SP's Aviation November 2010

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News Flies. We Gather Intelligence. Every Month. From India. a-based buyer only) buyer 75.00 (Ind i a-based rs. Aviationwww.spsaviation.net November • 2010  Infocus: President Barack Obama’s Visit Finally  Business Aviation in Middle East  E-Jets Programme  NBAA Show Report  Interview: Honeywell India’s F414for Pritam Bhavnani RNI NUMBER: DELENG/2008/24199

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MMRCA Good fortune and protection for India. With the operationally proven APG-80 AESA radar aboard the F-16IN Super Viper, the Indian Air Force will attain and sustain unprecedented air combat capability for the future. The Indian Air Force, Northrop Grumman, and Lockheed Martin: continuing a powerful partnership with unmatched potential.

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Table of Contents News Flies. We Gather Intelligence. Every Month. From India. AviationIssue 11 • 2010

35 Industry Independent choice is our strength: SAAB

Show report 26 NBAA Sales Sparse, But Mood Buoyant

OEM 31 Interview ‘Northrop Grumman AESA is relevant in the modern battlefield’ 33 Interview ‘Honeywell sees India as a key 16 global location’ Selection of GE F414 has put an end to the ensuing delay Hall of fame in the Light combat aircraft Tejas MK II programme 34 Scott Crossfield

First Cover Story Regular Departments 6 Sail & Fly 5 A Word from Editor Civil Finally F414 The GE F414 incorporates 7 NewsWithViews 12 Business Aviation advanced technology with – Chinese unmanned Soaring Sky high the proven design base of its lunar search predecessor. It is a durable, Regional Aviation – Flying Saucers 19 reliable and esay to maintain A Class Apart for Earthlings engine. 9 InFocus military • Paradigm Shift

22 Training SP’s AN SP GUIDE PUBLICATION 10 Forum

News Flies. We Gather Intelligence. Every Month. From India.

Modern & Tech-savvy ONLY) BUYER 75.00 (INDIA-BASED RS. Aviationwww.spsaviation.net NOVEMBER • 2010 Burgeoning Friendship  Infocus: President Barack Obama visit Maintenance FINALLY  Business Aviation in 23 Middle East NewsDigest  E-jets Programme 35  NBAA Show Report Aiming for Excellence  Interview: Honeywell India’s F414for Pritam Bhavnani 40 LastWord 24 Air Force Day Consolidating Partnership Celebrating 78 Years...

30 Joint Exercise RNI NUMBER: DELENG/2008/24199 Exercise Indradhanush Cover Image: Next Issue: 32 F-16IN An F414-GE-400 jet engine is tested aboard the F-16IN APT for MMRCA: aircraft carrier USS Enterprise. Year-End Special Lockheed Martin Cover Illustration: US Navy Photo

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 1 Table of Contents

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CIVIL BUSINESS AVIATION CIVIL BUSINESS AVIATION Soaring Sky high Business in the Middle East, indeed, is looking up. There is a growing demand for private charter flights as the responsibilities of top executives based in the region involve quick and frequent trips abroad.

By R. Chandrakanth

uring the 2007 Dubai Air Show, Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal casually signed a cheque for an undisclosed amount to privately own an A380 superjumbo jet dubbed as the “Flying Palace”. Such is the money power in the Mid- dle East. Three years down the line, the Middle East continues to wield the “money clout”, although some of Dthe countries were taken in by the sweep of global recession. Year 2010 has a different story. The Middle East is bounc- BOOMING DEMAND: THE QATAR ing back. The aviation sector is looking up. The Middle East EXECUTIVE FLEET COMPRISES TWO Business Aviation (MEBA) 2010 event held from December 7 BOMBARDIER CHALLENGER 605 JETS FEATURING 11 SEATS AND THE EIGHT- to 9 is expected to be bigger than ever with about 70 busi- SEAT CHALLENGER 300 AIRCRAFT. ness aircraft to be on static display. Excited about a Frost QATAR’S FLOURISHING NATURAL- and Sullivan report that the business jets market is poised for GAS INDUSTRY IS A MAJOR DRIVING FACTOR IN SPURRING INTEREST IN steady growth, with over 200 units expected to be delivered AVIATION-ON-DEMAND. to the region by 2015, the Managing Director of F&E Aero-

12 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 13

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UYER B SP’s BASED - A

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www .spsaviatio n.net AviationAN News SP GUIDE PUBL Flies. We Gathe ICATION r Intelligence. Every M FINALLY onth. From India.

NOVE MBER • 2010

F414 President Barack Infocus:

for  Business AviationObama visit Middle East  E-jets Programme in  NBAA Show Repo

Honeywell Interview: India’s rt Pritam Bhavnani

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News Flies. We Gather Intelligence. Every Month. From India. RS. 75.00 (INDIA-BASED BUYER ONLY) BUYER 75.00 (INDIA-BASED RS. Aviationwww.spsaviation.net NOVEMBER • 2010  Infocus: President Barack Obama visit FINALLY  Business Aviation in Middle East  E-jets Programme  NBAA Show Report  Interview: Honeywell India’s F414for Pritam Bhavnani RNI NUMBER: DELENG/2008/24199

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Winner of the last month’s photo contest: Anurag Verma Winners get one year subscription of SP’s Aviation magazine A Word from Editor Acknowledging how India had emerged as a world power, Obama sought to enhance the partnership on many counts. The takeaways included deals worth $10 billion including selection of GE F414 for the Tejas Mk II programme

ovember’s highpoint has been the ventional aircraft and helicopters cannot carry. The Skylifter visit of the US President Barack Obama. The team is aiming for a payload capacity of up to 150 tonnes, three-day visit further strengthened Indo-US even to remote areas. News with Views also highlights Chi- alliance and Obama termed it as “one of the na’s second unmanned lunar probe, Chang’E 2, as part of defining partnerships of the 21st century”. the first stage of a three-step moon mission, which in the Acknowledging that India had emerged as a next stage will culminate in a soft-landing on the moon. world power, Obama sought to enhance the partnership In the civil aviation sector, R. Chandrakanth, who has Non many counts. The takeaways from his visit included been in the Middle East for about three years, writes on how deals worth $10 billion designed to create 50,000 Ameri- the Middle Eastern countries are competing to become the can jobs; closer cooperation in the areas of security; region’s aviation hub. In the article on what is driving busi- backing India’s bid for permanent seat in the UN Security ness jets in the region, there are astounding figures of high Council; removing India’s defence and space-related es- net worth individuals and their spending spree. tablishment from the US ‘Entity List’, etc. Giving an overview of the annual meeting of the Nation- From the aviation perspective, the only deal which got al Business Aviation Association (NBAA), LeRoy Cook from formalised during the visit was the SpiceJet purchase of 30 Atlanta states how unlike last year’s gloom-infested NBAA Next-Generation Boeing 737-800 aircraft. All the pre-arrival convention, this year was filled with hope and the mood was talk about the US clinching the multi-medium role combat upbeat, even though sales were still sparse. aircraft (MMRCA) deal during the President’s visit, howev- We are going through exciting times and we do hope ever, did not crystallise. The preliminary agreement between eryone benefits from what is legitimately deserved… India and the US for 10 C-17 Globemaster III heavy transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force, would result in more strategic sourcing activities by Boeing, Pratt & Whitney and other companies involved in the C-17 Globemaster III programme. This issue’s In Focus and Forum highlight on the new dimen- sions to the Indo-US relationship post-Obama visit. In this issue, there are articles on IAF’s Maintenance and Training Commands, highlighting their efforts in keeping the force prim and proper. The cover story of this issue gives an insight into the journey of GE with Tejas, the light combat aircraft (LCA). Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey takes us through various developments, post-selection of F414 to power the aircraft. Inter- estingly, this selection was concretised just before the visit of President Obama to the country. The selection of GE has put an end to the debate and the uncertainty on the progress of the Tejas Mk II programme. Technology development is something amazing and we have an Australian firm that is developing a heavy lift air- Jayant Baranwal ship known as the “Skylifter”, a novel dirigible gas balloon Publisher & Editor-in-Chief system intended for transporting bulky cargo which con-

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 5 irst F F

Sail &F ly The seaplane-convertible trimaran is now a reality

ver imagined a yacht could fly? French cabin designer Yelken Octuri has made this possible and Characteristics: Masqat Airways is its first patron. The model was Boat Mode manufactured at the Aerocoché plant in the water • Length: 46.2 metres Esports facilities of Salles sur Cérou, in the Tarn french de- • Width: 27 metres partement. • Rigging: 4 masts The sailing aircraft has been designed for the corporate • Height: 50.7 metres executives of the Masqat Airways’ air transport company • Height of masts: 40.6 metres and allows them to enjoy sailing along the Omani coastline • Surface of the sails: 1302 m² (sails + masts surface) with its 600-km range in the plane version. Plane Mode The sailing yacht can transform into a plane with its four • Wingspan: 90.4 metres mobile masts. The sails are retracted and the four masts are • Height: 27.6 metres lowered to become wings. • Engines: Nissen & Brasseur The propulsion is provided by the sails of the four masts • Engine power: 4 x 5400 ch in boat mode. The surface of the sails is 1,302 sq m. Each • Maximum speed: 390 km/h mast can be individually oriented through a double-jack system that ensures an optimal positioning regardless of the wind direction. In order to transform into wings, the masts must be low- a toilet and a storage room. The main room’s floor is above ered in horizontal position. The sails will then go to storage the sea level, so that the windows can be just above the compartments located inside each mast. The four masts are boat’s waterline. The upper deck features three rooms and lifted and lowered by a set of four shrouds set up on two a bathroom. SP central masts. —SP’s Aviation News Desk The yacht is said to have two main decks, a half-deck in the aft and another half-deck in the fore for the cockpit. Ac- E-mail your comments to: cess inside the boat is through two doors located above the [email protected]

Photogra p h: Yelken O cturi aft floats. The lower deck features a main room, a kitchen,

6 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Illustration: Anoop Kamath NewsWithViews C VIEWS mission. The secondphase beginningwithChang’E3will lunar orbiterswillconclude withtheendofChang’E2 Phase-I whichinvolvescollection ofdatawiththehelp has beenplannedtobeconducted inthreephases. The moon isscheduledforlaunch in2013. out thefirstunmannedsoftlandingonsurfaceof the of theChang’E3. This satellitewhichisdesignedto carry will helpselectalandingsitepavingthewayforlaunch board sophisticatedcameras, willcapture3-Dimages that lunar probewiththehelpofon But beyondthesymbolism, the 100 kmandaperigeeof15km. elliptical orbitwithanapogeeof manoeuvre thesatelliteintoan sors employed. The planisto nificantly better quality of sen- tively lowerorbitandthesig- is attributabletoitscompara- lution availablewithChang’E2 till the end of 2008. Higher reso- 400 feetandremainedinorbit provided apeakresolutionof was launchedinOctober2007, lunar probe Chang’E 1, which nearly 40feet. The firstChinese aging resolutionof10metresor eras providingamaximumim- the lunarsurfacewithitscam- months exploringandmapping main inorbit for aroundnine surface ofthemoonandwillre- lunar orbitat100kmabovethe entered theinitial117-minute Day. The spacecraft successfully celebrated asChina’s National the People’s Republicwhichis anniversary ofthefoundation lunar probe, wasparticularlysymbolicasitmarkedthe61st 3C rocketcarryingthelunarorbiterChang’E2, thesecond come alongwaysincethen. back fromthemoonby Apollo astronauts. Chinahas Mao’s successor, aone-grammoonrocksamplebrought orbit 100kmabovethemoon, comparedwith200kmforChang’E1. outer space,” said Wu Weiren, ChiefDesignerofChina’s lunarorbiterproject. Chang’E2, namedafteralegendaryChineseGoddessofmoon, will Launch CentreinSouthwestChina’s SichuanProvince. explorationof“Chang’E 2laysthefoundationforsoft-landingonmoonandfurther the next stage will culminate in a soft-landing on the moon. The satellite blasted off on a Long March (LM) carrier rocket from the Xichang Satellite China launcheditssecondunmannedlunarprobe, Chang’E2, onOctober1, 2010, ofthefirststageathree-stepmoonmission, aspart whichin Chinese unmannedlunarsearch The Chineseunmannedlunar explorationprogramme The launchonOctober1, 2010ofaLongMarch(LM) Advisor BrzezinskigaveChairmanHua Guofeng, incident in1978whentheU.S. NationalSecurity gramme is believed to have been ignited by an hina ’s interestinlunar explorationpro- quer space. giants willfinallyendupin aneck-on-neckracetocon- Chinese “Taikonaut”) onthemoon by2025. by 2025. Chinatoohas planstoputitsfirstastronaut(in naut into space tentatively by 2015 and land on the moon with aspacewalkin2008. Indiaisyettosendits first astro- of Indiahavingsentamanintospacein2003andcredited this point in time, China appears to be a few steps ahead pinge ontheestimatedtimeframeforprogramme. Mis- by 2020. that thethirdphaseofprogrammeshouldbecompleted no cleartimeframeshaveyetbeendefined, reportsstate lunar surfaceforanalysisbyChineselaboratories. Although to earthwithsamplesofrocksandsoilcollectedfromthe the earth. InPhaseIII, theroboticprobewillcomeback analyse lunarsoilsamplesandtransmitthedatabackto involve roboticprobeslandingonthemoontocollectand At thispointintime, itappearsthatboththe Asian However, therearesomeimponderablesthatmayim-

SP Issue 11•2010 —Air Marshal(Retd)B.K. Pandey manned explorationofspace, at the moonisslatedfor2012-13. Rover toexplorethesurfaceof which willincludeaLanderand India’s Chandrayaan-IImission print onthemoon. As itstands, fourth nationtohaveleftafoot- Russia and Japan, India is the South Pole. ComingaftertheUS, surface ofthemoonnear impactor thatcrashedintothe Chang’E 1, deliveringalunar drayaan-I whichscoredoverthe as aresponsetoIndia’s Chan- by Chinaisbeingseensome on HainanIsland. the LM-5isunderconstruction 2012. Also, anewlaunchsitefor is expectedtobeoperationalby ported tobeunderdevelopment, new launchvehiclewhichre- LM-3. DesignatedasLM-5, the erful launchvehiclethanthe such wouldrequireamorepow- much heavierpayloadsandas sions inPhasesIIandIIIinvolve However, inthedomainof The secondlunarmission

