205, AB-212, AB- reconnaissance, law enforcement, as the RW ATOS (Airborne Tactical 412) currently in service in Army rescue and homeland security Observation and Surveillance) Aviation, Naval Aviation and Air missions by air, complementing the system with advanced operator Force. present fleet of 14 AW-139s (and console, GABBIANO radar, LEOSS replacing older NH-500s, A-109s). (Long Range Electro-Optical

A new AW-169 in flight. The AW-169M is a full militarized variant of this machine. Source: Leonardo Helicopters

23 :: Defence Industry Bulletin Air

FALCO EVO UAS at frontline of EU border security Eugenio Po

he FALCO UAS (Unmanned sensor suite including the Gabbiano relay suite. The FALCO EVO, the TAir System) family user TS Ultra Light (UL) radar. This longest-endurance model from group has expanded. Leonardo’s configuration allows it to carry out Leonardo’s FALCO UAS family, is FALCO EVO UAS, in a maritime extended-range day and night-time a surveillance and intelligence- patrol configuration, has been missions. gathering platform suited to deployed from Lampedusa airport overland and maritime missions. (Lampedusa Island, Italy) as part of Meanwhile, Leonardo successfully It can fly for more than 20 hours the FRONTEX surveillance research completed first flight campaign while carrying a payload of up to programme to test its ability to of the UAS in Bulgaria with a new 100kg. The FALCO EVO has already monitor the European Union’s engine and satellite command link. been selected by two different external borders. The European The flight campaign was to validate customers one of them (an agency FRONTEX is exploring the a package of upgrades that extends undisclosed country in the Middle surveillance capability of MALE the endurance and operational East region) is already getting first (Medium Altitude, Long Endurance) range of the platform for overland deliveries. UAS as well as evaluating cost and maritime missions. This efficiency and endurance. includes a Beyond-Line-Of-Sight The ‘standard’ FALCO UAS has (BLOS) satellite data-link system been chosen by five customers Leonardo was selected by FRONTEX and a new propulsion system based (countries are officially undisclosed under a service contract tender on a heavy-fuel/diesel-fuel engine but public sources refer to Pakistan, for drone operations for maritime (replacing the UAV Engine Wankel Turkmenistan, Jordan, Saudi Arabia surveillance across the Italian and type of engine). and Libya) and is currently on Maltese civil airspace. The current operations on behalf of the United agreement provides for 300 flight As well as extending the flight Nations in Congo (MONUSCO hours and may be extended into a envelope of the FALCO EVO, the mission). More than 50 FALCO longer-term agreement. new engine was also proven to family UAS are currently engaged generate more electricity on-board on operations around the world. At Lampedusa, Intelligence, the platform, granting access to Some customers choose to own and Surveillance and Reconnaissance more power-intensive ISR sensors operate FALCO family platforms (ISR) activities are organised by the required for complex missions. while others, such as the United Guardia di Finanza (custom police Further trials are now planned Nations, have selected Leonardo to under command of the Minister that will see the FALCO EVO deliver a managed service package. of Economy) under coordination flying equipped with Leonardo’s Under this kind of arrangement, of the Ministry of Interior, and new Gabbiano TS UL surveillance Leonardo owns and operates the are undertaken by Leonardo. radar (replacing the previous FALCO and provides surveillance The company’s flight crews and Gabbiano T20), combined with information directly to the maintenance teams are supporting a high-definition InfraRed (IR) customer. the operations with the FALCO EVO electro-optical system, Automatic equipped with a complete onboard Identification System, and a comms

A FALCO EVO UAS ready for a maritime mission under FRONTEX European agency control. Source: Leonardo

Defence Industry Bulletin :: 24 Air

INTERVIEW: New Czech single-engine jet trainer anticipates hundreds of orders Georg Mader At the roll-out of their renewed L-39NG jet trainer in the late fall of 2018, AERO Vodochody President Giuseppe Giordo and Vice President Marco Venanzetti spoke to Defence Industry Bulletin about the new aircraft’s capabilities, the current state of the market, and which nations are evaluating procurement…

