Volume 25/issue 4 june/july 2017 US$15

Asia Pacific’s Largest Circulated Defence MagaZine

ASIA-PACIFIC SUBMARINE MARKET BATTLE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS UNITED NATIONS AIR OPERATIONS JAPAN’S AIR POWER TACTICAL COMMUNICATIONS PRECISION GUIDED WEAPONS

www.asianmilitaryreview.com INSIGHT IS THE ADVANTAGE TAKE COMMAND WITH HARRIS hC2™ Keep echelons connected, more informed, agile and safe. Choose Harris hC2 software suite for critical insights that give you the ultimate advantage.

02 | Asian Military Review | Contents june/july 2017 VOLUME 25 / ISSUE 4

Sources of supply for precision guided air- launched weapons are diversifying away from 06 the United States, Beth Stevenson explains.

Front Cover Photo: Fast jets have an enviable collection of precision guided weapons to choose from, the latter of which are examined in ALTERNATIVE this issues’ Alternative Options article. OPTIONS 28 36 44

Will The Sun Set 20 On Air Back In Rugged Care From The Air Superiority? Business Looks Good The United Nations is one of Justin Bronk takes the Beth Stevenson examines Battle management systems are the world’s largest operators of temperature of Japanese air the growing commercial and force multipliers, Andrew White freighters and helicopters. power, and finds the country defence links between Iran explains, and ever-popular in David Oliver explores the vital facing tough choices as it looks and the Asia-Pacific region. the Asia-Pacific. work that such aircraft perform. towards the future. 24 32 12

To The Lowest Echelon Periscope Depth Thomas Withington examines Dr. Alix Valenti discusses the the tactical radio market in the submarine market in the Asia-Pacific and finds international Asia-Pacific and discovers a vendors increasingly competing procurement race focused on Catch up on all the latest defence radio frequency news and with local providers. capabilities and fleet sizes. analysis in Thomas Withington’s regular Pulse column.

| june/july 2017 | 03 Index of Advertisers AERONAUTICS 11 Editorial AMR SHOW DAILY 37 BELL HELICOPTER 17 Boeing P8 COVER 4 the cautious Boeing V22 5 DSEI 43 hawk DUBAI AIRSHOW 45 D & S THAILAND 47 hat Japan inhabits an increasingly restive EUROSATORY 49 neighbourhood is no secret. The country HARRIS COVER 2 is a missile-throw across the Sea of Japan IAI 9 from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; making this the geopolitical MOSCOW AIRSHOW COVER 3 Tequivalent of living next door to a biker gang. Meanwhile, the South and East China Seas NEXTER 19 regularly reverberate to the restless rattle of resplendent rapiers, as Beijing bullies and PACIFIC 41 belittles in a seemingly ceaseless mini Cold War waged against several of its neighbours, SINGAPORE AIRSHOW 39 near and far, for the control of maritime and territorial interests in these stretches of ocean. TEXTRON 13 Japan is barred from pursuing war as politics by other means, to paraphrase the Prussian UTC AEROSPACE 15 strategist Carl Von Clausewitz. This is the result of its hastily written constitution drafted in the wreckage of the Second World War’s aftermath by the victorious United States. Article Advertising Offices France/Spain Nine pledges the country to forever renounce the use of war and the maintenance of military Stephane de Remusat, REM International Tel: (33) 5 3427 0130 forces. Japan gets around the latter restriction by keeping ‘defence forces’; a navy, army and E-Mail: [email protected] air force in all but name, the latter of which comes under scrutiny in our Will the Sun Set on Germany Air Superiority? article in this issue. Yet these defence forces could finally be acknowledged Sam Baird, Whitehill Media Tel: (44-1883) 715 697 Mobile: (44-7770) 237 646 via a potential constitutional change. E-Mail: [email protected]

Turkey / Eastern Europe / UK In early May, Shinzo Abe reiterated his wish for Article Nine to change, and to explicitly Zena Coupé Tel: +44 1923 852537, [email protected] refer to the existence of the country’s defence forces, so as to avoid any charge that their

Nordic Countries/Italy/ Switzerland continued existence could be unconstitutional. He added that he would like to see this change Emanuela Castagnetti-Gillberg Tel: (46) 31 799 9028 enacted by 2020. Mr. Abe will have a fight on his hands: Two thirds of both of Japan’s E-Mail: [email protected] houses of parliament would need to back the change, as would a majority of the country’s Russia voters in a referendum. Since the end of the Second World War, Japan has maintained a Alla Butova, NOVO-Media Ltd, Tel/Fax: (7 3832) 180 885 Mobile : (7 960) 783 6653 strongly pacifist tradition in a significant part of its polity; any proposed change is likely to Email :[email protected] enrage this part of civil society. USA (East/South East)/Canada (East) Margie Brown, Blessall Media, LLC. Tel : (+1 540) 341 7581 Yet amending the constitution could send out an important message to foes and friends Email: [email protected] alike that Japan’s highly trained and enviably equipped defence forces are here to stay, USA (West/South West)/Brazil/Canada (West) Diane Obright, Blackrock Media Inc potentially having an important deterrent effect vis-à-vis future tensions in the country’s Tel : (+1 858) 759 3557 locale. Constitutions should be ‘rigidly pliable’; robust on one side to guarantee political Email: [email protected] stability while flexible enough to accommodate changing domestic and international trends. All Other Countries Jakhongir Djalmetov, Media Transasia Limited Japan’s strategic realities have changed since the end of the most costly conflict in human Tel: +66 2204 2370, Mobile: +66 81 6455654 Email: [email protected] history, it might be time for its constitution to do the same. Roman Durksen, Media Transasia Limited Tel: +66 2204 2370, Mobile +66 9 8252 6243 Thomas Withington, Editor E-Mail: [email protected]

Editor: Thomas Withington Tel: (33) 562 271 697, E-mail: [email protected] Publishing Office: Chairman: J.S. Uberoi Audit Bureau Of Circulations Media Transasia Limited,1603, 16/F, Island Place Tower, 510 King’s Road, Hong Kong Controlled circulation: 21,271 (average per issue) certified by ABC Hong Kong, Operations Office: for the period 1st January 2015 to 31st December 2015. President: Egasith Chotpakditrakul Subscription Information Gaurav Kumar Chief Financial Officer: ASIAN MILITARY REVIEW can be obtained

General Manager: Jakhongir Djalmetov by subscription. Subscription rate for one year International Marketing Manager: Roman Durksen (8 issues) is U.S.$ 100.00 Readers should

Digital Manager: David Siriphonphutakun contact the following address: Sales & Marketing Coordinator: Wajiraprakan Punyajai Subscription Department, Graphic Designer: Khakanaa Suwannawong Media Transasia Limited. Production Manager: Kanda Thanakornwongskul Circulation Assistant: Yupadee Seabea 75/8, 14th Floor, Ocean Tower II, Soi Sukhumvit 19, Media Transasia Ltd. 75/8, 14th Floor, Ocean Tower II, Soi Sukhumvit 19, Sukhumvit Rd., Bangkok 10110, Thailand Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110, Thailand. Tel: 66 (0)-2204 2370, Fax: 66 (0)-2204 2387 Tel: 66 (0)-2204 2370, Fax: 66 (0)-2204 2390 -1 Email: [email protected]

04 | Asian Military Review | 292mm in. Bleed 292mm in. 286mm Trim 286mm 260mm Live

FOR SPECIAL OPS. A SPECIAL EDGE.

COMBAT · HUMANITARIAN · LOGISTICS · RESCUE · SPECIAL OPS · REFUELING

Around the globe, V-22 Ospreys are making a critical difference for Special Operations Forces—executing long-range infiltration, exfiltration and resupply missions unachievable with conventional rotorcraft. The tiltrotor’s unique blend of high speed, long range, survivability and helicopter flexibility has made it the platform of choice, providing a special edge for SOF operators.

184mm Live 213mm Trim

219mm Bleed

Job Number: BOEG_BDS_V22_3162M_A Approved Client: Boeing Product: Boeing Defense Space & Security Date/Initials Date: 12/5/14 GCD: P. Serchuk File Name: BOEG_BDS_V22_3162M_A Creative Director: P. Serchuk Output Printed at: 100% Art Director: J. Alexander Fonts: Helvetica Neue 65 Copy Writer: P. Serchuk Media: Asian Military Review Print Producer: Account Executive: D. McAuliffe 3C Space/Color: Page — 4 Color — Bleed 50K Client: Boeing 50C Live: 184mm x 260mm 4C 41M Proof Reader: 41Y Trim: 213mm x 286mm Legal: Bleed: 219mm x 292mm Traffic Manager: Patty Lee Gutter: 0 25 50 75 100 Digital Artist: Production Artist: S. Bowman Art Buyer: Retoucher: Vendor: Garvey Group

PUBLICATION NOTE: Guideline for general identification only. Do not use as insertion order. Material for this insertion is to be examined carefully upon receipt. If it is deficient or does not comply with your requirements, please contact: Print Production at 310-601-1493.

Frontline Communications Partners 1880 Century Park East, Suite 1011, Los Angeles, CA 90067

&OLHQW)URQWOLQH-RE9HU$' &\DQ 0DJHQWD

HForce provides Airbus Helicopters’ commercial rotorcraft range with a weapon integration capability, and the FZ-275 will be tested on-board the H-145M

using HForce in 2017. Airbus Helicopters

ALTERNATIVEALTERNATIVE OPTIONSOPTIONS Whatever the political stance taken on the conduct of air strikes in Iraq and Syria, if they are going to be performed in the same fashion and to the same degree that they have been for almost three years now, reducing any risk posed to civilians is a must. by Beth Stevenson

espite the use of the GBU- of-coalition governmental actions 43/B Massive Ordnance to increase regional stability,” Air Blast 21600 pounds/lb according to the mission’s website. (9800 kilogram/kg) weapon, Since Operation INHERENT or ‘Mother of All Bombs’ RESOLVE commenced on 15th as it was nicknamed by the media, by June 2014, both inhabited and Airbus Helicopters D Airbus Helicopters the US Air Force (USAF) to attack caves unmanned aircraft have been suspected to be used by ISIS (Islamic used to support the air campaign. State of Iraq and Syria) in the Achin While surveillance is very much district of eastern Afghanistan on 13th part of the mission, the ability to April, most air strikes against the Islamist perform effective attacks against militia have tended to involve far smaller ISIS is the ultimate aim. So far air-delivered weapons. This weapon was as the US is concerned, one of designed by the US Air Force Research the prime weapons used in this Laboratory, with Dynetics as the systems operation is the Lockheed Martin integrator. On a daily basis air strikes AGM-114 Hellfire laser-guided/ are carried out by a coalition of nations semi-active radar homing air-to- under US command organised under the surface missile family. This is the Combined Joint Task Force Operation primary weapon in the 100lb to INHERENT RESOLVE (CJTF-OIR). The 108lb (45.4kg to 49kg) class used Thales announced in March 2017 that its FZ-725 raison d’être of CJTF-OIR is to: “militarily by the USAF in this conflict, and will be integrated onto the H-145M using Airbus defeat (the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) also by a number of US allies in Helicopters’ HForce system, which might pave the way in the Combined Joint Operations Area the Asia-Pacific notably Australia, for the integration of the laser-guided rocket on more rotorcraft in the future. (Iraq and Syria) in order to enable whole- India, Indonesia, Japan, Pakistan,

06 | Asian Military Review | air power BAE Systems

BAE Systems says that the Asia- Pacific is a key market for its APKWS laser-guided rocket system, for which production is ramping up under an contract awarded by the US government in 2016.

the Republic of China, the Republic weapons, which have for some years helicopter to another. Software is specific of Korea and Singapore. In terms of dominated NATO (North Atlantic Treaty to each helicopter, as are fixtures for offensive USAF operations in the Iraqi Organisation) operations. One way of the weapon pods. Armament can be and Syrian theatres, the AGM-114 family lowering the cost is to turn a rocket into exchanged between helicopters.” is used alongside the Lockheed Martin/ a more precise weapon by adding a Raytheon GBU-12 Paveway-II laser- guidance kit. Many services have stores Rockets guided bombs or Boeing GBU-38/B of unguided rockets for use across a The manufacturer adds that a weapon Joint Direct Attack Munition satellite- whole host of platforms, so retrofitting a installation kit with its own dedicated guided bombs on the General Atomics weapon that is already available to them computer can provide any military version MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicle, a with a guidance package is far cheaper of an Airbus Helicopters commercial platform often used to carry out strikes, than buying a missile that already has derivative with a weapons capability. for example, and if a full weapons set is this capability. For example, in March The architecture permits retrofits of any used over one sortie, this comes at a hefty 2017, Thales announced that it had available armament, Airbus adds, which price: Four AGM-114 weapons can be been awarded a contract from Airbus includes the FZ-275. Once the FZ-275 is carried by an MQ-9, and while the exact Helicopters to integrate its FZ-275 Laser deployed on the H-145M with a twelve- cost is unknown, it is estimated that the Guided Rocket (LGR) onto the rotorcraft tube rocket launcher, known as the FZ- aircraft itself costs in the region of circa manufacturer’s H-145M light utility 231, it will be the first armed commercial $15 million, with each AGM-114 costing helicopter. Thales was previously selected helicopter of Airbus rotorcraft with a laser- around $100,000 according to publicly- to provide rocket systems for use across guided rocket capability, Thales said in a available figures. the family of helicopters, which are being March statement. Other candidate Airbus While the cost of war is never low, integrated using Airbus’ HForce weapon Helicopters aircraft for the integration of there is work being carried out to provide management system, which provides LGRs include the H-225M medium-lift a lower cost precision strike capability rotorcraft with a plug and play weapons utility helicopter and H-125M light utility for these types of missions, which could capability: “Drawing on experience helicopter. Nevertheless, a decision on benefit users with high defences budgets with the Tiger attack helicopter, Airbus when this integration will take place will and high international commitments Helicopters has developed an off-the- be related to Airbus Helicopters’ market such as the US, or militaries with lower shelf solution to address customers’ requirements and internal integration defence budgets that want a precision armament needs,” Airbus says about programme, a Thales spokesperson told attack capability, but which cannot afford HForce on its website: “Conceived as AMR. Testing due to take place under more expensive weaponry. Another trend a plug and play system, HForce’s core the March contract will be carried out is the offer of alternatives to US-made hardware is interchangeable from one in a number of locations in Europe

