First AW101 VVIP HELICOPTER DEAL IS CLOSED

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AW101 VVIP HELICOPTER DEAL IS CLOSED

• Top End Jets On Way to • Defence Budget Analysis • Vayu Shakti • CFMI Eric Bachelet: DELENG/2008/24199 Interview • New Feature: First RNI NUMBER: I ndiaPAGE 16 BETWEEN MULTI-NATION AND MULTI-MISSION, THERE IS ONE IMPORTANT WORD: HOW.

The C-130J delivers multi-mission capability to the most remote and demanding places on earth. Ready to serve nations of the world. Delivering mission-critical cargo virtually anywhere is all a question of how. And it is the how that makes all the difference.

301-58636_C130J_Multi_SPA.indd 1 4/16/10 10:30:26 AM SP’s AN SP GUIDE PUBLICATION

TABLE of CONTENTS News Flies. We Gather Intelligence. Every Month. From India. AviationISSUE 4 • 2010

40 OEM ‘ The Company has Reinforced Its Commitments Towards India’

ANALYSIS 25 Budget We need to Spend More Efficiently

SPECIAL REPORT 27 Industry Present Future Perfect

SHOW REPORT 34 India Aviation Air Show Extravaganza

Spacious cabin of AW101 recently INDUSTRY 16 ﬁnalised by Indian Air Force 39 Training Hands on Training First Spotlight HALL OF FAME 8 Jetpack Paved 43 Gustave Whitehead 12 Unmanned Cargo COMFORTABLE REGULAR DEPARTMENTS & MILITARY SECURE 4 A Word from Editor AgustaWestland has 14 Operations 6 NewsWithViews In Myriad Roles closed a deal with Indian Air Force for supply of - Water on Moon: Chandrayaan-I 32 Operations 12 AW101 helicopters for Confirms - Three Paramount Aircraft Power Play VVIP travel Grounded • 41 Industry 9 InFocus Indigenous Tech �� Is All Well? ��

�� www.spsaviation.net 42 Industry 10 Forum Super Hornets in the Relook Needed Australian Sky �� 44 NewsDigest �� CIVIL �� LastWord �� 48 SP's Aviation 04 of 10 Cover.indd 1 4/23/10 7:20:00 PM Safety, First Business Aviation 18 Cover Photo: Flying High, Flying Fast An artist’s impression of AgustaWestland AW101 in IAF colours. NEXT ISSUE: 20 Business Aviation Cabin Comforts for Corporate Travellers Comfy Ride Photo Credit: AgustaWestland

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 1 TABLE of CONTENTS

PLUS... PUBLISHER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DESIGN & LAYOUT Jayant Baranwal Senior Art Director: Anoop Kamath Designers: Vimlesh Kumar Yadav, EXECUTIVE EDITOR Sonu Singh Bisht Subir Ghosh DIRECTOR SALES & MARKETING Neetu Dhulia SENIOR VISITING EDITOR Air Marshal (Retd) V.K. Bhatia SALES & MARKETING Head Vertical Sales: Rajeev Chugh SENIOR TECHNICAL GROUP EDITORS Sales Manager: Rajiv Ranjan Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey SP’S WEBSITES Lt General (Retd) Naresh Chand Sr Web Developer: Shailendra Prakash Ashish Flying High Web Developer: Ugrashen Vishwakarma COPY EDITOR 18 Flying Fast Sucheta Das Mohapatra © SP Guide Publications, 2010 ASSISTANT CORRESPONDENT ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION Abhay Singh Thapa Inland: Rs 850 • Foreign: US$ 250 ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR Email: [email protected] Abhishek Singh LETTER TO EDITOR SUB-EDITOR [email protected] Bipasha Roy [email protected] CONTRIBUTORS FOR ADVERTISING DETAILS, CONTACT: INDIA [email protected] Air Marshal (Retd) N. Menon [email protected] Group Captain (Retd) A.K. Sachdev [email protected] Group Captain (Retd) Joseph Noronha [email protected]

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Dr. Vivek Lall F-35C Lightning SP’s visits Vice President, Boeing II Carrier Variant Lockheed Martin Integr ated Defense Undergoes Drop Facilities Systems Testing ‘C-17 a very good fit for India’s strategic needs’ Winner: Videos / Photos Amit Biswas AIRPORTS & SECURITY EQUIPPED TO COMMONWEALTH 2010 • Yes • No • Don’t Know ARE OUR JoinJoin the the poll poll & & comment comment HANDLE A Word from Editor India has been extremely accommodating in the demands of Russia that have been construed back home as somewhat skewed and unjust. Experts have been wondering whether it is prudent on India’s part to put all its eggs in the Russian basket.

uring the Cold War, India was perceived to ing hub of US aeronautical company Lockheed Martin (see be close to the Soviet Union. This proximity, Present Future Perfect: Page 27). The company, now en- needless to say, had a lot to do with defence gaged in the manufacture of the C-130J aircraft for India as cooperation. Deals were on a government-to- a part of the $1 billion (Rs 4,500 crore) contract with IAF, government basis, and defence equipment is now also eyeing the Indian defence market for the supply came into India courtesy soft loans and easy of F-16IN Super Viper fighter aircraft. Singh during a recent non-convertible rupee payments. After the collapse of the visit to the Atlanta manufacturing unit of the world’s larg- DSoviet Union, the defence industry in Russia found itself al- est defence contractor took a closer look at the first C-130J most on the brink of collapse. The Indo-Russian relation- aircraft tailormade for India. ship, however, did not totter. The cooperation between the This issue also introduces a new feature, First. One is two countries remained uninterrupted, but the Russians are about the Boeing A160T demonstrating the unmanned ro- becoming increasingly hardnosed in their bargaining (see torcraft’s ability to resupply frontline troops in rough ter- Relook Needed: Page 10). India has, till now, been seen as rain (see Unmanned Cargo: Page12). The other is about the extremely accommodating in the demands of Russia that newsbreak that the world’s first commercially available jet- have been construed back home as somewhat skewed and packs will soon hit the market (see Jetpack paved: Page 8). unjust. Experts have been wondering whether it is prudent Hopefully, this will generate more interest among our valu- on India’s part to put all its eggs in the Russian basket. able readers. Traditionally, we haven’t seen too many defence deals with European governments or companies. It is in this light that we can see the deal that Anglo-Italian major AgustaWestland struck with the Indian Air Force in March this year (see Comfortable and secure: Page 16). The deal was for the procurement of AW101 helicopters that will ensure a comfortable and secure travel for VVIPs across the country. Many years ago the company had identified India as one of its potential markets for expansion. The strategy seems to have paid off after the long wait. The deal gives Eu- ropean countries enough reason to feel bullish over India. Shortly before this agreement was inked, Pokharan hosted a spectacular display of firepower demonstration (see Power Play: Page 32) during Vayu Shakti-2010. The exercise by over 100 aircraft was also meant to serve as an aid for commanders and planners to gain better insight into the potential and deployment capabilities of aerial weapons. But as the IAF blasted away targets in this representative battlefield area, did it send out any signal? The Defence Minister categorically said that this was meant only to assure the nation that it was in safe hands. Jayant Baranwal Included in this issue is a first-hand account of our pho- Publisher & Editor-in-Chief tojournalist Abhishek Singh’s report from the manufactur-

4 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net 277mm Bleed 267mm Trim 257mm Live Scale: 1.0" = 1" = 1.0" Scale: 0 C of-a-kindmission flexibility. worldA ofcapability andvalue, ready now. humanitarianrelief into virtually anyenvironment, theC-17 provides one- Whetherit’s transporting out-sized cargo andpersonnel ordelivering p T heC-17 Globemaster IIIis the world’s most capable airlifter, able to er 1. OA, OE HN EVER. THAN MORE TODAY, -17. 25 formthefull range ofboth tactical andstrategic airlift requirements. 3C 4C 50 5100 75 41M 50C 41Y 50K Output printed at: printed Output Production Artist: Client - Frontline Job # - 115620 Ver. - AD01 - Ver. 115620 - # Job Frontline - Client Space/Color: Frontline Communications Partners Communications Frontline Retoucher: file Name: file Media: Bleed: Fonts: Date: If it is deficient or does not comply with your requirements, please contact: please requirements, your with comply not does or deficient is it If Trim: Live: Helvetica (Bold), Helvetica (Plain), Helvetica 65 Helvetica (Plain), Helvetica (Bold), Helvetica D.Seymour 277mm x 220mm 210mm x 267mm x 210mm 257mm x 197mm Page–4-Color–Bleed Full Aviation SP 100% BOEG_IDS_C17_1832M_I 3/10/10 Client: PUBLICATIONNOTE: Cyan Boeing 220mm Bleed 220mm Material for this insertion is to be examined carefully upon receipt. upon carefully examined be to is insertion this for Material Magenta Job Number: Job Guideline for general identification only. Do not use as insertion order.insertion as use only.not identification Do general for Guideline 210mm Yellow BOEG_IDS_C17_1832M_I T rim Black 80CnuyPr at ut 01 o nee,C 90067 1011,CA Los Suite Angeles, East, Park Century 1880 197mm Live 197mm Product: Account Executive: Account Creative Director: Creative TrafficManager: Print Producer: Print Proof Reader: Proof Digital Artist: Integrated Defense Systems Defense Integrated Copy Writer: Copy Art Director: Art Art Buyer: Art Vendor: Print Production at 310-601-1485. at Production Print Client: Legal: GCD: Boeing McAuliffe D. P.Serchuk J. Alexander P.Serchuk P.Serchuk Schawk Helen Kim Helen Bleed Trim Live Date/Initials Approved ILLUSTRATION: MAMTA NewsWithViews initial M3 find. However, the water found whichby hadM3 furtherin corroboratedthe lit the areasChandrayaan-1-mounted NASAprobes,spacecraftsasImpact,such DeepCassini and on the lunar surface which acted as a catalyst formolecules waterhydroxyltheandfind biggesttodiscoveryUS waslunar with an array of new findings in only 312 days in space.used to a billion dollar plus costs for such missions.thoroughlysurprised It worldthe spacecommunitymade whichupwas programme Indian million), ($100 the crore 465 Rsaround of missiontoundingly cost low forIndia. Staying within asan 2008,was the 22,first such October space mission on (ISRO) Organisation Research Space Indian byspacecraft launched unmannedChandrayaan-1, the Chandrayaan-1 mission. palscientific investigator of the hesaid. Goswami is the princi vince the scientific community,” con to had we sincefindings evaluatethe tomonths five us definitelyimportantan discovery. tookIt is “This Goswami. J.N. Laboratory Research cal Physi Ahmedabad-based the of Director the later by confirmed and 2010 1, March on made announcement was The shadedareasitsNorthin Pole. of water ice in the permanently deposits large of presencethe about evidence provided has scientistsUSIndianthe andof ysed thoroughly by a joint team payload—Mini-SAR—andanal another by sent data the Now existence of water on the moon. M3—gave molecularpossibleaboutclues or Mapper alogy payloads—Moonits ofcome. oneMinerfromdatafirst The scientificthe community excitedmanybusyyearsforand to F VIEWS 6

equatorial regions. The discovery was made by a NASA payload on board Chandrayaan-1 called Mini-SAR _Miniature Synthetic Aperture Radar, a a Radar, Aperture Synthetic _Miniature Mini-SAR called Chandrayaan-1 board on payload moon’s NASA the a by included made also but was vast alone, that regions discovery polar announced the The to was regions. it confined not Institute, were equatorial findings Planetary The and surface. lunar Lunar the on found was ice Houston-based and the by water of organised quantities Congress Science Planetary and Lunar 41st the During WATER ONMOON:CHANDRAYAAN-I CONFIRMS light-weight instrument weighing a mere 10 kg. The radar found more than 40 craters with water ice, and the size of the craters ranged between between ranged craters the of size the and ice, water with craters 40 than diameter. in more found kilometres 15 radar to two The kg. 10 mere a weighing instrument light-weight

Amongthemany accomplishments ofChandrayaan-1, its the recalled that be may It SP’S orbit,seemshaveitcollectedto enoughkeepdata to lunar the in stayplannedtwo-year itscomplete not Indianthemissionmoon,the to Chandrayaan-1, did irst vapour, then water molecules and now ice. Though AVIATION

Issue 4•2010 - - - - -

- Nair,Space scientist and former chairman, ISRO, who was at of water on the moon’s north pole. According to G. Madhavan indicates the presence of as much as 600 onmillion the darkmetric side tonnesof the moon is truly astounding;radar a onfinding board Chandrayaan-1that has found in the lunar craters ofmoon was not much. But what the mini-synthetic aperture know everything about the moon.” questioning, “Why should India send a probecritics the tosilenced alsothe Chandrayaan-1 hasmoon,that sure forwe is mensepossibilities thatcan open forup mankind. Onething lators,preciousandraremetals,and im gaugethe can one ongoing otherspace endeavours with itsuch as Couple the moon. creation the of space on esca colonies human lishing estabtowardsvistasnew moon. certainlyresults openThe the inter-planetary from launching missions for fuel rocket —Air Marshal(Retd) V.K. Bhatia finding is path-breaking. the journey,Chandrayaan-1’s affairsthroughoutofhelm the o rvd betig i and air breathing provide to nentsofoxygen andhydrogen compo into separated be or could drinkingwaterintomelted be ice The missions. land ing lunar future on nauts astro for resource natural a as serve can it as important is moon the on anywhere ice ways of thinking about the moon. change well could gions, equatorialaswell re polaras thesurface,the underinboth theareas of interest from deep examiningandspotsright the to Mini-SAR. Getting by aged struments than in what was appropriate man with surface the beneath further go could probes the around time This region. that to taken be could scheduled for a launch in 2012, under Chandrayaan-2 which is Nair,to ISRO’s plannedlander get to the exact spot. According to be would waterdeposits of large of presence the tablish h dsoey f water of discovery The nextThelogical es stepto SP www.spsaviation.net ------ILLUSTRATION: MAMTA NewsWithViews icat. lhuh h arie eue nra operations normal resumed airline the Althoughaircraft”. DGCA “to set aside the deregistration directingtheandorder stay re-registera issuedpetitionerand the torelief the three temporaryprovided Court High Delhi theAirways,amount made a deposit of $15 million (Rs 68 crore) with GECAS.received a verdict in its favour. Theairline also claims to have filedcase a inthe High Court (HC) inLondon inwhich ithad CEO& ofParamount Airways,M Thiagarajan;the airline had putebetween the parties concerned and according tothe MD was because of an ongoing dis VT-PAF. this Apparently, and Tail NumbersVT-PAE, bearing VT-PAD Airways Paramount of aircraft three deregister to orderdated December 4,2009 byGECAS, the DGCA issued an rier for a similar default. anotherfullservice Indian car ner, the first was in manthis2009inacted GECAS has against time second the isclear. This precisefigureremainstheun crore),45million (Rs$10 and between $215,540 (Rs 97 lakh) duesreportedtumofas varies quan payments. The lease in charged the airline with default three aircraft have been leased, whom from TradingAviation Services(GECAS)Celestialand Capital Aviation GE based UK too distant a future. not in footprint national a for rier,theairline has Caraspirations Regional a as operating traveller. businessthe Though specifically of needs the meet line is unique and is tailored to businessTheair themodelof thaneconomy class available on the Indian low cost carriers. viding full business class travel at a costC only marginally higher VIEWS oncancelled Paramount flights. Thespokesman stressed that thethere was noAir court order Trafficin this regard butControl only aDGCA notification. at Chennai airportDelhiParamount High Courtnot dismissed toAirways allowthe saidthe onaircraft March to19 takethat THREE PARAMOUNToff.three AIRCRAFT GROUNDED of Theits airlineaircraft made have arrangements been grounded with atother Chennai airlines airport, to accommodate as the theDirectorate passengers General booked of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has instructed three 72-75 seater Embraer planes of Paramount Airwayspetition in relationby Paramount to a leaseagainst payment DGCA’s dispute notificationwith GE Capital for de-registeringAviation Services the Ltd three and Celestialaircraft. Aviation The airlineTrading. is expected to go on appeal against this. The DGCA had de-registered In DecemberIn 2009, while disposing theofappeal Parby In response to the complaint the 2009, September In inventory five Embraer regional jets and has itsbeen on destinations hasnation.pro16cover theacross It halfyearsago,afourand operates flights 72daily to hennai based Paramount Airways which was launched ------tion of flights during the end of last year, the case came upyear, camelastcase the of end flights theduring of tion sationagainstGECASsufferedloss foraccountdisrup on of compen for contemplating claim filing wasAirways mount Para unresolved. While remain to continued GECAS with two days later, the finances of the airline had taken a hit. cruel business environment and perish one by one. the byoverwhelmed are they lesttoo, sector private the in government to consider extending a helping hand for airlines the fortime tediousframework,policy is financiersa itand burdenmountingof losses, fierce competition, inconsiderate the perpetual struggle to survive in a hostile market,India.Given inindustry airlinecrushingprivate the of nature thefragile of symbolic is it system, legal Indian the of abroad ity oee, h ise f eal o contractual obligations on default of issueHowever, the While the episode will undoubtedly reinforce the credibil Issue 4•2010 —Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey ot od ea ipse the impasse, legal old month March2010.ofEnding six the middlethefinalhearingforin and the leasing company. airlines the between matter a volved in it. In their view, it was government also did not get in SCalso denied them relief. The order, the interim an In (SC). approached the Supreme Court Airways Paramount situation, an order within two weeks. Airways on March 29 and pass togive a hearing to Paramount the Delhi HC directed the DGCA the principles of natural justice, craft.However, deferencein to air three deregister the to 18 March on orders fresh issued Lessor by March 10. The DGCA $10 million remit (Rs 45 crore) to to the carrier the directed had that London in HC the of ordergivingcognizancethe to tion by Paramount Airways not HC had also dismissed the peti tion.earlier,day A Madrasthe isterthethree aircraft quesin on the order by DGCA to dereg stay granted in December 2009 DelhirefusedHC extendto the Unable to reconcile with the