DIB: Mr Venanzetti, back in 2014 handling are well known, and I aircraft from the beginning of we heard about the launch of the believe the markets also see it 2020? Surely this will also require L-39NG at the Farnborough Air that way because we’ve already personnel training, which must Show. Now it’s finally arrived – sold the L-39NG to Senegal and begin in parallel, or even ahead of congratulations! How significant to companies in Portugal and the time? is this for AERO today? And how US. If even private companies are do you assess the aircraft’s market investing immediately, you can Giordo: Yes. We are planning series opportunities? conclude that our jet is a trusted production and deliveries from the platform. AERO has already built second quarter of 2020 onwards. Giordo: Thank you, I know you’ve 11,000 jets, which is more than any And we have the CLV training and been closely following this project other western manufacturer. But simulation centre in Pardubice – over the years. For us, it’s huge. The we are no longer an Eastern Bloc which has been outsourced to LOM L-39NG represents the future and company – there is no Eastern Bloc Praha since 2004 – where we can the rebirth of AERO Vodochody as a anymore! We have long become a begin training packages for our manufacturer – a factory that has ‘normal’ Central European aircraft customers at any time. been producing aircraft since 1919. manufacturing company. The This new L-39NG version is based technology we have sold is mature DIB: AERO has been a private on the aerodynamic concept of the and stable – and it will be the same company since 2007, with majority previous L-39 but is manufactured with the new product. owned by the PENTA Group. according to modern aspects with But countries interested in your the latest production technologies, DIB: The first airframe with the product could seek government- materials and modern sub-systems. number ‘7001’ was rolled out today. to-government contracts. Is there The engine is from the United How’s the programme unfolding? currently enough support in the States but 40 Czech companies are Czech government? involved. And in terms of market Venanzetti: In January 2018, we opportunities, we estimate that started the pilot production of NG. Giordo: As Prime Minister Babiš there will be a market for some This will comprise a total of four made an announcement that 3,000 jet trainers and light-attack aircraft. The first and fourth pre- the Czech government is fully fighters in the coming decades. series aircraft presented today will behind us in all markets. That was AERO could achieve a share of be used for flight testing, while the reaffirmed again from the very top. between 150 and 200 L-39NGs. second is for static and the third for fatigue-testing. The first flight DIB: Your southern neighbour of the L-39NG is scheduled to take Austria will have to replace its DIB: At the ceremony you said place before the end of this year, 50-year-old Saab-105Ö from that the new plane was 95 percent perhaps coinciding with the 50th 2020, but is as yet undecided on ‘new’. Could it also bear ‘natural’ Anniversary of the Albatross in the Eurofighter Tranche-1 future teething problems? December. and doesn’t really know which aircraft to move ahead with. It was Venanzetti: Actually, we don’t DIB: In other words, after reported that your company made expect our ‘baby’ has inherited completing the flight tests, you’ll an offer for the NG. Is that true? risks. The basic aircraft layout and be able to start delivering the new

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Giordo: Yes, but despite that, no declarations of intent of the two equipment – to be made from 2021 binding offers have so far been private red air training companies? onwards or at least within 2022. We made. We made an attractive can produce about 20 per year, so proposal for up to 18 aircraft. These Giordo: No, because those are not for one NG we estimate around 14 are basic training versions, such ‘possible’ customers anymore. to 16 months construction time. as those equipped for Austrian air Beyond them, we have already DIB: That means your launch policing. Our aircraft can be used seen a great deal of interest from customer Senegal can count perfectly from jet training to light over 20 countries that still fly L-39s receiving on its four aircraft from combat missions or as an element worldwide. 2020 on? for sovereign airspace control. Giordo: Yes, the contract was DIB: And is it true that the new signed earlier in 2018, so the first type costs around 12 million Euros “We have already two will be delivered in 2020 and each? the second pair in 2021. Dakar seen a great deal initially considered purchasing the Giordo: Concerning the proposal Embraer EMB 314 / AT-29 Super for Austria, we can’t go into such of interest from Tucano turboprop light aircraft, details just yet. But as you know which is already in use in several well, there’s more to it than just over 20 countries other African countries. But the unit price. The amount you ultimately they opted for the new mentioned is pretty sharp. There that still fly L-39s version of the successful L-39, their would be different customer first jet since the Fouga Magister, specifications that impact the worldwide.” inducted many years ago. We are cost, such as an electro / optical pleased with the prospects of the system or self-protection sensors, L-39NG as a light attack aircraft, jamming- or reconnaissance-pods, DIB: How fast can the process especially in regions such as Africa, and so on. So much is possible, generally take, from contract to first South America and Asia. Although, but to name a price exactly, we delivery? as I said, the basic aircraft is not need precise criteria – not to uncommon today, it still gives us mention a signature. And don’t Venanzetti: If there were to be at great confidence to see countries imagine Austria is our only possible the end of 2018, I would expect ordering a new jet that has not customer… a finished contract to be signed yet flown, even if the L-39CW has by June 2019 and deliveries – shouldered a great deal of the DIB: You’re referring to the depending on the negotiated development work.