| june/july 2017 | 07 air power

weapon. BAE Systems has been proactive in its marketing of the APKWS, having

Boeing tested it on a number of fixed- and rotary- wing aircraft, including an unmanned system in the latter category. In 2015, it was tested from an Airbus Helicopters’ EC-665ARH Tiger attack helicopter belonging to the Australian Army’s 16th Aviation Brigade: “The Australia experience has been interesting,” Rachel Guill, programme director for precision guidance solutions at BAE Systems, told AMR. “(W)hen the Australian Army called on us in April 2014, they were looking for us to qualify the APKWS rocket on the Tiger platform … This presented us with the first opportunity to integrate (the) APKWS with a foreign The Taurus missile equips the Republic of Korea Air Force’s Boeing F-15K fighter, and rocket, launcher and platform. Based planning is in place to integrate it onto the Eurofighter Typhoon family. on our system’s modularity and ease of integration, we were able to successfully demonstrate over the course of just four months, ultimately (scoring) a perfect 29 for 29 over air and ground tests.” The APKWS has not yet been contracted for use on the EC-665ARH, but Ms. Guill said that the company has: “seen Crown Copyright additional interest from Australia and discussions are ongoing.” The company has proven the system on in excess of 14 fixed and rotary wing platforms, Ms. Guill noted, including platforms that are well represented in the Asia-Pacific region. This includes the Bell Helicopter AH-1 family, Sikorsky MH-60R/S and Boeing AH-64D rotorcraft, and the General Dynamics./Lockheed Martin F-16 family fighter: “The bottom line is that our APKWS rocket is highly versatile and as we’ve proven several times, it can be integrated on fast jets and rotary wing aircraft and virtually anything in between,” she said. In addition to inhabited aircraft, the system has been tested from a Northrop MBDA’s ASRAAM was the first non-US manufactured weapon to be dropped from the F-35 during Grumman MQ-8B Fire Scout unmanned testing that began in 2016. It will be integrated onto the UK’s fleet of F-35B Joint Strike Fighters. helicopter, which is used in the Asia- Pacific by the US Navy to support its and the Asia-Pacific, the spokesperson systems, Thales’ ammunitions portfolio deployments there: “While we can’t added. For now, this system is just being guarantees the compatibility of (LGRs) on discuss the specifics, what we can say is marketed to the rotary-wing domain, and existing rocket systems,” the firm stated that we are seeing tremendous demand several proposals have been presented to in an official press release: “Through this for our APKWS rocket from this region,” potential customers, the spokesperson contract, Thales enlarges its supporting Ms. Guill added, noting that the first noted. In parallel, qualification of the rocket systems integration within indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity weapon on different platforms is being platforms and enables Airbus Helicopters contract from the US government was evaluated. As the FZ-275 uses standard to reinforce its vast weapon portfolio awarded in October 2016, will facilitate a 70mm launchers, the rocket system does on armed helicopters,” the press release near-tripling of production output on the not require modifications and enables continued. weapon, and will cover sales to the Asia- the use of existing rockets subject Another similar offering is BAE Pacific as well as other regions: “To give an to the addition of a lens protection Systems’ Advanced Precision Kill Weapon example of the ongoing demand without kit, Thales says: “With more than 60 System (APKWS), which converts the referencing specific countries…in October years of experience providing rocket same-sized rocket into a precision-guided (2016), we announced a new three-year

08 | Asian Military Review | Pinpoint accuracy always at hand

Green Dragon Medium-range tactical weapon system

Rotem Light VTOL, portable recoverable munition

IAI’s loitering munitions family. Search like a UAS. Strike like a missile.

• Backed by over 30 years of combat experience in leading armed forces • Non-line-of-sight (NLOS) integral assault capability for the modern warfighter • Man-in-the-Loop, intuitive target acquisition and strike • Minimum collateral damage and abort capability • Exceptional versatility

SEE US AT www.iai.co.il PARIS AIR SHOW 2017 [email protected] Chalet A206, Israel Area air power MBDA

The Royal Air Force’s future UAV fleet will be integrated with MBDA’s Brimstone missile, replacing the AGM-114 family that is used on its incumbent fleet of MQ-9 Reapers.

(circa) $600 million contract that will allow rule of the game is more ‘how European integrated and dropped from the Boeing us to greatly increase production levels to missiles can make European aircraft more AH-64E Guardian variant currently being meet the increased US government and capable than their US competitors,” an acquired by the US Army, during testing international demand,” Ms. Guill said: MBDA spokesperson told AMR. The that took place in 2016. This will help “In addition, our new facility that will spokesperson said that the company’s promote the benefits of integrating the allow us to manufacture 10000 to 20000 beyond visual range air-to-air Meteor weapon on the UK’s future AH-64E fleet. units per year, (and)…we can also say missile is a particular “game-changer” Boeing won a contract to supply 50 AH- (that) currently we have requests from because of its ramjet engine, which 64E aircraft to the British Army in July over a dozen countries looking to acquire provides a “no escape zone” three times 2016 with an expected service entry of units. The Asia-Pacific region is well larger than its competitors. This feature has 2022 for the aircraft, according to media represented in that demand.” created interest among export countries reports. MBDA’s Advanced Short Range Following the signing of the October looking to acquire one of the three fighters Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) will also 2016 contract, a $130 million first order it is integrated on, namely the Saab JAS-39 be the first British missile (MBDA is part- was made shortly after, and Ms. Guill Gripen, Eurofighter Typhoon and Dassault owned by BAE Systems) to enter service noted that while delivery dates are Rafale families. He added that weapons on the Lockheed F-35A/B/C Lightning-II sensitive, the company can confirm it has such as the SCALP/Storm Shadow and fighter, and live firings have taken place, delivered units against that order, and “in Taurus satellite/terrain profile matching marking the first non-US built weapon to fact, delivered ahead of schedule.” The guided air-to-surface missiles: “are also be dropped from the type. The ASRAAM company could not talk to any planned or setting the standards for deep strike in is being certified for use on the fighter ongoing testing: “but due to the nature of many countries.” in line with the UK’s acquisition of the our ‘plug and play’, easy to adapt system, Providing alternatives to customers weapon for use on its F-35Bs, and “more we continue to expand into new mission that have typically operated US than one” firing has taken place to date, spaces and additional platforms.” weaponry is another area in which Dave Armstrong, managing director of MBDA is progressing. Its Brimstone MBDA’s UK division, told reporters in Game-Changing active radar homing/laser guided air- London on 15th March: “We are pleased One company providing competition to-ground missile has been selected as to announce that ASRAAM has been fired to US-made weaponry is European the weapon of choice for the Royal Air off the F-35 for the first time ... We’ve armament manufacturer MBDA. It has Force’s Protector programme that will carried out more than one (firing) and the seen successes in its domestic markets that see the service operate General Atomics’ results so far have been great.” Testing include France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Predator-B to replace its ten-strong fleet is being carried out at the US Navy’s the UK, but is also pitching further afield, of MQ-9 Reaper UAVs. Brimstone will Patuxent River airbase in Maryland and with the Asia-Pacific being the second replace the AGM-114 family missiles that the US Air Force’s Edwards airbase in largest export market after the Middle are integrated on the MQ-9. The UK Army California, and so far, flight trials and East: “The cost to integrate air-launched Air Corps could also use Brimstone on its air-launched firings have taken place, weapons on combat aircraft is generally future AgustaWestland/Boeing Apache although Mr. Armstrong noted that only quite high, hence, instead of facing a direct AH Mk.1 helicopter gunship fleet, having limited information on the trials could be competition from US made weapons, the demonstrated the ability for it to be revealed at this point.

10 | Asian Military Review | Integration of MBDA’s Meteor active understanding of the mechanisms of inevitably continue to be performed in radar homing guided air-to-air missile cooperation and transfers of technology.” both the Iraqi and Syrian theatres, and and SPEAR (Selective Precision Effects At The company considers this as a decisive in support of future warfare, the way Range) air-to-surface missile integration selling point when answering the this is approached seems negotiable. If is also planned for the F-35B, which requirements of export customers for the same mission can be carried out at a will further MBDA’s, and UK industry’s, transfer of technology: “as we understand, lower cost, for example, it seems sensible presence on the type: “(The) Meteor better than our competitors, how to for nations to adopt new technologies missile has been assessed as compatible do it to the best benefit of both parties,” that can offer precision-guided ordnance with all F-35 variants and is (a) low risk the spokesperson continued: “Some with less impact on defence budgets. On for integration, and MBDA is working countries in the world clearly express the other hand, if development of this with the (F-35) programme to finalise their ambitions to become active players technology can be internally provided the details for integration on the Block-4 on the world scene for armaments, and by a country, either via its own domestic version of the aircraft,” the weapons MBDA has with these countries an active industry or through offset and technology manufacturer told AMR. Additionally, strategy of cooperation and alliance with transfer agreements that enable domestic the US could be a market for Brimstone, the local industries.” Of note, in 2017 the development, there are benefits in terms of as a study to assess it as an option for the company signed a partnership with PGZ ownership and control of this technology. US Navy’s McDonnell Douglas/Boeing in Poland and created a joint venture For whatever reason, these new trends are F/A-18 family fighter “is progressing with Larsen and Toubro in India, both of becoming more appealing to customers well,” the company spokesperson said: which aimed at covering developments worldwide, as they look for alternatives “The US has a clear capability gap in low of a range of technologies. to traditional weapon acquisition routes. collateral precision guided munitions Ultimately, precision-guided weapons capable of hitting moving targets from Diversity of Supply have been, and continue to be, paramount fast jets, and Brimstone could fill that gap,” The US has dominated the precision- for the responsible elimination of enemy they added. The MBDA spokesperson guided weapons market for sometime, targets, and if a customer can do this in noted that cooperation between different but alternatives in terms of geography a more beneficial way from an economic nations is key to its success, and: “thanks and technology are increasingly gaining and sovereignty standpoint, then this to this legacy, MBDA has a thorough popularity. While strike missions will seems the obvious course of action. AMR by Thomas Withington

Amid tensions in the Korean Peninsula, Seoul announced the development of a new weapons locating radar, Russian suppliers share details of their new tactical radios, Singapore enhances its airborne electronic warfare capabilities and US SATCOM takes an important step forward. US Army

The US Army is set to receive new AN/ TPQ-53 radars following a contract award to this effect in late March. Singapore is also acquiring the radar.

Radar to join the Republic of Korea Army’s other WLRs, namely its On 24th April the Republic of Korea (ROK) announced that it Saab ARTHUR-K C-band (5.25-5.925 gigahertz/GHz) WLRs; 16 had developed a new Weapons Locating Radar (WLR) to detect of which were acquired between 2009 and 2015, following two incoming artillery fire from the Democratic People’s Republic orders in 2007 and 2011 respectively for a total of $190 million. of Korea (DPRK). According to media reports, development of These are supplemented with circa eleven Northrop Grumman/ the radar commenced in 2011 and has cost $47.7 million. The Raytheon AN/TPQ-36 Firefinder S-band (2.3-2.5/2.7-3.7GHz) new radar, known as the Counter Artillery Detection Radar- radars purchased in 1992, and supplied between 1994 and 1995. II (CADR-II) is expected to enter service in 2018, according to Meanwhile, as of late March, the US Army awarded Lockheed the Defence Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA), Martin a $1.6 billion contact for up to 170 AN/TPQ-53 WLRs. the ROK government agency which supervises the country’s This latest contract award follows earlier contracts covering the defence procurement. Development of the radar was reportedly delivery of over 100 systems, 95 of which had been supplied performed jointly by the country’s Agency for Defence between 2010 and the first quarter of this year. Alongside the US Development and local contractor LIG Nex1. Few details have Army, media reports stated that Singapore has acquired the radar, been released regarding the radar’s performance, with the with six being procured, this being confirmed by an October 2013 exception that it has a reported range of 32.4 nautical miles/ US Defence Security and Cooperation Agency press release. The nm (60 kilometres/km). Once in service, the radar is expected AN/TPQ-53 is an S-band radar that can track incoming rounds

12 | Asian Military Review | T-6C TEXAN II

How do you ready the air defense of your entire combined armed forces? One trainer. The Beechcraft T-6, with over 2.7 million hours of proof, is the internationally preferred trainer of choice. Its established pedigree, advanced capabilities and value make it the only choice to train your next generation of aviation warriors. Visit us at defense.txtav.com. For more info, contact: +1.844.44.TXTAV | International +1.316.517.8270

©2017 Textron Aviation Inc. All rights reserved. Beechcraft is a trademark or service mark of Textron Aviation Inc. or an affiliate and may be registered in the United States.

Untitled-1 1 4/17/17 9:47 AM CAC0789 T6C Before You Fight You Train_Asian Military Review_8.25x11.25.indd 1 4/14/17 1:56 PM Client: Textron Aviation Ad Title: T6C Before You Fight You Train Publication: Asian Military Review Trim: 8.25 x 11.25” Bleed: 8.5 x 11.5” Live: 7x25 x 10.25 Wikimedia Commons

The RSAF is expected to upgrade its AH-64D attack helicopters with Leonardo’s HIDAS product to improve their self protection. at 32nm (60km) scanning 90 degrees of azimuth, or up to eleven architecture to host the network which, the firm adds with one nautical miles (20km) when scanning 360 degrees of azimuth, of the attractions of the system being that the stand-alone router according to its manufacturer. Having been used to support can rapidly activate a network which can include conventional the US deployment in Afghanistan, as of June 2016, the radar tactical radios, alongside cellphones and Terrestrial Trunk Radio proved that it could detect and track UAVs. The force is now (TETRA) style UHF transceivers used by civilian first responders considering adding this capability, which has been developed as in North America and Europe. The router can be configured a result of modifying the radar’s software, to the AN/TPQ-53 to recognise the communications devices which wish to join systems it retains in service. However, the US Army told AMR the network. A PIN (Personal Identification Number) is then in February that it had yet to define the quantity of radars that entered by the user and the TAN recognises that user. They would receive this modification, and that decisions on numbers are then hosted on the network. RUAG told the author that it would only occur once testing is completed, although no date anticipates demand for the TAN not only from armed forces, has been announced as to when this could occur. whom can use the equipment to establish a network hosting different communications devices on the battlefield, but also for Tactical Radio operations where the military maybe working alongside civilian RUAG has confirmed to AMR that its Tactical Access Node emergency services during humanitarian assistance/disaster (TAN), which it has developed in conjunction with Rohde and relief missions. Schwarz, is currently undergoing testing, which the firm has RUAG’s official literature states that three separate products stated is expected to be completed by the end of the third quarter comprise the TAN family; the TAN-5, Rapid, TAN-T and TVS. The of this year. Launched in the second quarter of 2016, the TAN TAN-5 has a semi-ruggedised design and is intended for use at family offers several stand-alone routers which can handle High headquarters level, or for fixed installations. The Rapid provides Frequency (three megahertz (MHz) to 30MHz), plus Very/Ultra similar capabilities using a man-portable stand-alone system and High Frequency (V/UHF: 30MHz to three gigahertz) traffic. The is designed to be used in areas where existing communications company continued that the system is “radio agnostic” with are either non-existent or unreliable. Meanwhile, the TAN-T is the router being configurable according to the communications semi-ruggedised in construction and intended to be used as a systems it will host. The product uses Internet Protocol (IP) node to connect disparate tactical radio networks to a mobile

14 | Asian Military Review | Advanced UTC Aerospace Systems offers a new level of precision guidance for naval weapons or long range projectiles on towed and self-propelled artillery.