SP’S AVIATION 7 Photograph: Skylifter NewsWithViews D tions. Floatingatthe top wouldbethesymmetricaldiscus 700 percent. a 150-tonneliftingcapability asastarter, anincreaseby whereas themakersof Skylifterarehopingtohave the worldtodayboastsof a 20-tonnepayloadcapability, bility—that ofagianthelicopter. The biggesthelicopterin the cigar-shaped dirigiblestogiveitarevolutionarycapa- bines theadvantagesofbothsphericalballoons and wings, finsorcontrolsurfaces. Inotherwords, itcom- There isnorequirementforany propellers to direct its flight. airborne andusespaddletype to useaerostaticliftremain Skylifter isbeingdeveloped mains alignedtothewind. The like rounddesign, italwaysre- ing from. Becauseofitssaucer where thewindmightbeblow- less’ i.e. itistotallyobliviousof blimps, thecraftis ‘direction- unlike theelongateddirigible traditional, roundballoonand saucer. This meansthatlikea discus-shaped onelikeaflying Skylifter teamhasdevelopeda than-aircraft isknown, the gas-filled envelopeoflighter- a cigar-shaped aerostat, asthe than useeitherasphericalor sign ofitsown. Skylifter, butwithauniquede- a nicheinthisfield—Australia’s be anothercontendervyingfor project. Now, there appears to the current Aeroscraft ML866 (DARPA) Walrus, whichledto 40, andDefense Advanced ResearchProjects Agency’s long endurancemulti-intelligencevehicle, Skyhook’s JHL- along toraisethosehopes, suchasNorthropGrumman’s years lighter/heavierthanairflyingconceptshavecome vival of the majestic floating aircraft. Since then, every few ise, fansofairshipshavebeenhopingforalarge-scalere- VIEWS 8 developing prefabricatedbuildingsthatcouldreachtheremoteareas.developing payload capacityofupto150tonnes. While thecompany’s immediateplansarefortraditionalpayloads, downtheroad, itwouldbeinterestedin cargotooheavyorbulkyforconventionalaircraftandhelicopters.is intendedfortransporting teamisaimingfora The Skylifterdevelopment heavyandawkwardloadstoremoteareas.company thatcouldpotentiallytransport Knownasthe ‘Skylifter’, thenoveldirigiblegasballoonsystem In acrossbetweenblimpsforfreightandflyingrobotsdisasterrelief, heavyliftingairshipproposalbyan comeswordofanew Australian Flying SaucerforEarthlings

The Skylifter’s design issaidtoconsistofthreemainsec- So, whatisdifferent?Rather SP’S AVIATION World War II, whentheindustrybegantorevital- gibles bythevictorious ‘Allies’ intheaftermathof fiery disaster and the scuttlingof the German diri- ecades he horrible Hindenburg’safter he

Issue 11•2010 useful ‘Flying SaucerfortheEarthlings’. with prefabricatedhomescarried bytheSkylifter—amost cloud burstandtheresulting mud-slide, couldbere-instated dwellings weretotallydestroyed inthewakeofrecent India, imaginethespeed withwhichLehinhabitants, whose such asinLadakhandifitwasoperationallyavailable in operational ceiling. If it could go to the high-altitude areas However, themakersofSkylifter havenotspecifiedits to theremotestofareas—arevolutionarydesignindeed. they canbeeasilycontrolledviaahelicopter-style collec- control pod. The mainadvantageofsuchpropellersisthat horizontally arrangedblades, mountedonthesidesof erate electricitytopowerthreecycloidalpropellers, with augmented bysolarpanelsontopofthesaucer, wouldgen- below thecontrolpod(seeillustration). Biodieselengines, mounted atthebottom. The cargowouldhangfromcables be thecylindricalcontrolpod, withthetwo-pilotflightdeck like Helium. Hangingonsuspensionlinesbelowitwould aerostat, permanentlyfilledwithlighter-than-air (LTA) gas —Air Marshal(Retd) V.K. Bhatia safely inanunder-slung fashion a helicopterandtransportthem ward loads with the precision of lift extremelyheavyandawk- the Skylifterwouldbeableto throughout itslife. land asitwouldremainairborne the Skylifterwouldneverreally when moored. This meansthat to minimisetheeffectsofwind lowered downclosetothepod ground andtheballooncouldbe loon wouldbemooredtothe masts; instead, thepodandbal- ited tolandingatairfieldswith airships, itwouldn’t belim- unlike traditionalblimp-shaped lighter-than-air vehicles. But its liftingcapabilitieslikeother main braggingpoints would be helicopter. settling downwashofahovering ing ofcargobutwithouttheun- volved incollectinganddeposit- for theprecisemanoeuvringin- tive. This wouldcomeinhandy The companyclaimsthat As statedearlier, Skylifter’s

www.spsaviation.net SP Photograph: PIB InFocus T C-17 militarytransportaircraft intheworldafterUS. The said thattheIAFwillbeowner ofthesecondlargestfleet ing theperformanceof10 alreadyordered. With this, itis reports, theIAFmayorder foranothersixC-17afterevaluat- Globemaster IIImilitarytransport aircraft. According tomedia in the final stage of concluding a deal on purchase of 10 C-17 that theBoeingCompanyandIndian Air Force(IAF)are ployment to nearly 26,500peoplein America. The report said tive defencedealsworthnearly$5billionthatwillgive em- that IndiaandtheUShavereachedagreementsontwolucra - commercial capitalofIndia, a White Housestatement declared Security CouncilthatincludesIndiaasapermanentmember.” said, “In theyearsahead, IlookforwardtoareformedUN US initsstandagainstIranandMyanmar. The USPresident for apriceandthecostthistimewouldbesupportto the his subsequentstatementsmadeitclearthateverythingcomes mand forapermanentseatintheUNSecurityCouncil, though ment, missiledefence, etc. eration inhigh-technologyareassuchassatellitedevelop- Dynamics from the “entities list” opened the door for coop- against DRDO, as well as state-owned defence firm Bharat ment Organisation(DRDO). The removalofthesanctions lifting ofsanctionsagainstDefenceResearchandDevelop- including theNuclearSuppliersGroup. Healsodeclaredthe port India’s entryintotheworld’s mostelitetechnologyclubs were unveiled. which wouldhelp America battletheeconomicdownturn, profitable defencedealsworth$5billion(Rs22,400crore), tury”. Deals worth $10 billion (Rs 44,800 crore) including two alliance as “one ofthedefiningpartnerships21stcen- tion betweenIndiaandtheUS. The PresidentdeclaredIndia-US Diplomacy partnership onanequal footing partnership Shift US PresidentBarackObama’s Soon after PresidentBarackObama landed in Mumbai, the For thefirsttimeUSheadofstatebackedIndia’s de- America’s firstcitizenannouncedthattheUSwouldsup- Paradigm between thetwo countries visit has raised hopes of a visit hasraisedhopesofa terrorism andincreaseddefencesecuritycoopera- Presidential tenure, wasapositivemoveagainstglobal long visittoIndia, thelongestevertoanycountryinhis he USPresidentB ar ck Obama ’s three-day-

the emergingrelationshipbetween thetwodemocracies. rum toknowhowindustryleaders andopinionmakersview Bahut Dhanyavad(manythanks)and Jai Hind. Turn toFo - to the Indian ears as were the Hindi words he uttered— lenges ofourtime,” hesaid. These wordswereasdelightful America areindispensablepartnersinmeetingthechal - on anequalfootingbetweenthetwocountries. “India and ment onPakistan, hisvisithasraisedhopesofapartnership with India—arebestadvancedinpartnership.” the interests of theUnited States—and theinterests we share world. Istandbeforeyoutodaybecauseamconvinced that but acrossmany;notjustforourmutualbenefit, but forthe forge atrulyglobalpartnership—notinjustoneortwoareas, lieve thatIndiaisindispensabletothisvision;andhowwe can the UnitedStatesseeksinaninterconnectedworld;whyI be- joint session of theParliament, Obama said, “The future that great cooperationbetweenIndiaandtheUS. Addressing the help theairlinepenetratefurtherintolowcostmarket. airplanes worth$2.7billionRs12,000crore). The dealwill clared SpiceJet’s orderfor30nextgenerationBoeing737-800 Good prospectsfor yet another US company. Boeingalsode- expected thatIndiawouldpurchaseapproximately45engines. aircraft ispoweredbyfourPratt& Whitney enginesanditis Many morejobopportunitiesahead. The BoeingC-17military ised aheadofthePresident’s arrivalandcameasnosurprise. combat aircraft, Tejas. Nonetheless, allthesedealswerefinal- ment Agency with107F414enginestobeinstalledonthelight Company foracontracttoprovidethe Aeronautical Develop- statement alsostatedthatIndiahasselectedGeneralElectric Despite severalcriticismsontheUSPresident’s deport- But thatwasnotall. The USPresidenthintedatafutureof Issue 11•2010 —Sucheta DasMohapatra

SP’S AVIATION 9

SP diplomacy Forum

bolstering ties: Barack Obama with the Chairperson, National Advisory Council, Sonia Gandhi and the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh Burgeoning Friendship President Barack Obama’s visit has made it clear that a strategic partnership between India and the US is imperative not only for both the countries, but is also in the global interest

new chapter in the history of Indo-US interest of free flow of trade and energy globally. The balance relationship has begun, or at least this is what of power is shifting towards the East. Nevertheless, the US industry leaders, trade analysts and opinion cannot overlook the growing role of India and China in shap- makers of both the countries believe, post US ing the new world economy. India also cannot ignore the role President Barack Obama’s visit to India from of the US in world stability. Tyagi says, “The US sees India November 6 to 9. “It was a talk among equals. as an emerging power, transparent and democratic. Japan’s For the first time, we have been treated as an equal,” says economy is stagnating for the last two decades and it is un- Aformer Chief of Air staff Air Chief Marshal S.P. Tyagi and likely that China will provide an open transparent system for adds, “A strategic partnership between the two countries the US. So it is in the core interest of both the countries that is in the interest of both the US and India, and also in the India and the US have a strategic partnership. The rise of global interest. The economic gains may take a while, but India is good for the region and this is what they said during strategic gains have been immense.” the Obama visit. India is a peaceful nation. It is such a match- Vivek Lal, Vice President, Boeing Defense, Space & Securi- ing of interest that whatever follows from here is natural.” ty-India says, “The US President’s visit to India has solidified He adds, “What India was looking for was a partnership in the foundation of the association between the two countries which both partners would seek each other’s assistance in laid in the last few years. The visit was a catalyst in moving world affairs. What clearly emerged was that the US said forward the relationship. It has given a tremendous momen- that we will not only consult India on regional issues, but tum to the partnership.” Agrees Former Chief of Air Staff Air also issues related to East Asia and other global issues. The Chief Marshal F.H. Major and says, “President Obama’s visit message also came that in shaping the new world order, the has brought a breakthrough in the Indo-US relationship.” US will always consult India.” Obama’s visit seems to have made it clear that a well- While the lifting of sanctions against Indian Space Re-

Photogra p h: PIB calculated partnership between the two countries is in the search Organisations has paved the path for development

10 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net diplomacy

in satellite and missile technology, the decla- dustrial partnership. Now with the US Gov- ration of several multibillion dollar deals has ernment lifting sanctions, it will help build-

Forum raised the hopes of the defence industry both ing more industrial collaborations in India. in the US and India. “The lifting of sanctions You can see increased level partnership, in- from the Defence Research and Development creased confidence.” He further adds, “The Organisation (DRDO) shows the relationship US President’s visit to India, Prime Minister between the two countries is maturing and it Manmohan Singh’s visit to the US, the civil- will certainly help expand the scope of coop- nuclear deal—all this has given a momentum eration in various fields,” says Lal. to the trade relationship. The oldest and the Air Chief Marshal India has co-developed missiles and mili- (Retd) largest democracies are coming together tary aircraft with Russia and Israel. But be- S.P. tyagi and we expect we will have more valuable cause of American sanctions, DRDO has never partnerships in future.” developed weaponry with the US. President Boeing is also looking forward to many Obama’s hint at relaxation of sanctions has more joint ventures in India and is eyeing the thrown the doors open for possible collabora- homeland security and cyber security market tion with high-tech defence industries in the as well. “Keeping in view the cyber security United States for India. “The lifting of sanc- market, we have recently acquired Narus, a tions from the DRDO will lead to several in- US company based in Bangalore. We also look novations,” says Major. India has some of the at the homeland security market with great best brains and an expertise in IT—computer interest and potential collaborations in India simulation, virtual reality, and robotics. Hopes with the opening up of the space sector. Be- are high that America’s advanced technology Air Chief Marshal sides new procurements, we can be a part of and India’s best brains can together create (Retd) the ongoing modernisation drive of the IAF breakthroughs in command and control, and Fali Homi major and Navy. So besides new deals, we are also communications software. But only time will concentrating on after sales services that will tell how relaxed would the American laws be take prominence as new platforms come into in providing a platform to Indian scientists on the country. There is a big market for after application oriented research. sales support, not only in terms of training, The US President backed India for perma- but also in terms of maintenance of platforms, nent membership in the Security Council and training of personnel, maintenance training, assured assistance in entering the world’s elite pilot training, etc,” informs Lal. technology clubs including the Nuclear Suppliers Besides the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III Group. But Tyagi questions, “Wasn’t all this al- and GE F414 engines deals, which are on ready on our plate.” He says, “Many would argue the verge of finalisation, both countries are Dr Vivek Lall that Obama did not properly endorse the Secu- Vice President, looking ahead to many more deals in the rity Council membership to India. But I believe Boeing Defense, near future. Apart from the medium multi it was a positive step for a strategic partnership Space & Security - role combat aircraft (MMRCA) deal likely India between the two countries. It was a long-term to be finalised in 2011, in which US Boeing partnership effort.” F/A-18 Super Hornets and Lockheed Martin The $10 billion (`44,800 crore) Indo-US F-16IN are strong contenders, India is plan- deal that came in the wake of Obama’s visit ning to buy 145 Howitzers worth $8 billion will create 50,000 jobs in America. A White House statement for the Army. The Indian Army also plans to buy sensor-fused declared that the GE F414 engines contract likely to be final- weapons or cluster bombs. IAF and Navy are also looking for ised with the Aeronautical Development Agency, and valued at AWACS and mid-air refuellers worth $2 billion (`8,900 crore). $822 million, will create 4,440 jobs in the US. Likewise, the 10 Tyagi says, “With regard to many defence deals, we do not C-17 likely to be procured by the Indian Air Force (IAF) will know whether there were any discussions during the Obama support Boeing’s C-17 production facility in Long Beach, Cali- visit. We all know there will be differences, but that does not fornia for a year. Valued at $4.1 billion (`18,300 crore), it will mean the partnership will collapse. Sometimes we will just support 22,160 jobs in the US. What’s on Indian platter then? agree to disagree. We will work on our respective national in- “It was India’s decision to purchase the C-17s or the GE en- terest. It is known that in the defence front, India has never gines. When an American machine is bought, doesn’t the plant allied militarily with any other country and will never, but our make money from it?,” questions Tyagi. Major says, “If you look military to military relationships will continue.” at some of the major programmes today, you can see the amal- Obama’s visit was unable to eradicate the discomfort in gamation of technological advancements of many countries. India with regard to the US military relationship with Paki- Absolute self-sufficiency is not a reality for any country. Joint stan, and with criticisms coming from several quarters with ventures can bring in better technological development. And regard to the US President’s demeanour on Pakistan, the ‘ifs this will definitely lead to employment. Even if it does not mean and buts’ on the Indo-US relationship seems to continue. transfer of core technology from the US to India, we will have However, Tyagi says, “Both the countries have their own res- access to advanced technology. Joint ventures are a necessity ervations,” and adds optimistically, “We are friends now and today and cooperation with other countries is a must.” friends can talk”. SP Lal says, “For the last several years, we are building in- —Sucheta Das Mohapatra