SP’S AVIATION

7 ------irst

F Deal closed to manufacture world’s F ﬁrst commercially available jetpack, to be used by police Jetpack and military in PAVED disaster hit areas

he world’s first commercially available jetpacks will soon be in the market. The Martin Aircraft Company has finally closed a $12 million (Rs 5.34 crore) joint venture (JV) deal to start production of the world’s first commercially available jetpack. TThis was announced by Richard Lauder, Chief Executive, Martin Aircraft Company recently. Lauder said the JV would build Martin Jetpacks at an overseas factory, with the aim of making 500 units and generating an annual turnover of $100 million (Rs 450 crore) within three years. However, company officials declined to divulge the partner’s name. The Christchurch-based company has been developing the jetpack for more than a decade and was struggling to find New Zealand funding for commercial production. Lauder said, “For us, this is an excellent commercial step. We have somebody who is willing to put $12 million (Rs 54 crore) on the table because they believe that there is a sizeable market in their country.” The jetpacks would be sold to emergency response organi- sations such as police and military, which would enable them to provide relief in disaster-hit areas. “It was unlikely to have a direct military application, but could be used in a troop-support role. This could be life-saving stuff,” said Lauder. The aircraft company would have a 51 per cent stake and both Lauder and jetpack inventor Glenn Martin would be Directors of the new company. The new backer would invest $12 million (Rs 54 crore) to set up jetpack production, while Martin Aircraft Company would provide technical knowhow and the licence to manufacture Martin Jetpacks in the country. According to company sources, Martin Aircraft Company would retain the international patent. About 20 per cent of jetpack’s components will still be produced in Christchurch for Martin Aircraft Company. The company will derive in- come from selling parts to the JV. “The joint venture will give us a lifeline,” said Lauder. SP —SP’s Aviation News Desk

MARTINJETPACK E-mail your comments to: S: [email protected]

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8 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net InFocus ILLUSTRATION: MAMTA Is DIPLOMACY a straining point of break-up with the collapse of the Sovietthe ofcollapse the withbreak-up of strainingpoint a Soviet TreatyPeace,of Friendship Cooperationand tocame cemented, was evident. firmlyremains also but time of test the withstoodonly not T develop another reactor site at Haripur in West Bengal.reactors to the existing two at Kudankulam in Tamilplants Nadu in andIndia’. As part of this agreement, Russiaforthe serial willconstruction add fourofRussian designed nuclear power atomicenergy for peaceful purposes’ and ‘Aspecific roadmap documents;‘A broadagreement cooperationon ofusethe in nuclear power generation, Moscow and Newoffield Delhithe 2020. In signed to2011 fromi.e.years two anotherten for their decade-old “long-term military and technical agreement”mutualstrategic congruence, India and Russia have extended their milestones on reached. Based and signed were ments fifth generation fighters and nuclear submarines.notavailable from the West,which includes even the futuristic inspiredRussia tooffer toIndia the latest technology which is cent of Russia’s exports of defence related equipment.topleaders. India hasbeen pickingThis much25-30as asuphas per fighters, T-90tanks or naval vessels, is not lost on the threeRussian wings of its armed forces, be it Su-30MKI air dominancemid-1990s by way of massive procurement assistanceof hardwaretothe fund-starved for theRussian defence industry inthe are strongest in the regime of defence-relateddual-use technologies. hardware. IndianStrategic bonds betweeneficial thefor two Indianations as it would sia helpin respectdevelop of self-reliancebilateral trade,in andhigh-endin hydrocarbons.reality the Thoughpartnership apparently is biasedben on in collaboration favour of Rus in the areas of defence, space, nuclear energy, mutual trust and confidence built up over decades. versified their foreign policy options and have not diluted the di wisely have countries bothsituation, geo-political labile of their respective national priorities. In today’s complex and countries have once again begun to understand the relevance flows oil over, have stopped, are and the credit rouble-rupee trade cheap discontinued, of both days heady the though millennium.Evennew the in impetusfurtherprovided also but relationship, sagging the revived only not Putin weak. was it when Russia humiliate to tried not had IndiaWest, Indo-Russianrelationship. Russia was aware that unlike anthe of importance strategic the understood that leadership new a Russia in affairs of helm the to brought which Putin YeltsinBorisby President of replacement the with 2000 in Union in 1991. The drift in the relationship was finally halted In the defence arena, the two year old vexed issue of nego During Putin’s March 2010 visit to India, some major agree The strategic partnership between Russia and India is based Indo- 1971 decades,theseveral overcarefully Nurtured

fact that the Indo-Russianpartnershipstrategichas the that fact the but toasts, of raising joyful the with have concluded not may decade, a in fifth India—the to visit recent Putin’s Vladimir Minister Prime Russian he all well ? - - - - - indepth analysis. tacticsdefenceindeals? Turn to asasubordinate partner? Is Russia indulging in arm-twisting of the Russia-India relationship? Does Russiations—did look atPutin’s India onlyvisit to India highlightpecially the one-wayfrom thecharacter Russian side. Thisbe inkedraises during some Putin’s pertinent visit dueques to hard-nosed bargaining,aircraftandmedium a esmulti-role transport aircraft, could not agreements for joint development of thecountries signingtwoearlierfifthexpectationscontrary theto of generation fighter ship? That all is certainly not well is evident from the fact thattoast and say “Allis Well”with Indo-Russian defence relation comes operational by 2011-2012. useful when India’s own nuclear submarine, INS Arihant, be some major to India, recent visit During Putin’s another ten years agreement” and technical term military decade old extended their and Russia have congruence, India strategic on their mutual reached. Based and milestones were signed agreements But does this mean the Indian defence planners can raise a SP “long- for —By Air Marshal (Retd) V.K. Bhatia Issue 4•2010 Forum ni as sge a billion signed $1.6 worth deal also India 2004. in upon been agreed had that crore) 4,500 (Rs million $974 original the of instead billion (Rs 12,000 crore) India $2.33 pay to agreeing with resolved finallykramaditya)was miralGorshkov (INS Vi carrier,aircraft theAd tiations over the price of

prt fo te in the from operate additionalfighterswill order.kramaditya The ViINS the with along purchased the already 16 above and over fighters, MiG-29KUB and to MiG-29K 29 crore)buy 8,000 (Rs aie. hs il be will This marines. operatingnuclear sub of nuances the learn Navy Indian the help nuclear will it missiles,tipped its with long-range armed not Though end. year the Indianinbe waters by to likely is submarine nuclear class Akula-II The visit. Putin’s ing dursubmarineNerpa year lease of the K-152 quietly signed for a 10- also was deal Navy.A Indian the for end the not were deals crore) 20,000 (Rs billion nearly$4 the But yard. India’sin Cochin Ship built being is that rier car aircraft digenous

for opinionsforanand SP’S AVIATION

9 ------DIPLOMACY rum Fo RELOOK Needed

STRENGTHENING TIES: RUSSIAN PM VLADIMIR PUTIN WITH PM MANMOHAN SINGH

A close examination at the Indo-Russian partnership reveals that while the special relationship in defence cooperation still exists between the two countries, India no longer enjoys the earlier advantage of soft loans and easy NCR payments

ndia was the mainstay of The Soviet Union’s post Denied access to modern military technology by the West fol- World War II desire to foster closer relations with the lowing the Sino-Indian conflict, India turned to the Soviets who then Third World countries. The relationship began welcomed the opportunity with open arms, offering the latest with Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s visit weapon systems and technologies on highly favourable terms. to the Soviet Union in June 1955 and Soviet Premier For instance, the Soviet Union agreed to transfer the technical Nikita Khrushchev’s return trip to India in the fall of knowhow to license-produce the MiG-21 jet fighters in India, 1955. The cordial relations were cemented into a state of per- which it had earlier denied to even China. The net result, after Ipetuity when Khrushchev, while in India, announced that the four-and- half decades of partnership is that a bulk of the in- Soviet Union supported Indian sovereignty over the disputed ventory of the armed forces of India worth billions of dollars territory of the Kashmir region and also the Portuguese coastal and defence production capability are of Russian origin. enclaves. The Soviet Union went a step further by declaring The most outstanding features of the Indo-Soviet defence its neutrality during the 1959 Sino-Indian border dispute and cooperation included near friendship prices for the defence the Indo-China war of 1962. India received substantial eco- equipment, soft loans with very low interest rates, and easy nomic and military assistance from the Soviet Union during non-convertible rupee (NCR) payments. All defence equip- the Khrushchev period. ment was bought through government-to-government deals In 1962, India suffered a debilitating military defeat and without tendering and while the equipment was demon- humiliation at the hands of the Chinese, accentuating the need strated in the host countries, no trials were held in India for a hitherto peaceloving and non-violent nation to build a prior to the final selection. This highly favourable arrange- military machine capable of safeguarding its security interests. ment prompted India’s defence planners to move headlong On account of multitudinous factors least understood by the into acquiring a variety of Soviet combat equipment. All capitalist Western world—the stated policy of non-alignment three wings of the armed forces were flooded with offensive seeking friendship with all and conflict with none; a demo- and defensive weapon systems. If the Indian Army had most PIB cratic form of governance promoting socialism with a highly of its armour, guns and missiles of Soviet origin, the Indian controlled economy—India was excluded from the coterie of Navy was afloat largely on the Soviet platforms—be it de- the developed world that was in direct ideological, political stroyers, frigates, corvettes, and even missile boats. That is

PHOTOGRAPH: and military confrontation with the communist Soviet Union. not all; its sub-surface fleets were also almost fully made up

10 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net DIPLOMACY

of Soviet submarines. The Indian Air Force (IAF) went one a great deal of patience and accommodating the somewhat rum step further by acquiring the entire range of MiG fighters skewed and unjust demands, contrary to ethical conduct of

Fo starting from MiG-21s and then moving on to MiG-23s, MiG- business in a free market scenario. The situation seems to be 25s, MiG-27s; all the way up to MiG-29s. In addition, Su-7 that while the Russians may have converted to free market strike aircraft were also inducted in the late 1960s, which economy, they are still reluctant to embrace in totality the lasted for almost two decades before their retirement. The business norms, such as competitive bidding and tendering, IAF also acquired transport aircraft such as the IL-14, An- etc. They still prefer the government-to-government deals in 12, An-32, and Il-76 in large numbers. Even the rotary wing single-vendor scenarios, without having to prove their equip- force predominantly consisted of the Soviet models such as ment in open-ended competitions. It must be stated that the the Mi-4, Mi-8, Mi-17, Mi-26 and Mi-25, and so on. The pic- Russian weapon systems have generally performed to the ture was no different in the defencive equipment arena with standards claimed by the manufacturers and the services, all surface-to-air missile systems and most of the radar sys- and especially the Army and the Navy have been quite satis- tems comprising Soviet brands. fied with the Russian products. However, it is the IAF which However, the longlasting Indo-Soviet defence matrimony has encountered difficulties in maintaining the inevitably came crashing down with the collapse of the Soviet Union technology-intensive combat equipment, specifically, in the in 1991. The disintegration of the Soviet empire was also a area of avionics. For instance, it is a well-known fact that the turning point in the history of the Russian defence industry. Russian airborne interception radars such as the KOPYO ra- The Russian economy was in complete disarray, and the de- dar fitted on upgraded MiG-21 Bison or NO10/11 multi-mode fence production facilities were fragmented and scattered radar of Su-30 MKI, though highly capable, are not very reli- in the different republics no longer tethered to Moscow. able resulting in substantially diminished serviceability states The end of the Cold War also eroded the market for Rus- and flight-line availability of aircraft. In comparison, West- sian weapons among the erstwhile Warsaw Pact countries, ern equipment such as the RDM multi-mode radar fitted on pushing the Russian defence industry to the brink of col- Mirage 2000 score heavily due to their persistent reliability. lapse. At this stage, it was India that rose to the occasion Viewed at the macro level, these differences would have a inspite of all constraints to not only bailing out the Russian substantial impact—while calculating overall attributes of de- defence industry by placing fresh orders for new equipment fence equipment —such as the life cycle costs, etc. but also agreeing to the Russian demand of all transactions With newly found accessibility in the global arms market, to be conducted in hard dollar currency. India even went a it is for Indian defence planners to decide whether to continue step further to accommodate Russia’s somewhat unjust but to put all eggs in the Russian basket, or, more prudently, tap all desperate demand of payment of even the ongoing loans the world players and select what is best for the Indian armed from the NCR mode to dollar payment. The IAF selected the forces. The IAF’s MMRCA programme is a shining example top-of-the-line combat aircraft from Sukhoi, the Su-30, a where combat jet fighters of six leading global manufactur- developed version of the Su-27 platform. The version cus- ers (including the Russian MiG-35) are competing in, what is tomised for the IAF was designated Su-30 MKI (‘I’ denoting touted by the Ministry of Defence, as a fair, transparent and India). The Indian Army went ahead to acquire the T-90 S level playing field. It is hoped that the programme will be taken tanks and the Navy ordered a multitude of surface and sub- to its logical conclusion and the IAF will get a state-of-the-art, surface vessels to bolster up its fleets. “best value for money” combat aircraft to fulfill its operational There can be little doubt that the mega deals of the 1990s requirements. Besides, it is hoped that the MMRCA deal will with the trend continuing in the current millennium have not be one of its kind and the other projects on similar lines played a key role in the survival of the Russian defence indus- would follow suit. try. But the rules of the game have changed considerably from However, in the final analysis, India would have to strike the Russian side and needs to be looked at afresh from India’s a fine balance keeping in view the requirements of the armed point of view if it wants to achieve the goals of self-reliance in forces on one hand and geopolitical compulsions of a multi- the defence industry and become a major power by creating polar world on the other. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh multi-layered geopolitical balances in a rapidly emerging poly- also remarked once that the nation should be able to derive centric world. maximum possible geopolitical mileage from defence deals. A hard relook at the Indo-Russian partnership reveals In such a scenario, India’s special defence and security re- that while the special relationship in defence cooperation still lationship with Russia, and the fact that Russia is the only exists between the two countries, India no longer enjoys the country which provides support to India in defence projects earlier advantage of soft loans and easy NCR payments. Actu- where no other country ventures, would have to be given ally, the business is conducted in a very different environment due cognizance. Russia’s joint venture for the fifth generation of hard-nosed bargaining. Russians are still learning the nu- fighter aircraft (FGFA) and leasing of a nuclear submarine ances of capitalist market economy. The arbitrary bargaining are classic examples of extraordinary defence cooperation has on many occasions confounded and dismayed their In- between the two countries. Russia, on its part, would have to dian counterparts. Russia’s insistence on almost doubling the treat India as an equal partner and not merely as a subordi- rate of escalation in the Su-3o MKI deal in a contract which nate client, while sharing the technological knowhow for co- had been signed and sealed is an example. Similarly, the en- development and co-production of future weapon systems, tire defence community in India was aghast at the way the without resorting to financial arms-twisting. Only then can Russians kept increasing the cost and timeframes for delivery the Indo-Russian strategic partnership and defence relation- in the Gorshkov (INS Vikramaditya) deal. In both these cases, ship develop to its full potential. SP the Indian authorities need to be complemented for showing —Air Marshal (Retd) V.K. Bhatia

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 11 irst F F MANNED U C A RGON Boeing A160T proved resupply capability for US Marines during a cargo delivery demonstration at the US Army’s Dugway Proving Ground in Utah

he Boeing A160T Hummingbird has successfully completed a cargo delivery demonstration under a US Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory contract. It proved the unmanned rotorcraft’s ability to resupply frontline troops in rough terrain. The Hummingbird Tmet the demonstration requirements during the tests, conducted from March 9 to March 11, 2010 at the US Army’s Dugway Proving Ground in Utah. The demonstration proved that A160T can deliver at least 2,500 Ibs of cargo from one simulated forward-operating base to another 75 nautical miles away within six hours. The simulated mission carried 1,250 Ibs sling loads over two 150-nautical-mile round trips, with the A160T operating autonomously on a preprogrammed mission. The A160T completed seven test flights during the demonstration, including a two-minute hover at 12,000 feet with the 1,250 Ibs sling load, and a nighttime delivery to a simulated forward operating base. “The Hummingbird’s performance was outstanding, as we had expected,” said Vic Sweberg, Director, Unmanned Aerial Systems, Boeing Mili- tary Aircraft. He added, “The A160T’s provides unmatched flexibility to carry out a variety of other missions, including intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; target acquisition; direct action; and communication relay.” SP BOEING —SP’s Aviation News Desk

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PHOTOGRAPH: [email protected]

12 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net ALE C27J 210x267 ING_2010:ALE C27J 210x267 ING_2010 15-04-2010 13:23 Pagina 2

Towards a safer world.

TRULY TACTICAL

The C-27J is the true, modern and effective tactical airlifter available anywhere in the world. Whether in operational areas or in disaster relief, the Spartan offers unique qualities not found in aircraft derived from commercial turboprops. Excellent handling, advanced systems and superior safety levels further enhance the C-27J capabilities.

Making Ideas Fly

www.alenia.it MILITARY OPERATIONS

COCKPIT OF C-27J BY ALENIA AERONAUTICA: C-27J IS BIDDING FOR THE TENDER THAT HAS BEEN FLOATED FOR TWO TACTICAL TRANSPORT AIRCRAFT FOR THE BORDER SECURITY FORCE, MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS FOR THE BORDERS’ CONTROL. THE TENDER IS MANAGED BY THE INDIAN AIR FORCE THAT WILL ALSO ASSURE ITS INITIAL OPERATIONAL USE. IAF HAS EXPRESSED ITS INTEREST IN THIS PROGRAMME THROUGH AN RFI (REQUEST FOR INFORMATION). In Myriad Roles It is the transport aircraft which supports ground forces in all facets of their operations as a wonder workhorse. These aircraft turn into aerial angels when used for speedy casualty evacuation, act as airborne command posts when required, and even take on the role of mean makeshift bombers for pulverising enemy positions—preparing the ground and making it easier for ﬁnal assault by ground troops.