This is where ingenuity takes off.

7451 FEBRUARY - Asian Military Review (AMR) - Artillery Ad_213X286mm_KL1.indd 1 12/01/2017 16:01 USAF

A USAF General Dynamics/ Lockheed Martin F-16CJ Viper Weasel air defence suppression aircraft is about to be loaded with a pair of AGM-88B missiles. Australia has recently ordered a batch of these weapons.

command post. Finally, the TVS is designed for installation on frequency band and the radio’s output power so as to extend its vehicles to provide a mobile node linking disparate tactical radio range. More waveforms are also in the offing alongside increased networks to other deployed echelons. data transfer speeds and the ability to host a larger number of NPO Angstrem has provided AMR with details regarding users on a single network than the radio handles at present. its Azart R-187-P1E tactical radio which is equipping Russia’s In mid-March, Rheinmetall and Rohde and Schwarz armed forces. This V/UHF (27MHz to 520MHz) handheld announced that they had partnered for two major German system provides communications security through frequency armed forces communications programmes known as MOTAKO hopping rates of 20000 hops-per-second, according to the (Mobile Tactical Communications) and MOTIV (Mobile Tactical company’s official literature. In VHF, the radio has channel Information Network). In a written statement provided to AMR, spacings of one kilohertz, 6.25KHz and 8.33KHz (VHF) and Rohde and Schwarz stated that both programmes were intended 25KHz (UHF). Offering ranges of up to four kilometres (2.5 to: “modernise and digitise the communications and networking” miles), the radio can carry 256 kilobits-per-second (kbps) of of the Heer (German Army). The MOTAKO initiative, the data when operating in an encryption-free mode. This reduces statement continued, will extend IP capable communications to 28.8kbps when operating in a frequency-hopping mode and to the lowest tactical level, chiefly to infantry troops using thence to 7.2kbps when transmitting using the radio’s encryption handheld radios. The MOTIV initiative, the statement continued, mode. In terms of waveforms, the firm continues that it offers is intended to provide the software and networking necessary simplex, half duplex and full duplex voice communications, and for the MOTAKO network, and also to ensure the necessary can receive information across the Russian GLONASS and US integration vis-à-vis German Army vehicles to allow them to Global Positioning System geolocation satellite constellations. access MOTAKO. Ultimately, the MOTAKO network will be The firm has told AMR that it is already planning a number rolled out across individual troops, vehicles and deployed of enhancements to the radio which will include extending its command posts, the firm added. Rohde and Schwarz continued

16 | Asian Military Review | PROTECT AND DEFEND © 201 7 BELL HELICOPTER TEXTRON INC.

The Bell AH-1Z is the most flexible, most effective multi-mission attack helicopter in the world. A fully integrated flight deck provides an unequaled targeting system and digital data link capability while reducing pilot workload. Ready and capable in austere environments, the AH-1Z is highly survivable and combat proven. All while offering a low acquisition price and life cycle costs.

BELLHELICOPTER.COM | june/july 2017 | 17

Untitled-1 1 5/17/17 9:44 AM United Launch Alliance

The third MUOS satellite thunders aloft on 19th December 2014. The fifth spacecraft is now providing UHF SATCOM services to the US armed forces. that the challenge incumbent in realising the MOTAKO systems, plus a chaff and flare dispenser and a defensive aids initiative is, on the one hand, providing IP communications, management system. In addition, the literature continues, an while ensuring that those communications are both robust and optional directional infrared countermeasures system can outfit secure: “The delay-free transmission of information via voice is, the HIDAS. and remains, the primary requirement at the tactical level,” the Elsewhere in the Asia-Pacific region, Australia announced company emphasised. In addition, the statement continued that in late-April that it plans to purchase stocks of anti-radiation MOTAKO will add: “a parallel data stream containing direct, missiles to enhance its airborne electronic warfare capabilities. mission-critical services and contents.” Rohde and Schwarz is The Australian government wishes to purchase $137.6 million fulfilling the Heer’s SVFUA (Streitkräftegemeinsame Verbundfähige worth of Raytheon AGM-88B HARM (High Speed Anti- Funkgeräte-Ausstattung/Joint Radio System) initiative which is Radiation Missiles), obtaining a total of 70 examples to this delivering the next generation of tactical radios to the German end, alongside 40 Orbital ATK AGM-88E AARGM (Advanced Army as part of a comprehensive overhaul of the force’s Anti-Radiation Guided Missiles), in addition to accompanying communications. training equipment and spare parts. According to an official statement announcing the planned acquisition, these missiles Electronic Warfare are being purchased to equip the Royal Australian Air Force’s It was reported on 20th April that the Republic of Singapore Air (RAAF) forthcoming Boeing EA-18G Growler electronic warfare Force (RSAF) will upgrade its 20 McDonnell Douglas/Boeing aircraft. The Australian government announced its decision AH-64D Apache attack helicopters with a new self protection to purchase up to twelve of these aircraft in February 2009. system, the installation of which is expected to be completed All twelve aircraft are expected to be delivered to the RAAF by the middle of 2016, according to reports. While it has not by the end of 2017, following the initial delivery of the first been officially confirmed by the RSAF, it is thought that the EA-18G example in July 2015. The aircraft will be operated force’s helicopters will receive Leonardo’s Helicopter Integrated by the RAAF’s 6 Squadron based at Amberley airbase on the Defensive Aids System (HIDAS). According to Leonardo’s eastern coast of Australia. In terms of the differences between official literature, this includes radar, laser and missile warning the AGM-88B and AGM-88E weapons, the former’s software

18 | Asian Military Review | can be reprogrammed without having to change the missile’s SATCOM hardware, and the guidance capabilities of the missile are Lockheed Martin announced on 24th April that the fifth US improved compared to the baseline AGM-88A weapon. The Navy Mobile User Objective System military communications AGM-88E design adds a number of improvements to the AGM- satellite, imaginatively known as MUOS-5, was now delivering 88C HARM variant. This includes an improved radar homing Ultra High Frequency (240MHz to 270MHz) satellite seeker and the addition of a millimetric wave radar sensor. communications (SATCOM) services to the US armed forces. The new radar homing seeker improves the field-of-view of The MUOS constellation, which comprises five spacecraft, is the seeker used in the legacy AGM-88C HARM variant, and equipped with a legacy UHF payload in common with the US sharpens its detection capabilities for hostile ground-based Navy’s UHF Follow-On (UFO) constellation which the MUOS air surveillance radars, and the AGM-88E’s hostile emitter programme will eventually replace. According to the US Navy, detection range. The millimetric wave radar sensor, meanwhile, the intention is for MUOS to provide a smooth transition from provides high resolution imagery of the missile’s ‘end game’ the UFO system to the new constellation, by enabling legacy during which it hits its target, which will provide a useful SATCOM terminals operated by the US armed forces, which had analytical tool for post-sortie analysis of the accuracy of the used the UFO constellation to also use the MUOS constellation. attack. Should the sale for the weapon be authorised by the The second UHF communications package equipping MUOS US Congress, the RAAF will become the latest in a series of is the Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) customers, which also includes the Aeronautica Militaire (Italian payload which allows users to benefit from smartphone-style Navy) and the US Navy. Meanwhile, Poland has been muted as connectivity. The WCDMA payload converts standard third- a potential AGM-88E customer following reports to this end in generation civilian mobile phones which can use the WCDMA August 2016. As well as the EA-18G of the US Navy (plus that waveform for voice and data services into military UHF SATCOM force’s Boeing F/A-18C/D/E/F fighters) and, potentially, the traffic allowing the provision of smartphone-style services in RAAF, the AGM-88E will outfit the Panavia Tornado-ECR air locales where conventional military radio communications defence suppression aircraft of the Italian Air Force and, should could be frustrated. This could include environments where the Polish acquisition occur, Siły Powietrzne (Polish Air Force) obscurants to the line-of-sight such as forest canopy or high General Dynamics/Lockheed Martin F-16C/D fighters. buildings are present. AMR LAND WARFARE Andrew White RUGGEDRUGGED Andrew White LOOKSLOOKS GOODGOOD Battle Management Systems (BMS) for land forces are increasingly migrating to the lowest tactical echelons, thanks to reductions in the size of the computer technology required to host BMSs, placing such capabilities in the hands of C4i Systems displayed an All Terrain Vehicle battle management dismounted troops. system at the Special Operations Forces Innovation Network Seminar (SOFINS) event in France. by Andrew White

iscussing this spread of to AMR. Elsewhere, company executives for the MX50 ranging from BMS and C2 BMSs across the battlefield, from Getac UK have launched the latest (Command and Control) through to more industry sources described addition in their tactical handheld EUD specialist roles such as joint fire control to AMR how the dismounted (End User Device) rugged laptop and and support, and the dissemination close quarter battle and tablet family, designed for dismounted of Intelligence, Surveillance and specialD forces communities globally were and special forces situational awareness Reconnaissance (ISR) data: “With the leading developments in BMS technology. and BMS applications. Speaking to MX50, we’re delivering the best of both As an example, C4I Systems, a UK- AMR at the launch of the MX50 EUD worlds; a rugged device that meets based company is offering up its BMS on 7th March Chris Bye, president of real military needs, that is compact, capabilities onboard Polaris Government Getac UK, described how the technology lightweight and intuitive. Perfect for the and Defence’s Ranger four-wheel drive all represented a “must have” capability already overburdened infantryman,” Mr. terrain vehicle. for mobile computing challenges faced Bye added. by dismounted soldiers: “There is a Jackson White, Getac UK’s business Latest EUDs trend toward consumer grade mobile development manager for defence and Unveiled at the Special Operations forces devices for use in the military because security customers, described how the Innovation Network Seminar (SOFINS) they’re lightweight and familiar. But MX50 was being procured by launch at Camp Souge, France, on 28th March these devices are not built to withstand customers from across the NATO (North 2017, the solution illustrates the direction harsh environments, or deliver the Atlantic Treaty Organisation) special the market is heading with demand power, reliability and functionality forces community, providing assault for BMS services down to the lowest today’s soldiers need,” he explained teams and special reconnaissance teams tactical level, defence sources explained while referring to potential applications with a dismounted and mobile BMS

20 | Asian Military Review | LAND WARFARE

capability down to the lowest tactical level. Capable of supporting multiple types of operating systems running BMS software, including Android and

Windows, the MX50 also includes USB Australian DOD (Universal Serial Bus) and Bluetooth connectivity based on user feedback from infantry and special forces teams as well as the UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, and industry partners including SEA, which were consulted during the MX50’s design process. According to Mr. White, current trends are seeing the 5.7 inch (144.8mm) EUD carried in a chest mount and integrated into plate carriers or load carrying equipment, allowing soldiers to quickly glance down and view BMS and SA (Situational Awareness) information. Defence sources The contemporary operating environment, illustrated associated with the NATO special forces here with Iraqi and coalition special forces working community, informed AMR that such a together, continues to demand mature solutions capability represented a lower cost and capable of providing mounted users with battle interim solution to armed forces ahead management, C2 and situation awareness capabilities. of the more widespread proliferation of Augmented Reality (AR) software into head- and helmet-mounted night vision 400 grams (0.9 pounds) as a response to makes it easy for third party applications devices. Put simply, AR projects computer- ongoing calls from the user community and soldier systems such as BMSs to be generated images onto a user’s field-of- to reduce the burden on dismounted loaded onto the device as required. The view: “The human-machine interface personnel, Mr. White explained while rugged nature of the device means it is very important for Getac to allow for describing how the device was being can withstand drops and other impacts, full functionality,” Mr. White explained considered by both the US Army’s operate seamlessly in extreme weather while highlighting how the EUD features Nett Warrior soldier modernisation conditions from -21 degrees to 60 degrees a two mega-pixel and eight mega-pixel programme; the US Special Operations Celsius,” Mr. White concluded. camera on the front and rear of the device Command’s (USSOCOM) Tactical Local respectively for the dissemination of Area Network (TACLAN) iniitiative; and International Exposure stills photography across BMS networks. the UK Ministry of Defence’s Distributed BMS technology remains prevalent Powered by an Intel mobile system-on- Situation Awareness concept. All of across the international community chip processor, the MX50 is capable of these efforts require a BMS capability with significant programmes being providing soldiers with: “high processing with a capacity to process, exploit and undertaken in not only Europe and North speeds and low power consumption so they disseminate ISR intelligence across secure America but also in the Middle East and can quickly view, manipulate and send/ voice and data channels via tactical radios. the Asia-Pacific. receive data, access battlefield applications, Highlighting the USSOCOM’s TACLAN On 20th February, the UAE armed disseminate blue and red forces tracking, programme as an example, Mr. White forces contracted Harris in a $189 million fire control orders and mission command explained how the Tampa, Florida-based deal to deliver an integrated BMS for its information,” Mr. White continued: “The command was seeking a ruggedised ground forces. According to Harris officials, device has undergone rigorous testing EUD using the Android operating the move is designed to further develop and is certified to (the US Department systems capable of being integrated with the “operational battlefield management of Defence’s) Military Standards 810G Harris tactical radios, such as the firm’s capability” of the armed forces as combat and 461G (covering environmental and RF-335M Very High Frequency/Ultra elements begin to transition towards more electromagnetic interference characteristics High Frequency (30 megahertz/MHz to “digital operations,” the company stated in respectively). Security is paramount three gigahertz) handheld radios which a press release announcing the news. The for defence and stringent standards are are expected to commence deliveries to UAE’s solution falls under the country’s required for devices to be accepted and USSOCOM in September 2017, according overarching Emirates Command and used by personnel. The MX50 meets the to reports. The TACLAN concept is Control System Land Tactical System Common Criteria ISO/IEC 15408 computer designed to provide the lowest tactical programme, which is being executed to security requirements of the International echelon in the special forces with a “…integrate, coordinate and maximise the Organisation for Standardisation which dismounted BMS capability including the combined efficiency of UAE armed forces works closely with the United Nations capacity to conduct real-time and secure assets,” a Harris spokesperson informed Economic and Social Council, as well as ‘battlefield chat’ as well as other specialities AMR: “Harris Battlefield Management US National Security Agency requirements, previously mentioned including Joint Systems offer military customers a cutting- Mr. White continued. Terminal Attack Controller (JTACs) tasks: edge, continuous operations platform for Additionally, the EUD weighs just “The latest Android operating system situational awareness and staff functions.