A FALCO EVO UAS ready for a maritime mission under FRONTEX European agency control. Source: Leonardo

Defence Industry Bulletin :: 26 Air

DIB: That was number ‘2626’, right? some of those in Europe – this is such as the AIM-9L, would be obviously less important. But in possible out on the wingtips where Venanzetti: Right – but not “was”! any case, the operating costs of there were previously fuel tanks. 2626 will continue to play a the L-39NG correspond to those of supporting role in the upcoming turboprops, which is cheaper than DIB: The single-seater L-159 ALCA flight test programme. It’s a basic any other light fighter jets. And originally sprang from the two- L-39 cell, with the US engine but as far as Senegal is concerned, I seater L-39. Then for the Czech with new wings, new cockpit and would like to add that Elbit’s fully Republic and Iraq, two-seaters avionics components. Today, 80 digitized Targo II helmet mounted were made out of ALCAs before the percent of the flying is about the system will be integrated into the two-seater L-159T1/2s came onto on-board systems and the training Senegalese aircraft. the scene, sporting the Grifo radar simulation. As we say, our plane of the L-159. Could the current covers everything from ‘zero to DIB: What about various armament L-39NG become a single-seater hero’. This approach was tested options? The L-39 offered a ‘ZA’ again?! in the CW and its intermediate version with twin cannon, then the state is also offered as an upgrade. L-59 and then the L-159 ALCA… Venanzetti: We have considered A customer in the US has already the development of a single-seater ordered six of those machines. Venanzetti: ALCA was a line of its version, should anyone want that. own, but wait and see what we That would allow you to take on DIB: But for countries like Senegal, have in mind with the F/A-259. As another 200 kg of fuel, which would the decision will largely have been far as the L-39NG is concerned, we increase the flight time to 4.5 hours. a cost consideration, especially refer to it as a training and light Without a second Martin Baker when it comes to operating costs. ground-attack aircraft. There are Mk16CZ ejection seat or a second three hardpoints to employ a 12.7 oxygenised cockpit, you already Venanzetti: Most probably, yes. mm FN Herstal HMG, unguided have a good amount of weight to With a payload of 1,650 kg, the NG Mk. 81/82 bombs or 70 mm LA5002 spare. You could equip it with radar, can carry weapon loads comparable rockets. Containers for EW or other for example. But, that is currently to turboprops and is better than sensors can also be integrated, only theory, not something that has many jets in that category for light should the customer want them. yet been seriously analysed. I think attacks. For other customers – like Even IR-guided air-to-air missiles, we’ve got enough to do for now!

AERO L-39NG Current L-39 operators Russia, Slovakia, South Sudan, Technical data With the new L-39NG and the Syria, Thailand, Czech Republic, intermediate L-39CW, AERO is Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Span: 9.38 m aiming primarily at potential Ukraine and Vietnam. The Czech Length: 11,70 m customers who already know the company believes that in all, Empty weight: 3,200 kg basic aircraft, and this is likely these operators still fly about 600 Max. takeoff weight: 5,600 to 5,800 to be the case for many years. airframes in total. kg According to IHS Jane’s and Military Max. internal fuel: 1,250 kg Balance, these operators include: Max. external loads: 1,640 kg Afghanistan, Egypt, Equatorial Top speed: 780 km / h or 420 knots Guinea, Ethiopia, Algeria, Angola, true airspeed Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Range w. internal fuel: 2,120 km Belarus, Bulgaria, Estonia, Climb rate: 23 m / sec., at 1,370 m Cambodia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, altitude Cuba, Lithuania, Libya (both, Max. thrust: 16.87 kN / 1.710 kp government and General Haftar Max. structural limits: +8 / -4 G forces), Mozambique, Nigeria,

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Defence Industry Bulletin :: 29