By Air Marshal (Retd) IRBUS MILITARY V.K. Bhatia

n the dead of night none of the Al-Qaeda bel- The Mach-2, afterburning, super-cruising, variable- ligerents would have known in their dying mo- thrust, with stealth and ultimate manoeuerability fighter may ments as to what tore through the clear night be the everlasting toast of the military aviation fraternity, but sky smashing into their vehicle with the force it is the transport aircraft which really support the ground of a powerful bomb, rending men and machine forces in all facets of their operations as a wonder workhorse. to smithereens. But was the weapon fired from From the word go, the very design of the military transport

ABHISHEK / SP GUIDE PUBNS, C-27J & A ABHISHEK / SP GUIDE PUBNS, a high-speed fighter jet as would be generally believed? aircraft has lent itself to multi-role capability. The cavernous INo, as it stands, there were no “glamour boys” in their hold of the aircraft is easily modifiable to undertake mean fighting machines in the vicinity but a lumbering multifarious air transportation tasks; be it carrying men US military C-130 air transporter, performing the role of and material into combat zone or air dropping troops and

PHOTOGRAPHS: an airborne howitzer. all kinds of cargo into the battle area. These aircraft turn

14 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net MILITARY OPERATIONS

NEW PLAYER: AIRBUS MILITARY’S A400M TOOK TO THE SKIES EARLY THIS YEAR, PROMISES TO BE ONE OF THE LATEST STATE-OF-THE-ART TRANSPORT SOLUTIONS

into aerial angels when used marvel Boeing C-17 Globemaster for speedy casualty evacuation, III and the much older Russian IL- act as airborne command posts 76 falling in this category. when required, and even take It is the dual-capable strate- on the role of mean makeshift gic/tactical airlifter which turns bombers for pulverising enemy out to be the best friend and positions–preparing the ground saviour of the ground forces with and making it easier for final its capability to perform practically assault by ground troops. every possible role in support of Clubbed into three main the ground forces. Take the case categories, military aircraft of C-17 which, with its sizable (77 come in different sizes and tonnes) load carrying capability shapes to perform their basic and its ability to provide rapid roles as strategic, tactical, and airlift of troops and cargo to main strategic/tactical roles. Strategic as well as forward operating airlift involves transportation of bases anywhere in the world, material, weaponry or personnel gives it the all-pervasive strategic/ over long inter-theatre or inter- tactical capability. The concept continental distances and is has become so popular that major performed by aircraft such as the transport aircraft manufacturers US Lockheed Martin C-141 or C-5 such as the European EADS and Galaxy and, the Russian Antonov Antonov are feverishly working An-124 Ruslan or An-225 Mriya on creating similar capabilities behemoths. On the other hand, albeit, through the turboprop tactical airlifters–like the C-130 IN SUPPORT OF GROUND FORCES: route, by developing A400M and Hercules and Transall C-160 (ABOVE) THE INDIAN AIR FORCE IS ALL SET TO ACQUIRE An-70 airlifters respectively. In and their lighter siblings, the BOEINGS’ C-17 GLOBEMASTER. THIS MEGA HORSE the turboprop category the much WHICH IS DESIGNED TO OPERATE FROM RUNWAYS AS C-27 Spartan and An-32–move SHORT AS 3,500 FT, AND NEEDS A CREW OF JUST THREE; older but ever-evolving medium supplies within a given theatre of (TOP) COMING TO INDIA VIA FMS, C-130J BY LOCKHEED airlifter Lockheed Martin C-130, operations. Yet, another breed of MARTIN OFFERS A UNIQUE SET OF CAPABILITIES THEREBY in its age-defying Super Hercules aircraft perform a mix of strategic MEETING THE SPECIAL OPERATIONS REQUIREMENTS. THE avatar, has already emerged as FIRST OF THE LOT OF SIX AIRCRAFT IS SCHEDULED TO BE and tactical roles with the latest US DELIVERED BY THIS YEAR-END. the world beater in this role. SP

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 15 SPOTLIGHT ACQUISITION

INSIDE VIEW: PROVIDING UNRIVALLED SPACE FOR VVIPS

Comfortable & Secure Anglo-Italian aviation major AgustaWestland has closed a deal with the Indian Air Force for supply of 12 AW101 helicopters which will ensure a comfortable and secure travel for VVIPs across the country

By Sucheta Das Mohapatra

VIPs in India will soon have 12 AW101 will enhance safety of VVIP travel. The deal has created a helicopters for swanky travel. A EUR 560 glimmer of hope for European industries looking forward to million (Rs 3,400 crore) contract was signed big business in the Indian defence market. between Anglo-Italian aviation major “Several years ago we identified India as one of the pillars AgustaWestland and the Indian Air Force (IAF) of our expansion strategy, from both the market and industrial on March 11, 2010, for procurement of the points of view. Today, we have a significant and growing AW101 helicopters to be operated by the Air Headquarters presence in both the military and commercial markets. This VCommunication Squadron located at Palam airport. The significant order by the Indian Air Force confirms the correct

AGUSTAWESTLAND agreement also includes logistic support for five years and vision and strategy of AgustaWestland in India,” Giuseppe initial training of technicians and aircrew. Orsi, CEO, AgustaWestland said. The IAF will replace its existing fleet of helicopters used for An Anglo-Italian helicopter company owned by Italy’s VVIP transport with state-of-the-art anti-missile and advance Finmeccanica, AgustaWestland caters to the global demand

PHOTOGRAPHS: communications system equipped AW101 helicopters which of 180 AW101 helicopters ordered by customers for their

16 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net SPOTLIGHT ACQUISITION exceptional performance and high levels of safety standards followed. The AW101 is being engaged in a wide range of government and military missions. As of now, the AW101, flying in Italy, the UK, Denmark, Portugal, Japan and Canada has completed about 200,000 flight hours in service.

AW101 FOR VVIP USE According to AgustaWestland officials, the AW101 provides unmatched role flexibility providing customers with a cost- effective solution to a wide range of VVIP requirements. It combines the most advanced technologies, mission systems and manufacturing expertise with a proven, mature aircraft design to deliver a superior helicopter. It is a safe, mature and technologically superior helicopter with three powerful engines providing significant safety margins in critical moments of flight. Besides large capacity with a 6.5 m long main cabin providing space for 2-3 distinct accommodation zones, it also has long range (1,000 km range with 4 fuel tanks) and high speed (150 knots cruise speed) with all weather INCREASED SURVIVABILITY: operations (-45 degree celsius to +50 degree celsius). increasing survivability. The MULTIPLE LOAD PATHS & HIGH SYSTEM AW101 offers the following crucial advantages for VVIP AW101 has proven 30 minute REDUNDANCY operations: gearbox run-dry capability after • It has unique safety characteristics provided by total loss of oil and optional self- three-engine configuration and advanced monitoring sealing fuel tanks. systems. To ensure safety of • Provides unrivalled space for VVIPs. passengers, AW101 has fully integrated health & usage • Has low level of cabin noise and vibration, equivalent to monitoring system (HUMS) for engines and transmission fixed wing aircraft. providing advanced warning of any potential failure • New engines with increased performance capabilities before safety is compromised. Its emergency exits include to achieve essential demands for “hot and high” cabin windows; cabin doors on both sides of fuselage and operations. cockpit crew dedicated emergency exits. The helicopter • Proven availability, reliability and maintainability levels has emergency flotation gear keeping the aircraft afloat that surpass all similar helicopter types. on water, flight data and cockpit voice recorders and an • Unsurpassed flexibility demonstrated by multirole automatically deployable emergency locator transmitter. operations in the world’s most demanding environments. AGUSTAWESTLAND HELICOPTERS IN INDIA • Enhanced environmental cooling systems for comfort in AgustaWestland started business in India with the 1971 high temperature environments. delivery of Sea King helicopters to the Indian Navy for anti- submarine warfare. Sale of its civil product range started SAFETY AND SURVIVABILITY in 2005, with the company delivering its first AW109 The high agility of the AW101and power margins provide Power helicopter to the Government of Rajasthan. Since excellent flying qualities and added safety when operating then the company has supplied over 30 aircraft including from restricted sites and rooftop helipads. Likewise, its widely additional AW109 Powers, the new Grand light twin engine separated engines and critical systems maximise survivability helicopter, the AW119Ke single engine and the AW139 and multiple load paths and high system redundancy greatly medium twin. In the backdrop of Defexpo 2010 held at New Delhi in February, AgustaWestland and Tata Sons signed a shareholders’ agreement for the formation of an Indian joint SPECIAL SURVIVABILITY FEATURES (FOR VVIP SAFETY) venture company in India for a final assembly line for the AW119 helicopter. Fully Integrated Defensive Aids Suite (DAS) options, including: The AW119 is also a contender for reconnaissance and • Directed Infra Red Countermeasures (DIRCM) • Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS) surveillance helicopter (RSH) programme of the Indian Ministry • Radar Warning Receivers (RWR) of Defence. Currently, an AW119 helicopter is conducting a • Laser Warning Receivers (LWR) series of demonstrations as part of the evaluation process for - 360 degree azimuth coverage the RSH programme. - Integrated with RWR display With additional demand for helicopters for light observation, • Automatic Chaff and Flare counter-measure dispensing anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, combat, border and system (CMDS) coastal patrol duties, AgustaWestland foresees a potential - Six dispensers with any combination of chaff and flares market worth approximately EUR 5-6 billion (Rs 30,300 - Supports manual or automated operation crore–Rs 36,400 crore) and over 600 military light helicopters - Fully programmable response in India within the next ten years. SP

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 17 CIVIL BUSINESS AVIATION FLYING HIGH, FLYING FAST

FLYING HIGH: FALCON 7X INTERIOR (ABOVE) & EXTERIOR The sale of (RIGHT) large-cabin business jets is successfully surmounting the economic ebb-tide. PRICE IS NOT DETERRING THE ORDERS for these top-end BC

H corporate jets.

or a company engaged in trans- By LeRoy Cook and cabin for long-range trips, often 8-12 national commerce, a business Missouri, USA hours in length, more attention has to be jet with intercontinental capa- given to the passengers’ comfort, includ- bility enhances the ability to re- ing added galley space, lavatory capacity, act efficiently to the company’s and just plain open areas in which to take needs. When moving key em- a stroll. Crew members likewise need more

DASSAULT, BOMBARDIER, GULFSTREAM & BOMBARDIER, DASSAULT, ployees to deal with an overseas incident room, and a rest area has to be provided F– be it a crisis or an opportunity, the tyranny of uncertain for relief personnel. And, the necessarily larger fuel tankage flights and hub airports can be overthrown by point-to-point and engine size accompanying a bigger airplane is a direct on-demand service in a corporate airliner. result of the longer-range mission. The price of acquiring and operating such a aircraft is Sales of large-cabin business jets now seem to be suc- not cheap. New top-end large-cabin jets will cost US $50- cessfully surmounting the economic ebb. Price is not deter- 70 million, outfitted for duty, with upper mid-size airplanes ring orders for top-end corporate jets, whose worth is con- priced approximately half that amount. Bigger is, neverthe- sidered of inestimable value when there’s a need to be met.

PHOTOGRAPHS: SP GUIDE PUBNS, PHOTOGRAPHS: SP GUIDE PUBNS, less, better, for flying globally. When configuring a cockpit Purveyors and outfitters of big-cabin business aircraft have

18 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net FFICIENTISSIMO! THE NEW FALCON 2000LX

�� CIVIL BUSINESS AVIATION

By LeRoy Cook kept full order books during LARGE & SPACIOUS: the recession, as their cus- BOMBARDIER GLOBAL 5000 AIRCRAFT EXTERIOR (TOP) & tomers equip for competitive INTERIOR (BOTTOM) advantage.

DEVELOPMENT HISTORY ince the Gulfstream II was introduced in 1967, The history of long-range, larger-cabin business jets begins the role of Gulfstream’s business jets has steadily in the mid-1980s, with Gulfstream IV using Rolls-Royce’s evolved with the development of ever more effi- Tay turbofan engines. Even though G-IIIs and Falcon 50s cient engines and larger fuel tankage. Gulfstreams were hopping across oceans and continental landmasses are now making flights as long as 12 hours in before that, the G-IV was a better answer, delivering a range duration. Trips of such extreme duration require of over 4,400 nautical miles. From that point, the airliner- added space for rest areas, as well as more room for peram- size airframes with corporate interiors—Boeing Business Sbulation and provisioning. While Gulfstream’s aircraft have Jet, Airbus Corporate Jetliner and Embraer Lineage—ap- always been known for their luxurious cabins, the overall peared on the scene, offering even more space, and longer- cross-sections of their fuselages haves not been changed range executive jet models were developed by Bombardier since the original Grumman Gulfstream turboprop. There and Dassault to bring competition to bear. was, after all, no reason to interfere with success. As one examines this market, a blurring of the category Now, with the introduction of the G650, Gulfstream line is inevitable. When does a super-midsize business jet Aerospace will be offering an airplane with an interior tall- become a large-cabin airplane, and what defines an ultra- er and wider than its current models, while still preserving long-range airplane? One will, of necessity, have to intermix the performance of Gulfstream’s airplanes delivered earlier.

& AIRBUS some of the largest cabins with the smaller ones, bearing in The G650’s new BR725 engines will produce enough thrust mind that all things are relative. to reach a maximum speed of Mach .925, a tiny, but signifi-

EMBRAER cant, increment faster than Cessna’s 15-year-old Citation X, BOEING BUSINESS JETS which is the civil aircraft speedster since the retirement of The BBJ family is extensive, just as Boeing’s airliner offerings the Anglo-French Concorde. With this aircraft, Gulfstream are widely varied. If desired, one can have any of the twin- is setting an entirely new standard of luxury, performance,

PHOTOGRAPHS: engine Boeings, or even a 747, configured for private use. and capability.

20 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net CIVIL BUSINESS AVIATION

COMFY RIDE

FIRST FLIGHT: GULFSTREAM G650 ON ITS FIRST MISSION

the cabin mimics 2,765 feet, materially reducing fatigue on With the introduction long trips. In keeping with Gulfstream’s standards, no recir- culation of cabin air is used. The baggage compartment, ac- of the G650, Gulfstream cessible in flight, is 11 per cent larger than the G550s. The Aerospace will be offering outside baggage door is located at 4 inches lower than on the G550, increasing its size by about eight per cent. an airplane with an Structurally, the G650’s major portion is still built of alu- interior taller and wider minum. The composites are used for the horizontal stabi- lizer, rudder, winglets, engine cowlings, fairings, cabin floor than its current models and aft pressure bulkhead. In a departure from the round fuselage tube of the earlier Gulfstreams, the G650 uses a flattened oval that makes more efficient use of interior space without adding drag. In keeping with the Gulfstream tradition, the G650 has a huge amount of wing area, almost The G650 will boast a maximum range of 7,000 nauti- 1,300 sq ft, allowing it to obtain excellent airfield perfor- cal miles at a speed of Mach .85, and even when cruising at mance without resorting to leading-edge devices or exter- Mach .90, it is expected to have a 5,000 nautical mile range. nal flap tracks. The wing also offers massive fuel tankage Compared to the G550, the cabin is 10.5 ft longer, 3 inches for the extreme-range missions envisioned for the aircraft; taller and 14 inches wider. That brings its length up to 53.5 some 44 per cent of the G650’s takeoff weight can be up- ft, with plenty of space for privacy and amenities. The G650’s lifted as fuel, the entire 44,200 Ibs of Jet-A swallowed in 26 cabin offers a headroom of 6.5 ft, and a maximum width of minutes by a redesigned refueling system. 8.6 inch. Gulfstream’s innovations continue throughout the The 100-foot wing is swept 33 degrees, versus 27 degrees aircraft. The cabin windows, eight on each side, are the tra- on the G550, with a straight dihedral angle throughout, using ditional large Gulfstream ovals, but are 16 per cent larger in an elegant, gently curving planform. The fuselage rides atop area than the G550’, measuring 28/20.5 inches. the wing box, as is typical of modern drag management, but The maximum certificated operating altitude remains at with a less prominent belly fairing as seen in shorter-fuselage 51,000 ft. But even in that rarefied atmosphere, the cabin’s jets. The traditional Gulfstream T-tail is retained, requiring a altitude will only be 4,850 feet; at a more-typical 41,000 ft, bullet fairing for smooth airflow around the vertical fin junc-

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 21 CIVIL BUSINESS AVIATION

ture. To further reduce drag, the main landing gear is stowed behind fully-enclosing doors. The G650’s control system is entirely fly-by- wire, as with most modern jet transports, even to the braking system. However, instead of the armrest-mounted side- sticks, Gulfstream chose to keep traditional floor- G650 HAS BEEN mounted control yokes, EQUIPPED WITH interconnected to each ROLLS-ROYCE ENGINES. other, which offer both tactile and visual feed- ALL MAJOR CABIN back to the pilots. While SYSTEMS HAVE stall and overspeed pro- REDUNDANCY SO THAT tection is provided by the A SINGLE POINT FAILURE flight control computers, the pilot is in the loop and DOES NOT RESULT IN A determines when and LOSS OF FUNCTIONALITY. how to apply control. THE CABIN HAS 16 As has been the case with earlier Gulfstreams, SIGNATURE OVAL the most advanced glass WINDOWS, EACH cockpit is fitted, based on MEASURING 28 INCHES Honeywell’s Primus Epic II system, including syn- (LARGEST IN THE thetic vision and heads- WORLD). THERE ARE up display. For the ul- 8 WINDOWS ON EACH tra-long-range flights, SIDE AND THE DISTANCE a relief crew rest area will be behind the cock- BETWEEN WINDOWS IS pit. The cabin’s entrance INCREASED TO PROVIDE A door is larger than the GREATER SEAT PITCH. G550’s 60-inch tall door, extending well over six —ROGER SPERRY, feet in height, and the VICE PRESIDENT, self-contained boarding INTERNATIONAL SALES, stairs allow access and egress independent of GULFSTREAM ground support. Gulfstream has been with Rolls Royce power WELL TIMED: FIRST plants from the begin- DELIVERIES OF ning of the line. The G650’s BR725 turbofans are new en- optimum size business jet for the THE AIRCRAFT TO gines, and yet are expected to enter service with overhaul mission, able to use more airports COMMENCE IN 2012 times comparable to their predecessors, given their evo- and hangar more easily than air- lutionary development. The thrust is increased to 16,100 line-size corporate aircraft. Ibs each, from the 15,385 pounds of the G550’s BR710 After a ceremonial rollout in engines, yet fuel efficiency is better and noise level is one- September 2009, well timed for the approaching National third less, thanks to fan improvements, coming in some 17 Business Aircraft Association convention, the first G650 decibels under the Stage 4 noise requirements. The emis- made its initial test flight on November 25, with the aircraft sions are reportedly reduced by up to half. number two followed on February 26, 2010. Certification Maximum takeoff weight for the G650 is purposely lim- is expected in 2011, and first deliveries will commence in ited to an under-100,000 Ib figure, fitting it neatly with the the second half of 2012. Gulfstream reports aroundy 200 limitations for such smaller airports as Teterboro in the orders for the G650 so far, at $64.5 million (Rs 292.6 crore) New York City area. Gulfstream considers its airplane as the each. The waiting period is about five years. SP