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 11 Civil Business Aviation Soaring Sky high Business in the Middle East, indeed, is looking up. There is a growing demand for private charter flights as the responsibilities of top executives based in the region involve quick and frequent trips abroad

By R. Chandrakanth

ar airways & R ar airways 605 jets featuring 11 seats t D though some of the countries were taken in by and the eight-seat Challenger the sweep of global recession. 300 aircraft; exterior and interior of bombardier Year 2010 has a different story. The Middle East is bounc- challenger 605. ing back. The aviation sector is looking up. The Middle East

P ho t ographs: Qa Business Aviation (MEBA) 2010 event to be held from De-

12 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Civil Business Aviation

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 13 Civil Business Aviation

luxury unlimited: (L-R) abu dhabi- based royal jet is the largest cember 7 to 9 is expected to be bigger than ever with about Royal strides business jet operator in the 70 business aircraft on static display. Excited about a Frost Propelled by growing de- gulf with a 16 per cent market and Sullivan report that the business jets market is poised for mand for business jets, share; on-board bbj royal jet; qatar executives’ plush interiors steady growth, with over 200 units expected to be delivered Abu Dhabi-based Royal and exterior of gulfstream 300, to the region by 2015, the Managing Director of F&E Aero- Jet has benefited the which is a hot favourite among space (organisers of MEBA 2010), Alison Weller said busi- most. It has emerged as business jets ness aviation companies from across the globe are evincing the largest business jet “strong interest” in MEBA 2010. operator in the Gulf with “With a recent report predicting an annual growth rate a 16 per cent market for the Middle East business aviation market by over six share. Its fleet has grown from two aircraft to 12 in less than per cent the next 10 years, the region will surely see an in- four years and revenues by 30 per cent. crease in business aviation service providers to cater to this Royal Jet holds the distinction of being the only opera- demand,” said Weller. MEBA 2008 reportedly struck deals tor in the Middle East region of having the world’s largest worth $1.5 billion (`6,700 crore). privately operated fleet of Boeing Business Jets (BBJ). It has Frost & Sullivan report is encouraging and it mentions six BBJs and its growing fleet of jets includes two mid-range that business aircraft movements would reach 1,60,000 by Gulfstream 300s, a long-range Gulfstream IVSP and a Learjet 2018, a compound annual growth rate of about 6.21 per 60. In addition to the new A6-DFR, Royal Jet’s multimillion cent. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the report said, held dollar refurbished BBJ will return later this month, while an about 37 per cent of the market potential followed by the Embraer Lineage 1000 will arrive later in the year. UAE with nearly 24 per cent. The Middle East in all is ex- Royal Jet’s President and CEO, Shane O’Hare explained pected to get deliveries of nearly 460 aircraft by 2018, of that there has been a steady growth in demand for large which Saudi Arabia alone will account for 154. Private jet aircraft in both the VIP and the corporate jet sector in recent operations are on the rise in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, years. “The BBJ is the largest purpose-built VIP aircraft— Kuwait and Bahrain. Enthused by such market potential, nearly double the size of even the largest new long-range the governing body of the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) will meet in Dubai for the first time outside High net worth individuals on the rise the US or Europe. In the Middle East, the population of high net worth individu- There is a big spurt in demand for private jets from als (HNWI) has been estimated at 4,00,000 controlling $1.5 tril- corporations, high net worth individuals (HNWI) and other lion (`7,600,000 crore) of financial wealth, up from $1.4 trillion agencies. The Middle East, especially the UAE, has been wit- (`7,000,000 crore) in 2008, according to the annual World Wealth nessing a growing demand for private charter flights as the Report by Merrill Lynch Global Wealth Management and Capgemini. Another report by Oliver Wyman, management consultancy responsibilities of top executives based in the region involve firm, the wealth held by HNWI in the GCC—those with investable quick and frequent trips abroad. Ali Al Naqbi, the founding wealth of over $1 million (Rs 4.8 crore)—is expected to grow to chairman of MEBA, said the number of registered Middle about $3.8 trillion (`20,000,000 crore) by 2012. Eastern business jets has risen by 30-40 per cent over the The purchasing power of the Middle Eastern population un- last couple of years to around 500 aircraft, of which 114 are doubtedly is high. In sync with their huge money spends, besides based in Saudi Arabia, with 78 registered in the United Arab MEBA 2010, there is another event happening in February 2011 in Abu Dhabi, aptly called “Big Boy’s Toys” wherein ultra luxury Emirates (UAE). From 1975 to 1998, there was only one cars, aircraft, yachts and the like will feature. business jet operator, now there are over 25.

14 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Civil Business Aviation

corporate jets, and as such is ideal for a VIP or business del- Factors propelling business jet travel egation, as well as for a large or extended family,” he said. in the Gulf region “Each of our BBJs is uniquely configured, offering the • Secondary airports – growth of smaller airports, benefiting choice of up to 52 seats, or, as in this case, having fewer oil and gas companies seats but with an increase in lounge and bathroom space. • HNWI – Over 4,00,000 high net worth individuals It offers a truly private jet experience and is perfect for a • Privacy – Top Arabs and executives prefer private jet travel small, intimate group of people, affording extreme levels of for its confidentiality • Quick business – Number of multi-national companies set- comfort and a great deal of living or working space, all com- ting up business in various locations bined with total intimacy and privacy. The aircraft provides • Fractional ownership/Jet Cards etc making executive travel the experience of a presidential suite in some of the world’s within reach. most luxurious hotels,” added O’Hare. The new BBJ titled A6 DFR—is configured to accommo- date up to 18 guests. When entering this aircraft you walk Qatar Airways forays into business jets first into a majlis (VIP lounge) area, which in turn leads At the 2009 Paris Air Show, Qatar Airways launched the through to two stylish lounges, a private office and state- Qatar Executive as the business jet market has been in the room, as well as two bathrooms complete with showers. nascent stage. “We launched Qatar Executive last year be- Customers can charter a Royal Jet aircraft starting at about cause we had identified a huge gap in the market and are $3,500 (`1,56,000) per hour for a round trip flight on one of now well on the way to filling that void,” Qatar Airways the company’s smallest planes. At the high end, travellers can Group Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker has stat- expect to pay $12,000 (`5,36,000) per hour for a jet carrying ed. The Qatar Executive fleet comprises two Bombardier up to 58 people. Each charter is totally bespoke, with amenities Challenger 605 jets featuring 11 seats and the eight-seat such as VIP terminals, executive chef, comfortable beds, and Challenger 300 aircraft. Qatar’s flourishing natural-gas in-flight entertainment. industry is a major driving factor in spurring interest in aviation-on-demand. Similar stories emanate from other countries in the Mid- “Seven-star” executive airport Abu Dhabi is known for pulling out all stops when it comes to dle East. Ammar Balkar of Elite Jets and former President setting up facilities. Al Bateen Executive Airport is one such ex- and CEO of MEBA states, “In the next few years, business ample. It is the Gulf region’s first and only dedicated private avi- aviation sector in the Middle East will generate revenues ation airport and is working on providing “seven- star” facilities. worth $1 billion (`4,800 crore) a year and there will be The one-stop shop business jet facility offers VVIP and VIP around 600-650 private jets in the market.” passenger terminals as well as maintenance, repair and over- Players such as Arab Wings (Amman); Emerald Jet (Bei- haul (MRO), fuel handling, and all other fixed based operations rut); Saudia Private Aviation (Saudi Arabia); Empire Avia- services. It has found early success and has already notched up a 34.4 per cent increase in aircraft movements in the first six tion, Prestige Jet, Al Jaber, Falcon Aviation, and a host of months of 2010, in comparison to the same period in 2009. Abu others have started reworking on their expansion plans, Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) is investing $54.4 million in post the global recession, and signs of recovery is getting developing this facility. noticeable. The chunk of Middle East private jet operations The former military air base is a beehive of activity. The pri- is business-based and about 10-15 per cent of the total vate operators based at Al Bateen include Al Jaber Aviation, Fal- charter volume comes from leisure travel. Business in the con Aviation, Prestige Jet and XO Jet. Middle East, indeed, is looking up. SP

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 15 Military Procurement cover story

Finally F414 With the selection of GE F414 engine, it is clear now that the GTRE-Snecma proposal would in no way militate against the selection of the engine for the Tejas Mk II

n October 1, By Air Marshal (Retd), an end to the prolonged debate and the 2010, General B.K. Pandey ensuing uncertainty on the progress of the Electric Compa- Tejas Mk II programme. But it could raise a few queries as well. Competing with GE ny (GE) of USA for the $822 million (`3,700 crore) tender with its offer of for a total of 107 engines floated by the In- the GE F414 af- dian Defence Research and Development terburning en- Organisation (DRDO), was the Eurojet Turbo GmbH, a European consortium. It comprises four com- gine, emerged as the lowest of panies of Europe namely Avio of Italy, ITP of Spain, MTU of the two bidders in the race for the selection of an Germany and Rolls-Royce of UK. engine to power the light combat aircraft (LCA) O Background Tejas MK II. The company has now been invited The programme to design, develop and manufacture indig- to negotiate a contract to provide the Indian Aero- enously a light weight fighter aircraft designated as the light nautical Development Agency (ADA) with 107 combat aircraft (LCA) and subsequently rechristened as “Te- F414 engines. Although trade deals worth billions jas”, was launched in 1989 with a view to replace the ageing of dollars signed during the US President Barack fleet of MiG-21 aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The In-

I O N & S P G UIDE u b n s VI AT dian aerospace industry at that time did not have the capability Obama’s recent visit to India has raised the hopes to produce an aero engine to power the LCA and there was of GE to new heights, the final word on the con- no option but to look for a solution abroad. The choice fell on tract is yet to be said. the GE F404 after burning turbofan engine of weight lower than other contemporary engines. However, the GE F404 was

Photogra p hs: G E A Selection of GE for further negotiations has, however, put capable of delivering dry thrust of only 53.9 kilonewtons (kN)

16 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Military Procurement

a derivative of the highly reputed and widely used GE F404. Employed on the Boeing F/A 18 Super Hornet and the Gripen from Saab of Sweden, the GE F414 has established a credible record of reliability. Incidentally, F/A 18 and the Gripen are both contenders for the mega deal for 126 medium multi role combat aircraft (MMRCA) tender for the IAF which is also expected to be finalised in a year or so from now. The GE F414 engine is fitted on naval variants of combat aircraft. Employing the latest technologies and featuring a dual channel full authority digital engine control (FADEC), the GE F414 operates at a pressure ratio of 30:1, which is significantly higher than the contemporary engines. While the high pressure ratio provides higher level of efficiency, it also pro- duces greater heat stress on the engine. To cope with this, the GE F414 employs single crystal low-density blades fused with disks. Called “blisks”, these are lighter but stronger compared to conventional blade designs. With reheat, the GE F414 is capable of delivering a maximum thrust of 98 kN which is only marginally short of the qualitative requirements spelt out by the IAF. Heavier by 50 kg compared to the GE F404, the GE F414 has an identical maximum diameter which is 35 inches and is of a similar length of 157 inches. However, its inlet diameter is 32 inches as against 31 inches of the GE F404. The Eurojet EJ 200, the only other competitor in the race for the tender, is Europe’s fifth generation advanced military turbofan engine developed on the Rolls-Royce XG 40 technology demonstrator and powers the Eurofighter Typhoon. It incorporates the latest in aero engine technology such as low-density single and 82 kN with af- crystal blades, a unique engine control and health terburner, which was monitoring system integrating all sensor inputs considerably lower into a single unit called the digital engine control than the 100 kN desired by and monitoring unit (DECMU), FADEC and “ac- the IAF. The decision to employ the tive tip clearance control”, a feature that maintains GE F404 engine was regarded as an the optimum clearance between the blade tip and interim measure and was to be limited to the prototypes the turbine case for better engine efficiency. Eurojet in the development phase. With the ultimate aim of total indi- EJ 200 has a modular design which facilitates maintenance genisation of the LCA, as a long-term solution, an ambitious activity making an engine replacement feasible in a mere programme to develop a fourth generation engine called the 45 minutes. Kaveri was sanctioned in 1989 and was assigned to the Gas Compared to the GE F414, though longer by three inches, Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a facility under the the EJ 200 is lighter by about 112 kg and its maximum diam- DRDO. Intended to power the first batch of production models eter is only 29 inches which is six inches less than that of its of the Tejas, the cost of the project was estimated at launch to competitor. The EJ 200 is capable of delivering with reheat a be `382.81 crore and was to be completed by the end of 1996. thrust of 90 kN, but on account of its lower weight, it has a However, 14 years after the initially stipulated date of higher thrust to weight ratio compared to the GE F414. completion and investment of nearly `3,000 crore, the Ka- veri project was formally delinked from the LCA programme Selection of Engine in September 2008. ADA, however, continued with the Tejas There are a number of factors that either would have already programme with the underpowered GE F404 and a some- been considered or perhaps would be considered before a fi- what dissatisfied IAF rather reluctantly ordered 40 aircraft nal decision is taken. First, the selected engine should have a in the first batch to constitute the first two squadrons. There thrust rating close to that stipulated by the user. With a maxi- was an imperative need to find a new power plant close to the mum thrust rating of 98 kN, the GE F414 scores over its rival required level of performance to give the IAF sufficient con- which is rated for a maximum thrust rating of only 90 kN. fidence to place orders for another 100 aircraft that would However, as claimed by Eurojet, the performance of the EJ 200 meet the stipulated performance requirements. Thus began can be enhanced by 15 per cent through only “minor adjust- the search for a new engine. ments in the engine”. Eurojet also claims that the thrust can be increased by up to 30 per cent for which “few components The Contenders would have to be replaced”. Another important consideration GE responded to the request for proposal (RFP) floated earlier would have been an assessment and comparison of the vin- this year for the new engine with the offer of the GE F414-400, tage and the development potential of both the engines in the

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 17 Military Procurement

in this regard by President Obama may take time to fructify. As for Eurojet, although there has been no statement to the contrary, European companies could be reluctant to transfer sensitive and core technologies without 100 per cent control on their investments. Licence manufacture alone does not provide an environment conducive enough for the full transfer of technologies that have been developed by European companies at enormous cost in terms of time and resources. Nothing in this regard therefore can be taken for granted. Timeline Finally, there is the element of ownership cost which 1990 — LCA design finalised 1995 — Roll out of First Technology Demonstrator – TD1 would include initial outlay for acquisition, life cycle cost 1998 — Roll out of Second Technology Demonstrator – TD2 over the expected life span and the offset obligations if ap- 2001 — Maiden flight from National Flight Test Centre, Bangalore plicable. The Indian system of procurement of hardware 2003 — Supersonic flight is price-sensitive and the decisions are often inclined to be 2003 — Procure uprated F404-GE-IN20 engine for the eight pre- overly influenced by the L 1 syndrome i.e. preference for the production LSP aircraft and two naval prototypes bidder with the lowest quote beaten down further through 2004 — Kaveri engine fails high altitude test in Russia 2004 — GE awarded $105 million for development and produc- ruthless negotiations over the quoted price. In the tender in tion of 17 GE-IN20 engines question, the initial commercial bids indicated GE F414 quote 2007 — HAL orders 24 F404-IN20 afterburning engines to pow- at $822 million (`3,700 crore) as against $666 million (`2,990 er the first operational squadron of Tejas fighter aircraft crore). However, it appears that detailed examination of the for the Indian Air Force quotations revealed areas involving costs that were not taken F404-GE-IN20 into account and reflected in their bid documents by the two The F404-GE-IN20 succeeds F404-F2J3 development engines aerospace majors. On correction of the observed anomalies, it used for nearly 600 flights, cumulatively covering eight engines. appears that the price quote for the GE F414 turned out to be Based on the F404-GE-402, the F404-GE-IN20 is the highest rat- lower than that of the competitor Eurojet EJ 200. ed F404 model and includes a higher-flow fan, increased thrust, The decision-making process could at any stage come a full authority digital electronic control (FADEC) system, single- under the subtle influence of some intangible factors. These crystal turbine blades and a variety of single-engine features. are essentially political in nature such as the mileage the F414-400 Advanced Fighter Engine government of the day may wish to derive at the political The F414-400 is the most advanced jet engine in its class. level from the deal and the possibility of sanctions at a later Launched in 1998, the F414-GE-400 is the US Navy’s newest date that could seriously undermine the operational dis- and most advanced technology production fighter engine. It incorporates advanced technology with the proven design base position of the IAF. These factors are difficult to quantify of its F404 predecessor to provide the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super but would need to be factored in. In this regard, President Hornet with a durable, reliable and easy to maintain engine. Obama’s visit would have been rather opportune for GE.