| june/july 2017 | 21 LAND WARFARE

dismounted users on the battlefield. Companies vying for the programme include Systematic as well as Rheinmetall which is promoting its own TACNET

Andrew White BMS system. Speaking to AMR at the AFCEA (Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association) exhibition in Bonn, western Germany in late April. Timo Burger, Rheinmetall sales director explained how TACNET was available in headquarters, mounted and dismounted versions although the company’s strategy for the MOTIV programme focused on the latter two variants. Additional options could include Kongsberg’s ComBatt C2 Information Product Suite which features a BMS capability for company, platoon and squad-level operations. According to company literature, the ComBatt BMS Systematic’s Frontline BMS comprises networks C2 technology to EUDs: “The software capable of being uploaded ComBatt BMS software can be installed onto most EUDs and integrated into on computers where size, capacity and tactical radio networks. performance are based upon operational requirements and physical space. Because the physical space available in Through a combination of sophisticated control and interact with the entire system most vehicles is limited, the ComBatt technology and high-value systems simultaneously.” The Data Distribution BMS utilises a touch screen,” Kongsberg’s integration services, military users can Unit is capable of being integrated into official literature states. The BMS relies effectively track hostile and blue forces, wider C2 networks to control disparate upon low bandwidth communication develop and execute tactical operations radios and sensors, for example. Finally, channels to exchange information and integrate personnel, intelligence, local Systematic has been tasked with equipping between ground vehicles and other BMS weather, planning, and other data into command and frontline forces with C2 nodes, including the firm’s own remote battlefield operations,” the press release technology, based around its SitaWare weapons station products, company continued: “This Land Tactical System C2 software suite: This includes SitaWare literature added: ‘This integration project represents a major milestone in the Headquarters, Frontline, Friendly Force increases safety and optimises the use of advancement of battlefield management Tracking, Tactical Data Communication sensors and effectors. The risk for blue- and staff function capabilities for the UAE and Coalition Interoperability products, on-blue incidents is significantly reduced armed forces. It will help ensure that the according to a company spokesperson, and warnings are issued if own units are UAE land forces brigades are equipped and they added that this software can within the sensor’s field of view … Every to succeed on the modern battlefield,” Ed be integrated onto any end user device vehicle may send cals for fire, enemy Zoiss, the president for Harris electronic connected to a tactical radio: “With so observations and receive weapon slew systems, articulated in the press release. much information to be processed, it’s requests,” the literature concluded. According to AMR sources, an initial vital that operational headquarters staff tranche of 800 UAE armed forces personnel have the most advanced command Asia-Pacific Growth will begin training on the BMS system and control tools available to filter out One of the largest BMS programmes later in 2017 as the technology is rolled out irrelevant information and get a full currently being undertaken globally is to provide information exchange between appreciation of the battlespace,” SitaWare taking place in the region with an Indian the lowest tactical echelons up to division sources highlighted to AMR. Already in Army concept already lagging behind command structures. operational use with 15 nations. This allows schedule, industry sources suggested The BMS will feature a series of for air, naval, land and special operations to AMR. Having signed contracts with technologies provided by sub-contractors centres to be networked into a Joint Tata Power and BEL (Bharat Electronics include Leonardo’s DRS subsidiary, Saab Operations Centre from which command Limited) consortia in February 2015 and Systematic. These include DRS’ Data can be exercised, as well as forces from for the design and development of a Distribution Unit which provides ground coalition partners, other government and BMS Technology Demonstrator for the forces with the ability to integrate C2 non-government agencies. army, progress remains slow with the and electronic warfare systems under the Elsewhere, industry continues to second phase of the effort, designed control of a single workstation, allowing position itself for the Heer (German to equip force elements with BMS for the dissemination of information Army) Mobile Tactical Information capabilities, pushed back from 2017 to across a battlefield network in near real- Network (MOTIV) programme which, 2021, sources confirmed. Once fully time. As DRS’ literature explains: “Using according to industry sources, comprises integrated across the Indian Army’s this workstation, users can monitor, a BMS requirement for mounted and communications networks, including

22 | Asian Military Review | LAND WARFARE

infantry battlegroups, mechanised and the 1.5MHz to 40GHz frequency bands, completed operational evaluation in armoured infantry units as well as special which will allow it to collect intelligence 2016, has been designed to be integrated forces, the BMS technology will be further and jam high band tactical radios, satellite onboard a variety of man-portable and upgraded from 2026 onwards, according communications and military radars. vehicle-mounted EUDs including the to AMR’s Indian Army sources. The Work includes the design of a stand-alone Vista-PL (Portable Laptop) and Vista- BMS will be carried across the networks jammer which can also be networked into VM (Vehicle Mounted) respectively. The developed as a result of the Indian the wider BMS with the addition of other device is also available in a handheld Army’s Tactical Communications System electronic countermeasures. The DRDO (Vista-HH) configuration, company which is replacing its legacy Army Radio was unable to provide further details to officials confirmed. The Vista package Engineered Network (AREN). AMR due to operational security concerns will provide mounted and dismounted Sources explained to AMR how the although industry sources confirmed to troops with situational awareness, which BMS will supplant AREN by integrating AMR that several candidate solutions more specifically comprises blue force ground command centres with airborne remained under evaluation. Such a tracking, battle management, ISR and Indian Air Force networks to allow capability is expected to provide the army other C2 applications. The Vista-VM the army to exploit three-dimensional with an ability to collect, process, exploit model provides commanders with a airborne and satellite Imagery and disseminate electronic intelligence, common operating picture as well as Intelligence (IMINT). To this end, both as well as protecting vehicle-mounted, target management, decision support; consortia are developing static and headquarters and dismounted units from mission planning and management; mobile image exploitation systems for electronic attack. messaging; digital mapping and position the interpretation of such data, expected display; and after action review analysis to be operated by IMINT analysis teams Korean Offerings industry sources explained to AMR. The in vehicle-mounted and headquarter Elsewhere in Asia Pacific, Hanwha Vista-PL variant has been designed to installations, which will also be procured Systems used the International Defence provide: “optimal situational awareness as part of the BMS roll-out. Exhibition (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi in to the user by displaying the position of Meanwhile, the BMS programme February 2017 to promote its latest troops in real-time; provide C2 functions continues to focus on Signals Intelligence solutions in the BMS sphere. Designed by transmitting and receiving formatted (SIGINT) with India’s Defence Research for the Republic of Korea Army, the firms’ messages and short text messages; and and Development Organisation (DRDO) Vista BMS software comprises a tactical support various connectivity through partnering with local company Samyukta C2 capability for battalion battlegroup tactical radio data ports , wifi and USB,” concentrating on the development of forces and below, company sources the firm added. an electronic warfare system covering explained to AMR. Technology, which Finally, the Vista-HH has been designed to provide a BMS capability down to the lowest tactical level allowing dismounted troops to transmit and receive formatted and short text messages in a secure environment. This includes wifi- generated ‘combat bubbles’ for assault Andrew White teams conducting military operations in urban terrain in particular, defence sources highlighted to AMR. Weighing just 550grams (1.2 pounds), the Vista- HH EUD uses the Android or Windows operating system and can be carried on a chest-mount or grab bag, sources concluded. Finally, industry sources described to AMR how the ROK Army is expected to begin fielding an undisclosed number of Vista family EUDs towards the end of 2017, including a helicopter- mounted system for airborne operations.

Conclusion Systematic is working in The critical importance of BMS technology collaboration with will mean that it continues to proliferate Black Diamond to across the armed forces of the Asia-Pacific design an integrated and beyond as greater requirements for dismounted battle management system, tactical situation awareness and C2 is illustrated for the demanded at the lowest tactical levels. first time at the However, industry must deliver products AFCEA exhibition in which will not inhibit such operations Bonn this April. which are by their very nature, dynamic, congested and contested. AMR

| june/july 2017 | 23 LAND WARFARE Thomas Withington

Sapura’s tactical radio products include a manpack transceiver which is in service with the Malaysian Army. To the lowest echelon Acquisitions are afoot in the Asia-Pacific of new tactical radios. While much activity is kept out of the headlines, a picture of energetic competition involving new and existing products from local and international suppliers is emerging. by Thomas Withington

oth the International For example, LIMA hosted Japan’s Field Communication System tactical Defence Exhibition (IDEX) NEC, itself heavily involved in the communications modernisation initiative. held in Abu Dhabi in provision of tactical communications The company stated that it commenced February, and the Langkawi to the Japan Ground Self Defence Force deliveries of these radios to the JGSDF International Maritime and (JGSDF). Representatives of the firm in 2012, and that, as of 2017, deliveries AerospaceB (LIMA) exhibition held in shared that the company had commenced were continuing. In terms of data rates, late March in the eponymous Malaysian deliveries of its Very High Frequency company representatives continued that island provided a veritable smorgasbord (VHF) and Ultra High Frequency (UHF) these radios handle circa 600 kilobits-per- of opportunities to take stock of the (30 megahertz/MHz to 512MHz) second. A spokesperson added that these tactical communications market in the Wideband Multipurpose Radio-Vehicle radios carry VHF/FM, UHF/FM, VHF/ Asia-Pacific. Not only had companies product, and its Wideband Multipurpose N-CHR and the option of an ad hoc UHF brought their wares to exhibit at both Radio-Mobile Type-II handheld and waveform, and are certified to the United events, but several were keen to discuss Wideband Multipurpose Radio-Mobile States National Institute of Standards and with AMR their activities in the Asia- Type-I manpack transceivers all of which Technology’s AES-256 encryption level, Pacific region. form vital components of the JGSDF with the ability to add customer-specified

24 | Asian Military Review | LAND WARFARE

encryption and waveforms as and when specialists Sapura Thales

required. Electronics. The company Harris Although all of these radios are displayed a number of its certified to the US Department of Defence’s tactical radios, including SCA V2.2.2 software communications its TRC-5200 and TRS- architecture standard. The company 5102 VHF handheld radios. added that the tactical radio products it is Representatives of the firm supplying to the JGSDF at present do not told the author that the latter have any ability, via the use of waveforms, radio, along with being in to communicate directly with the tactical service with the Malaysian radios used by US military units which Army, is also used by the are deployed to Japan. Nevertheless, Indonesian and Moroccan the spokesperson added that this is a armies. Official literature capability that could equip the radios provided by the company at some as-yet-undefined point in the states that the radio offers future. In addition, the firm stated that it digital, encrypted voice is searching for export customers in the and data communications Asia-Pacific region, although it has not as (as opposed to its TRC- yet enjoyed any sales of its tactical radios 5101 and TRC-5103 siblings beyond Japan. It is possible that the which offer analogue voice Wideband Multipurpose Radio-Mobile and unencrypted voice Type-I may be replacing the Mitsubishi and data communications JPRC-F70 manpack radio, which has been respectively). The literature Harris has supplied its RF-7800V radios to the Philippine Army following a contract award to this end in 2015. in JGSDF service for some time. continues that the waveforms offered by this radio Sapura includes an advanced fixed frequency country to procure 6356 VHF handheld Also exhibiting their wares during the analogue mode, advanced digital secure radios (thought to be RF-5800V-HH LIMA exhibition was local tactical radio modes for voice and data, fixed frequency transceivers) and 2019 RF-5800H-MP secure mode and a frequency-hopping HF manpack radios from Harris with an secure mode. Moreover, the radio can expected total value of up to $96 million. accommodate 100 channels with 25 It was reported that deliveries of these Harris kilohertz of spacing. The company added radios to the Philippines were completed that it had commenced field trials of its in 2009. Other nations which have new TRC-5200 VHF handheld radio with procured the RF-5800V-HH in the Asia- the Royal Malaysian Navy’s PASKAL Pacific include Brunei-Darussalam, with naval special forces in April 2016, and Pakistan having acquired the RF-5800H- is awaiting a decision on whether the MP in two purchases worth a total of $144 product will be acquired by the force to million in 2005 and 2007. support naval commando operations. As yet, the firm has revealed no further Home Grown information regarding the design or Staying in Pakistan, the country’s performance of the TRC-5200. National Radio and Telecom Corporation More information is forthcoming (NRTC) is supplying its SDR-96X regarding the Philippines. In February family of Very High Frequency (VHF: 2016, Harris announced that it had 30 megahertz/MHz to 300MHz) and received a contract worth $12 million to Ultra High Frequency (UHF: 300MHz to supply RF-7800V-HH VHF handheld three gigahertz) radios to domestic and radios for use with Hukbong Katihan ng international users. Three radios comprise Pilipinas (Philippines Army) dismounted the family: a multiband handheld elements, while the vehicles used by transceiver, manpack multiband radio the force’s 1st Mechanised Infantry and a vehicular multiband transceiver. Division will be outfitted with RF-7800V Each offers data rates of up to 64 kilobits- vehicular radios integrated with the per-second and accommodates six firm’s RF-7800I vehicle intercom system, waveforms, notably the Combat Net thought to be furnishing the force’s BAE Radio (CNR), ACNR, WBNR (Wideband Systems/United Defence M-113A1/2/2+ Networking Radio), NBNR (Narrowband tracked armoured personnel carriers. The Networking Radio), air-to-ground and February 2016 order is the latest in a long ground-to-air waveforms, in addition line of tactical radio acquisitions from the to a waveform that allows users to Harris’ provision of tactical radios to the Philippines. For example, in June 2007, communicate with public safety officials Philippines include the company’s RF-7800V- HH handheld transceivers. the US Defence Security Cooperation such as civilian first responders. Agency announced a request by the Deliveries to the Pakistan armed forces,

| june/july 2017 | 25 LAND WARFARE

mode transmitting across a bandwidth of 406MHz to 470MHz provides fixed frequency and encrypted voice and data communications with 4.8kbps data rates, while fixed frequency and frequency-hopping clear and encrypted voice and data communications are Wikimedia Commons possible using the A-CNR waveform. Finally, the addition of an APCO-25 waveform provides a gateway for users to communicate with civilian first responder radios. In addition, the radio family can accommodate the HAVE QUICK-I/II NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) air-to-air/air-to-ground/ ground-to-air waveform.