22 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net CIVIL BUSINESS AVIATION

COMFORTABLE FLYING: LINEAGE 1000 EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR (TOP); G650 INTERIOR-MOCKUP AND EXTERIOR (BOTTOM)

However, the 737-based BBJs are closest to the corporate oceans and continents. business world, and will be the focus here. Powered by BR710-A220 engines of 14,750 lbs thrust, The 737-based BBJs come in three sizes: the standard the Global airplanes are similar in size but for fuselage BBJ, developed from the 737-300; the BBJ-2, based on the length. The XRS has a 6-foot, longer cabin and increased 737-800; and the long-body BBJ-3, which originated as a fuel capacity for ultra-long-range missions. The tall and 737-900ER. A convertible BBJ-C with a large swing-up car- wide cabin of the original Challenger cross-section is well- go door was shown at the 2009 NBAA show, offering flex- suited to long flights, and with the cabin’s length up to 19 ible loading for a combination of passenger and cargo uses. passengers can be accommodated. Powered by CFM56-7 engines of 26,400 pounds thrust, the BBJ’s executive interior easily accommodates 8-15 passen- CESSNA CITATIONS gers, and some 50 airline-class seats can be installed for Cessna Aircraft’s Citation division was, until last year, de- corporate shuttle purposes. veloping a Columbus 850 big-cabin Citation to round out its complete line of business jets. However, the world economy AIRBUS CORPORATE JETLINERS made such an expensive development project unwise for Directly competing with Boeing’s BBJ division, the ACJ se- now, and the Columbus project was put on hold indefinitely. ries from EADS Airbus can likewise extend to four-engine, That leaves the flagship Citation X (“Ten”) as Cessna’ top- widebody airliner airframes, with the Airbus A318 Elite giv- end aircraft, which saw its first deliveries in 1996. ing a close match to the 737-based BBJ. The slightly larger The Citation X is a powerful, lightweight, high-perform- ACJ came from the A319, and the even-longer A320 Prestige ing airplane, with good range from its Allison, now Rolls originated as the A320. Royce, AE3007-C1 turbofans of 6,764 lbs thrust. It’s cur- The A318 short-haul airliner was created from the A319 rently the fastest civil aircraft available, with an Mmo of .92 with the elimination of three fuselage frames. It’s often called and a long-range cruise faster than many competitors’ Mmo. the “baby bus” in airline service. Even so, the corporate A318 The Citation X’s 3000-mile range is no longer as competitive Elite offers an airliner-size interior, including a taller cabin as it was when it was introduced, but it can get there quickly without the intrusion of overhead baggage bins, at a price —a trait that somewhat makes up for its smaller cabin size. comparable to traditional large-cabin business jets. The A318 Elite is powered by CFM56-5B9-P engines of 23,300 lbs thrust DASSAULT FALCON JETS and can seat 14-18 passengers in corporate use. Dassault’s Falcon 7X is unique among the ultra-long-range airplanes, utilising three engines to offer more contingen- BOMBARDIER BUSINESS AIRCRAFT cy options during long overwater flights. Dassault has al- Bombardier has developed the Global series of large-cabin ways felt that two engines aren’t enough for international business jets, drawing on its experience with the Challenger ops, even though turbine engine reliability is well proven. and CRJ airliner airframes. The Global 5000 and Global Ex- It chooses to split the power requirement into three smaller press XRS are the top of the line Bombardier ultra-long- packages, rather than two larger ones. Losing only one-third range airplanes, with cabin size and performance to span of the powerplant count in an engine-failure scenario during

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 23 CIVIL BUSINESS AVIATION

EYE CATCHING: HAWKER 4000 EXTERIOR (EXTREME RIGHT) INTERIOR (RIGHT) AIRBUS A318 EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR (BOTTOM)

takeoff also permits the use of shorter runways than a twin. Offering a right size for every buyer, Gulfstream’s top end A new design, using the company history with the Falcons airplanes add one cabin window for each incrementally larger 50 and 900, the 7X is a larger, longer-range Falcon to span airplane, incorporating improved engines to maintain perfor- longer distances. mance. The G450 uses the 13,850-lb thrust Rolls-Royce Tay Unlike earlier Falcon jets, the 7X is fitted with winglets Mk 611-8C engine, while the G550 and G650 rely on BRW- to maximise efficiency. The effective leading edge slats and 710 and -725 follow-on powerplants. Seating is usually con- large flaps provide fairly slow Vref speeds, even with a re- figured for 19 passengers, with a typical load of eight or so. fined wing that flies with a .90 limiting Mach number. The engines are PW307As of 6,402 lbs thrust each, and the cab- HAWKER BEECHCRAFT in is designed for loads of 12-14 passengers. When Hawker Beechcraft undertook development of a large-cabin business jet to expand its line of light and me- EMPRESA BRASILEIRA DE AERONAUTICA S.A. dium jets, it elected to draw upon its expertise with com- In a steady pattern of growth, Embraer has developed a posite structures, gained with the Beech Starship and Pre- broad family of corporate airplanes, from a light jet to an mier airplanes. The fuselage of the Hawker 4000 is built airliner-size Lineage 1000. Based on the EMB-190 twin-en- entirely of carbon fibre, mated to an aluminum wing. This gine airliner, the Lineage 1000 offers 4,500 miles of range creates a lighter, stronger cabin structure with less of its and expansive living space in its nearly 40-feet-long cabin. width consumed by stiffeners and bulkheads. The empen- Configured for up to 19 passengers in corporate use, the nage skins are also composite. Entering service in 2008, Lineage 1000’s 4085 cubic feet of interior room allows for the 4000 offered traditional Hawker fans the larger cabin shower-equipped sleeping quarters on one end and crew they always wanted. rest bunks on the other. Power comes from GE CF34-10E Hawker business jets were among the earliest in the engines generating 18,500 lbs thrust each. marketplace, dating back to 1965, and they have had a loyal following. The Hawker 4000 draws on that input. It’s pro- GULFSTREAM AEROSPACE pelled by PW308A engines of 6,900 lbs thrust, and with a Gulfstream has always been the iconic large-cabin business range of 3,280 miles it offers capability to extend the reach jet, so much so that the name is nearly generic with corpo- of Hawker users worldwide. rate jet luxury in the public mind. VIPs have ridden in Gulf- These top-end business jets allow their users to pur- streams for decades, and the company has endured with its sue business interests over a wide geographic expanse, reputation for cutting-edge technology blended with tradi- delivering the passengers directly to a company destina- tional values. Its large-cabin offerings cover a range of older tion without the rigours of airline travel. Such flexibility 400 and 500 series Gulfstreams, with a new Gulfstream 650 can be worth every penny of expenditure when a major coming to the fore at present. deal is clinched. SP

24 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net ANALYSIS BUDGET We need to spend more efficiently

By Air Chief Marshal (Retd) S. Krishnaswamy

HE DEFENCE BUDGET, AS A SUBJECT, does not anymore trigger interest other than to those who are directly concerned. Public opinion, by and large, is simple and noble. They believe that the defence services must have quality systems, and be able to effectively fend off threats to the nation. They also believe that modernisation is essential but is not Tkeeping pace with requirements; they also feel that the mili- The problem is not with tary is not getting adequate funds. The malady is attributed to bureaucratic, inefficient processes. The government, for its adequacy of budget, but the part, articulates its strong support to military modernisation efficiency with which we spend. and this will has translated into new procedures that promise desired efficiency and greater transparency. And it is not the efficiency of But can these new procedures solve the problems at spending alone that matters, but hand? Will defence allocations ever be adequate? Will the government get better value for every rupee being spent on also how and on what the defence defence? Will our military have quality equipment and good forces are spending on. operational standards? In the author’s opinion, we are unlikely to see dramatic improvement in the near future for very many reasons. Primarily, the problem is not an adequacy of budget but the efficiency with which we spend. It is not the efficiency of spending alone that matters, but how and on what This multiplied over four-and-a-half times to Rs 7,000 crore the defence forces are spending. Practically, every military for 2009-10 since 2004-05, with 15 per cent of the alloca- operation that India has undertaken since Independence has tion being earmarked for modernisation. Last year, Rs 1,561 exposed a number of inadequacies both in terms of inventory crore revenue expenditure was adjusted from unspent capital as well as capabilities. The solution is to comprehensively ad- expenditure, highlighting a new trend in the bargain. Besides dress issues that call for a thorough overhaul; not just the ac- being an unorthodox way of adjusting expenditure, it indicates quisition procedure but the entire gamut of planning, supply an unforeseen increase in support to the military. This is a dis- chain management, maintenance, and training. Money alone turbing trend. From the figures, it appears that the defence will not solve problems. services get as much as they can spend. Hence, it is argued, It is relatively simple to resolve budget-related issues. Re- inadequate allocation cannot be a complaint. vised estimates are prepared around October and the expendi- The difficulties in managing defence expenditure are ture over the next four-five months leads on to the next year’s known to the government, but it lacks the means to enforce budget calculations. The last four months of the financial year accountability. The Standing Committee on Defence in its witness a feverish spending spree and many PSUs churn out report on Demand for Grants (2009-10) placed in the Lok their entire annual production during the period. Every service Sabha in December 2009 recommended that there is an ur- races to spend the budget allocation by March 31. Unspent gent need to curb wasteful expenditure. The 13th Finance resources are promptly surrendered after that date, and un- Commission observed that there exists immense scope to derstandably there is a lot of dissatisfaction all around. De- improve the quality and efficiency of defence expenditure fence services have been continually underutilising budget al- through increased private sector engagement, import substi-

ILLUSTRATION: MAMTA ILLUSTRATION: locations. Year on year, under-utilisation had been increasing. tution and indigenisation, improvements in procedures and

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 25 practices, and better project management. Efforts in this di- few years, right from quality of accommodation, allowances, rection would help in expanding the fiscal space available for cost of upkeep, cost of ration, and travel entitlements. More- defence spending. Government watchdog CAG, in its reports, over, there has been a significant escalation of rank struc- regularly points out weaknesses in defence management and ture as an incentive that has added to manpower costs. Not exercising cost control. Serious flaws in the decisionmak- only increase of pay, but significant additional manpower and ing process, supply chain management, contracting, project infrastructure are envisaged to support additional offices of management, and upkeep have been reported by the CAG. higher ranks. The “ballooning” effect on manpower would be However, the services cannot be held totally responsible for known only after the new establishments are filled up. There the failures. If the navy gets an aircraft and not an aircraft is no sign of the services reducing manpower or the cost of carrier, or the air force suffers a 20-year delay in acquir- manpower. Inflation adds up further costs on fuel, transpor- ing suitable aircraft, or the Army gets delayed in deciding tation, spares, and other essentials. The Finance Commission on the right type of artillery, the individual service cannot be estimates the increase in revenue expenditure to be 7 per blamed. The fault lies deeper—in the ways of managing de- cent per annum and capital equipment cost to increase by 10 fence. Services initiate cases for procurement that go through per cent. In practical terms, there could be runaway increases an elaborate process. Usually, if a contract is not finalised in in both areas unless carefully evaluated and means adapted about a year, uncertainty and vagaries in the business world for effective control. There is an urgent need to upgrade de- make it difficult to conclude the contract as per the technical fence accounting and inventory management processes and package and cost visualised. P&L audit as practiced in the private sector. There are other maladies too. The system does not recog- It is well known that India is the largest weapons buyer nise the importance of a time-bound comprehensive package. among emerging countries. India imported military hardware It is not unusual that contracted equipment do arrive, but con- worth $28 billion since 2000 mainly from Russia, Israel, France tracts for spares are not concluded. Aircraft may arrive, but and Great Britain. A lot is said about participation of the private not the carrier. Operational systems may arrive, but contents sector in supplying operational systems to our defence forces. of an integration package may remain undecided. Equipment Current processes make it extremely difficult to translate this may arrive, but deficiencies remain. Contract obligations are idea into practice. First, any process for indigenous develop- missed out for the lack of efficient project management proce- ment takes 5-10 years starting from design, prototyping, prov- dures. Equipment may arrive, but approval for training pack- ing, and production. R&D infrastructure within the country is ages may remain pending. Equipment arrive, but the service inadequate and DRDO has serious limitations in supporting concerned may be undecided where to commission it. The ser- the private sector in this regard unless major policy changes vice may finally decide, but work-services may not start and are made. Equally important, DRDO must make commitments the warranty elapses while the equipment is in storage. on cost and time factors to make such ventures viable. At times, the technical support contracts are kept pending Our defence establishments decide on what operational and negotiations break down. Often, we become “captive” to systems they should have based on trends abroad. This means the supplier and have to put up with their unfair demands that such countries already have a lead in technology terms when supporting contracts are incomplete. While the Minis- and on time. This method too must change. It is necessary to try of Defence (MoD) may negotiate very hard, it may become come up with a viable process to commit to the private sector. helpless and be compelled to approve if the vendor holds an It is vital for national security to develop indigenous capability. advantage. When it comes to indigenously-developed systems, In the Indian public sector there are many players besides the the problems are greater. Most indigenous designs have a high institutions under MoD. For example, NAL under CSIR devel- percentage imported material and subsystems. PSU contracts oped the SARAS aircraft. The prototype, however, crashed kill- with vendors are rarely transparent to the services. No equip- ing the entire crew. The causes have not been identified and ment ever designed and developed in India has remained actions to be taken have not been completed even though a within reasonable cost escalations. Invariably, technical and year has passed. One of the reasons for this is that there are spares support are found seriously wanting. The military or too many players such as DGCA, NAL, CSIR, MOD and IAF un- the MoD do not have specialists in project management, cost- der different ministries and bosses. Accountability, therefore, ing/pricing, and contracting. The military that deal with thou- is diluted. Such an environment is not conducive to design- sands of crores do not have chartered or cost accountants, ing and developing systems within the country though we may or even contract specialists. “Costing” an operation or activity apparently have the potential. The government would need to is quite impossible or at best inaccurate owing to to lack of find ways of “bridling” a large number of institutions that are expertise and databases. There is no balance sheet indicating functioning under different ministries to serve a common pur- “top” or the “bottomlines”. Revised procurement processes do pose, and made accountable. not address any of the issues stated either. The country does have the potential, but a thorough over- The Military faces another challenge — quality financial hauling of the system is required and the means must be es- and inventory management specialists of desirable levels. tablished to evolve a system that would be accountable, cost- Signs are evident that revenue expenditure could run away if effective, and professional that can harmonise and integrate serious efforts are not taken to control the same. Defence rev- potentials across disciplines and ownership. SP enue expenditure has grown from Rs 10,194 crore in 1989- —The author is a former Chief of Air Staff. 90 to Rs 87,344 crore in 2010-11, i.e. an increase of almost nine times during the last two decades. In the years ahead, this could skyrocket beyond imagination. The quality of sup- E-mail your comments to: port to manpower has improved substantially over the last [email protected]

26 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net SPECIAL REPORT INDUSTRY Present Future Perfect

ON THE MOVE: CABTOPS AT THE C-130 PRODUCTION LINE AT ATLANTA; (BELOW) FIRST INDIAN C-130J AT THE PRODUCTION LINE

US defence giant Lockheed Martin has been engaged in research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services for the global defence market. Photojournalist Abhishek Singh reports from the company’s manufacturing hubs.

f the six C-130J Su- heed Martin officials while briefing per Hercules Tactical Indian journalists during their visit Airlifter Aircraft or- to the company’s manufacturing dered by the Indian units in the US in March. The com- Air Force from the pany which is now engaged in the

LOCKHEED MARTIN American aerospace manufacture of the C-130J aircraft specialist Lockheed Martin, the first for India, as a part of the $1 billion Owill be delivered in December 2010. (Rs 4,500 crore) contract with IAF, is The remaining five will reach India now also eyeing the Indian defence

PHOTOGRAPHS: by 2012. This was stated by Lock- market to supply F-16IN Super Viper

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 27 SPECIAL REPORT INDUSTRY

LARGE & SPACIOUS: THE COMPANY’S MANUFACTURING HUB AT ATLANTA IS 76 TIMES THE SIZE OF A FOOTBALL FIELD; (BELOW) GLASS COCKPIT OF C-130J

fighter aircraft for the IAF. Lockheed Martin is one among the six con- tenders in the Medium Multi-Role Combat Air- craft (MMRCA) race. In the month of Oc- tober, the US Air Force will provide training on C-130J to the IAF crews. While this will be provided at the Lockheed Martin base, the aircraft owned by the US Air Force will be used for the purpose. According to Jack Crisler, Director, Inter- national C-130J Programme’s Business Development. Orville Prins, Vice President, Business Development – India, Lockheed Martin while updating the Indian media in Dallas, Texas said that the IAF is also looking at the feasibility of incorporating KC-130J Super Hercules Tactical Air Refueller Aircraft. “The Indian Navy too also enquired about the F-35 aircraft manufactured by us,” added Prins. Thomas Wetherall, Deputy Vice President, Global Sustainment on C-130 Sustainment programme said, “Lockheed Martin seeks to be the preferred partner for delivering affordable aircraft readiness and ensur- ing mission effectiveness and capability throughout the product lifecycle of the C-130 aircraft platform. Our aim is to leverage the experience gained though the support of multiple C-130J customer fleets. We desire to build long term relationships with our customers.” duction of C-130J, the other unit is under construction for WORLD’S LARGEST DEFENCE CONTRACTOR production of F-35. Company officials claim that in the next The US aerospace, defence, security, and advanced technol- six years, the company will be able to manufacture at least ogy company Lockheed Martin was formed by the merger one F-35 aircraft every day. of Lockheed with Martin Marietta in March 1995. Today, it “There is a worldwide requirement of C-130J especially in is the world’s largest defence contractor with it’s Headquar- the Middle East, Africa and Europe,” said Jack Crisler. “The C- ters at Fort Worth, Texas. The company also operates from 130J is affordable, relevant and versatile. It can be utilised in Marietta, Georgia and Palmdale, California. Technology de- various roles like aerial refuelling, electronic warfare, combat velopment, engineering, and innovation are instrumental delivery, humanitarian support, armed ISR, maritime patrol, to the corporation’s aerospace and defence core markets, rapid ground refuelling, weather reconnaissance and fire- and along with it are emerging markets like cyber security, fighting,” he said. healthcare, energy and climate change. The company em- The company claims to have delivered 2,340 C-130 air- ploys more than 70,000 engineers and scientists creating craft in seven countries across the globe, and has a long innovative solutions for global security challenges. term contract with countries like UK, Australia and Canada. UK was the first country outside the US to have C-130 air- C-130J craft. Now India and Qatar have joined the race. The C-130 The Lockheed Martin’s manufacturing unit in Atlanta is 76 production line in Atlanta manufactures 25 aircraft every times the size of a football ground and is divided into two year, and has the potential to increase its capacity to manu- parts. While one manufacturing unit is dedicated to the pro- facture 36 aircraft.