GTRE-Snecma Engine race. But perhaps the most important factor is the extent of Even as the process of selection in the tender for 107 engines modification in the existing airframe that would be necessary for the Tejas Mk II is moving forward rapidly, GTRE has en- before the engine can be integrated with the Tejas Mk II. The tered into an agreement with Snecma of France for the joint requirement of extensive re-engineering work or redesign of development of the Kaveri Mk II with the aim to ultimately the airframe could lead to delay, which in the final analysis replace the GE F414 or the EJ 200, which is finally selected would translate into cost. It goes without saying that the fit- under the ongoing tender. The IAF had opposed the proposal ment of a new engine on an existing platform would call for in the initial stages itself observing that the Snecma offer was some changes in the airframe and this would be applicable to not for developing the next generation engine but was based both the engines. In the instant case, as the GE F414 is heavier on the core of the existing M88 engine that powers the Ra- than the existing engine by 110 lbs, there would be the need to fale. In the opinion of the experts committee of the IAF, the compensate for a shift in the position of the centre of gravity of GTRE-Snecma engine would not meet the requirements of the the aircraft. So would perhaps be the case with the Eurojet EJ IAF. As per assessment by Snecma, it would take at least five 200, which compared to the GE F404, is lighter by 135 lbs and years for the engine to be developed and that a minimum of longer by three inches. 250 engines would have to be manufactured to render the Then there is the question of transfer of technology (ToT). project financially viable. Undoubtedly, the GTRE-Snecma en- Despite the various agreements in the regime of defence co- gine project would in all likelihood, cater also for the medium operation signed between India and the US, there are yet a combat aircraft proposed to be developed jointly by ADA and number of roadblocks that impinge on India’s efforts to ac- the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL). Opposition to the pro- quire sensitive and the latest defence technologies from the posal, initially by the IAF, was on account of apprehensions US. Quite recently, the US Government did not accord approv- of delay in the project if the Kaveri Mk II programme was to al for the involvement of Lockheed Martin in the Indian LCA be linked once again with the Tejas Mk II programme and the programme, leaving the door open for EADS. In the case of GE F414/ EJ 200 proposal called off. It is clear now that the the GE F414, issues related to ToT would have to be negoti- GTRE-Snecma proposal would in no way militate against the ated clearly and carefully through the yet somewhat inflexible selection of the engine for the Tejas Mk II through the ongoing legal system in the US. Translation into reality of assurances tender with GE F414 and the Eurojet EJ 200. SP

18 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Civil Regional Aviation

A Class apart E-Jets have been helping airlines to replace older, inefficient aircraft, and to develop new markets with lower operating costs, greater efficiency, and outstanding passenger comfort

rom its first flight in By R. Chandrakanth After enormous research and invest- 2002, E-Jets from the Brazil- ment, Embraer came up with the new ian stable of Embraer have aircraft aptly named E-Jets as it encom- ruled the skies. Distinctively passed a whole lot of striking features different, E-Jets have cap- and all to do with the alphabet ‘E’—ef- tured the imagination of ficiency, economics, ergonomics, en- the airline community, reflected by its gineering, environment and extended Fimpressive sales. As of October 2010, over 680 E-Jets are range. The very essence of all this was Embraer’s E-philos- operational across the world and having accumulated 4.4 ophy of “embracing the rise of the empowered passenger”. million flight hours, Embraer is expected to deliver 1,100 E-Jets has been helping airlines to right size low load factor units by 2016. That’s phenomenal. narrow-body routes, to replace older, inefficient aircraft, and It indeed is. A lot of thought, hard work and passion have to develop new markets with lower operating costs, greater gone into the creation of E-Jets. The fact that Embraer met with efficiency, and outstanding passenger comfort. 40-odd prospective airlines to find out what they needed in the next-generation 70- to 120-seat airplane family, is indicative of “Tap the gap” approach the manufacturer’s intent—of giving what the customer wants. Embraer announced to the world that E-Jets was not a

Photogra p h: Embra e r The airlines had sought enhanced passenger comfort. stretched version from smaller planes or shrunken from

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 19 Civil Regional Aviation larger platforms. It was ‘E’ stands Adding to the sense of spaciousness is a two-metre high a clean design approach. cabin, near-vertical sidewalls and large eye-level windows, The Embraer 170/190 for efficiency, almost 30 per cent larger than those on other aircraft that family of E-Jets consists lets in lots of natural light. What’s more, under seat areas of four commercial jets economics, are free of support railings so that passengers can stretch with 70 to 122 seats. The ergonomics, out in greater comfort. four jets “tap the gap”, as the airline puts it, be- engineering, Economics tween larger mainline environment The E-Jets maintenance plan emphasises simplified proce- aircraft and smaller re- dures and longer check intervals to help keep costs low with gional jets. The absence and extended routine checks coming every 120 flight hours or 14 days of over wing exits gives range (whichever comes first). Basic checks are scheduled every airlines maximum con- 600 flight hours and are easily performed overnight. Heavy figuration flexibility. checks for aircraft structure occur every 20,000 flight cycles. The E-Jets have a As a result, E-Jets deliver 19 per cent to 23 per cent lower maximum cruising speed hourly direct maintenance costs compared to other similar of Mach 0.82, can fly at capacity aircraft and up to 53 per cent lower cost than some 41,000 feet and have out of production jets. ranges of up to 2,400 nautical miles (4,448 km). The high degree of commonality among the four aircraft—Embraer Environment

170; Embraer 175; Embraer 190 and Embraer 195—results E-Jets produce an average of 50 per cent less CO2 than in exceptional savings for carriers, in terms of crew training older aircraft like the B737-200, MD 87 and DC9 and 15- and costs of spare parts and maintenance. 30 per cent less than previous generation jets such as the B737-300/500, Fokker 100 and RJ100. Due to their efficient Features extra-ordinaire design and new engine technology, E-Jets meet the latest, Efficiency strictest ICAO noise limits. The optimised design of E-Jets are such that with the lowest General Electric’s CF34 engine is designed to be more effi- possible aircraft operating empty weight, it can carry the cient—CO, UHC, NOx and smoke emission margins range from highest revenue-generating payload. Since fuel consump- 26 per cent to an impressive 98 per cent below ICAO limits tion is proportional to aircraft weight, a lighter airplane for the E170/E175 and from 9 per cent to 77 per cent for the translates directly into cost savings that go right to the bot- E190/E195. Another key feature of E-Jets is the state-of-the- tom line. The structural design efficiency of the E-Jets fam- art, fly-by-wire technology, which increases operational safety, ily allows up to 30 per cent more payloads per pound/kilo while reducing pilot workload and fuel consumption. of structural weight among aircraft of similar seat capacity. Embraer’s Executive Vice President (Commercial) Paulo Combine the E-170’s SDE with streamlined maintenance Cesar states, “I believe airlines in countries that never had jet programmes, a high degree of parts commonality among aircraft with fewer than 120 seats have a unique opportunity the family and fast turnaround times, overall utilisation and to re-examine their approach to capacity and seized the un- efficiency increase while unit costs decrease. tapped potential of that category. As many of our more than 50 E-Jets customers can attest, their fleet decision years ago Engineering helped them weather today’s economic turmoil.” Embraer has developed an innovative aircraft health, analysis and diagnostic system (AHeAD) on every E-Jet. It is a 91- to 120-seat category expanding computational web-based platform that allows airlines to Embraer forecasts a requirement of 6,875 new jets in the continuously monitor the performance of an E-Jet while 30 to 120-seat capacity segment over the next 20 years with in flight. It regularly transmits fault identification data for a total market value estimated around US $200 billion. The analysis by ground personnel so that they can plan mainte- break-up is 30-60 seat category—475 aircraft; 61-90 seat – nance remedies at a down line station. The system through 2,515; and 91-120 seat category 3,885. continuous monitoring helps in the fleet to minimise ground The 30- to 120-seat segment is an essential component time and maximise air time. of world aviation that supplies a range of capacity to low and medium-density markets. The value of its contribution is evi- Ergonomics dent when demand contracts as well as when carriers want After listening to prospective airlines, Embraer engineers to open new routes without adding a large number of seats. designed a unique spacious cabin as per the double-bubble Embraer said that the market for 50-seat regional jets fuselage concept, a shape derived from vertically overlap- had reached maturity. The aircraft will continue to feed ping two circles, with a four-abreast cross section. The wid- hubs in the USA and Europe and will support regional est point of the upper circle, which forms the main cabin, is aviation development in Russia/CIS, Mexico, Africa and at elbow level when passengers are seated. This maximises South America. Aircraft in the 61- to 120-seat category personal space and allows the installation of wider seats are improving overall industry efficiency by right-sizing and a wider aisle compared to larger jets. The width of the larger narrow-body jets, replacing old equipment, develop- lower circle is greatest near the cabin floor which boosts the ing new markets and helping airlines grow gradually from baggage and cargo capacity. smaller regional jets. SP

20 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net CFM. Generation after generation.

The legendary CFM56* and LEAP-X. Famous reliability and fuel efficiency. Lower emissions, noise and costs. LEAP-X. Like father, like son. www.cfm56.com/xpower *CFM, CFM56 and the CFM logo are all trademarks of CFM International, a 50/50 joint company of Snecma and General Electric Co.

SP_Aviation_Generations 267x210.indd 1 11/10/2010 17:30 Military Training Modern & Tech-savvy Training Command has always provided aid to civil authorities in times of crisis or natural calamities

raining Command of the Indian Air Force (IAF) service in ECHS and HIV/AIDS palliative care is praiseworthy. is responsible essentially for foundation building and The spatial disorientation simulator (DISO) was commissioned aims to groom the budding professionals on whose at AFA in December 2009. Till date, 47 aircrew and 44 Air Traf- shoulders lie the responsibility of safeguarding the fic Controllers (ATC) officers have been trained on it. The Air Tcountry’s security, honour and sovereignty. Essentially, Force Technical College, the alma mater of technical officers, Training Command shapes the future of the IAF. which was awarded the President’s Standards in November Despite the fact that the fleet of the basic trainer air- 2008 celebrated its Diamond Jubilee in July 2009. craft, HPT-32, remained grounded, the ab-initio pilot A number of administrative initiatives with special fo- courses graduated on schedule. Achieving this without cus on infrastructure development have been undertaken to compromising standards and under such trying circum- stances speaks volumes about the workforce and leadership. During the year gone by, the Training Command was engaged in smooth changeover of Stage III fighter training on Hawk Mk132 aircraft and planning for the induction of intermediate jet trainer (IJT) and light combat aircraft (LCA) into the IAF. Keeping pace with technology and trends in modern methodologies of training, Training Command has em- braced a simulator-based training philosophy. Simulators of various levels and capability have been integrated with the training curricula. Flying training devices (FTD) of Hawk, Do-228, An-32 aircraft navigation simulator (NAVSIM), radar and visual tower observa- tion simulators (RADSIM and VITOSIM) to train ATC officers, Drona for armament training, are a few such systems. Most training programmes for development of air warriors are now conducted through distance learning programmes with min- imal contact duration. Similarly, CBT based e-learning packages and smart class rooms have replaced the classical versions of training curricula. Training Command has al- Air Marshal V.R. IYER Air Officer Commanding- ways provided aid to civil au- in-Chief, Training thorities in times of crisis or Command natural calamities. Flood relief operations were undertaken on a large scale in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka during 2009, involving around 205 hours enhance the quality of life. Some of the important activities of flying and similar operations are at present continuing in undertaken by TC that would go a long way in ensuring bet- various sectors this year as well. Salvage operations were ter military preparedness and support to civil authorities in- undertaken after the crash of the helicopter of the govern- clude regular counter-terrorism operations training by IAF ment of Andhra Pradesh involving Chief Minister Yeduguri Garuda personnel along with National Security Guard (NSG) Sandinti Rajasekhara Reddy. and Para SF to secure major cities and installations against The Command Hospital Air Force Bangalore (CHAFB) won sub-conventional attacks. Issues related to ‘flexible use of the Defence Minister’s Trophy for best Command Hospital dur- airspace’ between civil and military airports are actively be-

Ph oto gr ap hs: IaF ing 2009-10. Their continued efforts towards providing quality ing pursued by this Command. SP