Energetic Acquisition Furthermore at IDEX, LIG Nex1 revealed to AMR that it hopes for the government The AN/PRC-77, although now somewhat long in the tooth, remains in service in Pakistan and of the Republic of Korea (ROK) to make Saudi Arabia, and has been upgraded by NTRC. a decision by the end of 2017 on which tactical radios it is expected to procure which include the country’s navy, army, Manpack and 9661 V/UHF handheld for the Republic of Korea Army (ROKA). air force, marines and paramilitary forces transceivers. The company explained Company representatives disclosed that are currently ongoing. NRTC has told the that it had provided the know-how to it is offering several products to fulfil author that deliveries had commenced in firms in both countries to produce these this requirement. These are organised 2011, and are expected to conclude in 2020. radios, which are also in service with the under its Tactical Multiband Multirole Regarding export customers, these radios Turkish armed forces, and to develop Radio (TMMR) product family and have been delivered to the Nigerian and and implement national encryption include its SDR-H V/UHF handheld, Saudi Arabian armies, with deliveries standards and waveforms for use therein. SDR-V vehicular and SDR-P manpack commencing in the next two years to In Pakistan these radios, waveforms and radios. It terms of the ROKA’s concept the Egyptian Army. Meanwhile, the firm encryption software have been produced of operations for new radios, the has performed recent upgrades of the by NTRC, while in Saudi Arabia, they are firm stated that the vehicular radio AN/PRC-77 VHF manpack tactical radio produced by Taqnia and the country’s requirement should cover the entirety of with a new back end which will give it Military Industries Corporation (MIC). the ROKA’s armoured vehicle fleet, with another 15 years of life. Modifications The firm continued that deliveries of company commanders being equipped being performed on this radio include these transceivers to the armed forces of with the manpack radio, and platoon the ability for it to handle between 19 both countries has now commenced. commanders receiving the handheld. and 65 kilobits-per-second (kbps) of In terms of the basic configuration In terms of specifications, the company data and provide up to 1840 channels of the 9661 V/UHF family, these radios representatives added that data rates in at 25 kilohertz-per-channel. Although use a number of Aselsan proprietary the region of two megabits-per-second NTRC provides proprietary encryption waveforms including a VHF/FM low are achievable across the TMMR family, for the radio, users can add their own band waveform offering 16 kilobits-per- with up to seven waveforms, including encryption if so desired. The firm has second (kbps) data rates in fixed frequency air-to-ground/ground-to-air and delivered upgraded AN/PRC-77 radios and frequency-hopping modes; a VHF/ ground-to-ground waveforms equipping to the Pakistan Army. In addition to the FM high band mode providing fixed the transceivers. Confusion surrounds order from Pakistan, NTRC has supplied frequency and encrypted voice and data the status of the TMMR family: Some upgraded AN/PRC-77s to the Saudi at rates of 48kbps and an UHF wideband published sources state that the firm’s Arabian armed forces. networking radio waveform giving data radios have already been selected to Also during IDEX, Aselsen informed rates of up to 51kbps on each individual equip the ROKA, however, company AMR that tactical radio technology channel, with this waveform supporting representatives told the author that the transfer agreements that the company up to 32 channels. Furthermore, this latter firm was waiting for a decision from had concluded with Pakistan and Saudi waveform has the possibility for the data the ROK government as to whether the Arabia were now bearing fruit. Officials rate to be extended to 64kbps. order will be finalised. It is possible that from the firm stated that technology Meanwhile, a V/UHF AM waveform the existing TMMR radios said to be in transfer agreements it signed with provides fixed and encrypted voice service with the ROKA may have been Pakistan and Saudi Arabia towards communications, with a Narrow Band acquired for evaluation purposes. the end of the last decade allowed both Networking Waveform transmitting Looking towards south Asia, in June countries to produce the firm’s 9661 V/ across V/UHF with 15kbps data rates 2015 it was revealed that the Nepalese UHF tactical radio family, which includes using fixed frequency and frequency- Army would receive $1.4 million the 9661 V/UHF Vehicular, 9661 V/UHF hopping transmissions. A UHF/FM worth of tactical radios, notably Barrett

26 | Asian Military Review | LAND WARFARE

Communications’ PRC-2090 HF manpack to provide $13.4 million worth of radios reports have stated that prototype radios, PRC-2091 VHF vehicular radios, and spare parts to the Afghan National construction is expected to take 18 months, PRC-2081 VHF manpack radios and PRC- Army, with the contract to be completed with each TCS prototype then being 2082 VHF vehicular radios. According this year. Chalking up additional handed over to the army for testing, with to the reports, the radios completed successes in Afghanistan, Datron had a decision then being made on which delivery at the end of April 2015 with up earlier been awarded a contract worth consortia will go ahead with production. to 120 transceivers being supplied to this $25.4 million in August 2009 to provide The TCS is built around a fourth- end. Additional reports noted that the PRC-1077 VHF manpack, HH-7700 VHF generation, long-term evolution wireless company’s PRC-2040 HF manpack was handheld and PRC-1099 HF manpack network with accompanying switching, supplied to the Timor-Leste Defence Force radios. No information appears to have routing; network management and as of 2008. Staying in the HF domain, new been published regarding the radios to be security systems; software and hardware. radars have been forthcoming over the supplied to the ANA as a result of the two The goal, according to Indian ministry of past twelve months from Codan, which 2016 contracts. Alongside Datron’s radios, defence sources is to facilitate a network unveiled its new product in September Harris was tasked in June 2016 to provide capable of carrying data at rates of circa 100 2016. The Sentry-H supplements the a host of tactical radios to Afghanistan megabits-per-second. The TCS will replace company's range which was further (and several other unnamed nations), the army’s legacy Army Radio Engineered enhanced by the new Sentry-V VHF which the company stated will mostly be Network (AREN) in service since the early- handheld radio launched during the drawn from its Falcon-III tactical radio to-mid-1990s. The AREN was intended Eurosatory defence exhibition held in family. The contract, worth $1.7 billion was for deployed formations, according to Paris in June 2016. This was the first radio awarded via a US Foreign Military Sales open sources, and their headquarters. to be unveiled as part of Codan's Sentry initiative. Other notable procurements However, the AREN’s challenge has product line. No information has been over the last twelve months have occurred been in supporting the demands for provided as to whether sales of these in Bangladesh. In October 2016, it was increasing bandwidth to move ever- radios have been achieved, or the identify reported that the country’s ministry of higher amounts of data, hence the need of the customers. defence had procured $11.5 million of for the potential bandwidth offered by the Elsewhere in the region, some of the HF and VHF base station, vehicle and TCS undertaking. Furthermore, the TCS is most significant acquisitions of tactical manpack radios, the exact type of which envisaged to provide corps headquarters radios in recent years have been performed was not disclosed. Moreover, it is also (HQ) to battalion HQ coverage, whereas in Afghanistan. For example in late August known that Bangladesh, alongside Sri the legacy AREN system only furnishes 2016, Datron was awarded a contract Lanka uses NTRC’s PRC-9600 V/UHF corps HQ to brigade HQ communications. through the US Army to provide up to manpack radios. Confidential AMR sources believe that, $495 million worth of communications presuming a trouble-free development of equipment by 2021. Open sources note India the TCS prototypes, the network could be that, previously, the Afghan Army had One of the most interesting tactical introduced into the Indian Army in the employed AN/PRC-77 radios, which radio programmes to watch in the next five to ten years. The Indian Army is can trace their lineage back to the late Asia-Pacific is the Indian Army’s planning a wholesale enhancement of its 1960s, plus a clutch of Russian systems Tactical Communications System (TCS) tactical radios. In January 2017, the force including R-130 and R-123 transceivers. programme which involves two consortia announced that it was inviting responses The company also benefited from an led by Bharat Electronics Limited, and to two separate Requests For Information earlier contract exercised through the US Larsen and Toubro to construct one TCS (RFI) which it has issued regarding the Army in May 2016 when it was tasked ensemble each for $150 million. Media acquisition of new handheld, manpack, vehicular and airborne tactical radios. Companies interested in satisfying the RFI were asked to submit their responses by mid-February. This article has illustrated that, while armies throughout the Asia-Pacific continue to procure tactical radios from traditional

Thomas Withington suppliers in Europe, Israel and North America, local suppliers notably in Australia, India, Japan, Pakistan and the Republic of Korea are increasingly making their presence felt. Ostensibly, many of these suppliers are concerned at present with satisfying the domestic requirements of their armed forces. However, as firms like NRTC have illustrated, such local demand can act as a springboard to other international markets. Quiet disruption, then, seems to be the order of the day for the Asia-Pacific Sapura is enhancing its tactical radio product line which already includes handheld receivers tactical radio market; a disruption which with new products expected to equip Malaysia’s naval commandos. maybe set to continue. AMR

| june/july 2017 | 27 AIR POWER David Oliver

An Italian Air Force Agusta-Bell AB-212 supporting the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) to monitor the cessation of hostilities and helping ensure humanitarian access to the civilian population. CARE FROM THE AIR One of the world’s largest operators of aircraft in conflict zones is the United Nations. Relying on the provision of aircraft from member states and from the private sector, such aircraft provide lifelines for civilians caught up in hostilities around the world.

by David Oliver

he United Nations’ (UN) In 2014 the UN spent more than $800 and entry into service, South African Air peacekeeping budget for 2016 million on air chartering services, using Force (SAAF) Denel Rooivalk-Mk.1 attack to 2017 is $7.9 billion, according more than 150 helicopters and 50 fixed- helicopters proved to be a successful to the UN’s own figures. wing aircraft and has been looking at asset to the UN during peacekeeping This budget helps to pay for new ways of procuring aviation support operations in the Democratic Republic Texisting UN peacekeeping operations for its agencies, according to a UN of Congo (DRC) when they were first such as UNMISS (UN Mission in the press release published in May 2016. deployed in support of MONUSCO in Republic of South Sudan), UNAMID For peacekeeping missions, aviation November 2013 along with a flight of (United Nations/African Union Mission support is provided by the armed forces SAAF Denel Oryx-Mk.I/II medium- in Darfur), MONUSCO (Mission de of member nations or sourced from lift utility helicopters. The depleted l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour la contracted commercial operators. Ethiopian Air Force has also deployed Stabilisation en République Démocratique Examples of aircraft provided by three of its Mil Mi-35 helicopter gunships du Congo/Stabilisation Mission of the UN member states for peacekeeping to support UNMISS. United Nations in the Democratic operations include a flight ofFuerza Aérea Republic of Congo), MINUSCA (Mission Argentina (Argentine Air Force) Bell 212 Private Sector Multidimensionnelle Intégrée des Nations family and Hughes/MD Helicopters MD- Alongside the government provision Unies pour la Stabilisation en Centrafrique/ 500D light utility helicopters that serve of aviation to support peacekeeping UN Integrated Multidimensional Mission with the UN Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) operations, the private sector is involved for Stabilisation in the Central African while Aeronautica Militaire (Italian Air in its provision. The US Company AAR Republic) and MINUSMA (Multidimen- Force) AgustaWestland/Bell HH-212A Airlift is a certified commercial aviation sionnelle Intégrée des Nations Unies pour light utility helicopters work in support provider to the UN and operates a la Stabilisation au Mali/UN Multidimen- of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon fleet Sikorsky S-61Ns and S-92s and sional Mission for Stabilisation in Mali). (UNIFIL). After a protracted development Eurocopter/Airbus Helicopters AS-330J