28 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net SPECIAL REPORT INDUSTRY

ADVANCED TECH: (LEFT) F-16IN ON THE MOVE; (BELOW) PHOTO JOURNALIST ABHISHEK SINGH INSIDE A F-161N COCKPIT DEMONSTRATOR

in case the company halts production of F-16 INs, Prins said, “Our support availability programmes will continue beyond 2040. India’s partnership with Lockheed Martin can provide access to the highest technology, opportunities for technology co- development, low-risk licensed production, transfer of technology, and opportunities for extensive long-term business.” The F-16IN Super Viper is a unique new fighter sharing a heritage with the world’s only fifth generation fighters – the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter and the F-22 Raptor. Evolutionary integration of fifth generation technologies makes the F-16IN an advanced fourth generation fighter. According to the company officials, F-16IN Super Vi- per has been tailored exclusively to meet or exceed all of India’s MMRCA requirements. “It is the right choice for IAF and is ready for integration into India’s infrastructure and operations now,” opined Prins. “Lockheed Martin Aeronautics has incorporated the latest technologies into the F-16IN with the aim to expand the mission roles and improve combat capability, thereby creating the most effective multi role fighter today. With continuous insertion of latest technology available, the F-16IN can be readily equipped with emerging The C-130J has greater climb rate and higher initial capabilities throughout its lifecycle,” he said. cruise altitude as compared to C-130H and it can climb up to 24,500 ft in just 22 minutes. The C-30J has the ability THE F-16IN SUPER VIPER HAS THE FOLLOWING FEATURES: to transport 33 per cent more pallets, uses half the cockpit crew, enhances situational awareness, burns less fuel, and Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar flies faster and higher. The AESA radar is a key feature of F-16IN Super Viper and according to Lockheed Martin officials, it was the core re- F-16IN SUPER VIPER quirement of the IAF. The radar is a discriminator in multi- The F-16IN Super Viper has the most advanced technolo- role combat aircraft when network operations are unavail- gies and capabilities available globally. According to Lock- able or when the fighter aircraft’s RF has been raised to a heed Martin officials, as of now 4,500 F-16 aircraft have higher level by the carriage of external stores. The Northrop been ordered by 25 countries, and the company has already Grumman APG-80 AESA radar in the F-16IN provides out- delivered 4,400 F-16 aircraft. The production lines of F-16 standing situational awareness and detection, ultrahigh-res- are in the Netherlands, Belgium, Turkey, and South Korea, olution synthetic aperture radar mapping, fully interleaved besides Fort Worth. Texas. The F-16IN has a technology flow modes of operations with automatic terrain following, and between F-35 and F-22 and radar cross section advantage air-to-air tracking of multiple targets. AESA radars are more over twin engine aircraft. The company gives 50 per cent “operator friendly.” The radar has the ability to maintain offset commitment for the aircraft. tracks on targets while continuing to search for new con- On being asked about the maintenance of the aircraft tacts, while also allocating time to perform air-to-surface

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 29 SPECIAL REPORT INDUSTRY

Net-Centric Warfare Capability ALL DIGITAL: THE F-16IN COCKPIT REDUCES WORKLOAD The fusion of net-centric operations and on- OF PILOTS; (BELOW) AESA board data provides a total battle space pic- RADAR MOUNTED ON ture and optimises mission accomplishment. F-16IN NOSE The F-16 was the first multi-role fighter to incorporate a data link capability, and the IAF’s operational data link (ODL) can be integrated onto the F-16IN in order to ensure interoperability with other IAF aircraft.

Modern, all-digital glass cockpit The pilots receive easy-to-interpret information via the all-digital cockpit and helmet-mounted cueing system. The large colour displays are capable of fusing data from on-and-off-board sensors, reducing the workload and enabling the pilot to focus on the mission.

Advanced Survivability Features The low radar signature of the F-16IN reduces detection by enemy radars. Its single-engine design has smaller infrared and visual signature than twin-engine fighters. The internal electronic warfare system avoids or defeats the most advanced threats. Superior agility and excellent pilot situational awareness reduce vulnerability to attack, while critical systems redundancy and shielding enhance survivability.

Enhanced High Thrust Engine The F-16IN offers the highest thrust engine in the competition, the General Electric F110-132A. It has 32,000 Ibs of thrust with an unprecedented record of safety, reliability, maintainability and durability. The F110 incorporates the latest technology including full authority digital engine control for maximum fuel efficiency and performance.

Cockpit overview The F-16IN cockpit displays and controls are fully integrated and revamped to quickly convey the information and simplify operations for the pilot. The pilot receives mission and tactical information via the full colour, all digital glass cockpit and a helmet mounted display (HMD). Electronic displays incorporating graphics, digital data and colour alerts replace traditional engine and flight instrumentation speeding up the pilot’s cog- nitive processing of system status. Proven Combat and Operational Effec- tiveness: • Over 400,000 combat hours • More air-to-air victories (72-0) operations such as an attack on a surface target or even a • Over 100,000 combat missions flown resource intensive task such as radar guided terrain. The • Over 2,200,000 ordnance delivered in combat final benefit of the AESA radar is increased reliability and • Over one million operational sorties in support of the reduced planned maintenance. global war against terror. SP

30 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net SPECIAL REPORT INDUSTRY F-16IN is the ultimate Fourth Generation Fighter

Orville Prins, Vice President, Business Development-India, Lockheed Martin in a conversation with photojournalist Abhishek Singh, elaborated on the advantages of the F-16IN Super Viper

SP’s: Can you throw some light on the advantages of full exceeds all IAF requirements. Any information about the tri- authority digital engine control (FADEC) system. als must come directly from the IAF. Prins: FADEC system has better fuel efficiency, carefree engine handling, with guaranteed thrust settings, systems SP’s: Can we call F-16IN a fresh product for IAF or is integration with engine and aircraft systems, provision for it an upgraded version of previous F-16s. What are the engine long-term health monitoring and diagnostics, helps new features installed in the aircraft? in reducing the number of parameters to be monitored by Prins: The F-16IN Super Viper is specifically designed to meet flight crews, and can support automatic aircraft and engine or exceed IAF requirements and will be the most advanced emergency responses (e.g. in case of aircraft stall, engines version of the F-16 ever produced. Starting with the advanced increase thrust automatically), etc. Block 60 model of the F-16, we have added the latest advancements in weapons, sensors and other capabilities to make the SP’s: It is heard that in the event of a total FADEC Super Viper the ultimate fourth generation fighter. failure, pilots have no way of manually controlling the engines for a restart? SP’s: Elaborate the advantages of on CFTs (conformal Prins: The FADEC on the F-16IN Super Viper has multiple fuel tanks) of F-16IN, as it gives a completely new look levels of redundancy to provide safe operation during faults. to the aircraft. In the unlikely event of a complete FADEC failure, the Super Prins: The conformal fuel tanks are an innovative design Viper reverts to a fully mechanical backup control. that gives the F-16IN significantly more range without af- fecting aerodynamic performance or using wing weapon SP’s: How are the flying evaluation trails going on, as stations for external fuel tanks. SP the Indian Air Force has announced that the trails will be over in 3-4 months? Prins: The F-16IN team successfully completed trials in For more information and related videos, visit: February and demonstrated that the Super Viper meets or www.spsaviation.net

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 31 MILITARY OPERATIONS POWER PLAY

Vayu Shakti-2010 saw the participation of 107 aircraft including MiG-21 Bison, MiG-27 UPG, MiG-29, Mirage-2000, Su-30 MKI, Jaguars, AN-32, IL-76, Mi-17 1V, Mi-35 gunships. The other unseen force multipliers included IL-78 mid-air refuellers, AWACS and UAVs.

n a breathtaking display of By Air Marshal (Retd) by pilots at the end of their training rapid air power dominance year. The exercise was also meant in a representative battlefield V.K. Bhatia to serve as an aid for commanders area, the Indian Air Force and planners to gain better insight (IAF) aircraft blasted away into the potential and deployment targets by day, dusk and capabilities of aerial weapons. Inight in a fire power demonstration exercise, Vayu Shakti- The success of the FPD was the result of thorough op- 2010, at its live armament firing ranges at Pokharan. erational, logistical and administrative planning par excel- The dusk and night phase display on February 28 was lence by IAF commanders. Even though futuristic battlefield the first ever by the IAF, wherein107 aircraft including MiG- scenarios are expected to be increasingly complex, the IAF 21 Bison, MiG-27 UPG, MiG-29, Mirage-2000, Su-30 MKI, exercise proved that it could accomplish any complex mis- Jaguars, AN-32, IL-76, Mi-17 1V, Mi-35 gunships participat- sion objective with panache and deadly accuracy. ed. The other unseen force multipliers included IL-78 MKI Mission planning remains in the forefront of all IAF op- mid-air refuellers, AWACS and UAVs. erations. The FPD demonstrated intricate mission planning President and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, success achieved through the Integrated Command Air Task- Pratibha Devisingh Patil was the chief guest at the display. The ing System (I-CATS), a mission planning system custom built others present included Defence Minister A.K. Antony, Minis- for IAF. Different types of aircraft from all Commands of the

PRO IAF PRO ter of State for Defence Dr M.M. Pallam Raju, Marshal of the IAF with varied configurations, speed and performance pa- IAF Arjan Singh, three Service Chiefs, senior MOD officials, 28 rameters participated in the exercise in specific time inter- military attachés of various countries, and journalists. vals while taking off from distant and different airbases. Vayu Shakti-2010 firepower demonstration (FPD) was a One of the major advantages of the I-CATS is the ability to

PHOTOGRAPHS: collective display of skills and accuracy in weapon delivery plan and de-conflict waves of strike formations. By using the

32 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net MILITARY OPERATIONS POWER PLAY

FIRE POWER DEMONSTRATION: A COLLECTIVE DISPLAY OF SKILLS AND ACCURACY IN WEAPONS DELIVERY BY PILOTS DURING VAYU SHAKTI 2010 MARKING THE END OF THEIR TRAINING YEAR

collision check function, the planners can resolve traffic con- an aerial flare at the end of their simulated encounter was flicts in large force packages as was done for the FPD. a rare sight to witness. But no planning can bear results till the targets are ac- As daylight transcended into twilight and darkness, curately destroyed. The pilots who flew various missions relentless pounding of rockets, bombs and guns blazing were regular squadron pilots who were trained hard in the from the turrets of fighters and helicopters lit up the night months preceding the grand event. Regular mission briefings sky. All aircraft dispensed IR flares making it easy for on- and debriefings conducted over video-conferencing ensured lookers to discern when the armament was fired by the that all involved in various airbases were on the same grid attacking aircraft. at the end of each day’s practice mission—a reflection of the In a special segment the synergy of the Army Para Com- network capabilities developed for efficiency. mandos, Naval Marine Commandos and IAF Special Force An array of targets including mock radar sites, tanks, Garuds was also demonstrated as they para-dropped togeth- marshalling yards, terrorist camps, runway, BMP (infantry er and destroyed mock terrorist camps. fighting vehicles), blast pens and convoys were selectively On being asked by the media if the FPD was meant to destroyed in the precision attacks by IAF pilots using bombs, convey any signals, Antony said, “The exercise is not meant rockets and missiles. Both PGMs (precision guided ammuni- to send any signals to any country. It was meant to ensure tions) and conventional armament were used in the display. the nation and show the capability of our armed forces that Besides witnessing obliteration of ground-based tar- they are in safe hands.” The Defence Minister added, “We gets, CAP (combat air patrol) versus Strike (intruding en- are not war-mongers. We shouldn’t be worried about threats emy force), an adrenaline-pumping aerial combat scenario from any quarters. The exercise was meant to showcase of 2vs2 (Su-30 MKIs hunting in a pair against an intruding jointness of the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force and the pair of Mirage-2000) was demonstrated. Firing of R-73 in- Indian Navy.” SP frared (heat seeking) air-to-air missiles by Su-30 MKIs on —With inputs from Air HQ, New Delhi

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 33 SHOW REPORT INDIA AVIATION A I R S H O W Extravaganza

BRAND NEW: CREW AND MANAGEMENT OF INDIGO AND INTERGLOBE TECHNOLOGIES RECIEVING THEIR 25TH AIRBUS 320 AIRCRAFT

India Aviation 2010 helped place in perspective the status of the Indian aviation industry, the opportunities on offer and the tremendous potential for growth

he civil airport at Begumpet, By Air Marshal (Retd) tional air show at Yelahanka, Bangalore, Hyderabad was the venue B.K. Pandey, Hyderabad was dominated by military aviation, the of Indian Aviation 2010, the MoCA rightly decided to de-link and or- second edition of the civil ganise a parallel exercise at a location aviation extravaganza. Host- other than the one used for Aero India. ed from March 3 to 7, 2010, Hyderabad was indeed the obvious and the India Aviation Air Show that can more the right choice. Thus the first edition of Tappropriately be described as a ‘Trade Show’ was organised India Aviation was held at Begumpet in October 2008. Un- by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and the Federation fortunately, it was at a time when on account of skyrocketing of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) in the oil prices and the global economic meltdown, the Indian civil ominous shadow of an uncertain security situation in Hyder- aviation industry, in tandem with the global aviation industry, abad. In spite of the fact that the state of Andhra Pradesh, and was in the depths of despair. particularly the capital city of Hyderabad, has been torn apart by civil strife and violence in recent months on account of the INDIA AVIATION 2010 ongoing agitation for the formation of the separate state of However, the scenario in 2010 is quite different. While the lead- Telangana, India Aviation 2010 passed off peacefully. ing economies of the world continue their struggle against recession, sizeable presence at the air show of the US, the f’ocus INDIA AVIATION 2008 country’ and France, the ‘partner country’ to the air show re-

ABHISHEK / SP GUIDE PUBNS In the wake of the unprecedented boom in the civil aviation flected the fact that the Indian civil aviation industry had ar- industry in India from 2004 to 2007, arose the need for an rived on the world stage. With signs that the Indian economy international event to project the attributes, strengths, growth had successfully negotiated the global economic turmoil and potential and the opportunities that the Indian civil aviation was now poised for a healthy rate of growth, the target for

PHOTOGRAPHS: industry had to offer. As Aero India, the biennial interna- which has been pegged at nine per cent by Dr. Manmohan

34 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net SHOW REPORT INDIA AVIATION

Singh, the Prime Minister of India and a renowned econo- mist. It was only logical for Praful Patel, the Union Minister for Civil Aviation, to state in his inaugural address that for the civil aviation industry in India, the worst was over. He further stated that the industry was on the road to recovery albeit at a pace somewhat slower than what was forecast earlier, as it carries an enormous burden of cumulative losses. He was confident that with improving load factors and yields witnessed over the last few months, the airlines would become sustainable and would be in a position to enhance capacity with due caution in conformity with ground realities. On the subject of infrastructure, the minister stated that upgrade programmes of the four metro airports, the 35 non-metro airports as well as of a few other selected airports were on track. He went on to add that the bidding process for a greenfield international airport at Mumbai was expected to be completed within a year. The aviation sector required stag- gering levels of investment and while the Airport Author- ity of India was the major player steer- ing infrastructure growth, there was imperative need for an participation by the private sector. While highlighting the enormous growth potential and opportunities in the sector, he sounded a note of caution about the volatility in the price of aviation fuel that could prove to be a major impedi- ment to the growth of the industry. Reinforcing the optimistic mood, FREEZE FRAME: (TOP TO BOTTOM) Chief Minister of CIVIL AVIATION MINISTER PRAFUL PATEL Andhra Pradesh Dr. HAVING A LOOK AT STATIC DISPLAY OF K. Rosaiah, who was AIRPLANES, FRENCH AMBASSADOR JEROME BONNAFONT AND ANDHRA the chief guest at the PRADESH CHIEF MINISTER K. ROSAIAH inauguration cer- AT THE INAUGURAL MEET emony, defined the priority accorded by his government to the development of civil aviation infrastructure and the various incentives available to the private sector for participation in the new airport development projects in the state. He catalogued the achievements of Andhra Pradesh in respect of aviation-related infrastructure development by way of the Greenfield Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Hosted by at Shamshabad built under the public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement with the GMR group as the major inves- tor. He took obvious pride in the fact that the Rajiv Gandhi

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 35

ILA_SPS_Aviation_B2B_89x226_en.indd 1 31.03.2010 09:52:10 SHOW REPORT INDIA AVIATION

International Airport at Shamshabad has been ranked as the GLOBAL PARTICIPATION best airport in the world in the 5-15 million passenger seg- India Aviation 2010, the largest civil aviation exposition in the ment. This is no mean achievement as this is the second airport country, provided excellent opportunity for exchange between in the country under the PPP model. Apart from the airport, vendors and potential customers in the different segments of the state government has also approved a Special Economic the industry. Present at the venue to savour the Indian growth Zone (SEZ) dedicated to the aerospace industry in which the story and sporting the latest from their stables were the lead- first major venture is a helicopter manufacturing facility that ing players representing the who’s who of the aviation industry is being established through a joint venture between Tata Ad- such as Boeing, Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, GE vanced Systems and Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation of the US. Aviation, Gulfstream Aerospace, Hawker Beechcraft Corpora- In addition to this, the GMR Group has set up an Aerospace tion, Honeywell and Rathyeon from the US, Airbus, AgustaWest- Park in the SEZ for aerospace related facilities thereby gen- land, CFM International, Dassault Aviation, EADS, Eurocopter, erating employment potential for technically qualified youth. Selex Sistemi Integrati and Thales from Europe, Rolls Royce Dr Rosaiah also spoke of the establishment of Lepakshi Aero- from the UK and Bombardier from Canada. Spread over an space and Defence Cluster, a private aerospace venture con- area of 15,000 sq m, there were around 200 participants this sisting of a variety of aerospace related activities. year (as opposed to 170 in 2008) of which 75 per cent were With the background of compounded annual growth rate from abroad in anticipation of grabbing a slice of the pie the (CAGR) of 18 per cent in civil aviation in 2009, the global Indian market has to offer. There was a 15 per cent increase slowdown notwithstanding, Madhavan Nambiar, Secretary, over 2008 in the number of aircraft on static display. Canada, Ministry of Civil Aviation, highlighted the efforts of the gov- the Czech Republic, Germany, Russia and the Netherlands had ernment to make India a regional hub as also to provide country pavilions. However, what was particularly notewor- the necessary impetus to the growth of the air cargo sector. thy was the presence of United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) of

SNAPSHOTS: BUSINESS JETS ON DISPLAY AT THE EVENT He stressed on the need to adopt the Cargo Village concept Russia, which in collaboration (LEFT), MINISTER PRAFUL at select international gateways that would enable India to with an Indian company Hin- PATEL RECEIVING AIR INDIA’S NEW A320 AIRCRAFT (ABOVE), compete with major international airport hubs like Dubai, davia Aeronautical Services, BUSINESS JETS (FACING PAGE Singapore and Bangkok. had on display the 85-seat AN LEFT) AND LARGE AIRLINERS Timothy Roemer, US Ambassador to India, who was head- 148 twin engine high wing re- (FACING PAGE RIGHT) PARKED ing a delegation from the aerospace industry, traced the histo- gional jet liner for civilian ap- AT THE SHOW ry of the growth of Indo-US cooperation in civil aviation, which plication. As per Yuri Grudinin, included the various bilateral agreements and the assistance Director, UAC, in its very first programmes in different disciplines to enhance efficiency and attempt ever to sell a civil transport aircraft, the company has air safety particularly in the civil helicopter segment. As per signed a memoramdum of understanding with three domestic the Ambassador, participation by 35 US aerospace companies carriers in India for supply of 18 of its latest AN-148 series reflected the perception of capability of and opportunities in aircraft, eight in the passenger version and 10 modified for the Indian aerospace industry. France was represented by Am- cargo. In a deal worth approximately $400 million (Rs 1,800 bassador Jerome Bonnafont who recounted the long history of crore), the delivery is expected to commence in October this strategic partnership and collaboration between the two na- year. The company is negotiating for another 11 aircraft and tions civil aviation. There were 13 small and medium French sees a potential market for 200. UAC plans to set up facilities as enterprises participating in the show. Addressing the gathering joint ventures for training and MRO in India to support its fleet. as the President, FICCI, Rajan Bharti Mittal, pitched the need Certification by the Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation of the country in a few years at around 2,500 airliners up from (DGCA), however, may be a major hurdle and milestone to cel- the current level of under 400. ebrate as and when crossed.