22 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Military Maintenance

Air Marshal P.V. Athawale Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Maintenance Command Aiming for Excellence Maintenance Command provides quality maintenance support to operational units of IAF

he vision of Maintenance Command (MC) is to implementation of newer concepts such as ‘lean engineering’ provide “efficient systems’ sustenance for air opera- and improved storage and warehousing to ensure greater tions”. The base repair depots (BRDs) under Mainte- availability of existing assets are some of the examples. Prag- nance Command provide total product support, main- matic and rational life extension programmes along with mid- Ttenance, repair and overhaul of all variants of aircraft, radars life upgradation to ensure higher life cycle of assets are pur- and missiles, airborne communications systems and ground sued as a rule at MC units rather than an exception. support equipment of the IAF. The equipment depots (EDs) Lean Engineering practices introduce efficiency intensive look after receipt, storage, issue, packaging and transporta- production procedures and minimise waste in production, tion functions. Liaison and assistance to Hindustan Aeronau- repair, overhaul and logistics processes. Quality and flight tics Limited (HAL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) is safety enhancement have been the key result areas assigned provided through Air Force Liaison Establishments. The tra- to BRDs. Accordingly, a special drive was initiated by the ditional task of maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO) and Maintenance Command last year. All BRDs and major EDs, supply chain has recently been enhanced to include sharing which are already ISO certified, took up the challenge of of responsibility with Air Headquarters (HQ) regarding pro- refining the quality management system (QMS) and the re- visioning and procurement of spares for a range of aircraft quirements perceived by top level in-house inspection teams. and systems. The recent approach on an integrated techno- The MC in recent times has focused on indigenisation of logistic approach is bringing about a paradigm shift in the aircraft spares and sub-assemblies to achieve self-reliance. way IAF dealt with spares supply and maintenance as two During the last financial year about 947 complex, high tech- distinct functions. nology items were indigenised at depots leading to financial Air Marshal P.V. Athawale is at present the Air Officer saving to the tune of `56 crore. Today, the depots are geared Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C). Projects initiated and up with requisite infrastructure and human resources for steered by him such as Integrated Air Command and Con- induction and assimilation of changing aviation technology. trol Systems and Air Force Net (AFNET) have culminated In order to enhance production capacities and the capability recently into force multipliers. Air Marshal Athawale is also to undertake repair and overhaul of modern war machines known for his pioneering initiatives in avionics software and a project for modernisation and upgradation of BRDs and IT in the IAF. He has vigorously initiated lean engineering EDs costing `375 crore has been initiated. To augment the and quality management system refinements for improv- quality standards, a 3D-CNC coordinate measuring machine ing productivity of BROs in MC. Information management, with full programming function has been commissioned for e-documentation and outsourcing initiatives are the other inspection of aviation grade components. ventures under the current focus. Another major area of activity of MC is logistics manage- The BRDs and EDs have been successfully meeting the ment. This plays a dominant role in supporting the mainte- challenges of stocking and maintaining the legacy equipment nance function. The logistics arm of MC meets its functions while inducting high technology weapon systems to retain the through EDs, air stores parks and movement control units. ‘cutting edge’. Reduction in repair cycle time during overhaul, The material management functions in the IAF are all the development of in-house repair schemes for life enhanced air- more complicated due to geographical spread of the country

Photogra p hs: I A F craft, adoption of newer manufacturing techniques/processes, and the variety of weapon systems with the IAF. SP

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 23 military AIR FORCE DAY

1 2

Celebrating 5 78 Years... Photogra p hs: A bhishek / Sp guide ubns

24 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net military AIR FORCE DAY

3 4

7 8

a power to reckon with: 1 Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh greeted by Chiefs 6 2 the cas inspects the parade 3 synchronised Rifle Drill 4 fully loaded su-30mki on display 5 Tricolour in the air 6 Air Warriors Marching Out 7 Akash Ganga Team leader with the IAF Flag 8 ajt Hawk on display 9 Pechora SAM system For more information and video, visit: www.spsaviation.net

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 25 Show Report NBAA Sales Sparse,

But Mood Buoyant A total of 24,206 registrants were on hand, representing a five per cent increase over the 2009 figure, and 1,083 exhibitors packed the Georgia World Congress Center in downtown Atlanta at the sixty-third NBAA convention

By LeRoy Cook Missouri, USA

he National Business Avia- tion Association’s (NBAA) annual meeting rotates among the few host cities with halls large enough to host the fourth largest American trade show. The 2010 edition of the show set up a camp in Atlanta, Georgia, after a gap of three years. Unlike last year’s gloom-infested NBAA Tconvention, the October 2010 gathering was filled with hope that the worst of business aviation’s de- pression was gone, and the attendance was strong.

A total of 24,206 registrants were on hand, representing a five per cent increase over the 2009 figure, and 1,083 exhibitors packed the Georgia World Congress Center in downtown Atlanta. The static display at Dekalb-Peachtree airport was jammed with 93 aircraft; it was all that could be accommo- dated, resulting in a waiting list for cancellations. As we said, the mood was upbeat, even though sales were still sparse. Both Hawker Beechcraft Corporation and Cessna Aircraft returned to the exhibit hall, after reducing their presence to static displays at the airport last year. Builders of large, long- range equipment, such as Gulfstream, Embraer, Dassault, oy Cook oy Bombardier, Boeing and Airbus, exhibited lavishly, benefiting from their continued strong sales. Boeing announced that it will deliver no less than eight 747-8I wide body business jets to completion centres in just over one year, starting late 2011. Photogra p hs: Le R

26 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Show Report NBAA

News from the floor the other hand, Eclipse was at the show touting its ability to Piper Aircraft introduced an upgradation of its developmen- deliver an already-certified Total Eclipse 500 twin-jet VLJ. On tal PA-47 PiperJet, the first single-engine business jet likely the opening day, Eclipse proudly announced an investment to be in the market. Now slated to deliver early in 2014, the by Sikorsky Aircraft in its company, which promises support renamed Altaire has abandoned the Malibu-based fuselage capability as well as money. Honda Aircraft’s displays, both of the prototype to enable a wider, taller and longer cabin to in the exhibit hall and under roof at the airport, showcased be offered, with a three-foot wide entrance door, an enlarged the company’s developmental aircraft and engine quite well. wing and a reshaped tail. The high-mounted Williams FJ44-3A A conforming test model of the HondaJet was ready to fly at engine requires only Williams International’s EXACT passive NBAA time and a target of Q3 2012 is set for certification. thrust vectoring for proper trim and will produce a top cruise Further up the ladder, Bombardier showed the mockup speed of 360 knots, with a ceiling of 35,000 feet. The expected of its forthcoming LearJet 85 composite-airframe mid-size maximum range is 1,300 nautical miles. Rather than the side- jet, and rocked the show with announcement of not one, stick controls of the Physical Optics Corporation (POC) aircraft, but two, new members of the large-cabin Global series, a the Altaire will feature conventional control yokes and a stick- stretched-fuselage Global 7000 and 8000 based on the suc- pusher stall barrier system. Piper is pointedly targeting the cessful Global XRS. The aircraft were shown only as full-size Cessna Citation Mustang as the PiperJet’s main competition. rear-projection images on a huge screen at the static display. Daher Socata is evaluating the former Grob SPn twin-en- The Global 7000, 11 feet longer than the XRS, is expected gine VLJ to possibly supplement its TMB 850 Very Fast Tur- to be available in 2016, offering a 7,300 nm range, with the boprop. Meanwhile, Diamond Aircraft’s single-engine D-Jet two-foot longer, 7,900 nm range 8,000 coming in 2017. is under development, along with the Cirrus SF50 Vision. On As the show opened, Gulfstream flew one of its G650

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 27 Show Report NBAA test aircraft on a 10-hour, 5,000-mile closed-circuit proving run at Mach .9, to spotlight its newest airplane’s capability. Gulfstream also exhibited a finished G650 at the static display. The G650 will be the first Gulfstream to feature a larger fuselage cross-section since the original turboprop model. Cessna’s Citation division is determined not to be outdone by Gulfstream’s challenge to the Mach .92 Citation X (historically pronounced “ten”) with a Mach .925 Vmo for the G650; Cess- na announced a slightly-stretched, upgraded Citation Ten at the NBAA convention, which promises to have an even-faster top speed. Rumours continue to surface about a single-turboprop version of the Citation Mustang in flight test at Cessna. Dassault brought a “green” 900LX trijet to the show, sporting its new Aviation Partners winglets that help boost

shining stars: (top) HondaJet on display; (above long-range cruise to Mach .80, which it can l-r) static display FJ44-4A-32 fanjets, add winglets and upgrade hold to 4,500 nm with four passengers. With scenes; Mockup of avionics. In a totally unrelated programme, Piper’s new PiperJet the current super-midsize 2000LX twin-jet Altaire, with a Nextant Aerospace showed its re-engined replacing the 2000DX and 2000EX models, larger fuselage and Beechjet 400A with Williams FJ44-3AP en- speculation is high that a replacement SMS redesigned wing gines and a Collins ProLine 21 avionics suite, aircraft is being developed. and tail to be serially produced as the 400XT, rather Absent from the show was Emivest’s SJ- than converted one at a time. 30 long-range light jet, which was still strug- Conjoined in the static display were a gling to find its niche in the marketplace. Emivest filed for Comlux Airbus A318 Elite in executive livery, wearing showy reorganisation bankruptcy protection in the week following polished wing slats, and a Boeing Business Jets 737-700 with NBAA, after delivering some three airplanes to customers. complete facilities for working and living on board. Although Hawker Beechcraft shuffled its deck of airplanes with mul- the big airplanes challenged the PDK airport’s 66,000-lb tiple announcements at the NBAA show, including long-await- pavement strength, waivers were obtained for their landings ed upgradation of the Beech Premier 1A light jet; what was and the 6,000-ft runway length required no special tech- to be the Premier II is now the Hawker 200, sharing the Pre- niques. In the exhibit hall, Greenpoint Technologies showed mier’s carbon-fibre fuselage but with winglets, a higher pres- a model of an Aerolift elevator installation that could be in- surisation level, FL450 certificated altitude, increased takeoff stalled in a BBJ 747, allowing a VIP’s party to descend to the weight, longer range, 15-knots more speed and new FJ44-3AP ramp privately and without requiring stairs or jet bridge. FADEC engines. The venerable King Air 200 will be replaced with a new King Air 250, which incorporates winglets, com- In the panel posite-blade propellers and ram air recovery cowlings, all of Garmin International announced its entry into transport cat- which improve the airplane’s high-and-hot capability. egory electronic flight instrumentation with a G5000 suite of In addition, Hawker Beechcraft announced a retrofit integrated avionics. Almost universally accepted in the cock- programme for the Hawker 400XP (once the Beechjet 400), pits of light business aircraft with its G3000 suite, Garmin which will replace the P&W JT15D-5R engines with Williams had yet to crack the stricter requirements of the transport

28 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Show Report NBAA

Business and Awards The NBAA convention allows attendees to gather annually to renew acquaintances, participate in educational semi- nars and conduct the association’s business. For the first time, dual general session meetings were held, on the two principal days of the convention. At the opening session, speeches were given by Sonny Perdue, the outgoing Gover- nor of the State of Georgia who is also an active pilot, Tom Donahue, President of the US Chamber of Commerce, John Pistole, Head of the Transportation Safety Administration, and Randy Babbitt, Administrator, Federal Aviation Admin- istration. Jimmy Hayes of Atlanta-based Cox Enterprises spoke of the value delivered by his company’s business aircraft over the years.

waiting to take off: Static display of 93 business aircraft at Atlanta’s Dekalb- Peachtree airport

world. However, Cessna has agreed to install the G5000 in its During the historic second day session, the traditional hu- new Citation Ten, and the large displays and touch-activated manitarian award, given to an individual exemplifying ser- controls were getting a workout on the display floor. vice to mankind in the past year, was deferred; instead, rec- Rockwell Collins showed its new Pro Line Fusion inte- ognition was given to the 600 NBAA member companies who grated cockpit system, which has already been accepted by participated in flying aid to the suffering country of Haiti after a host of new or updated aircraft. The launch customer will its massive earthquake disaster. Corporate aircraft landed on be Bombardier with a Global 5000 installation, followed by roads and outlying airfields to deliver supplies, evacuate in- the Gulfstream 150. While Rockwell Collins relies heavily on jured persons and bring in relief workers. HUD for SVS or EVS, Honeywell was exhibiting an enhanced FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt returned to the stage to SmartView system which offers SVS/EVS in a head-down award Wright Brothers Master Pilot designations to five noted display, using Kollsman infra-red cameras. individuals who have flown for more than 50 years. These Datalink communications, for both the cabin workplace were Arnold Palmer, noted professional golfer, Clay Lacy, re- and transmitting ATC commands to the cockpit, was one of tired airline pilot and entrepreneur, Russ Meyers, Chairman the major talking points at the show. By January 1, the new Emeritus of Cessna Aircraft, Eugene Cernan, US Apollo astro- aircraft flying in Europe above FL285 must have VDLM2 naut who left the final footprints on the moon’s surface, and data link capability, and all such operations will require it Neil Armstrong, astronaut and test pilot who was the first hu- by February 5, 2015. VIP passengers are equally insistent man to set foot on the moon. Famous test pilot and air show about being able to keep in touch during flight. The compet- performer Robert A. Hoover was unable to attend due to health ing satellite communication systems, Iridium and Inmarsat, problems. In addition, Arnold Palmer was given the NBAA’s have exclusive strengths, leading airline datalink supplier Meritorious Service Award as special recognition for his strong ICG to join up with Cobham to offer a multi-level “Sora” support of the business aviation causes over the years. communication system. Sora will allow business jet users The 2011 NBAA meeting will be held in Las Vegas, Ne- in both the front and back of the aircraft to stay connected, vada, from October 10 to 12. The entire global business avi- even in mid-ocean. Many other firms were showing targeted ation community hopes for continued easing of the financial satcom tools for business travel. crisis and an upswing in activity. SP

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 29 Military joint exercise

an IAF Mirage 2000 lifts off from Kalaikunda airbase for a mission

Exercise Indradhanush ncreased number of launches and full-scale with its Eurofighter Typhoons, the E-3D Sentry, and VC-10 large force engagement (LFE) missions marked the mid-air refueller, the IAF fielded the Su-30 MKIs, Mirage IIndo-UK Indradhanush joint air exercise between 2000s, MiG-27s and its airborne warning and control sys- the IAF and Royal Air Force (RAF) from October 18 to tem (AWACS) for the first time in a joint air exercise. Fly- November 3, at Kalaikunda Airbase in West Midnapur dis- ing missions aimed at enhancement of mutual operational trict, West Bengal. While the Royal Air Force participated understanding and refinement of procedures. SP

IAF Su-30 MKIs in action with RAF Photogra p hs: I A F eurofighter Typhoon

30 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net OEM Interview Northrop Grumman AESA is relevant in the modern battlefield In an interview with John Fagnant, Director of ISR and Targeting Strategy at the Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems sector, SP’s Aviation discovered some of the historical and cultural qualities that have made the company a leader in Aesa technology. The former US Air Force F-15 pilot describes how the corporation developed unparalleled expertise as a radar house, citing how early radar developments aboard the F-16 contributed to present-day thought leadership in one of the defence industry’s newest technologies.