28 | Asian Military Review | AIR POWER

Pumas. On 29th March 2015, AAR Airlift The UN only awards announced that it had been awarded a contracts through its three-year $19 million contract by the procurement division UN for airlift services in Central Africa to for long-term air charter David Oliver provide passenger and cargo air charter and short-term passenger David Oliver services in support of the MONUSCO movements to air operations. operators in possession However, there is growing shortage of an Air Operator of military helicopters supporting UN Certificate (AOC). An peacekeeping operations in Africa, AOC is typically awarded especially with the MINUSMA. In by a national aviation October 2016 Indonesian Army Aviation authority to permit a withdrew its three Mi-17V5s that were company to use aircraft deployed in Timbuktu for twelve months. for commercial services. The aim of a suicide attack on Gao airport The UN stipulates that in eastern Mali on 29th November 2016 helicopters operating on Ukrainian Helicopters’ fleet of Mi-8TV1 was to destroy the UN aircraft at the its behalf must possess the helicopters was the first to have the UNAGSTS airport, specifically several chartered United Nations Aviation and EGPWS/HTAWS equipment fitted. civilian Mil Mi-8 helicopters and a Global Satellite Tracking Ghana Air Force Airbus C-295 turboprop Solution (UNAGSTS) transport. The four Koninklijke Luchtmacht which is built around a satellite data link Ukraine. Ukrainian Helicopters was the (Royal Netherlands Air Force) McDonnell which can provide details of an aircraft’s first organisation to fly missions in full Douglas/Boeing AH-64D Apache attack location, velocity, bearing and altitude. compliance with the new UN regulations helicopters and three Boeing CH-47D/F According to official UN documents: regarding aircraft specification with Chinook heavy-lift helicopters deployed “The UNAGSTS provides a necessary tool the installation of UN-certified Iridium to Gao were operated from a different part that allows United Nations personnel to SkyTrac ISAT-200A Global Positioning of the UN base at the airport. Nevertheless, observe, analyse, and report real-time System/Iridium transceivers, Sandel earlier this year the Netherlands began flight activities.” Other UN regulations ST3400H HTAWS and Honeywell TCAS- to withdraw these aircraft from Mali. To require helicopters to be outfitted with II CAS-67A traffic collision avoidance fill this capability gap, the first Luftwaffe an Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning system. Ukrainian Helicopters took the (German Air Force) NH Industries NH- System/Helicopter Terrain Awareness decision to the rebuild its fleet of Mi- 90TTH medium-lift helicopter configured and Warning System (EGPWS/HTAWS). 8MTV1s into a truly multi-role platform, for medical evacuation was flown to One of the largest UN aviation largely with Western technology Bamako, south-west Mali, on 27th January providers since 2005 is Ukrainian and equipment. This included the by an Antonov An-124-100 turbofan Helicopters that has a fleet of 28 installation of FLIR Systems’ UltraForce freighter of Volga-Dnepr Airlines. This Mi-8MTV1s that have supported in 350HD optronics and a night vision aircraft will be followed by three more peacekeeping operations in Cote goggle-compatible with new avionics NH-90TTHs and four Eurocopter/Airbus d’Ivorie, DRC, Haiti, Sudan and South including a Garmin GTN-650/GTN-695 Helicopter EC-665UHT Tiger attack Sudan; humanitarian missions in Burma, navigation system and multifunction helicopters, according to media reports, Kenya, Mozambique, Pakistan, Somalia, displays. Additional equipment included which added that they will perform their South Sudan and Uganda; and relief a Spectrolab SX-16 IFCO Nightsun missions from Gao. operations in Portugal, Turkey and searchlight, a Bird Aerosystems AMPS-M airborne missile protection system, ballistic protection and a medical module, according to Ukrainian Helicopters. Another helicopter operator to comply with the UNAGSTS directive MONUSCO MONUSCO is Valan ICC of Moldova. Its fleet of eight Mi-8MTV1 helicopters operates in compliance with the requirements of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Republic of Moldova which are based on those of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation), the UN body codifying the techniques and principles of global air navigation, to provide air support to clients such as the UN and World Food South African Air Force Rooivalk-Mk.1 Programme, the UN’s food assistance helicopters supporting the United Nations’ branch. In November 2014 the company MONUSCO mission have been used to began upgrading its MI-8 MTV helicopters assist peace enforcement operations. to meet the UN latest requirements and updates on the technical specifications for

| june/july 2017 | 29 AIR POWER UN

The backbone of the UN helicopter fleet is the ubiquitous Mil Mi-8/17, seen here supporting the UN Mission in Sudan.

the aircraft and in 2015, Valan ICC was awarded a UN contract for humanitarian aid operations with UNMISS.

Notwithstanding the extensive David Oliver modernisation programmes that the Mi- 8/17 family are subjected to, as illustrated by the upgrade programmes discussed above, some operators are looking to replace these ageing helicopters. Ukrainian Helicopters commercial director Andril Nebret told AMR he has looked at the S-92 but considers its performance and payload is reduced in the hot and high conditions that the Mi-8/17 family thrives on, and also the Eurocopter/ Airbus Helicopters AS-332C1E Super Puma, which has the required performance but its high acquisition The WFP Il-76 lines up on the runway of Jordan’s Marka cost rules it out until pre-owned aircraft airport for a high-level airdrop mission of food and come on the market. The impact of the medical supplies to the besieged Syrian city of Deir Ezzor. United Nations revised procurement procedure (see above) for its future aviation requirements remain to be seen The top UN agency users of UNHAS Bombardier/De Havilland Dash-8 family but it is more than likely that its long- were UNICEF (United Nations Children’s turboprop freighters, Dornier Do-228 term rotary-wing charters will largely be Fund) and UNHCR (United Nations family turboprop transports, Embraer met for at least the next decade by the High Commissioner for Refugees) while EJR-135 family turboprop transports Mi-8/17 family. the top three NGO (Non-Governmental and Antonov An-74 family turboprop Organisation) users were MSF (Médecins freighters. WFP Sans Frontiers/Doctors Without Borders), The WFP has a long history of food The WFP manages the United Nations Save the Children and the International airdrops that go back to 1999 when Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) that Rescue Committee. The UNHAS has a the first humanitarian airdrops were transported more than 285,000 passengers fleet of some 70 chartered aircraft, the completed successfully in East Timor, and nearly 6000 metric tons of cargo to organisation states, most of which are with the delivery of desperately needed 317 regular and one-off destinations in fixed-wing types. including Beechcraft food and blankets to tens of thousands 34 countries in 2015 according to the WFP. 1900 family turboprop transports, of people hiding in the mountains fleeing

30 | Asian Military Review | AIR POWER

UN and essential supplies to Deir Ezzor in eastern Syria, a city of more than 100,000 people besieged by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) insurgent group According to AMR sources, the operation is based in Jordan at Amman’s Marka airport and the first test drops from Mil Mi-24/35 attack helicopters have been 22500ft (7000m) took place at a Jordanian deployed to numerous United Nations missions military range in mid-March 2016, but in Africa and the Middle East including the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). were unsuccessful due to the use of time- expired Russian parachutes which failed to open on release. Further tests using new parachutes proved successful and the WFP carried out its first successful

UNMISS high-altitude airdrop over Deir Ezzor on 10th April 2016 to deliver 20 metric tonnes of food aid. Single Russian parachutes for the bags of food weighing between 1775 pounds/lb (800 kilograms/kg) and one tonne mounted on collapsible pallets, are rigged at Marka, along with three US parachutes used for dropping cooking oil containers that require a slower descent rate. The WFP has a small number of GPS- guided parachutes used for precision drops of vital medical supplies. The Russian airline Abakan Air was contracted to provide an Ilyushin Il-76T/ TD to fly two missions a day to drop up A World Food Programme Il-76 dropping to 26 pallets in three runs. The planners food in Bentiu’s Unity State in support of the use the United Kingdom Meteorological United Nations Mission in South Sudan Office weather forecasts for the flights and Jordanian air traffic control handles the flight until it reaches the Syrian-Jordanian political violence following the country’s flight experience to be able to perform border, after which the crew is in contact independence from Indonesia. The food airdrop operations. with the Damascus Area Control Centre airdrops were performed using two Royal During humanitarian air drop while it is in Syrian airspace as far as Very Australian Air Force Lockheed Martin operations, the Drop Zones (DZ) are High Frequency (30 megahertz/MHz to C-130H/J turboprop freighters lent to the marked out by white food bags with a 300MHz) radio range covers. However, WFP. The WFP also executed a unique air cross in its centre. The area is secured with the flight keeps to the same route using delivery system developed in conjunction a 200-metre/m (645-feet/ft) perimeter a recognised corridor to the DZ. The total with the South African aviation company, outside the DZ and it is the ground flight time of the missions to Deir Ezzor is Safair. During the provision of aid to East controller who clears the aircraft to typically 2 hours and 45 minutes. Timor, a C-130H/J was deployed to drop release its cargo. The drops are generally While the Il-76T/TD’s aircrew has 350,000 plastic seven ounce (200 gram) made from just 645ft (200m) above the no direct communications with US packets of high-energy biscuits, packed in ground to reduce the impact on the food Central Command, the US combined such a way that they floated and circled bags as they land. The drop sequence is combatant command in charge of the as they fell to ensure a soft landing. down to the loadmasters with the cargo US-led coalition’s military efforts against Not all air carriers can perform these arranged in either a single or double ISIS, Russian Air Force Sukhoi Su-30 types of airdrop missions. WFP Aviation row configuration. If it is single row, it is family fighters have been providing charters aircraft from accredited air released in a single drop. unofficial escorts to the aircraft while in carriers, which are duly licensed for this In 2015 the WPF carried out 1636 Syrian airspace. In March the 200th WFP type operation by the national aviation airdrop flights to deliver 45200 metric tons airdrop marked a delivery of 3500 tons authority of the country of aircraft of food. It supplied urgently needed relief of humanitarian aid to more than 90000 registration via the obtention of an items to people in otherwise impossible– people still trapped in the besieged city. AOC (see above) Aircraft preparation for to–reach locations across South Sudan With ongoing conflicts, humanitarian the mission is the responsibility of the where between January 2016 and June crises and natural disasters continuing carrier, and the aircraft used are normally 2016, it conducted more than 960 airdrops to plague Africa, the Asia-Pacific and the equipped with a roller system to allow from two domestic locations as well as Middle East, government-furnished and loading and gravity extraction of pallets from airfields in Uganda and Ethiopia. chartered aviation will continue to be in the in flight. The aircrew and loadmasters are For the first time, in April 1916 the frontline of the UN peacekeeping and relief required to have necessary training and WFP began high level airdrops of food efforts for the foreseeable future. AMR

| june/july 2017 | 31 SEA POWER

periscope depth Whether driven by direct threats to national security, or as a result of the submarine procurement race that is currently taking place in the region, Asia-Pacific waters are seeing a dramatic increase in the number of submarines patrolling their depths.

by Dr. Alix Valenti

n article from Channel June 2016. Similarly, in January 2017, the patrolling and securing maritime borders NewsAsia published on 21st Royal Malaysian Navy was finalising and trade routes.” May 2015 reports that during three Malaysia Submarine Exercise the 2015 International Areas in the South China Sea to enhance Australia Maritime Security Conference, submarine operating safety in the region. Although Australia does not face any heldA in Sydney, Australia, the chief These proposals come at a time when imminent threat to its security, its 2016 of the Republic of Singapore Navy the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing Defence White Paper which outlined (RSN) Rear Admiral Lai Chung Han a significant increase in the number the country’s strategic and defence proposed the development of a regional of national submarine procurement procurement priorities stated that: framework for submarine operations programmes. From Australia to India, “by 2035, around half of the world’s safety. The framework would build on whether defence budgets have increased or submarines will be operating in the a memorandum agreement on Joint are set to plateau due to national financial Indo-Pacific region where Australia’s Standard Operating Procedures for constraints, Stéphane Meunier, DCNS’ interests are most engaged. Australia has mutual submarine rescue support the submarines marketing director indicated: one of the largest maritime domains in RSN signed with the US Navy on 19th “submarines represent an asset for countries the world and we need the capacity to May 2015, and would be modelled after willing to ensure their sovereignty defend and further our interests from the the Code of Unplanned Encounters at and protect their territorial waters and Pacific to the Indian Oceans and from the Sea that was ratified in 2014 by 25 Asia- Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), as they areas to our north to the Southern Oceans. Pacific countries. The proposal for a set play crucial roles such as surveillance and Submarines are a powerful instrument for of protocols was tabled by the RSN in reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, deterring conflict and a potent weapon

32 | Asian Military Review | SEA POWER US Navy Ajai Shukla

The Indian Navy’s INS Chakra ‘Akula’ class SSN. Since 2008, she has been leased from the Russian Navy to the service, and was commissioned to this end in April 2012.

AMR sources have stated. and the South China Sea, where it has The Future Submarine Programme competing claims with the Philippines is progressing at a healthy pace. On over the Scarborough Shoal, and with 30th September 2016, DCNS and the Brunei-Darussalam, Malaysia, Taiwan Australian government signed a design and Vietnam over the sovereignty of the and mobilisation contract, which marked Paracel and Spratly archipelagos. To this the start of the programme. An Australian end, the People’s Liberation Army Navy defence spokesperson indicated that the (PLAN) has intensified the number of design and mobilisation programme ships patrolling the waters. Submarines HMAS Waller is the third of the Royal would include: “design, detailed are no exception. The PLAN continues Australian Navy’s programme planning, detailed planning to build ‘Type-093/Shang’ class nuclear- ‘Collins’ class of for build, test and integration facilities powered attack submarines (SSNs), of SSKs. This fleet will and infrastructure, Australian industry which there are five in service and two eventually be replaced with the new SSKs involvement, ongoing identification, known to be under construction, and which the RAN is definition and development of transfer of which are replacing the Cold War-era acquiring from France. technology to Australia, and development ‘Type 091/Han’ class SSNs. Collin Koh, of further agreements and contracts”. research fellow at the maritime security In December 2016, the Australian programme of the S. Rajaratnam School of should conflict occur.” and French governments also signed International Studies in Singapore, stated In this context, in April 2016 the a framework agreement concerning that: “the new ‘Shang’ class was thought Australian government announced that cooperation on the Future Submarine to have incorporated insights gleaned DCNS of France had won the contract for Programme. The spokesperson continued from the Soviet/Russian ‘Victor-III’ class the construction of twelve conventional that: “construction of the first submarine SSN and, compared to the ‘Type-091/Han’ hunter-killer submarines (SSKs) under is expected to commence in the 2023 class, it has better quieting characteristics the Future Submarine Programme, to 2024 financial year, with the first and better combat systems.” Mr. Koh also known as the Sea-1000 initiative. submarine expected to enter service in added that the newest version of the According to Mr. Meunier: “Australia’s the early 2030s and construction of the ‘Type-093/Shang’ class is said to possibly future submarine will … share common twelve new submarines to continue into be capable of carrying long-range systems with the ‘Barracuda’ class the late 2040 and 2050s”. submarine-launched cruise missiles. (nuclear-powered attack submarine) The PLAN also continues to develop its DCNS is currently designing and building People’s Republic of China ‘Type-095’ class nuclear-powered ballistic for the French Navy.” Within the same In the past decade, the People’s missile submarines (SSBNs), which are programme, on 30th September 2016, Republic of China (PRC) has adopted an substituting the sole Cold War-era ‘Type- Lockheed Martin’s Australian subsidiary increasingly robust military stance in the 092/Xia’ class SSBN, and is building a was selected as the future submarine Asia-Pacific region. Both in the East China newer ‘Type-095/Tang’ class SSBN. Mr. combat systems integrator, while the Sea, where it has ongoing conflicting Koh indicated that this latest iteration of combat system specification should be territorial and maritime claims with the ‘Type-096/Tang’ class: “is supposed completed by the second half of 2018, Japan over the Senkaku/Diaoyu islands, to carry 24 Submarine-Launched Ballistic