36 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net SHOW REPORT INDIA AVIATION

The optimism of the MoCA was endorsed by the two BUSINESS AVIATION global aerospace majors Boeing and Airbus. As per Dinesh According to David Dixon, Regional Vice President, Sales, Keskar, President Boeing India, the assessments made in Asia-Pacific, Bombardier Business Aircraft, India offered a 2008 indicated that within the Asia-Pacific region that has tremendous opportunity for business aviation and this was a potential for nearly 9,000 airliners up to 2028, India, the clearly reinforced by the presence of the leading manufactur- fastest growing market had a potential demand for at least a ers of business jets showcasing their latest innovations. thousand aircraft valued at $100 billion (Rs 450,000 crore). Dassault, which has the highest market share in the large Majority of these would be single-aisle aircraft of the A 320 cabin business jet segment in India, presented the Falcon and Boeing 737 class. Demand estimates for the same pe- large cabin business jets including the best selling Falcon 7X, riod by Airbus are marginally higher at 1,032 aircraft worth six of which are on order from India. The Falcon 7X was type $138 billion (Rs 621,000 crore). Airbus availed of the oppor- certified by the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in tunity at India Aviation 2010 to make an impact by formally November 2009 and the first aircraft was delivered at India handing over two of the latest A 320 aircraft, one to Air In- Aviation 2010 to Religare Voyages Limited, a Delhi-based air dia and the other to Indigo in the presence of the Minister charter company. Religare also announced plans to launch an for Civil Aviation and other dignitaries. air ambulance service in the country. Both the leading OEMs are confident that the Indian Hawker Beechcraft, Cessna Aircraft and Bombardier Learjet economy is on a growth trajectory and the outlook for the the three manufacturers of business jets from Wichita, US were aviation industry as a whole in the years ahead is encour- present at the show chasing a market with “incredible potential” aging. With nearly 400 airliners operated by domestic car- as described by Justin Firestone, Hawker Beechcraft President, riers and nearly 300 aircraft on order and expected to be Asia-Pacific region. Bombardier demonstrated its commitment delivered by 2013, India has a respectable standing on the to the growing Indian aviation market by displaying three of its

global scene. At a press briefing, Boeing confirmed its plans market leading business jets at the air show, the Learjet 60 XR, to establish a $100 million (Rs 450 crore) MRO facility at Challenger 850 and the super large Global 5000. Nagpur which would be functional by 2013. Boeing’s lat- Encouraged by the growth of the aviation industry in est offering, the 787 Dreamliner, will also source its floor India, Cessna had on display the Mustang Very Light Jet. beams from a manufacturer in Nagpur. Encouraged by the Equipped with TCAS II, the company is hopeful of a break- lucrative market potential, Canadian aerospace major Bom- through in the Indian market. In the past several months, bardier marked its presence at the air show by fielding its the company has experienced increased interest in Citation CRJ 700, 900 and 1000 as also the Q 400 turboprop. The business jets, particularly the Citation family, the CJ2+ and company was also advertising the futuristic single aisle CS Citation XLS+. Indian charter operator Taj Air showcased the 100 and CS 300, scheduled to be launched in 2013, with two aircraft at Indian Aviation 2010 — a Dassault Falcon capacity ranging from 110 to 145 seats. 2000LX business jet and a Piaggio P180 Avanti II twin turbo- Presenting a counterview, Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al prop that it has added to its fleet. Baker drew attention to the continuing global economic difficulties especially in Europe and sounded a note of caution. ROTARY WING SEGMENT He felt that the current upturn could only be a mirage and If the fixed wing segment of the aircraft manufacturing indus- that there would be a few difficulties at least till mid 2011. In try was buoyant, the manufacturers of rotary wing aircraft his assessment, there could be a second economic slowdown were equally enthused by market prospects in India. The mar- globally after the middle of this year with adverse impact on ket for helicopters in India has been growing by 20 per cent the global aviation industry. The Indian aviation industry is annually and with fresh opportunities in oil exploration, heli- an integral part of the system and may not be immune. charters, tourism, emergency medical services and corporate

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 37 SHOW REPORT INDIA AVIATION

BIG MACHINES: (L–R) THE BOEING 777 OF JET AIRWAYS WAS ONE OF THE LARGEST AIRCRAFT AT INDIA AVIATION 2010; AN AIR INDIA ENGINEER TAKES A CLOSE LOOK AT THE AIRLINES’ NEW aviation, the helicopter fleet is 2010 helped place in A320’S ENGINE expected to sustain a healthy perspective the status growth rate in the years to of the Indian aviation come. Paucity of infrastructure industry, the opportu- dedicated to helicopter opera- nities on offer and the tions, however, could subdue growth to some extent tremendous potential AgustaWestland of Italy, which has pegged the requirement for growth. Despite the of helicopters in India at around 800 over a decade, has re- tragic accident soon cently established a joint venture company with Tata Motors after the inaugural cer- for assembling the AW119. With the capacity to produce 30 emony involving a Ki- machines annually, the unit is to be located in the aerospace ran Jet Trainer aircraft SEZ near the international airport at Shamshabad, Hyderabad. of the Indian Navy in The first helicopter is scheduled to be rolled out by the end of which two pilots per- 2011. The facility will meet the requirements for both the civil- ished and a few civilians ian and military sectors as well as exploit the markets abroad. suffered injuries on the Indocopters, a Vectra Group company authorised to repre- ground, India Aviation INDIA IS A BIG MARKET. sent Eurocopter in India, during India Aviation 2010, booked 2010 rekindled hopes orders for the supply of three AS 350 B3 helicopters, two to amongst the global WE HAVE ACHIEVED Summit Aviation and one to Morey Group. The company also aerospace majors as- MARVELS IN INDIA signed an agreement for supply of EC135 Eurocopter to an un- sembled at Hyderabad STARTING WITH G3, G4 AND named Mumbai-based corporate house. Eurocopter estimates to engage fruitfully with the demand for helicopters in the country to grow substantially the Indian civil aviation WE CONTINUE TO SELL AND with the fleet strength doubling in the next five years from the industry. However, the EXPAND IN THIS MARKET existing 250 aircraft. However, this growth would be contingent government on its part WITH G550. WITH OUR MID on the required infrastructural growth which would have to be must come forward and addressed by the government. Eurocopter announced plans to replace the rhetoric SIZE JETS AND TOP ONES AS strengthen its position in India through investment in support with speedy action in WELL WE AIM TO DOMINATE facilities such as an MRO as joint venture with Pawan Hans as respect of infrastructure THE MARKET. also a pilot training facility with a full-flight simulator. development and usher Bell Helicopter showcased the company’s latest offering, in an era of deregula- —ROGER SPERRY, the light twin Bell 429 that was certified in July 2009. This mation, level playing field VICE PRESIDENT, chine was a major attraction at the show. As per Max E Wiley, for the private sector, INTERNATIONAL SALES, Vice President, Sales, Asia-Pacific, at India Aviation 2010, Bell liberalised tax regimes, Helicopter has initiated a dialogue with customers among oil proactive policy mak- GULFSTREAM companies and the corporate segment in India for the sale of ing, corruption free en- as many as five machines. The company expects this initia- vironment, minimised tive to materialise into firm orders within a month. Should this red tape, transparency, and efficiency. Then and only then, happen, it would go down as one of the major success stories can the nation hope to fulfill its aspirations to become a major of India Aviation 2010. player on the global aviation scene. SP

IN THE FINAL ANALYSIS... The aviation industry of a nation in intimately linked with its For more information and related videos, visit: economy and serves as a catalyst of growth. India Aviation www.spsaviation.net

38 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net INDUSTRY TRAINING Hands on Training By Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey, Hyderabad

GM RAO, CHAIRMAN OF GMR INDUSTRIES (LEFT) AND ERIC BACHELET, PRESIDENT AND CEO, CFM INTERNATIONAL (RIGHT) INAUGURATING THE CENTRE

FM International (CFMI), a 50:50 joint venture be- The new CFM Training tween France’s Snecma (Safran Group) and the General Electric Company of the United States is Centre is equipped to train the world’s leading manufacturer of commercial aircraft engines. Fulfilling its commitments to its 500 aeronautical engineers clientele in 2007, the company on March 2, 2010, annually and will motivate inaugurated a training centre at the Aerospace Park of the CSpecial Economic Zone being developed by the GMR group other aerospace majors across near the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport at Hyderabad. the world to gravitate towards Including initial start-up costs, investment in the centre is slated to be to the tune of $15 million (Rs 68 crore) in the India to exploit the immense next decade. potential the country has to Preceded by three similar facilities established earlier in the US, France and China, the facility in Hyderabad is offer in aerospace engineering equipped to train 500 aeronautical engineers annually. It will provide hands-on training specifically for the maintenance of CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines that power the Airbus 320 and the Boeing 737 Next Generation airliners. As train- President and CEO, CFM International. According to Paul An- ing aids, the centre has two dedicated engines, the CFM56- dre Chevrin, Vice President (India), CFM International, plans 5B and the CFM56-7B and other tools necessary for both for the future include the establishment of a logistics and en- theoretical and hands-on training. The centre will also offer gine spare parts services facility at the Aerospace Park SEZ courses in general familiarisation, line maintenance, bore- to cater to customers in South Asia. However, he went on to scope inspection, and trend monitoring. clarify that the plan is yet to be finalised and no clear time- There are about 320 CFM56 engines flying in the country, frame could be declared at this stage. and more than 360 are on order. In the region, there are more The first batch of students, which consisted of officers then 500 CFM56 engines in service and an impressive list of from the IAF, commenced training at the newly-inaugurated clientele including Air India and its subsidiary Air India Ex- facility on March 8, 2010. Apart from customers in India, press, Jet Airways, GoAir, SpiceJet, as well as airlines in Ban- the facility also plans to provide training to students from the gladesh, Bhutan and Sri Lanka. As per Eric Bachelet, President Middle East and the Asia Pacific region including countries and CEO, CFM International, the company is committed to pro- such as Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines. viding a free training package to the customer along with the This new training centre established by CFM will motivate new engines supplied. The cost of such training in India will be other aerospace majors across the world to gravitate towards significantly lower than that in France and the US. India to exploit the immense potential the country has to of- Confined to the civil aviation sector so far, CFM has sup- fer in the regime of aerospace engineering and MRO services. plied the CFM56-7B engines to power the Boeing Business It will enable the local expertise in this sector to develop and Jets acquired for the VVIP Squadron of the Indian Air Force boost Hyderabad’s drive to become a major hub for the avia- (IAF). In 2012, the company will also supply engines to pow- tion industry. Ultimately, it would also propel India to a world er the fleet of P8I Maritime Surveillance Aircraft purchased class status in the field of engineering and maintenance hub. I by the Indian government for its navy. With these contracts, As per G. Mallikarjuna Rao, Chairman, GMR Group, plans CFM CFM has successfully forayed into the Indian defence sector. are afoot to bring to the Aerospace Park SEZ all aviation, avi- “The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is onics and related activities, which are currently outsourced. the logical location for this new facility. The training offered The aim is to exploit opportunities arising out of offsets ema-

PHOTOGRAPH: here will be unparalleled in the region,” said Eric Bachelet, nating from defence projects. SP

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 39 CIVIL OEM

The company has reinforced its commitments towards India At the backdrop of India Aviation 2010, Eric Bachelet, President and CEO, CFM International, spoke at length to Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey, Editor of SP’s AirBuz about the company’s varied initiaives in India

SP’s Aviation (SP’s): Can you brief us about the history of from the two parent companies’ commercial engine desig- CFM International? nations; GE’s CF6 and Snecma’s M56. The company is now Eric Bachelet (EB): Driven by the need to develop the 10- acknowledged as the world’s largest aircraft engine manufac- tonne engine, which was foreseen as a requirement for the turer and supplier with more than 20,250 delivered to over airline industry in the seventies, Snecma, France and GE Avia- 500 operators globally. CFMI engines powered 55 per cent tion, USA formed a 50:50 Joint Venture company named CFM of all airliners ordered from 1996 to 2009. Being unique in International (CFMI) in 1974. The primary responsibilities of more ways than one, this transatlantic partnership has stood CFMI were to manage the programme between GE and Snec- the test of time and is regarded as the most successful JV. ma and to market and provide support for the product at a single point of contact for the customer. Both GE and Snecma SP’s: Please elaborate on CFMI’s association with the are responsible for producing various components and each Indian market. How do you assess the future prospects? has its own final assembly line. GE is responsible for the high EB: The first lot of CFM56 engines entered service with Jet pressure compressor, combustor and high pressure turbine. Airways in 1994. Since then, CFMI’s presence in India and ABHISHEK / SP GUIDE PUBNS Snecma is responsible for the fan, low pressure turbine, the South Asia has steadily grown. Today, there are more than gearbox and the exhaust. The engines are assembled by GE 500 CFM56 engines in service or on order in the region pow- in Evendale, Ohio, USA and by Snecma in Villaroche, France. ering Airbus and Boeing aircraft for Air India, Air India Ex-

PHOTOGRAPH: The name of the JV and the CFM56 product line are derived press, GoAir, and SpiceJet, as well as airlines in Bangladesh,

40 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net CIVIL OEM

Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. Indian customers are supported by reduction in fuel consumption and is designated as the LEAP-X seven in-country field service engineers. India is one of the programme. Elevating engine performance to an entirely new most dynamic economies in the world and the long-term po- level, the LEAP-X is expected to enter service in or after 2015. tential is virtually limitless. At CFMI, we are very pleased and However, beyond the LEAP-X is the engine based on Open Ro- proud to be a part of the aviation infrastructure in India and tor Technology with expected service entry in 2025 or later. in being a support in the continuous growth of the industry in Employing LEAP-X technology and beyond, the open rotor en- the region. Both the parent companies of CFM—Snecma and gine will carry an external contra-rotating set of fans at the General Electric have also invested heavily in India. In 2007, rear and offer up to 30 per cent reduction in fuel consumption. Snecma’s 50:50 JV with HAL reached full production capabil- There are a number of technical and regulatory issues to be re- ity supplying tubes and pipes for CFM56 engines. GE has had solved before the engine is ready to power airliners. However, large commercial engines, such as the CF6 and the GE90, op- the Open Rotor technology holds great promise. erating in India since 1982. Additionally, both the companies have extensive research and development capabilities in the SP’s: What in your view is the real strength of CFMI? country, located in Bangalore. In the recent past, the company EB: Apart from the fact that CFMI synergises the capabilities has entered the defence segment in India by way of CFM56- of two of the world’s most renowned manufacturer of aero 7B engines for the Boeing Business Jets and P8I Long Range engines located in two distant continents, the organisation Maritime Surveillance aircraft. The company has reinforced itself is simple and responsive to the needs of its custom- its commitments through investment in a training centre that ers. The company assesses and predicts the future needs of was inaugurated on March 2, 2010. customers, strives to deliver the right product that is world class provides the best possible product support to stay SP’s: What are CFMI’s plans to meet the challenges of ahead in the race. climate change? EB: The company has constantly been striving to upgrade pro- SP’s: What is your observation of the global market po- duction standards of the CFM56 engine to achieve reduced fuel tential in the next decade or two? consumption, lower noise levels and emissions, enhanced life EB: Apart from the fact that CFMI has another 5,700 engines and reduced maintenance costs. Some hardware changes such to be delivered, it is expected that both Airbus and Boeing as reduction in the number of high pressure low-pressure tur- would look for new generation engines by the end of the de- bine blades have been introduced for better performance of cade. This will generate a sizeable demand for our products. the CFM 7BE, but revolutionary changes are in the offing with Besides, both Airbus and Boeing estimate that around 1,000 the advanced turbofan engine based on composite technology airliners are expected to be inducted into service over the that would contribute to reduction in all-up weight of the air- next 20 years. We therefore see an ever growing demand for craft by nearly 500 kg. This engine will offer 10-15 per cent engines in the next two decades. SP