SP’s Aviation (SP’s): Is there a real difference between transmit and receive environment. This combination of hard- one AESA and another? ware and software efficiencies became the cultural mindset John Fagnant (Fagnant): In recent years we’ve seen a of a whole generation of hardware, electrical design, and ground swell of people thinking “AESA is good” and “all software engineers for a time during the 1970s and 1980s AESAs are equally good” – that they’ve become homogenous. not only for the AN/APG-66, but also for the AWACS. Many of Northrop Grumman gets batched into the competition in the these engineers are still here today at the company. same manner. And that’s not correct. There’s a different dis- At the same time, electrically scanned arrays (ESA) were cipline in the way we’ve approached our AESA developments being developed. One of these was AWACS, which is electri- which is significant for two reasons. First, it keeps us relevant cally scanned in the vertical, but not in the azimuth, where in the modern battlefield. Second, it ties our engineering to it spins. Also, when the B-1 ESA came out during the 1980s, our manufacturing through a generational-architecture mind- we were bringing efficiencies learned in one programme to set that allows us to get efficiencies in manufacturing across others in an electrically scanned aperture type of environ- all the domains of AESAs that we build. We’ve based our ap- ment. As all this was happening at the same time, it cre- proach on generational leaps in technology and capability, so ated an engineering culture that determined how Northrop we’re not piecemealing our architecture across the enterprise Grumman approached developing AESA technology. with separate, unique parts, which would make it more expensive and less efficient from a manufacturing standpoint. SP’s: How did this strong engineering culture affect the It’s about generating an “electronically scanned” culture. development of the F-22 with its stealth technology? Fagnant: Stealthy aircraft presented a difficult set of chal- SP’s: What do you mean by developing an “electronically lenges to our engineers. Now we had to go to a fighter that scanned” culture? was bigger than an F-16, but had to have electronics, RF Fagnant: Our AESA expertise actually goes back to the 1970s noise, and transmit/receive purity understood to a degree when we developed the AN/APG-66 with a mechanically that had never been approached before in aircraft history. scanned array for the F-16. We were up against competi- We had already brought up this whole group of engineers tors like Hughes and the concern from a purely engineer- that had to deal with those types of issues on an F-16. They ing standpoint was that we were dealing with a very tiny understood how to get the maximum amount of physical ef- nose on the aircraft where we had to graft in very modern ficiencies in electrical and RF environments, and how archi- radar capabilities. The main problem for our engineers was tecture could be applied to get the most out of the hardware. physical space, but they worked with that. They did what During the time period we spent developing the F-16 radar, they could with the single receiver channel, but more im- we were worried about electronic countermeasures, which portantly, they worked with the elements and the subcom- were a key part of our software suites. Those things also con- ponents that made up the entire system to get the maximum tribute nicely to stealth technology because stealth depends on efficiency out of that radar from a physics standpoint. control of the electronic environment. You have quietness built Next, we had to do the same thing with software, which in. You want to be able to reside in a stealthy environment and had to work efficiently with what was happening at the phys- not have to worry about people jamming you from an electronics level—things like bandwidth purity or signal-to-noise ra- ic warfare standpoint because you can deny those capabilities. tio or swell intervals and other things you worry about in a From a software standpoint, that type of capability paid off. Continued on page 32... Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 31 Military F-16IN F-16IN APT for MMRCA: Lockheed Martin The company officials claim that many countries are transitioning from double-engine to single-

engine aircraft Photogra p h: A bhishek / Sp guide ubns

he US aerospace major Lockheed Martin Corpo- Explaining the advantages of a single engine aircraft as ration claims that the F-16IN offered to the Indian Air in F-16 IN, he said that a transition from double engine to TForce (IAF) under the medium multi role combat air- single engine aircraft can be seen in many countries today. craft (MMRCA) programme is reliable, safe and cost-effec- Except the safety aspect which is on a par with a double tive. But besides keeping its fingers crossed for the MMRCA engine aircraft, a single engine aircraft is better in all other deal, the company is also looking forward to sell its F-35C, aspects—life cycle cost, acquisition cost, survivability, physi- the fifth generation carrier aircraft to India. cal size, logistics, etc. Addressing a press conference on October 28 in New The official said that the F-16 has evolved from Block Delhi, Michael R. Griswold, Director, Advanced Develop- 30 manufactured in 1985, which transitioned to Block 50 in ment Programme, Lockheed Martin said that the fighter 1990 and F-16IN in 2003 and indicated that it is not the end plane custom made for India is a step ahead of the F-16 of the road as the company will bring in many more innova- series produced by the company. “The advanced version of tions and technological developments in the years to come. the F-16 has been designed after long discussions between “The F-16’s architecture itself enables growth and has the the IAF and Lockheed Martin,” he said and adding that it is most powerful engine for MMRCA,” said Griswold. apt for IAF requirements. The F-16 is now operational in 24 countries and a recent Griswold said that F-16 has a long history of operations order has been placed by Oman, informed the officials. SP and is a proven fourth generation fighter with active elec- —Sucheta Das Mohapatra tronically scanned radar (Northrop Grumman APG-80), net- centric warfare capability, advanced survivability features, For more information and video, visit: enhanced high thrust engine (General Electric F110-132A), http://www.spsaviation.net/latestnews large weapon inventory, all-digital glass cockpit, etc.

...Continued from page 31 This approach led to the way we develop both hardware This generational architecture just doesn’t reside in and software together—a culture that continues still today. one or two airborne types of AESAs. You can see it in our ground-based, maritime, and high/low altitude aircraft. As SP’s: AESA development is very expensive. What is we move forward into future AESAs, you actually get to see Northrop Grumman doing about costs? examples of where our AESAs are better because of all these Fagnant: Back then, our mindset wasn’t to build one thing and cultural factors at play. say, “We’re just going to add this and add that.” The custom- Let me use software engineering as an example. We ers’ concern for diminishing manufacturing capabilities and spent a lot of time developing good electronic protection expenses associated with hardware changeovers was a big modes for small and stealthy aircraft. What has happened deal to us. What we learned from the F-22 experience was, in the electronic warfare environment in recent years is “Let’s continue that generational cycle.” Let’s make one major a huge explosion of robust capability. Our engineering investment at a time to create a generational architecture of community thought about that and stayed ahead of that. hardware and software modes that our entire customer base Our joint strike fighter sensor systems and the systems can take advantage of so that they’re not all paying the non-re- that have followed are in very good shape because of our curring costs associated with successive singular programmes. background in electronic protection and electronic coun- And that’s worked out pretty well for us. We are seeing impor- termeasures modes. And we’re transitioning all that—in tant engineering and manufacturing efficiencies that translate that same generational mindset—to everything else that into time and costs efficiencies for our customers. we build. SP

32 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net OEM Interview

now, including the Jaguar’s re-engine and T-Hawk micro air vehicle use. Right now, we have five manufacturing locations, four technology centres and offices in more than 50 cities in India, exceeding `2,500 crore in annual revenue.

SP’s: Can you define the direction in which you propose to steer the company? Briefly outline the strategy that you propose to adopt to drive growth of business for the company in India and what would be the thrust areas? Bhavnani: Business growth and exports are the two critical areas of focus and both are linked to each other. Success in one drives the other making them interdependent. So the strategy is to drive both aspects of these opportunities. On specific programmes like Jaguar re-engine or MAV T-Hawk we typically follow the lead of the concerned agencies and support their timelines and strategy as defined.

SP’s: To what extent and in what way will Honeywell’s investments in India impact the growth of international Honeywell sees business for the company? Bhavnani: Honeywell sets up global operational centres for technology development and product manufacturing India as a key to customer service and support, our Indian organisation contributes to every part of our business for customers around the world. As an example, our contract with HAL global location means the popular TPE331 engine is being built in India for our global customer base.

Pritam Bhavnani, who assumed SP’s: In what way and to what extent would the Indian aerospace industry benefit from the association with office as the President Honeywell Honeywell Aerospace? Aerospace India in June this year, Bhavnani: Honeywell is a leader in air traffic modernisation, safety and energy efficiency, and more than 10,000 em- brings in both proven capability ployees in India help contribute to our success. Honeywell is and wealth of experience that also a technological leader in multiple areas. As India builds the infrastructure for its aerospace industry to expand to should propel Honeywell’s meet the needs of India, Honeywell’s technology and solu- Aerospace business in India to tions can help India leap frog to the latest technical advancements and result in safer and more efficient flying. new heights. Bhavnani had a candid conversation with Air SP’s: The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has drawn up a plan to modernise and upgrade a number of civil Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey of airfields, construct Greenfield airports as also upgrade air traffic management systems. In which areas would SP’s Aviation at Bengaluru Honeywell be involved in these programmes? Bhavnani: While Honeywell traditionally would provide avionics for the airlines to optimise their performance and ef- SP’s Aviation (SP’s): As the President of Honeywell Aero- ficiency in such an initiative, in this case, we can also provide space in India, how do you perceive the prospects for the modern precision approach and landing system for this the company in the Indian aerospace market? airport modernisation effort—the SmartPath ground-based Pritam Bhavnani (Bhavnani): India is important to Honey- augmentation system (GBAS). The most attractive feature of well Aerospace. From technology development to product installing GBAS in a modernisation programme is its flexibili- manufacturing to customer service and support, our Indian ty. The current generation precision approach system, instru- organisation contributes to every part of our business for cus- ment landing system (ILS) can only provide a single approach tomers around the world. We see India as a key global loca- path at a single runway end. The SmartPath system can pro- tion, export hub and centre of intellectual excellence, and have vide multiple approach paths to every runway at an airport, staffed appropriately with engineers to help us drive success allowing AAI to achieve optimal airspace efficiency. SP throughout our business. Our aerospace solutions are flying on many Indian aircraft—airlines or private aircraft—and To read the complete interview log on to: we are leading the way in air traffic modernisation and avia- www.spsaviation.net/interviews tion safety. We are pursuing several opportunities in India

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 33 Hall of Fame hat can human ation in 1955, Crossfield was by far the trols into the cockpit. Previously, all en- ingenuity achieve most experienced rocket plane pilot in gine adjustments were made by tech- in half a century? A the world. nicians on the ground- based on data great deal. The Wright As chief engineering test pilot for from previous flight tests. He reached Brothers’ famous first North America, Crossfield played a ma- a maximum speed of Mach 2.97 and flightW was at a speed of 10.9 km/h. A jor role in the design and development 27 km altitude in the process. In all, 12 few days before the 50th anniversary of the X-15. He was the first to pilot the test pilots flew the X-15; among them of that epochal feat, Albert Scott Cross- advanced hypersonic aircraft and it was was Neil Armstrong, the first man to field piloted the Douglas D-558-2 Sky- his job to demonstrate its airworthiness walk on the moon. In 1967, an X-15 rocket to Mach 2.005 (2,076 km/h). at speeds of up to Mach 3. Because the piloted by Pete Knight achieved its Crossfield was one of USA’s top test fastest ever speed of Mach 6.72 pilots—part of the celebrated team (7,297 km/h). that later took the legendary X-15 Among his countless honours to record altitudes and speeds. His and awards, Crossfield received flight on November 20, 1953, was the Lawrence Sperry Award, Oc- the first time an aircraft ever ex- tave Chanute Award, Harmon ceeded twice the speed of sound. International Trophy and the Albert Scott Crossfield was Collier Trophy. He cheated death born in Berkeley, California, on Oc- many times in an aviation career tober 2, 1921. Soon after America spanning 64 years. In Septem- entered the Second World War, he ber 1954, following an engine became a naval aviator and flew flameout in the North American overseas as an instructor. Later, in F-100 Super Sabre he was eval- June 1950, he joined the National uating, he decided to attempt a Advisory Committee for Aeronau- dead-stick landing. Other test tics (NACA) High Speed Flight Re- pilots had doubted such a thing search as a test pilot. During the could be done as the F-100 had next five years, he notched up 99 a rather high landing speed. rocket flights in the X-1 and D- Scott made a perfect approach 558-II Skyrocket. The Skyrocket ALBERT SCOTT and touchdown but was unable was a supersonic research aircraft to bring the aircraft to a halt built by the Douglas Aircraft Com- CROSSFIELD (1921 - 2006) in a safe distance. After barely pany. It had wings of 35 degree missing several parked aircraft, sweep and horizontal stabilisers he was forced to use a wall as a with 40 degree sweep. Its wings He was an aeronautical makeshift brake. In June 1960, and empennage were fabricated engineer, an aerodynamicist he narrowly escaped from the from aluminium and the fuselage ground explosion of an X-15 was primarily of magnesium. It and a designer, who felt while testing the engine. was jet as well as rocket powered. that his flying was What is remarkable is that For take-off, climb and landing, Crossfield was still flying solo at it had a Westinghouse J34-40 primarily because it was the age of 84. The end came— turbojet engine fed through side as it so often does—due to bad intakes. Alternatively, the plane essential to designing and weather. On April 19, 2006, he could be carried aloft by a Boe- building better airplanes was piloting a Cessna 210 from ing P2B Super Fortress ‘mother Prattville, Alabama to Manassas, ship’. For high speed flight, a for pilots to fly Virginia when the plane lost ra- four-chamber Reaction Motors dio contact. The next day his body LR8-RM-6 engine was employed. was found in the wreckage of the Scott’s flight was part of a careful- aircraft, which was strewn over ly conducted research programme a wide area. Crash investigators that featured incremental increases in X-15 and its systems were unproven, concluded that the aircraft had broken speed while sophisticated instrumen- these tests were considered extremely up in a severe thunderstorm. While he tation recorded the flight data at each risky. He piloted the plane on its first was renowned as a daring test pilot, stage. For his record-setting mission, unpowered test flight on June 8, 1959. Crossfield himself claimed, “I am an he was taken aloft in the Skyrocket by Later, he also flew the first powered aeronautical engineer, an aerodynami- the mother ship. He dropped clear of flight. He flew 14 of the 199 total X-15 cist and a designer. My flying was only the bomber at 32,000 feet and zoomed flight tests with most of his missions primarily because I felt that it was es- to 72,000 feet before diving to 62,000 establishing and validating the ini- sential to designing and building better feet where he became the first pilot to tial key parameters. Scott introduced airplanes for the pilots to fly.” SP exceed twice the speed of sound. By many important innovations, including —Group Captain (Retd) the time he joined North American Avi- putting the rocket plane’s engine con- Joseph Noronha, Goa