| june/july 2017 | 33 SEA POWER

Indonesia While Indonesia faces no direct security threat from the PRC, its main security US Navy challenge is the increasing level of maritime piracy witnessed in its locale. According to the Review of Maritime Transport published by the United Nations Conference on Trade And Development (UNCTAD) in 2016: “The areas most affected (by piracy) were the Strait of Malacca and Singapore (134 occurred or attempted acts of piracy and armed robberies), the South China Sea (81) and the Western Indian Ocean with 38 in total.” As such, Indonesia’s 2008 Defence The Pakistan Navy’s PNS Ghazi ‘Albacora’ class SSK was White Paper, outlining the government’s decommissioned in 2005. The fleet is defence spending and strategic priorities, now looking towards the delivery of noted a strategic shift for the Tentara new SSKs which will be procured from Nasional Indonesia-Angkatan Laut (TNI- China in the near future. AL/Indonesian Navy) from functioning within an army-centric paradigm to a more maritime-focused posture. Missiles (SLBMs), as opposed to the on which India relies significantly for Within this context, in December 2011 ‘Type-095’ class’ twelve missiles, and its economy, including routes heading Daewoo was awarded a contract to build, might also be carrying the improved JL- towards the Strait of Malacca, one of the in partnership with indigenous PT PAL, 2C/JL-3 SLBM, which would possibly most important routes for seaborne trade. three ‘Chang Bogo’ class SSKs. The first- allow its launch from the South China As such, in order to reassert its sovereignty of-class, built in the Republic of Korea Sea that has long been speculated to have over the waters of the Indian Ocean, the (ROK), is currently undergoing sea-trials been designated by Beijing as the ‘SSBN Indian government commenced the and was scheduled for delivery in March bastion’.” ‘Kalvari/Project 75’ class SSK initiative in 2017, although at present there is no With fifteen already in service, the 2005, which aimed to build six submarines. further news as to whether this has taken PLAN also continues to build ‘Type 039A/ DCNS won the contract, in partnership place. The second vessel was launched in Yuan’ class SSKs. Little is known as to the with Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL), to October 2016 in Daewoo’s ROK shipyard. developments of the latest iteration of build six ‘Scorpene’ class submarines; PT PAL, which received the submarine’s this class, but Mr. Koh indicated that the the programme started in 2010 and all modules from the ROK in December 2016, propulsion is likely to be an indigenously- the submarines are being built in MDL will build the last vessel and is expected developed Air-Independent Propulsion through a transfer of technology. The to have completed the work by the end of (AIP) system. He specified, however, first-of-class, INS Kalvari, is currently that there are indications that the undergoing sea trials and should be indigenous AIP may not have yielded commissioned in the next few months, the desired results, in particular the according to Mr. Meunier. It successfully fact that Beijing recently promulgated a conducted its maiden firing of an MBDA nationwide blueprint to promote science SM-39 Exocet active radar homing anti- and technology innovation, including ship missile in the Arabian Sea in early areas of propulsion for both air and sea March. Mr. Meunier added: “the second platforms. He also indicated that: “it is ship, INS Khanderi, was launched earlier possible that, instead of Stirling-type AIP, in January and will undergo the same the Chinese are experimenting with fuel- process of demanding trials at harbour cell technology and that … they might and at sea,” he concludes: “MDL is also seek to develop lithium-ion batteries expected to deliver them every nine for future generation SSKs.” Basically, months.” Stirling-type AIP burns a combination of In 2008, the Indian government also fuel and liquid oxygen to drive an electric issued a request for information to a motor, whereas fuel cell AIP combines number of international shipbuilding fuel with an oxidizing agent to convert firms for the construction of submarines The ROK Navy's ‘Chang chemical energy into electricity. equipped with AIP systems. This is Bogo’ class SSK Choi known as the ‘Project 75I’ class initiative Museon. Commissioned India with the Ministry of Defence (MOD) in 1996, she is the ninth India’s growing security concern is the selecting MDL to build three of these new boat in the ROKN’s class, and a similar design is presence of PLAN submarines in the SSKs, Hindustan Shipyard for the last being supplied to the Indian Ocean. Indeed there are a number of the six submarines, while the foreign TNI-AL. of key trade routes in the Indian Ocean partner has yet to be selected.

34 | Asian Military Review | SEA POWER

Asia-Pacific regions at Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), told AMR that:

US Navy “The contract for the delivery of two ‘Type-218SG’ class SSKs to Singapore was awarded in 2013.” For confidential reasons, TKMS has shared very little information regarding the specifics of the RSN’s future submarine. Mr. Koh indicated that local specialists believe that: “the Type-218SG is neither a variant of ‘Type-214’ class or (the firm’s) ‘Type- 216’ class design, it’s rather a crossbreed of the two, fully customised to the needs of the RSN.” An anonymous local expert also shared a couple of assumptions with AMR: “The ‘Type-218SG’ class is about the same size as the ‘Type-214’ class, maybe The Japan Maritime Self Defence Force has one of the largest submarine fleets in the slightly larger, with better sea keeping, Asia-Pacific region with 17 vessels, and five more to be commissioned in the coming years. An example from the ‘Oyashio’ class is shown here. endurance and range than the existing old RSN ‘Challenger’ class or ‘Archer’ class SSKs, hinting at fuel-cell propulsion 2018, according to media reports. submarine is likely to be an export for enhanced submerged endurance.” version of the ‘Type-039A/Yuan’ class Pakistan SSK. The China Shipbuilding Trading Thailand Pakistan’s key security threat is its Company (CSTC) will build the first four Although Thailand is not currently facing tense relationship with its Indian submarines, which are scheduled for any direct security threats, the Asia- neighbour. In August 2016, Pakistani delivery by the end of 2023 according to Pacific submarine procurement race has newspaper The Express Tribune reported the article in The Express Tribune, while arguably prompted the government to that the head of Pakistan’s submarine the remaining four will be assembled revive plans to acquire three SSKs from programme and senior naval officials in Karachi, at the Karachi Shipyard and the PRC. On 24th January, Thailand’s confirmed to the National Assembly’s Engineering Works by 2028. defence minister Prawit Wongsuwan Standing Committee on Defence, which confirmed the government has approved exercises parliamentary scrutiny on the Republic of Korea (ROK) $380 million to acquire the first government’s defence policy, that the With the Democratic People’s Republic submarine, which Mr. Koh believes will PRC will supply eight modified SSKs of Korea (DPRK) on its doorstep, the be the export variant of the ‘Type-039A/ to the Pakistan Navy (PN) by the year ROK’s main security concern is ensuring Yuan’ class. According to the Straits 2028. According to Mr. Koh, the future that it has an efficient and effective ROK Times, the total cost of the programme Navy (ROKN). In this context, the ROKN is expected to reach $1 billion and has awarded contracts to both Daewoo payments will be made under a ten-year and Hyundai for the construction instalment plan. of nine ‘Son Won-II/Type-214’ class US Navy SSKs. Hyundai delivered the first three Looking ahead submarines between 2007 and 2009, According to Mr. Meunier: “We believe while all submarines are expected to be that the rising number of maritime operational with the ROKN by 2019. In conflicts and increasing tensions in the 2012, Daewoo won the contract for the South China Sea as well as the Pacific construction of the first two ‘KSS-III’ and Indian Oceans, added to the need class submarines. The state-run Agency for resources supply security and civilian for Defence Development (ADD) is also safety, will encourage countries in the developing an SLBM to be deployed by region to develop and modernise their the ‘KSS-III’ class submarines, according submarine fleets.” This article has made it to media reports in June 2016. The first-of- clear that Asia-Pacific navies are not only class is scheduled for delivery by the end seeking foreign partners to modernise of 2020 and the second one in late 2022. and upgrade their submarines, but also to secure transfers of technology. In terms Singapore of features, AIP is clearly becoming a Singapore shares the same concerns key element for the latest generation as Indonesia (see above) regarding the of submarines to ensure underwater increase in maritime piracy in the Strait of endurance and stealth. According to Mr. Malacca, the Indian Ocean and the South Lambert, this could be achieved also by China Sea. As such, William Lambert, further developing high energy power vice president for sales in the Indian and sources like lithium ion batteries. AMR

| june/july 2017 | 35 REGIonal militaries US DOD

The JASDF F-15J fleet is heavily tasked with the patrol of Japan’s airspace. Current increases in PLAAF and Russian Air Force activity in Japan’s vicinity is taking its toll on the fatigue life of WILL THE SUN SET these aircraft. ON AIR SUPERIORITY? Japan possesses one of the most capable air forces in the Asia- Pacific alongside the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the United States. Its force of around 370 fast jets is mostly comprised of up- to-date and effective fourth generation types.

by Justin Bronk

he Japan Air Self Defence Force defence modernisation, Japan’s combat In recent years, the JASDF has seen (JASDF) is focused on a core of 200 fleet is increasingly facing operational air defence sortie scramble rates increase formidable McDonnell Douglas/ obsolescence and technological overmatch. greatly over those witnessed in the decade Boeing F-15J/DJ Eagle fighters. For the JASDF which is restricted in and a half following the end of the Cold Furthermore, its pilots are well size by Japan’s constitutionally-limited War. Both Russia and the PRC regularly Ttrained and frequently conduct high- defence budget and has, therefore, been probe Japan’s declared airspace over level training with the US Air Force and reliant for many decades on technological the Senkaku/Diaoyu and Kuril Islands, other allied air forces to keep their tactical advantage to adequately defend against a northeast of Japan and under Russian edge. However, in the PRC’s People’s much more numerous PLAAF, the future control, and launch strategic bomber, Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and presents serious challenges. The USAF is surveillance and maritime patrol aircraft Navy (PLAN), Japan faces a formidable, also facing its own problems with force sorties which skirt Japanese airspace. and increasingly modern, threat in close size, modernisation and pilot shortages From around 300 or fewer scrambles proximity to its borders, including active relative to global commitments which per year up to 2012, scramble rates have territorial disputes, especially over the is likely to contribute to a long term steadily increased to 571 in 2015 and more Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands in the East reduction in the longstanding American than 1100 in 2016 which is the highest China Sea under Japan’s control with capability to establish air superiority annual total in JASDF history. This level their sovereignty disputed by the PRC over the PRC in the Asia-Pacific; a trend of air defence activity is well above the and the Republic of China. In the face of which only increases the requirement for defence planning assumptions which Chinese (and Russian) air force and air a strong JASDF. were place when the JASDF procured its

36 | Asian Military Review | Book Your is proud to announce Space Now to Avail that it has been a Substantial appointed as Discount!

the Official Bilingual ShOw Daily Of

Volume 24/issue 6 september/october 2016 us$15

AsiA P A cific’s LA rgest c ircuLAted d efence MA g A Zine

Volume 24/issue 7 noVember 2016 us$15

NAVAL DIRECTORY

SMALL VESSEL RADARS AsiA P A cific’s LA rgest c ircuLAted d efence MA g A Zine MARITIME PATROL

Volume 24/issue 8 december 2016 /january 2017 us$15

AsiA P A cific’s LA rgest c ircuLAted d efence MA g A Zine

NAVAL UAVS PHILIPPINES ARMED FORCES ANTI-ARMOUR WEAPONS

www.asianmilitaryreview.com

AMR COVER FINAL Sept.indd 1 8/23/16 8:59 PM INDONESIA’S ARMED FORCES AIRBORNE EARLY WARNING FAST ATTACK CRAFT BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENCE CHINA AND IRAN MALE/HALE UAVS PAKISTAN’S PROCUREMENTS FRIGATES AND DESTROYERS www.asianmilitaryreview.com GEOSPATIAL INTEL

AMR COVER Nov.indd 1 MAIN10/14/16 BATTLE 12:09 PM TANKS MANPADS PROTECTION TANKERS AND FREIGHTERS

www.asianmilitaryreview.com

AMR COVER Dec/Jan.indd 1 12/7/16 2:54 PM

For advertising opportunities contact your local asian Military review rep or Joha Djalmetov: [email protected] Roman Durksen: [email protected]

Show Daily Brand Ad.indd 1 1/26/17 11:15 AM REGIonal militaries USAF

Despite the impressive nature of the F-2A’s original design, the aircraft is increasingly outclassed by rival Chinese and Russian designs used by the PLAAF.

current fighter fleet and places a heavy to defend land installations; they have Furthermore, because the F-2A and F-4EJ burden on squadron readiness and fleet also allowed PRC engineers to reverse use indigenous Japanese avionics and airframe fatigue management, especially engineer many features of the system. mission systems, it is harder for the JASDF given the relatively small number of The PRC has combined many of the to integrate promising foreign missiles F-15Js on whom the majority of this best features of Russian long range onto these aircraft. The new supersonic tasking falls. If such rates continue in SAM technology with Western technical Mitsubishi XASM-3 is in development the medium to long term, this will force information stolen on an industrial for the F-2A but is still some way from an earlier replacement or at least a total scale to produce its own indigenous service and does not satisfactorily increase overhaul of the JSADF F-15J fleet earlier long range SAM systems in the form of launch platform survivability against than envisaged. the China Precision Machinery Import major surface combatants. As a result, the Export Corporation HQ-9 SAM system existing aerial capabilities of the JASDF The Threat family. These include the HHQ-9A/B based on the F-2A and the F-4EJ, and In the strike and anti-shipping roles, and HQ-26 for PLAN vessels, which JMSDF in the shape of the Kawasaki P-1 the JASDF and air component of the together with rapid advances in Chinese and Lockheed Martin P-3C/D family Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Forces active electronically scanned array radar maritime patrol aircraft are unlikely to (JMSDF) are faced with severe challenges production for naval vessels, fighters and provide significant deterrence against in maintaining credible capabilities Airborne Early Warning (AEW) assets, major PLAN surface combatants even against the increasing technological makes getting within AShM launch range before the nascent but unmistakably and numerical strength of the PLAN of PLAN major surface combatants a ambitious PLAN aircraft carrier and PLAAF. The JASDF stands out very dangerous prospect in the event of programme becomes a serious threat. among modern air forces in that it has hostilities for any aircraft which is not Given these difficulties in executing traditionally taken the anti-shipping either low-observable or capable of heavy the strike and particularly anti-shipping role fairly seriously. The Mitsubishi F-2A and frequency-agile jamming. roles which are a core part of the JASDF and McDonnell Douglas/Boeing F-4EJ Furthermore, whilst the HHQ-9A/B remit to deter incursions into Japan’s Phantom-II fighters are both equipped series have inferior capabilities at present territorial waters, the JASDF has an to launch Mitsubishi ASM-1 and ASM-2 to intercept AShMs that fly extremely low urgent need for more capable aircraft for active radar homing Anti-Ship Missiles for their entire approach and terminal this mission. The most immediate priority (AShMs) and have a doctrinal anti- flight phases, the ASM-1 and ASM-2 are for the JASDF must be the replacement of ship role. However, imports of Russian higher flying in their approach phase than its three remaining squadrons of F-4EJ Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) systems missiles such as the MBDA Exocet and Saab fighters. The F-4 Phantom family was such as the Almaz-Antey S-300PMU/ RBS-15 AShM families and are not stealthy a world beating aircraft in the 1970s PMU1/PMU2 have not only given the like the Lockheed Martin AGM-158C and remains a potent, almost fourth PRC use of these formidable systems LRASM (Long Range Anti-Ship Missile). generation platform when equipped