MILITARY INDUSTRY

to be in service. New equipment will be integrated.” The LCH is a dedicated attack helicopter derived from the Indigenous Tech advanced light helicopter-Dhruv fitted with weapon systems, mission systems and crashworthy wheel landing gear with in- India’s first Light Combat built stealth characteristics. Helicopter makes first flight HAL informs, a full-fledged qualification test programme would follow leading to initial operation clearance by Decem- ndia’s first indigenously developed light combat helicop- ber 2011 towards induction into Indian armed forces. ter (LCH) took to the skies on March 29. The first tech- On being asked about his views about the LCH, Air Chief Inology demonstrator of Indian defence aviation major Marshal (Retd) F.H. Major said, “It would be premature to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) lifted off for its maiden comment. There will be many more tests done, weapons and flight at Helicopter Complex, Bangalore. The flight marked equipment integrated in the helicopter. It will take a year or the successful culmination of three years of design and devel- two for all the qualification tests to be completed.” opment efforts by Rotary Wing Research & Design Centre of Former Air Chief Marshal S. Krishnaswamy said, “New Helicopter Complex. technology and material would permit truly a light-weight According to HAL, the performance of the helicopter combat helicopter to be developed in the Indian stables. Most and systems was satisfactory and the importantly, there is no technical risk in 20 minute flight provided the pilots op- developing this version and there should portunity to carryout low speed, low not be any worry about time and cost altitude checks on the various systems over-runs.” on-board. HAL plans to sell more than 150 HAL HAL Chairman Ashok Nayak said, “It of these light combat choppers to is a two pilot helicopter to be used only the Indian armed forces in the next for combat operations.” He added, “It will few years. SP

PHOTOGRAPH: take another 2-3 years for the helicopter —By Sucheta Das Mohapatra

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 41 MILITARY INDUSTRY Super Hornets in the Australian sky

Five of Boeing’s Super Hornets reached the Royal Australian Air Force recently. The remaining 19 of the 25 ordered by the air force in 2007 will reach by 2011.

ive of the 19 F/A-18F Super Hornets ordered Australian Defence Secretary Ian Watt, Air Chief Marshal by Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) from Boe- Angus Houston, Chief of the Defence Force Air Marshal Mark ing, arrived at the air force base in Amberley, Binskin, Chief of Air Force and US Navy Rear Admiral Mark Queensland. Australia is the first international Skinner were among the other officials present. customer for the Super Hornet. “The on-schedule arrival of the new Australian Super Australia had placed an order for 24 Su- Hornets marks the beginning of a new generation of air per Hornets in March 2007. While five of them were de- power for the RAAF,” said Group Captain Steven Roberton, Flivered on March 26, 2010, the remaining 19 aircraft, each Officer Commanding the Super Hornet Wing. “The multirole equipped with the Raytheon-built APG-79 Active Electroni- Super Hornet is an advanced, networked weapons system cally Scanned Array (AESA) radar, will arrive in Australia that provides a major leap in capability for the RAAF. throughout 2010 and 2011. “We are looking forward to the new operational capabil- The Super Hornets left the US Naval Air Station Lemoore, ity. The Super Hornet employs advanced networked sensors California, on March 18 and reached Amberley on March 26 that provide its aircrew with total situational awareness, after scheduled halts in Hawaii, Pago and New Zealand. enabling them to conduct simultaneous air-to-air and air-to- At a ceremony organised at the air force base, the ground operations,” Roberton continued . Australian Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, According to Boeing sources, the Super Hornet is a welcomed the RAAF Super Hornets to Australia. Speaking multirole aircraft, able to perform virtually every mission during the event, Dennis Muilenburg, President and CEO, in the tactical spectrum, including air superiority, day/ Boeing Defense, Space & Security said, “We at Boeing are night strike with precision-guided weapons, fighter es- honoured to provide the next generation in air combat ca- cort, close air support, suppression of enemy air defences, pability to the Royal Australian Air Force. We are proud to maritime strike, reconnaissance, forward air control and deliver it on time and on budget,” said Muilenburg. “The tanker missions. arrival of the Super Hornets marks a new chapter in the “The Super Hornet, fully equipped and qualified with partnership between Boeing and Australia that has en- next-generation technology offers a nation’s fighting force dured for more than 80 years. The exceptional collabora- the widest range of capability and the most affordable, low- tion and teamwork between Australia’s Defence Materiel risk solution to solving a growing capability gap in tactical BOEING Organisation, the Royal Australian Air Force, the US Navy aviation,” said a company spokesperson. and the Hornet Industry Team was the foundation that The company claims to have supplied more than 420 ensured that these new Super Hornets are now ready to aircraft across the globe. SP

PHOTOGRAPH: begin their RAAF service,” he added. —SP’s Aviation News Desk

42 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Hall of Fame ID GUSTAVE WHITEHEAD with bamboo ribbing and covered in More flights may have taken place EXECUTE a powered flight silk. A movable horizontal tail provided over the next year or so, but without on August 14, 1901? If pitch control. For banking and turning, reliable documentation. Later, White- he did indeed get off the Whitehead shifted his weight more to head lost an eye when struck by a steel ground in his “Airplane No. one side than the other. The craft had chip in a factory. He was also subject D21”—and some aviation historians to increasing heart problems. He believe there is evidence he did— continued to work and invent, but the feat significantly preceded the profited no more from his inven- Wright brothers’ first flight of De- tions than he did from aircraft cember 17, 1903. and engines. He died of a massive Gustave was born Gustave Albin heart attack on October 10, 1927, Weisskopf on January 1, 1874, in leaving his family nothing but Bavaria, Germany. He was obsessed their home and $8 (Rs 363.44). with flying from an early age. He Whitehead’s aviation innovations met and corresponded with Otto Lil- included the use of aluminium in ienthal while learning some of the engines and propellers, wheels for principles of flight. He and a friend take-off and landing, ground-ad- also caught and tethered birds in justable propeller pitch, individual an attempt to discover how they control of propellers, folding wings flew—an activity which was soon for towing on roads, silk for wing stopped by the police. After emi- covering, and concrete paved run- grating to America, he built an air- GUSTAVE ways. He built more than 30 aircraft powered by a steam engine in craft engines and sold them as far 1899. Whether or not the machine WHITEHEAD west as California. ever got airborne, it was certainly Does the evidence for his travelling fast enough on one oc- (1874 – 1927) claimed first flight add up? There casion to crash into a building and are ardent Whitehead supporters hurt the passengers. Whitehead, at Obsessed with ﬂying from and there are scoffers. No photo- the controls, escaped injury. Later, graphs of any of Whitehead’s air- he constructed an aviation work- an early age, Gustave built craft in flight were ever produced; shop in the yard of his house. Local an aircraft powered by a so it is difficult to conclusively teenagers intrigued by his activities prove the reports. Apparently he became his unpaid helpers. steam engine in 1899. Later, could not afford to demonstrate Whitehead named his experi- he constructed an aviation powered flights later. So they were mental machines in numerical never documented. The failure of order and completed Airplane No. workshop in the yard of his his feat to gain recognition may 21 in early 1901. According to a have had something to do with his report in the Bridgeport Sunday house. He built more than never becoming an American citi- Herald, his first successful pow- 30 aircraft engines and sold zen; anglicising his name was not ered flight occurred on August 14, enough. The Smithsonian Institu- 1901, at Fairfield, Connecticut, US. them to customers as far tion, the US Government’s premier The flight covered a distance of west as California. research organisation, refused to half a mile at a height of up to 50 ft. even consider the possibility that The reporter, Richard Howell, was anyone beat the Wright brothers. also an artist, and he illustrated his Whitehead never claimed that he article with an interesting sketch built and flew a practical flying of the beautiful craft in flight. The flight two engines—a ground engine and a machine—that honour rightfully be- reportedly included a change of direc- flying one—both fuelled by a single cal- longs to the Wright brothers. Neither tion to avoid a clump of chestnut trees cium carbide (acetylene) generator. The did his work have any effect on early and ended in a safe landing without ground engine was used for moving on aviation or the development of aero- damaging the plane. Later claims by four wheels on the ground and during nautics. But Gustave Whitehead may Whitehead and the affidavits of his the take-off roll. As the machine got indeed have built and tested an air- helpers (obtained more than 30 years airborne, fuel to the ground engine was craft, fitted with a pair of silken wings after the event) fleshed out the details. cut, with all power then going to the and an engine—perhaps good enough Supporting evidence, including ground main flight engine which powered two for getting airborne and traversing a photographs taken in 1901, reveals propellers in front. The engines were short distance, if nothing else. He had a Airplane No. 21 as a high-wing mono- steam driven, but used the expansion dream that more advanced flying ma- plane with an enclosed fuselage and force of acetylene instead of the much chines would one day frequent “... the aerodynamically correct wing charac- heavier steam system. No external only universal highway”. SP teristics like dihedral angle, camber starting aids, like a strong headwind or —Group Captain (Retd) and angle of incidence. It was built catapult, were necessary. Joseph Noronha, Goa

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 43 NEWSDigest MILITARY IAF OPERATIONALISES NEW AIRFIELD RoundUp IN RAJASTHAN SECTOR Quick Asia-Pacific AEROJET IAF’s first batch of An-32 arrive in Ukraine • Aerojet, a GenCorp company, and The first batch of five military Orbital Sciences Corporation, along transport aircraft of Indian with Aerojet’s Russian partner, SNTK, Air Force arrived at Kyiv air- have announced that a series of port on March 9 to undergo NK-33 rocket engine tests conducted overhauling and upgrada- in Samara, Russia were successfully tion programme at facilities completed in support of the develop- of 410 plant of civil aviation ment of Orbital’s Taurus II space State Enterprise (Kyiv). The launch vehicle. The purpose of the representative office of India extended-time testing of the NK-33 has been established at the engine was to demonstrate a hot-fire Plant 410. On June 15, 2009, duration equal to two times a normal the contract for moderni- Taurus II acceptance testing and sation of 105 An-32s fleet On April 6, the Indian Air Force Chief, Air Chief Marshal P.V. Naik launch profile duty cycle. of Indian Air Force (IAF) commissioned a newly constructed airfield at Phalodi in the Ra- was signed. According to jasthan sector. The airfield, located in the centre of the Jaisalmer- AIRBUS this agreement, the first 40 Jodhpur-Bikaner triangle would bridge the long felt gap between airplanes will be upgraded in these bases along the borders with Pakistan in the south-western • United has formalised a com- Ukraine, the other 65 – at No. sector. The airfield has been equipped with modern infrastruc- mitment originally announced in 1BRD in Kanpur. ture to undertake air operations on a 24X7 basis involving all December 2009, signing a firm order types of fighters, transport and rotary wing aircraft. The inaugu- for 25 A350-900 XWB aircraft, the Americas ration ceremony comprised fly past by various fighter formations newest twin-engine wide body from and landing of the first fighter aircraft—a Jaguar—at the base. Airbus. The aircraft will be powered Boeing Hydrogen Powered With specific consideration to the geopolitical scenario and by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. Vehicle takes shape the need for in-built flexibility in operational requirements, for- Deliveries of the aircraft will begin The Boeing Company has mation of a new air base at Phalodi covering roughly 4,000 acres in 2016 and run through 2019. The begun to build Phantom Eye, had been approved by the Indian government in April 2000. The A350 XWB is a new family of mid-size its first unmanned, liquid- airfield was initially inaugurated on July 31, 2001 with the es- wide body airliners. hydrogen powered, high alti- tablishment of a Care & Maintenance Unit (C&MU) under South- tude long endurance (HALE) Western Air Command (SWAC) which also foresaw the construc- AUSTRALIA demonstrator aircraft. Phan- tion of the full-fledged air base. The government sanction for tom Eye’s entire propulsion establishment of Air Force Station, Phalodi was accorded in July • Australia’s Minister for Defence system—including the engine, 2006 and the station has been functioning since then. • Personnel, Materiel and Science, has turbo chargers and engine announced that the Defence Science control system—successfully and Technology Organisation and completed an 80-hour test the US Air Force Research Laboratory in an altitude chamber on package, significantly improv- adds stability fins on the back have successfully completed a sec- March 1, clearing the way ing precision when compared of each weapon. ond hypersonic flight at the Woomera for the propulsion system to existing Paveway II LGBs. Test Range. and UAV to be assembled. The Paveway II Plus systems Northrop Grumman demon- The twin-engine Phantom were launched from alti- strates capabilities F BELL HELICOPTER Eye demonstrator will have tudes ranging from 10,000- Northrop Grumman Corpo- a 150-foot wingspan and be 30,000 ft against a 24’ x 24’ ration on March 10 an- • Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. capable of flying for more billboard target angled at nounced that it successfully company, has announced that it has than four days at altitudes 45 degrees. Two GBU-10s demonstrated its LITENING been awarded a contract by the US up to 65,000 ft while carry- and four GBU-12s equipped advanced targeting capabili- Army to modify the final 30 OH-58D ing a payload of up to 450 with MAU-209C/B computer ties on the US Navy’s premier aircraft under the Kiowa Warrior Ibs. Phantom Eye is designed control groups were released fighter/attack aircraft, the F/ Safety Enhancement Program (SEP). to maintain a persistent from a pair of F-16D Viper A-18E/F Super Hornet, mark- These 30 aircraft will form Lot 13 of presence in the stratosphere aircraft from Eglin’s 40th ing the eighth US combat the Kiowa Warrior SEP programme. over a specific area, while Flight Test Squadron. Each aircraft to fly the advanced Work on the aircraft will begin in performing missions that successfully initiated laser targeting system. “During the March 2010. Completed aircraft are could include intelligence, acquisition at the expected 1.5 hour flight conducted at scheduled to be delivered back to reconnaissance, surveillance, time and guided to the the Naval Air Warfare Centre the Army at a rate of two per month and communication. intended target. Paveway II Weapons Division, California, beginning in July 2010. LGB guidance kits improve US. LITENING demonstrated Lockheed Martin’s Paveway weapon accuracy and reduce its performance, flexibility BOEING II Plus Laser Guided Bomb risk to the US and allied and interoperability under Lockheed Martin’s Paveway ground forces by converting operationally representa- • Boeing has announced that it will II Plus Laser Guided Bomb gravity weapons into preci- tive conditions,” said Mike accelerate planned rate increases on successfully completed a sion-guided munitions. Each Lennon, vice president of both the 777 and 747 programmes series of six flight tests March kit consists of a computer Targeting and Surveillance due to increased demand. The 3 at Eglin Air Force Base, FL. control group, which is the Programmes for Northrop company will accelerate the 777 The Paveway II Plus LGB uses front-end guidance system, Grumman’s Targeting Sys- programme’s rate increase to seven an enhanced laser guidance plus an aerofoil group which tems Division.

44 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net NEWSDigest APPOINTMENTS Air Force Chief of Staff RoundUp General Norton A. Schwartz Quick INDIAN AIR FORCE delivered the first of 28 Lock- Air Marshal A.S. Karnik took over as the new Director General heed Martin C-130J Super airplanes per month (from five per (Inspection & Safety) at Air HQ on April 1, with the superan- Hercules airlifters to the month) by approximately six months, nuation of the outgoing DG, Air Marshal T.S. Randhawa. The 317th Airlift Group at Dyess from early 2012 to mid-2011. The post of Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) HQ WAC vacated by Air Air Force Base. Schwartz 747 programme’s planned produc- Marshal Karnik has been filled up by the newly promoted Air flew the C-130J to Dyess tion rate increase to two airplanes Marshal Arup Raha. from Little Rock Air Force per month (from 1.5 per month) will Base in Arkansas. While move from mid-2012 to mid-2013. AIR INDIA delivering the first aircraft, Suppliers for both the 777 and 747 Air India has announced the appointment of Captain Gustav the air force’s top uniformed will be prepared to support the ac- Baldauf as its first Chief Operating Officer (COO). officer said that the C-130 celerated rate increases. The national carrier last month also appointed four has been flying in the skies independent directors, namely, former Indian Air Force Chief, over Abilene for almost 50 CAE Fali H. Major, Mahindra & Mahindra Vice Chairman Anand years, noting that the latest Mahindra, Ambuja Realty Group Chairman Harsh Neotia and, version of the backbone of • CAE has announced that it has sold Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry our tactical airlift capability three CAE 7000 Series full-flight sim- Secretary General Amit Mitra. will continue the great legacy ulators (FFS) to Lion Air, Indonesia’s built by generations of avia- leading domestic airline. One FFS is LOCKHEED MARTIN tors. The new aircraft will for the ATR72-500 aircraft and the Lockheed Martin announced the appointment of Christopher replace the existing Dyess other two for the Boeing 737-900ER Gregoire as the new Vice President and Controller on March 29. fleet of 33 aging C-130s flown model. CAE will also deliver two CAE by the 317th Airlift Group. Simfinity integrated procedures train- NORTHROP GRUMMAN The C-130J Super Hercules ers. This brings the total FFS sales Northrop Grumman Corporation has named Patrick M. Ant- fleet will be delivered over that CAE has announced to date kowiak Vice President and General Manager of the Advanced the next two years with final during fiscal year 2010 to 19. Concepts & Technologies Division for the Company’s Elec- delivery in 2012. tronic Systems sector. EADS RAYTHEON • EADS Defence & Security has Raytheon Company has named David L. Jensen as Vice Presi- CIVIL AVIATION delivered its 1000th digital map dent of communications for its Intelligence and Information Asia-Pacific generator system to BAE Systems for Systems (IIS) business. use in the Eurofighter. Map systems SAGEM Kingfisher brings JAA Pilot support helicopter and aircraft pilots Sagem (Safran group) has appointed Larry Alexandre, as Ground Training to India by showing flight data and potential Chief Executive Officer of its subsidiary Sagem Avionics, Inc. threats on digital maps. The digital map generator is part of a product SAAB family of navigation and tactical Defence and Security company Saab AB, has appointed Inderjit information systems which Defence Sial as the Country Head of Saab International India AB. Sial Electronics has developed for many takes on this position from Jan Widerstrom, who will be mov- different types of military aircraft. ing on to the role of Head-Asia Pacific Region, Saab AB. Apart from the Eurofighter and Tornado, digital map generators are EUROCOPTER used in helicopters of various types Matthieu Louvot has been appointed Vice President, Head and makes. of Corporate Strategy & Company Development, Eurocopter Group. Louvot succeeds Andreas Loewenstein. Kingfisher Airlines, India’s FOKKER only Five Star airline by Skytrax, announced it has • A contract has been signed for the More orders for Boeing allows customers to easily acquired the capability to sale to Peru of two Fokker 60 Mari- Direct Attack Munition Kits upgrade the weapon in the offer Joint Aviation Authori- time Patrol Aircraft, one additional Boeing has received a con- field to provide additional ties Airline Transport Pilot engine and a limited amount of spare tract modification from the capability, such as laser guid- License (JAA ATPL) Pilot parts. The aircraft will be transferred US Air Force for the fiscal ance and extended range. Ground Training course. The to Peru this year. The final sale may year 2010 production of Boeing has produced more course, the first of its kind figure a total of fouraircraft. more than 6,000 joint direct than 2,10,000 JDAM kits in India outside Europe and attack munition (JDAM) kits. since 1998. the US, has been made pos- GE AIRCRAFT ENGINES Boeing will deliver the kits sible by virtue of a technical from this order in 2011 and Lockheed Martin C-130J at arrangement with Aviation • General Electric Aircraft Engines, 2012. The FY2010 produc- Dyess Air Force Base Pacific Europe. The JAA has been awarded a $326 million tion is the third procurement ATP ground theory courses modification to a previously awarded of a six-year contract Boeing comprises 14 aeronautical firm-fixed-price contract to exercise received in January 2008. subjects covering 650 hours an option for 80 F414-GE-400 JDAM is a low-cost guidance of study time, conducted in a engines and modules and two spare kit that converts existing classroom or through a dis- engines for the US Navy. The F414- 500, 1,000- and 2,000 Ib tance learning programme. GE-400 engine powers the F/A-18E/F unguided free-fall bombs into Considered an academic and EA-18G aircraft. Work is expected accurately guided “smart” challenge for its extensive to be completed by May 2012. weapons. Its modular design and indepth characteristics,