34 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net newsDigest Military Fourth ADMM held during last views its participation in the RoundUp May, the ASEAN Defence Min- ADMM-Plus deliberations as Quick Asia-Pacific isters had decided to establish an aspect of its Look–East an ADMM-Plus forum com- Policy and the larger objective AgustaWestland Antony visits Vietnam prising of 10 ASEAN countries of integration with the region. to include Indonesia, Malaysia, • AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica the Philippines, Singapore, Tenth IRIGC-MTC meeting company, has announced that it Thailand, Brunei, Myanmar, The 10th meeting of the has been awarded a contract by Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam; India-Russia Inter-Gov- the Maryland State Police Aviation and eight non-ASEAN coun- ernmental Commission on Command to provide six AW139 tries namely, India, Australia, Military Technical Coopera- helicopters for their Medevac fleet China, Japan, New Zealand, tion (IRIGC-MTC) was held at program. The $71 million contract Republic of Korea, Russia and Delhi on October 7, 2010. The calls for the first AW139 to be the US; with the aim to ad- Defence Minister A.K. Antony delivered 18 months after contract Defence Minister A.K. Antony dress the regional peace and and the Russian Defence Min- has been awarded. arrived at Hanoi on October security challenges. This was ister A.E. Serdyukov headed 10, for a four-day visit to Viet- to be done by providing bal- the respective delegations. Akaer/Saab nam to attend the first ASEAN anced and inclusive security The Indian delegation includ- Defence Ministers Meeting architecture for the region as a ed Defence Secretary Pradeep • Akaer has released to Saab the first (ADMM)-Plus along with a whole and provide opportuni- Kumar, Secretary (Defence 3D model and production drawings high level delegation including ties to build mutual trust and Production) R.K. Singh, V.K. of the Gripen (next generation) NG in the Defence Secretary Pradeep confidence among the defence Saraswat, Scientific Adviser Sao Jose de Campos. This is as per Kumar and representatives establishments of the ASEAN to Defence Minister and other the agreement signed between Akaer of the services. During the and the Plus countries. India senior officials of the

Military Industry Independent choice is our strength: SAAB Besides the MMRCA deal, which it terms as the “mother of all businesses”, the company

is also looking forward to many more business Group CEO of SAAB AB Hasan Buske and Country Head of SAAB India Inderjit Sial addressing the media opportunities in India Photogra p h : A bhishe k / Sp guide ubns pbeat about Indian defence market, Swedish company is an important market for Sweden and the company is fine Saab has assured to provide complete transfer of tech- with whatever the percentage of FDI is permitted in India. He Unology (ToT) to India for its programmes, no matter what clarified that despite integration of the US solutions in Gripen, the foreign direct investment (FDI) limit is. Besides the medium transfer of technology to India will not be an issue. multi role combat aircraft (MMRCA) deal, which it terms as the Saab officials informed that the company’s association “mother of all businesses”, the company is also looking forward with India goes back to 1975 when it signed a licence agree- to many more business opportunities in India including the civil ment for manufacture of ammunition and parts of weapons security market. Hasan Buske, Group CEO of Saab AB, during with an Indian ordnance factory. Besides the Indian Air Force, his recent visit to India said that unlike its competitors in the Saab is also looking ahead to be a part of many more pro- MMRCA race, Saab does not have any political advantage, but it grammes in India. It may be mentioned that Saab has recently has the full backing of the Swedish Government. signed a letter of intent to set up a research and development Addressing a press conference at New Delhi on October centre with Mahindra & Mahindra. 29, Buske highlighted on the Indo-Sweden relationship and the Buske was on a visit to India to discuss many potential joint similarities the two countries have. “Our strength lies in ‘inde- ventures with Indian companies. “Engineering capacity in the pendent choice’. We have the best technology and an open Western world is shrinking and we are looking ahead to countries platform to integrate the weapon systems. We sell products in- like India which has an extremely strong economy and technically dependently and our products are affordable,” claimed Buske. skilled workforce. India is producing 6,00,000 engineers every “Established in 1937, Saab came up at a time when Swe- year. We look forward to utilise Indian capabilities,” he said. SP den was dependent on France for all defence equipment. To- —Sucheta Das Mohapatra day, it has already manufactured 6,000 aircraft. Besides aircraft and missiles, we also have units that integrate systems for land and naval forces,” he said. For more information and video, visit: On being asked about his views on the rules and regula- http://www.spsaviation.net/latestnews tions in India on defence procurement, Buske said that India

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 35 newsDigest Appointments acceptance for the procure- RoundUp ment of the F-35 aircraft on Quick Piaggio October 7 in New York. Israel Piaggio Aero Industries has announced that its Board of will be the first country to and Saab for participation in the Directors, under the direction of its Chairman Piero Ferrari, receive the F-35 through the Gripen NG development programme has appointed Eligio Trombetta as General Manager of Piag- United States Government’s with the aim to support Saab’s devel- gio Aero. With this key appointment, as part of its consolida- foreign military sales process. opment and production for the rear tion and expansion programme, Piaggio Aero has strength- and intermediate fuselage sections, ened its senior management team and its abilities to develop F-15SA aircraft in wings and landing gear doors. the company’s industrial growth, with the full backing of the Saudi Arabia majority shareholders and strategic partners, Mubadala The Defense Security Coopera- BAE Systems Development and Tata Limited. tion Agency notified Congress of a possible foreign military • BAE Systems has unveiled the Embraer sale to the Government of boldstroke directable infrared Embraer has named Phil Krull as Managing Director of the Saudi Arabia of 84 F-15SA countermeasures suite, an inte- Company’s first US aircraft assembly plant and customer Aircraft, 170 APG-63(v)3 grated aircraft survivability system center, at Melbourne International Airport (MLB), in Mel- active electronically scanned designed to protect aircraft from bourne, Florida. Krull will head up the newly established array (AESA) radar sets, 193 infrared-guided missiles and other facility dedicated to the Phenom executive jet family in the F-110-GE-129 improved evolving threats. Boldstroke is a company’s largest market. performance engines and modular, lightweight, highly reliable, assorted equipment. Also and low-cost directable infrared European Aerospace and Defence included are the upgradation countermeasure suite. Industries Association of the existing Royal Saudi Air Airbus Military Managing Director Domingo Ureña-Raso Force fleet of 70 F-15S multi- Bombardier has been named President and Chairman of the Council of role fighters to the F-15SA the European AeroSpace and Defence Industries Association configuration, the provision • The first phase of construction (ASD). He will succeed PierFrancesco Guarguaglini, Chair- for CONUS-based fighter of the 6,00,000 sq ft (55,742 m2) man and CEO of Finmeccanica. ASD represents the aeronau- training operations for a 12 facility in Belfast that will house the tics, space, defence and security industries of Europe in all F-15SA contingent, construc- manufacture and assembly of the matters of common interest with the objective of promoting tion, refurbishments and advanced composite wings for the and supporting the competitive development of these sectors. infrastructure improvements all-new C Series commercial aircraft of several support facilities for has been completed on schedule. Safran the F-15SA in-kingdom includ- Bombardier’s Belfast operation is Paul Blue has been named Safran National Executive for ing other support services. responsible for the design, manufac- USA, and Chairman and CEO of Safran USA. He joins the ture and integration of the advanced Group’s International Development Department and will Eurofighter committed composite wings for the CSeries report to Emeric d’Arcimoles, Executive Vice President, Inter- to India aircraft. national Development. Eurofighter, its partner compa- Cédric Goubet joins Safran as deputy to the Executive Vice nies and the four-nation mem- EADS President, Aerospace Propulsion branch, reporting to Marc bers of the European consor- Ventre. He replaces Benoit Gosset, who is moving to another tium Germany, the UK, Italy • EADS North America has an- position within the Group. and Spain, are fully committed nounced at the Association of the Yves Charvin has been named Vice President, Legal Affairs to deepening the strategic US Army annual convention that its at Morpho, the Safran Company that consolidates the Group’s partnership with India. Paving Armed Aerial Scout 72X (AAS-72X) security business. the way for this long-term industry team is preparing for the cooperation, the Supervisory first flight of one of three company- Dassault Aviation Board of Eurofighter GmbH funded Technical Demonstration Stéphane Fort has been appointed Vice President, External met in New Delhi for the first Aircraft in December. The EADS Relations and Corporate Communication of Dassault Aviation. time from October 25 to 26. North America-led industry team, He takes over from Yves Robins. CEOs from Eurofighter partner comprised of Lockheed Martin, Euro- companies (EADS, BAE Sys- copter and American Eurocopter, is Honeywell tems and Alenia Aeronautica) developing three AAS-72X aircraft to Mike Madsen has been appointed President of Honeywell attended the meeting. demonstrate the total capability of Aerospace’s defense and space business. Earlier, Madsen was the aircraft. Vice President of the Airlines Customer Business team within Americas the air transport and regional (AT&R) actuation systems and Eurocopter aircraft pneumatic components. Lockheed Martin submits proposal for Cargo UAS • Eurocopter and Kazakhstan Engineering have signed a framework Ministry of Defence Israeli Ministry of Defence agreement for a 50/50 joint venture and the armed forces. The selects Lockheed Martin F-35 to assemble and customise EC145s Russian delegation included Following the Israeli Gov- in Kazakhstan. The agreement also representatives from the ernment’s decision to select includes the development of local Russian Ministry of defence the Lockheed Martin F-35 maintenance and training activities to and the Russian defence Lightning II as the Israel Air support EC145 operations throughout industry. The Commission Force’s next-generation fight- the new customs union zone created took note of the progress on er aircraft, Israeli Ministry of Lockheed Martin and Kaman this summer by Kazakhstan, Russia several major projects since Defence Director General, Ma- Aerospace Corporation, a sub- and Belarus and the entire Central its last meeting, which was jor General (Retd) Udi Shani sidiary of Kaman Corporation, Asian region. held in October 2009. signed the letter of offer and have formally offered

36 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net newsDigest Show Calendar Nishant trials at Kolar airfield QuickRoundUp 9–11 November n October 28, ADE conducted Nishant trials at Kolar Airfield Business Aviation in which a technology breakthrough has been achieved. A Elbit Systems Safety Seminar-Asia 2010 Onew technology called the structural health monitoring has Singapore Aviation Academy, been developed by Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) • Elbit Systems of America, LLC, Singapore and National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) for the monitoring of a wholly owned subsidiary of Elbit http://flightsafety.org structural health parameters while the UAV is in flight. The break- Systems Ltd., has been awarded through enables the structural health of aeronautical structures to a $45.5 million indefinite delivery 10–11 November be monitored, so that online health can be monitored and online indefinite quantity contract from The Future of Business corrective action for the flight can be taken. This enables the air- the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Jets craft to be flown without unnecessarily grounding them. for the supply of the night targeting Millennium Gloucester Hotel, Analysis algorithms have been developed to predict onset of system upgrade (NTSU) and associ- London, UK failures which would be perfected using the data obtained through ated line items for the AH-1W Cobra www.quaynote.com the flight. Usage of such techniques will avoid periodic grounding helicopters. Work will be performed of the aircraft and make the maintenance schedules to be more in Merrimack and is expected to be 16–18 November like ‘on condition maintenance’, the condition being detected even completed over the next five years. Heli-Power 2010 before the failure occurs. It will avoid unnecessary grounding of Olympia Conference Centre, Hawker Beechcraft aircraft for inspection. Monitoring can be used for light combat London, UK Corporation http://www.shephard.co.uk/ aircraft, medium combat aircraft, fifth generation fighter aircraft and other unmanned aerial vehicles. These techniques are going • Hawker Beechcraft Corporation has 17–18 November to be extensively used in the future in order to cut down the op- announced the recent deliveries of its Unmanned Aircraft erational costs of the aircraft and can also lead to reduction in air- Beechcraft King Air 350C turboprops, Systems 2010 fares. Such techniques can prevent ensuing danger of the flights to the Colombian Air Force for use Millennium Gloucester Hotel by pre-warning the occurrence of failure. • as air ambulances. The aircraft were in Kensington, Central London sold to Colombia under a foreign http://www.smi-online.co.uk military sales agreement. Five King Air the K-MAX unmanned of damaged aircraft, DARPA’s 350 aircraft have been delivered to 29–30 November helicopter in response to a US damage tolerant controls (DTC) date, while a sixth is expected to be The Future of Air Naval Air Systems Command program is developing a soft- delivered later this year. Transport request for a cargo unmanned ware to compensate for dam- Le Méridien Piccadilly, London aircraft system (UAS). Earlier aged aircraft control surfaces Israel http://marketforce.eu.com/ this year, the K-MAX UAS and engines, allowing pilots Conferences/airtransport10 successfully demonstrated to land their aircraft safely. • Elbit Systems Ltd has announced its ability to resupply troops This technology also applies that its wholly-owned US subsidiary, 30 November–1 December in a simulated environment to material failures that can Elbit Systems of America, LLC, has Airborne Counter- similar to forward operating degrade flight performance in been awarded a five year, $68 Insurgency 2010 bases in Afghanistan. Under an unpredictable manner. million indefinite delivery/indefinite CCT Smithfield, London, a contract with the Marine quantity (ID/IQ) contract to supply England, UK Corps Warfighting Labora- US Air Force selects the US Army, Navy, Marines Corps www.airbournecounterinsur- tory, Lockheed Martin and Belac LLC and Coast Guard with AN/AVS-7 gency.com Kaman successfully flew the Chromalloy has revealed that head-up display components unmanned K-MAX at Dug- its joint venture company, including the latest Elbit Systems 30 November–2 December way Proving Ground in Utah, BELAC LLC, has been selected of America flat panel day and night Italy Airspace Expo meeting or exceeding the by the US Air Force to provide head-up display units. New Rome Exhibition Centre, requirements that were set. CFM56-3 parts manufacturer Italy approval (PMA) first stage Italy www.expoairspace.it Boeing’s new P-8 facility high pressure turbine (HPT) Boeing has opened a new P-8 blades. The one-year contract • Three Italian Navy EH-101 7–9 December aircraft production facility is valued at $2.6 million. The helicopters which will support Middle East Business near Boeing Field in Seattle. equipment will replace worn NATO operations in Afghanistan as Aviation (MEBA) The refurbished factory will and scrapped turbine engine part of International Security and Airport Expo Dubai, give Boeing and its P-8 team- blades during maintenance of Assistance Force have arrived, after Dubai, UAE. mates the space they need to the F108 aircraft engines that being airlifted by a C-17 transport www.meba.aero install mission systems and power the KC-135 tanker air- aircraft belonging to the US Air conduct tests on aircraft for craft. The F108 engine is the Force. The helicopters, fitted with 12–14 December current and future customers. military variant of the CFM56- self protection systems and night- ATC Global Middle 2B commercial aircraft engine. vision capabilities, are able to carry East 2010 DARPA takes big step in out surveillance missions, patrols, Beach Rotana, aircraft safety BAE Systems to support convoy escort, transport of sensitive Abu Dhabi, UAE Military aircraft today face Silver Fox UAS personnel, medical evacuation and www.atcglobalme.com many threats, including BAE Systems has received a deterrence. surface-to-air missiles, anti- US Air Force contract of $3.9 Italian Air Force’s Predator UAVs 15–16 December aircraft guns and weapons million to provide engineer- deployed in Heart, have crossed the Energising Indian fired from hostile aircraft. De- ing, training, and other milestone of 5,000 flight hours during Aerospace Industry spite modern systems that help services for the continued use which more than 600 operational DRDO Bhawan, friendly aircraft evade these of the company’s Silver Fox missions were conducted from 2007 New Delhi, India threats, sometimes damage oc- unmanned aircraft systems. in Afghanistan. http://www.ciidefence.com curs. To improve survivability The Silver Fox aircraft sup-

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 37 newsDigest ports military operations ATC Seminar RoundUp during intelligence, surveil- Quick lance, and reconnaissance n World ATC Day on October 20, missions. the Air Traffic Controllers’ Guild Pakistan O(India) organised a two-day semi- Europe nar on “Air Traffic Management, Airports • Pakistan is closely collaborating with & Airlines: India initiatives for infrastruc- China to launch a joint space com- The first female Gripen ture” in New Delhi. While the Minister for munications satellite next year in 2011 pilot is born Civil Aviation, Praful Patel inaugurated that will be a milestone in their friend- In October 2010, the South the seminar, it was a moment of pride ship. The new satellite called Paksat-1R African Air Force created for the guild as it hosted the President will bring immense economic benefits aviation history. One of the and CEO of the International Federation to Pakistan, said Pakistani Ambassador four South African Air Force of Air Traffic Controllers Association (IF- to China Masood Khan. (SAAF) pilots to successfully ATCA), Alexis Brathwaite from Trinidad and Tobago. complete the first operational The seminar highlighted the need for cooperation between Raytheon conversion course (OCC) in- the various stakeholders in the aviation community, underlining structed by local SAAF pilots, aviation safety, efficiency and optimal performance. The host of • Raytheon Corporation has been is a woman. Major Catherine awarded an $11.5 million contract speakers gave different perspectives to the growing aviation sec- Labuschagne made her solo for developing and testing critical Gripen flight at the South tor and how the challenges have to be met. high definition (HD) and target loca- African airbase Makhado in The ATC Guild also honoured two eminent scientists—Dr. G. tion accuracy enabling components, the Limpopo province. This Madhavan Nair, former Chairman of Indian Space Research Or- including multi-colour laser range- will give her a place in the re- ganisation and Dr. K. Santhanam of DRDO. • finder designator, HD slip rings, and cord books as the first female twist capsules for the multi-spectral Gripen pilot. Major Labuscha- targeting system A/B for the predator gne is one of several women Selex Galileo has won orders ZA006, is the second 787 and reaper systems. serving as pilots in the SAAF worth a total of approximately equipped with General Elec- and she previously flew the EUR 352 million. Specifically, tric GEnx engines to fly. In Raytheon/Boeing Impala jet before she qualified a contract worth around EUR addition to achieving the first on the Hawk Lead-In-Fighter 242 million (over GBP 200 flight of ZA006, the Boeing • Raytheon Company and the Boeing trainer to prepare her for the million) is for the supply of 88 test team has completed a Company have completed flight transition to South Africa’s Captor radar systems for the number of flight test mile- testing of the joint air-to-ground mis- frontline fighter. The South Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche stones in recent weeks. sile’s (JAGM) fixed-wing launcher and African government ordered 3A programme. Deliveries A dramatic series of tests instrumented measurement vehicle 26 Gripen C/D fighter aircraft are due to commence in 2012 that stress the airplane’s (IMV) on the Boeing F/A-18 E/F Super in 1999 as part of a ‘strategic with manufacturing taking brakes, called maximum Hornet fighter aircraft. IMV is the defence package’. place in Italy, Germany, Spain brake energy testing, was same size, shape and mass as an all- and the United Kingdom. completed in late September up JAGM round and the flight tests are Airbus Military A330 MRTT Alenia Aeronautica, through at Edwards Air Force Base, a crucial first step toward qualifying obtains military certification its subsidiary Alenia North also in California. ZA001 JAGM for Super Hornet employment. Airbus Military has obtained America, has signed a con- conducted this testing as certification for the A330 multi tract worth more than EUR 22 well as a series of extreme Rolls-Royce role tanker transport from million (around $30 million) takeoff and landing condi- Spanish military certification with the United States Air tions including minimum • Rolls-Royce has won an order worth authority Instituto Nacional de Force (USAF) to supply other takeoff speed testing. As a $390 million at list prices from Thai Air- Tecnología Aerospacial (INTA). two additional modernised result of these tests and oth- ways International for Trent 700 engines This paves the way for first and refurbished G.222 tactical ers, all takeoff performance to power an additional seven Airbus delivery of the aircraft to the transport aircraft for the use and handling characteristics A330 aircraft. The order includes a long- Royal Australian Air Force of the Afghan Air Force. testing is complete for the term service agreement for the aircraft (RAAF) in the coming weeks. initial version of the 787. which will be delivered from 2011. The A330 MRTT is now the Additional testing will be only certified new-generation Civil Aviation required for 787s equipped Saab Gripen tanker and transport being of- with GE engines. fered to the world’s air forces. Americas The 787 flight test pro- • Sweden’s FMV Test & Evaluation A total of 28 A330 MRTTs gramme has logged more Department has recently conducted a have been ordered by the Air Sixth Boeing 787 makes than 1,900 hours over 620 so-called safe-separation firing from forces of four nations (Austra- first flight| flights and completed more Gripen with the Meteor missile which lia, the United Arab Emirates, than 65 per cent of the flight is the first live-firing of the Integration Saudi Arabia and the United test conditions for 787s with programme. Gripen has also been the Kingdom). Rolls-Royce engines. launch platform from the start of the development of the Meteor missile. Finmeccanica wins The purpose of this test was to verify contracts worth EUR 384 Industry the model on separation of the mis- million sile from the aircraft. Finmeccanica has won Asia-Pacific contracts with a total value of The final Boeing 787 Dream- Sikorsky more than EUR 384 million liner to join the flight test New ultra light MiniPOP through it companies Selex fleet made its first flight on payload • Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Galileo, Alenia Aeronautica October 4 from Paine Field in Israel Aerospace Industries has been awarded a $37,8 million and Selex Sistemi Integrati. Everett, Wash. The airplane, (IAI) is introducing the new-

38 SP’S AVIATION Issue 11 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net newsDigest est member of its MiniPOP a million flight hours as for Forces’ operations, troop RoundUp (plug-in optronic payload) September 2010. transport, combat SAR and Quick family, the ultra light Mini- medical evacuation—benefit- POP. The new lightweight Multi-role Ka-32A11BC ting from the hybrid air- contract to exercise of an option to MiniPOP payload is manufac- at Portugal craft’s combination of higher purchase two UH-60M aircraft and tured using lightweight met- On October 5, Russian cruise speeds with excellent one HH-60M aircraft for the Army. als, including magnesium and Helicopters, a subsidiary of vertical takeoff/landing per- Work is to be completed by June titanium. It is designed to be UIC Oboronprom, presented formance. 30, 2012. utilised by small unmanned at the second international Sikorsky Innovations, the aerial vehicles (UAVs), which helicopter exhibition He- Eurocopter’s India subsidiary technology development organization demand long endurance; and litech-2010, in a Lisbon On October 20, Eurocopter of Sikorsky Aircraft, has completed rig by Special Ground Forces suburb, its civil helicopter inaugurated its new Indian testing of a Hub Mounted Vibration for intelligence, surveillance, lineup. The holding company subsidiary. The new subsid- Suppression system, designed to reconnaissance and targeting is offering European opera- iary is headquartered in New eliminate vibration and deliver a (ISTAR) missions. The system tors the EASA-certified multi- Delhi and has an existing smoother helicopter ride. The effort can be handled and operated role Ka-32A11BC, and the facility in Bangalore for the is jointly funded by Sikorsky and by a single soldier. light Ansat, Ka-226/226T, the management of industrial ac- the Aviation Applied Technology medium Ka-62, Mi-8/17, and tivity. An engineering centre Directorate. Americas the heavy transport Mi-25TS. will be created in Bangalore Jointly with Tranzas, Rus- next year, along with the US Air Force Global aircraft family sian Helicopters is offering opening of a new commercial the international aviation office in Mumbai. Eurocopter • The US Air Force’s second geo- market training solutions India’s current headcount of synchronous space-based infrared for pilots preparing to fly 30 employees is expected to systems satellite has successfully Russian-made rotorcraft. grow significantly during the completed the integration of its two The Ka-32A11BC in par- coming years as the company equipment panels onto the space- ticular, plays an important evolves its commercial, indus- craft core module which is a major role in forest fire fighting in trial and services/support milestone in the GEO-2 programme various countries worldwide, presence in the country. and represents the first instance of a including Western Europe fully assembled and integrated GEO-2 Corporate aviation leader and Portugal. Within the last Learjet 60 XR aircraft’s space vehicle. GEO-2 is scheduled for Bombardier Aerospace reaf- three hazardous seasons in new speed record launch in 2012. firmed its command of the Portugal the effective use On October 19, Bombardier The US Air Force has selected large business jet category of the Ka-32A11BC helped Aerospace confirmed that its Lockheed Martin as the winner of the by introducing two new jets, extinguish thousands of for- high-performance Learjet 60 60 percent share of the Advanced the Global 7000 and Global est fires, saved thousands of XR aircraft set a new speed Targeting Pod-Sensor Enhancement 8000 aircraft. Bombardier’s hectares of farm ground, and record on August 8, 2010, (ATP-SE) competition. Under the flagship Global aircraft fam- prevented fires in a number flying 4,777 nm (8,847 km) terms of this contract, the Govern- ily now uniquely covers the of towns. from Wichita, Kansas to São ment has options to buy up to 670 large, ultra long-range cat- Paulo, Brazil, with one stop pods through 2017. If all options are egory with four aircraft mod- Eurocopter’s X3 high-speed in Cali, Colombia, in just 11 exercised, Lockheed Martin’s share els, the Global 5000,Global hybrid helicopter hours and 58 minutes. The of the program will total more than Express XRS, Global 7000 flight was officially sanc- $1 billion. and Global 8000 jets. tioned by the National Aero- nautics Association (NAA) US Army Europe and the Fédération Aéronau- tique Internationale (FAI) on • Raytheon Company’s airborne P.180 Avanti aircraft September 8, 2010. multi-spectral targeting system, world fleet whose video imagery helps soldiers, intelligence analysts and com- Space manders in the field make critical Eurocopter has begun test operating decisions has exceeded flights of the X3 demonstra- Americas one million flight hours. tor for its innovative high- speed, long-range Hybrid He- Boeing ships mobile US Navy licopter (H3) concept, which communications satellite combines excellent vertical Boeing announced on Octo- • US Navy successfully conducted takeoff and landing capabili- ber 19 that it had shipped the first flight test of the Coastal Bat- Piaggio Aero announced that ties with fast cruise speeds the LightSquared SkyTerra tlefield Reconnaissance and Analysis their P.180 Avanti and Avanti of more than 220 kts. A wide 1, a high-capacity mobile (COBRA) Block I system on the MQ-8B II aircraft fleet has passed range of utilisations are en- communications satellite, Fire Scout vertical take-off UAV. The the significant landmark of visaged for the H3 configura- from the company’s integra- AN/DVS-1 COBRA system allows the 5,00,000 flight hours. The tion, including long-distance tion and test complex in El MQ-8B to conduct unmanned aerial P.180 Avanti world fleet is search and rescue (SAR) Segundo to the Baikonur reconnaissance in littoral areas, composed of 203 aircraft (+ 4 missions, coast guard du- Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. detecting minefields and obstacles prototypes). With its two ver- ties, border patol missions, The satellite is now undergo- to prepare for amphibious assaults. sions, the “Avanti”, certified passenger transport and ing final preparations for a The Block I upgrade was designed to in 1990, and the Avanti II, inter-city shuttle services. It November 14 launch aboard specifically address the beach zone certified in 2005, the P.180s also may be well-suited for an International Launch Ser- and inland areas. have flown more than half military missions in ‘Special vices Proton rocket. •

Issue 11 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 39 LastWord Consolidating Partnership he 44th President of the United States of agenda included common concerns on security, stability and America and the sixth to visit India, Obama’s mis- prosperity in Asia, strategic consultations on regional and sion undertaken during the first term of presidency global issues as also enhanced cooperation in space tech- was not only high profile and opportune for mutual nology, clean energy, non-proliferation, dual use and high Tcommercial and military interests; but more importantly, it technology. Being an entirely bilateral issue between India flagged an important milestone in the history of develop- and Pakistan, Kashmir was not on the agenda. President ment of strategic partnership between the largest and the Obama’s explicit support for India’s bid for permanent mem- oldest democracies in the world. India is one of the major bership of the UN Security Council came as a pleasant sur- power centres in the region and is regarded by the US as prise. But support for the membership will come at a price. “the cornerstone of its Asia policy” and President Obama The visit was particularly significant for the military estab- himself has described India as “an indispensable partner lishment in India as there has been unprecedented military of the US”. exchange and cooperation between the two nations in the re- The President’s remarks in the recent past against out- cent past and a number of big ticket items such as the C-130J sourcing to India and the steep hike in visa fees had raised Super Hercules and P8-I maritime surveillance aircraft valued serious apprehensions in the Indian industry. The fact that at $3.1 billion (`14,000 crore) are already on order. As an- the 200-odd business delegates in the Presidential entou- nounced, deals worth $10 billion (`45,000 crore) concluded rage included chief executives of major US firms and that during the visit include a preliminary agreement for a $4.1 the port of entry was Mumbai, the commercial capital of billion (`18,450 crore) to supply 10 C17 Globemaster III, ad- India, as also the elaborate interaction with the captains vanced strategic military transport aircraft and 107, GE F414 of the industry organised by the US-India Business Council engines valued at $822 million (`3,7W00 crore) for Tejas light there, should help dispel any doubts with regard to the eco- combat aircraft. And then there is the $10 billion (`45,000 nomic undertone and commercial focus of the visit. crore) tender for which the two American aerospace majors With a view to subdue expectations to obviate the possibil- Boeing and Lockheed Martin Corporation are in the race. ity of disappointment later on, a bulletin from the Ministry Behind the optimism and hype associated with the Obama of External Affairs had warned visit is the haunting uncertain- against expectation of any earth ty of the economy back home shattering outcomes from the which is in dire straits. The visit which covered broad po- concern has been compounded litical, economic and security further by the unfavourable issues. As expected, the interac- results of the mid-term elec- tion between the leadership of tions that could create new dif- the two nations was more of an ficulties for the President in the exercise in the consolidation of regime of both domestic and relationships, elevation of levels foreign policy. Deals concluded of mutual trust and confidence during the visit should provide as also enlargement of the stra- small but much needed relief to tegic framework of the part- the President from pressures nership. An important item on back home. the agenda was the menace of While both nations may terrorism. It is indeed symbolic have much to gain from the that the visit was undertaken in A long-term durable relationship strategic partnership, a long- November, a month in which can be forged based not only on term durable relationship can Mumbai was traumatised with be forged based not only on terrorist attacks on the two high trade but through deep political trade but through deep political profile star hotels—Taj and Tri- understanding, an aspect that understanding, an aspect that dent. President Obama stayed demands of the two nations at the Taj—another highly sym- demands of the two nations congruent vision, clear focus, bolic gesture and a subtle mes- congruent vision, clear focus, dedicated effort and continuity sage to the terrorist groups as in foreign policy. SP also to Pakistan. dedicated effort and continuity in — Air Marshal (Retd)

Photogra p h: PIB The other issues on the foreign policy B.K. Pandey

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