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 45 NEWSDigest SHOW CALENDAR ROLLS-ROYCE AND HAL ANNOUNCE RoundUp NEW MANUFACTURING JOINT VENTURE IN INDIA Quick 27 April – 29 April AEROMART MONTREAL Rolls-Royce, the global GRIPEN NG 2010 power systems Com- Convention Center, Canada pany and Hindustan • The flight test programme with www.aeromart.tm.fr Aeronautics Limited Gripen NG Demonstrator continues (HAL) the premier according to plan at the Saab facili- 28 April – 30 April aerospace company ties in Linköping. “We are now testing GLOBAL SECURITY INDIA in India, signed an all the tactical systems, such as the 2010 agreement to create AESA radar and the new communica- The Ashok Hotel Convention a manufacturing joint tions system. The test programme Centre, New Delhi, India. venture company in is very extensive, and the unusually www.globalsecindia.com Bangalore. harsh cold and snowy winter here The new compa- in Sweden has challenged the 4 May – 6 May ny, a 50:50 joint ven- programme schedule but we are now EBACE2010 quickly catching up”, said Mattias ture between Rolls- Geneva International Airport, Bergström, the Gripen NG Demonstra- Geneva, Switzerland Royce and HAL, will undertake the manufacture of compressor tor project manager. www.ebace.aero shroud rings. Construction of a new purpose-built production facility, incorporating the latest in modern manufacturing tech- KOREA 10 May – 12 May niques, will commence in 2010 with component production be- ELECTRONIC WARFARE ginning in 2012. • The Korean Utility Helicopter 2010 CONFERENCE & Sir John Rose, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce, said: “India is Prototype #1 of the Surion has com- EXHIBITION extremely important to Rolls-Royce and we are delighted to an- pleted its first flight at Sachon airport Estrel Convention Center, nounce this new joint venture company with our partners HAL. successfully. The Surion performed Berlin, Germany This marks an exciting new phase of our long-standing partner- hovering and taxiing for about 30 www.shephard.co.uk ship with HAL and underscores our commitment to India and minutes. the aerospace industry here. India is a country that is full of 11 May – 13 May potential for Rolls-Royce and we look forward to continuing to LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATE AVIATION develop our business here in the future.” SAFETY SEMINAR Rolls-Royce has a significant presence in India stretching • Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Hilton El Conquistador, back over 78 years and now has more than 1,300 engines in Martin Aeronautics Co., Fort Worth, Tucson, Ariz service in India, across the company’s four global market sec- Texas, is being awarded an $11.8 www.nbaa.org tors —civil aerospace, defence aerospace, marine, and energy. million modification to a previ- The Rolls-Royce partnership with HAL is now in its 54th ously awarded cost-plus-incentive-fee 17 May – 18 May year. HAL became a supplier to Rolls-Royce in 2003, exporting contract to definitise the requirement AIR POWER ASIA 2010 ring forgings for use in one of the world’s most technologi- to provide and install P5 Combat Goodwood Park Hotel, Training System Group A provisions cally advanced civil aero engines—the Trent. The relationship Singapore into all F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Low www.airpowerasia.com continues to prosper, with HAL producing the Hawk Advanced Rate Initial Production Lot 2 Aircraft. Jet Trainer’s Adour Mk871 engine to train India’s next-gen- Work is expected to be completed in 18 May – 20 May eration pilots. • February 2011. AIRCRAFT INTERIORS EXPO 2010 NORTHROP GRUMMAN Hamburg Messe, Germany this is a great opportunity for and efficiency of the air- www.aircraftinteriorsexpo.com the Indian pilots to enhance craft. SpiceJet has recently • Northrop Grumman Corp., their knowledge and qualify announced its new schedule Integrated Systems, Bethpage, has 18 May – 19 May for another licence. These with strengthening of its been awarded a $94.6 million not-to- CHINA AVIATION MRO exams are valid for seven connectivity to the Northeast. exceed advance acquisition contract SUMMIT 2010 years, by which time a pilot Agartala was announced as for long-lead materials and support Renaissance Beijing must acquire the flying re- the 19th destination in its associated with the manufacture Chaoyang Hotel, Beijing, quirements to qualify for network with the addition of and delivery of four low rate initial China a JAA ATPL. a daily flight on the Kolkata- production Lot 3 E-2D Advanced www.aviationmrochina.com Agartala-Kolkata route effec- Hawkeye aircraft. Contract funds will Boeing 737-800 in tive April 15, 2010. not expire at the end of the current 25 May – 27 May SpiceJet fleet Sanjay Aggarwal, Chief fiscal year and is expected to be HELI & UV PACIFIC 2010 SpieceJet has received a Executive Officer, SpiceJet completed by May 2011. Queensland, Australia brand new Boeing 737-800 said, “We are excited to www.shephard.co.uk airplane. This takes Spice- welcome the 20th airplane to RAYTHEON Jet’s fleet size to 20 airplanes our fleet. Having a young and 8 June – 13 June with an average age of three state-of-the-art fleet allows us • Raytheon Company’s Missile ILA BERLIN AIR SHOW 2010 years. With five more new to offer reliable and comfort- Systems business has established a Berlin-Schoenefeld Airport airplane deliveries scheduled able service to our custom- missile defence productline. Already www.ila-berlin.com in the next year, the airline ers.” In keeping with Spice- a world leader in missile defense, is set to grow its fleet size Jet’s practice of naming each the company’s new Air and Missile 14 June – 18 June to 25. This new 737-800 of its airplanes after a spice, Defence Systems product line will EUROSATORY 2010 airplane with advanced cock- the new aircraft is christened create even greater alignment with its Paris pit technology and blended ‘Vanilla’. It will carry the tail Missile Defence Agency customer. www.eurosatory.com winglets improves safety sign VT-SGF.

46 SP’S AVIATION Issue 4 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net NEWSDigest MRO Facilities for Aircraft engines sold to date, the lenger and Global aircraft RoundUp in India GEnx is the fastest-selling operators attending the 2010 Quick On March 11, the Minister engine in GE’s history. Based FIFA World Cup (June 11 to for Civil Aviation, Praful Patel on the proven architecture July 11, 2010). • The Australian Ministry of Defence gave the following informa- of the GE90, the GEnx en- has announced that Raytheon Aus- tion in Lok Sabha on Mainte- gine will succeed GE’s CF6 tralia has been awarded the training nance, Repair and Overhaul engine. Compared to the CF6 INDUSTRY support services contract to support (MRO) facilities for aircraft engine, the GEnx engine will Super Hornet training systems at in India: offer 15 per cent improved Asia-Pacific Royal Australian Air Force Base Am- • The National Aviation Com- fuel efficiency, which trans- berley. Raytheon Australia will provide pany of India Limited (NACIL) lates to 15 per cent less CO2. HCL Technologies launches maintenance, logistics, and training has fullfledged MRO facility at The engine achieves these Centre of Excellence services to support the Super Hornet Mumbai which takes care of improvements with aerody- The Boeing Company and flight simulators, visual environment the requirements of B747- namic advancements that HCL Technologies Ltd have maintenance trainers and electronic 400 and A310 aircraft and enable higher pressures and inaugurated a new Centre classrooms. engines/APUs/components improved energy extraction of Excellence to support test and accessories fitted on from a more compact core and evaluation operations ROLLS-ROYCE these aircraft. architecture that has signifi- at Boeing. Specifically, the • Air India and Boeing are cantly fewer parts. facility will provide engi- • Rolls-Royce has been awarded working on setting up an neering applications design, a MissionCare contract by the MRO facility at Nagpur to Raytheon to enhance air development and support for US Naval Air Systems Command. undertake major checks of traffic management systems applications that the Boeing Under the eleven-month contract, B777 and B787 aircraft. Air Raytheon Company has been Test & Evaluation (BT&E) which includes four option years, India is also planning to set awarded a contract by the organisation uses on vari- logistics support will be provided up MRO facility at Mumbai Airports Authority of India to ous products. BT&E provides for the Rolls-Royce AE 1107C-Lib- for GE90/GenxEngine as GE automate air traffic control effective and efficient test and erty engines that power the US Network partner. services at the Chennai In- evaluation services that sup- Marine Corps’ MV-22 Osprey and • One more MRO facility is ternational Airport. Raytheon port business programmes the US Air Force Special Operations being set up by Air India at will install AutoTrac III, its across Boeing. Command’s CV-22 Osprey. Thiruvananthapuram for next-generation air traffic MRO requirement of B737 management system, to help Americas SIKORSKY aircraft, for which the han- reduce delays in aircraft gar construction is nearing arrival and departure. The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter’s • Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. and PZL completion. new system will also have first vertical landing Mielec, its company in Poland, • Air India is also proposing real-time meteorological A supersonic Lockheed have announced the completion of to construct a hangar at Delhi information to assist air traf- Martin F-35B Lightning II final assembly on the first S-70i to cater for the major checks fic controllers in adjusting to stealth fighter rode more Black Hawk helicopter, an interna- of B777 and B787 aircraft. changing weather conditions. than 41,000 Ibs of thrust to a tional variant of the Black Hawk These MRO facilities In addition to the Chennai vertical landing, confirming helicopter. This new international can also support third party International Airport, Ray- its required ability to land in variant is the first Black Hawk heli- operators. theon is upgrading air traffic confined areas both ashore copter assembled in Europe using management systems at the and afloat. “The vertical a global supply chain. Sikorsky Air India now GEnx Service Chhatrapati Shivaji Inter- landing onto a 95-foot square Aircraft is a subsidiary of United Provider national Airport in Mumbai pad showed that we have Technologies Corp. The helicopter, GE Aviation and India’s and at the Indira Gandhi the thrust and the control to a new aircraft in the Sikorsky national carrier Air India International Airport in New manoeuvere accurately both product line, also is the first rotor have signed a GE Branded Delhi. AutoTrac III features a in free air and in the descent wing aircraft to be produced at Services Agreement (GBSA) new generation of flight and through ground effect,” said PZL Mielec, a longtime fixed wing under which GE Aviation will surveillance data processing F-35 Lead STOVL Pilot Gra- manufacturer in Poland. provide technical support as systems to ensure air traffic ham Tomlinson. Air India offers maintenance, safety. The system’s modern, UK repair and overhaul (MRO) open architecture design Europe services for the GEnx-1B and high performance is • The Nimrod MRA4 has made engine and further advances fully adaptable and scaleable Thales chosen to modernise significant steps forward with the its plans to become a global to fit any air traffic manage- IFF for India’s MiG-29 UK Ministry of Defence formally MRO service provider. Under ment environment from Thales has been awarded a accepting the aircraft and declaring the GBSA, Air India will be simple tower automation to a contract by Russian Aircraft it “ready to train”. This declaration licensed to perform main- fully integrated multi-centre Corporation MiG (RSK-MiG) follows the type acceptance of the tenance and overhaul work system. to deliver IFF Combined In- MRA4 which allows the delivery of on the GEnx-1B engine. GE terrogator Transponder (CIT) production aircraft and the start of will provide Air India with Bombardier customer ser- and Cryptographic National aircrew training, and the handover assistance on overhaul work vices to support World Cup Secure Mode (NSM), for the of the first production aircraft, desig- scoping and component re- Bombardier Customer retrofit of the MiG-29 multi- nated PA04, following a demanding pair licenses, comprehensive Services, in collaboration role fighter aircraft of the series of acceptance tests. Equipped material support and train- with ExecuJet South Africa, Indian Air Force. The first CIT with more than 90 antennae and sen- ing. The GEnx-1B engine will announced on March 31 that will be delivered to RSK-MiG sors and containing over six million power Boeing’s 787 aircraft. it will have a comprehensive in 2010 and the first building lines of software code, the MRA4 is Air India has 27 GEnx-1B- team on site in South Africa block of a comprehensive se- able to scan an area, the size of the powered Boeing 787 aircraft from June 6 to July 16, 2010 cure identification capability UK every 10 seconds. on order. With about 1,300 to support all Learjet, Chal- in India by mid-2011. •

Issue 4 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 47 LASTWord SAFETY, First wo navy pilots Commander S. K. Maurya and Lieu- dous impact on the spec- tenant Commander Rahul Nair, were killed when tators, they are trained the HJT16 Kiran Mk2 trainer, built by Hindustan to operate within clearly Aeronautics Ltd, crashed minutes before noon in a defined limits. Yet, de- Tcrowded civilian locality near Begumpet Airport in the heart spite all precautions, of Hyderabad. The aircraft was part of the navy’s aerobat- none can provide total ics team Sagar Pawan that was staging an aerial display guarantee that nothing over Begumpet airport on the occasion of inauguration of will go wrong. And it did There is an India Aviation 2010, the largest civil aviation air show in the go horribly wrong on the country organised jointly by the Ministry of Civil Aviation fateful morning of March imperative need and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and 3, 2010 at Begumpet. that the entire Industry (FICCI). While pulling out of a near vertical dive at With the wisdom of gamut of aerial low level, the aircraft spun to the right and slammed into a hindsight, it is easy to three storied building. be critical. However, the displays by military It cannot be denied that military aviation is accompanied event was a monumen- aircraft be subjected with risk which is sought to be minimised through fastidi- tal tragedy as two young ous maintenance of aircraft, clearly defined and continu- lives were squandered to thorough and ously evolving operating procedures, rigorous training, and needlessly, possibly ow- critical review periodic verification of skills. Formation aerobatics are per- ing to organisational jointly by military haps the most demanding of the exercises military pilots are inadequacies. While the required to undertake in peacetime. The Indian Air Force investigating agency will and civil aviation (IAF) has been operating a nine-aircraft formation aerobatic strive to establish the team for over three decades now. Initially known as ‘Thun- cause of the accident, derbolts’, the team was later rechristened ‘Surya Kiran Aer- prima facie, it is evident obatic Team (SKAT)’. The IAF also has a four-aircraft heli- that lessons from the copter display team named ‘Sarang’. Both the teams have a numerous spectacular accidents in the past both at home record of accidents while rehearsing for air displays. Flying and abroad during formation or single aircraft aerobatic accidents during international air shows such as the one in displays, have rather tragically not been learnt. As foolproof question comes under media glare owing to the presence guarantee against mishap is not a practical possibility, it is of high-profile spectators. Quite understandably, the crash incumbent on the organisation to take all reasonable pre- at Hyderabad also raised doubts about military aviation in caution to ensure a high level of safety for life and prop- India in respect of air safety standards, the aging fleet of erty on the ground. Apart from the propriety of introducing trainer and operational aircraft, and the agonisingly tardy aerial stunts by military aircraft during an exposition which procurement procedures of the Indian Ministry of Defence. was fundamentally a civil aviation trade show, the issue However, for the Indian Navy, formation aerobatics is that is likely to agitate the public is the mindless decision relatively a new experience with the four-aircraft Sagar to authorise such an exercise over densely-populated areas. Pawan Aerobatic Team (SPAT) raised in 2003. A few years Besides the investigating agency ought to assess the level of ago, the Indian Navy lost two IL-38 Maritime Surveillance professionalism and seriousness with which the managers Aircraft during a formation flypast. Earlier, a Tu-142 aircraft of SPAT approached the whole exercise. Were the members participating in the Republic Day Parade in Delhi failed to of the aerobatic team given adequate time and opportunity maintain its assigned position in the stream of aircraft of to familiarise with the new operating environment, extent of mixed types and overtook the aircraft ahead, a lapse that habitation, bird activity, and high obstructions in the area? had the potential for disastrous consequences besides inter- These considerations may appear elementary, but if ignored national embarrassment. their cumulative impact could be serious. Formation aerobatic teams are made up of pilots in the In the final analysis, given the disconcerting frequency of prime of youth with impeccable professional record, excep- accidents during air displays in India, there is an imperative tional flying skills, and balanced temperament. Training need that in the interest of safety of those in the air as also schedules are carefully calibrated and progress of individual of those on the ground, the entire gamut of aerial displays by pilots as well as that of the group as a formation aerobatic military aircraft be subjected to thorough and critical review team is monitored closely. An essential ingredient of training jointly by military and civil aviation authorities at the appro- is to develop a strong sense of self-discipline. The team is priate level, and comprehensive guidelines be formulated. SP

ILLUSTRATION: MAMTA ILLUSTRATION: trained to perform as one. Though conscious of the tremen- — Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey

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