38 | Asian Military Review | SA18_Exhibitor01_Armada_213x286mm.pdf 1 3/3/2017 11:32:59 AM REGIonal militaries

but is still at best on a par with the latest Chinese Su-27 derivatives regarding USAF beyond visual range performance and inferior to both the former and the J-10 family during visual range combat due to the latters’ superior agility and the lack of a helmet mounted display for the F-2A. The F-2A has some advantages with the latest Mitsubishi J/APG-2 X-band radar and miniature AESA-seeker equipped Mitsubishi AAM-4B active radar homing air to air missiles. However, it is available in far smaller numbers than the PLAAF can field, will show up at long range on PRC radars due to its lack of modern RCS features or latest generation electronic warfare jamming pods, and carries substantially fewer missiles than the Su- 27/J-11 family. As a result it is adequate Despite having given admirable service in the JASDF for several decades, the at present but cannot provide any new F-4EJ is increasingly obsolete in the face long term answers to Japan’s increasing of the PRC’s enhancements to its PLAAF air defence challenges. and PLAN fighter fleets. However, the F-2A is not the core of the JASDF air defence mission, that honour falls to Japan’s modernised F-15J which is with modernised radar, electronics and and over more than a decade between still at least a match for the PRC’s fourth missiles. However, it is outclassed by 1987 and its introduction into service in generation fighters. The venerable but China’s Sukhoi Su-27 family derivatives 2000, the F-2A is externally similar in flexible and reliable F-15J design will remain in radar performance, kinematics and appearance to the General Dynamics/ viable as the core of Japan’s air defence missile payload. Against the modern air Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter family, capabilities for the next decade in spite of defences which the PRC deploys on its but with a 25 percent greater wing area, limited numbers of J-20s entering service islands, mainland and naval vessels, the larger control surfaces, engine intake and in China, so long as they can be properly F-4EJ presents a huge Radar Cross Section framed canopy. Internally, the F-2A was integrated with the small number of (RCS) and has limited manoeuvrability a significant advance over the late 1980s F-35As entering service during that period. for evasion once targeted, meaning it is F-16 design from which is was developed, The F-15J is also an excellent platform to increasingly obsolete in the strike role. incorporating many indigenous Japanese conduct routine air policing scrambles, The Lockheed Martin F-35A electronic systems including the Japan’s being fast and possessing a long range, Lightning-II fighter (see below) has been first operational Active Electronically with few RCS secrets worth exploiting by identified as a replacement for the F-4EJ. Scanned Array (AESA) radar, the PRC and Russian electronic intelligence However, Japanese procurement funding Mitsubishi J/APG-1 X-band (8.5- aircraft during such encounters. Its constraints, as well as the decision to 10.68GHz) system. However, the F-2A manoeuvrability in the visual range arena assemble 38 of the 42 aircraft currently was extremely expensive as a result of a is respectable. Nevertheless, the Japanese on order in Japan at Mitsubishi’s facilities limited production run of 94 aircraft. Due standard Raytheon AN/APG-63V1 means that the acquisition rate is likely to Japan having to pay development costs X-band radar and AAM-4B combination, to be limited to a few examples each as well as setting up its own production coupled with the F-15J airframe’s inherent year at best, and it will take some time line, the F-2A was more than four times high altitude supersonic performance, to replace all three F-4EJ squadrons. The as expensive as a comparable F-16C/D makes it a formidable beyond visual range much higher combined acquisition rate Block-50/52 fighter which was the latest fighter even today. of Chinese fourth generation Chengdu US standard when the F-2A finally J-10A/B, Shenyang J-11 family, J-15 family entered service in the year 2000. The F-2A Lightning Bolts and now a trickle of early-production is also much more problematic in terms In terms of future viability, advanced Chengdu J-20A fifth generation fighters of integrating non-indigenous advanced fourth generation fighters like the F-15J means that Japan’s limited quantity and payloads due to its heavy use of Japanese which are designed around powerful acquisition rate of F-35As alone is not ever electronic systems which were state of radars, missile loadouts and high going to be sufficient to keep pace with the art when designed but are now an performance at altitude work extremely PLAAF and PLAN fighter modernisation. expensive and complex challenge in well alongside the F-35 family and the terms of system capacity growth to meet USAF’s Lockheed Martin F-22A Raptor F-2A future challenges. fighters. The ability to fly extremely The JASDF’s second fast jet fleet which Furthermore in the fighter role, the high and extremely fast with a large also presents challenges is its multirole F-2A was an aerodynamic upgrade loadout of AAM-4Bs will make the F-15J and primary anti-ship fighter, the over the original F-16 family in terms of indispensable to the nascent Japanese Mitsubishi F-2A. Developed at great cost operational altitude and wing loading, F-35A force as the latter starts to build

40 | Asian Military Review | Pac2017 AMR 286x213 ad.qxp_Pac2017 AMR 286x213 ad 4/04/2017 3:25 PM Page 1

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

RIDE THE WAVE TO BUSINESS IN THE INDO-ASIA-PACIFIC www.pacific2017.com.au Sales enquiries- E: [email protected] T:+61 (0) 3 5282 0500 REGIonal militaries USAF

Japan’s forthcoming F-35A fleet, the first example of which is shown here, should help the JASDF to maintain at least parity with the PLAAF, while achieving overmatch could necessitate the acquisition of a new fighter.

up over the next decade. The F-35 is a fifth generation technology demonstrator, fighter hopes in a fighter derivative of formidable low-observable flying sensor the Mitsubishi X-2 Shinshin, since the the X-2 Shinshin which first flew in April and strike platform, but it carries a F-22A’s production cancellation in 2016. The ATD-X programme under limited internal weapons load. The F-35A 2009. The F-35A will give the JASDF which the X-2 has been developed aims will, therefore, be significantly dependent a greatly increased capability against to produce a sixth generation fighter on sensor-to-shooter integration with ground targets and ships protected by tentatively called the F-3 in the late 2020s other fighters in any hypothetical clash modern SAM systems, and if tactical with an advanced low RCS, significant with the numerically superior PLAAF. datalinks receive proper investment, can internal weapons payload, advanced On the flip side, the F-35A even in significantly boost the combat capability airframe-embedded AESA radar, thrust small numbers could get much closer to of the F-15J fleet against large numbers of vectoring and super-cruise capabilities. potential air and ground-based threats modern aerial threats. Nevertheless, its It remains to be seen whether Japan can than the F-15J force before being detected, limited range on internal fuel and limited actually produce such a fighter alone and provide the latter with track quality missile loadout makes it inefficient given its annual one percent of gross target information on threats within a in the air defence role except in the domestic product defence spending limit large operational area to allow the F-15J/ comparatively large numbers which and the many other requirements for AAM-4B combination to even the odds Japan is unlikely to be able to afford. finite resources in the country’s armed for the F-35As. Furthermore, as already discussed, the forces. Yet Japan is actively reaching out Even coupled with the F-15J force, very heavy scramble rates which have to potential international partners for however, the F-35A is not a perfect fit for become the ‘new normal’ since 2012 are cooperation on engines, airframe design the JASDF. In simple terms, the JASDF using up the fatigue lives of the JASDF and other aspects of the F-3. Whether needs a fighter capable of deterring F-15J fleet much faster than planned Japan succeeds in building the first the PLAAF’s best types with enough which will inevitably result in a need to successful non-US air dominance fighter technological overmatch to at least replace or at least augment this core asset capable of matching or even surpassing partially offset its inevitable numerical by around the late 2020s. the capabilities of the F-22A or not will disadvantage. This is why Japan was so likely have a huge effect on the balance of keen to be allowed to purchase the F-22A X-2 Shinshin airpower in the Asia-Pacific in the 2030s and why Japan has re-prioritised its own Therefore, Japan has placed its long term and beyond. AMR

42 | Asian Military Review | Images courtesy of www.defencephotography.com

REGISTER TO ATTEND TODAY ACCESS THE 34,038 VISITORS FROM GLOBAL MARKET 108 COUNTRIES (6% INCREASE IN 2015) AT THE WORLD AIR 76% OF ATTENDEES LEADING DEFENCE LAND DECISION MAKERS OR SPECIFIERS (DSEI 2015) & SECURITY EVENT N AVA L

To enquire and reserve your exhibition space contact: T: +44 (0)20 7384 7770 E: [email protected] SECURITY 1,683 EXHIBITORS Register to attend: JOINT REPRESENTING THE WWW.DSEI.CO.UK/ARMADA WHOLE SUPPLY CHAIN

Supported by Platinum Sponsors Organised by 42 INTERNATIONAL PAVILIONS STRATEGIC ANALYSIS US DOD

On 16th January 2016, world leaders met to discuss implementation of the JCPOA, including the then-US secretary of state John Kerry and Iran’s foreign secretary Mohammed Javad Zarif. BACK IN BUSINESS Iran is coming in from the cold. The lifting of sanctions regarding that country’s clandestine nuclear weapons programme has implications for the Asia-Pacific as the Islamic Republic looks to revitalise its military. by Beth Stevenson

n 16th January 2016, a powers, after restrictions were placed which agreed that Iran was no longer Joint Comprehensive Plan on the country in 2006 as a result of its developing military-grade nuclear- of Action (JCPOA) that clandestine nuclear weapons programme. related technology: “On this historic day, facilitated the relief of Verified by the International Atomic the International Atomic Energy Agency economic and financial Energy Agency (IAEA), the United has verified that Iran has implemented its sanctionsO previously placed on the Islamic Nations organisation which works to key nuclear-related measures described Republic of Iran came into force. The promote the peaceful uses of nuclear in the JCPOA, and the secretary of state JCPOA was signed by the government energy and to fight the proliferation of has confirmed the IAEA’s verification,” of Iran and representatives from the nuclear weapons technology, Iran had, the US government said in a statement governments of France, Germany, the at that point of the JCPOA’s signature, confirming the implementation of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Russia, successfully implemented: “key JCPOA in January 2016: “As a result the United Kingdom, the United States nuclear-related measures described by of Iran verifiably meeting its nuclear and the European Union (EU). Some six the JCPOA,” according to a statement commitments, the United States is today months in the making, the day marked released by the US State Department. lifting nuclear-related sanctions on Iran, the point at which Tehran could again The achievement was backed by the as described in the JCPOA.” begin to trade with a number of key world US government and the EU, both of To some degree, economic sanctions

44 | Asian Military Review | MEET US AT THE THE DESTINATION PARIS AIR SHOW FOR AEROSPACE CHALET 42

BOOK YOUR PRESENCE TODAY

12-16 NOVEMBER 2017 DWC, DUBAI AIRSHOW SITE

WWW.DUBAIAIRSHOW.AERO STRATEGIC ANALYSIS

date back to the start of the Iranian Revolution in 1979. These sanctions were imposed by the US administration Iran Air of President Jimmy Carter. However, it would be in 2006 with the UN’s passing of Resolution 1696 which called upon the Iranian government to halt its enrichment of Uranium; a vital part of nuclear weapons production. At the point of the resolution’s signature, the IAEA could not be assured that Iran would cease its uranium enrichment programme to the extent that the agency required, so sanctions were implemented. Since Iran had been largely excluded from economic and financial access to the world stage for ten years when the JCPOA came into effect, it almost immediately took advantage of its access to international trade in The first significant technology delivery into Iran was an A321 exchange for its greatest commodity: oil. airliner that was delivered in January 2017. The commercial Despite ranking sixth according to the sector was quick to jump on new opportunities with Iran, but the US Energy Information Administration in defence market has so far been more cautious. 2016 in terms of barrels-per-day production of Brent Crude, Iran was significantly impacted by the imposed sanctions which presence on the world stage. This may compliance with the JCPOA,” Airbus said hampered the Islamic Republic’s ability result in Iran targeting memberships of in a December 2016 statement: “Airbus to sell oil on the international market. supranational organisations that will will continue to act in full compliance Nevertheless, the price of oil is again on the bolster its position both in the Middle with the conditions of the OFAC licences.” rise, and the Citigroup financial company East and beyond such as the Shanghai Notably, the required OFAC authorisation announced in April that it expects Brent Cooperation Organisation, Mr. Darling demonstrates that while sanctions were Crude to reach circa $65 per barrel by the says, which is an intergovernmental body lifted by the US government, there are still end of the year. comprising Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, the certain restrictions on trade. Essentially, PRC, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. the US government will have to approve Strategic Considerations One significant post-sanction relief all trade deals with Iran, but in terms of Iran is going to want to partner with deal that Iran entered into came in defence exports, this is often the case with countries regionally and internationally December 2016, when Boeing signed an any international sale. for several strategic reasons: These agreement with Iran Air for the provision While Europe and the US were notably include improved trade relationships, of 80 aircraft worth some $16.6 billion. vocal in their support of the JCPOA being which includes direct investment into This was made up of 50 B737-MAX-8, 15 adhered to, and have since made trade Iran, mainly via the sale of domestically- B777-300ER and 15 B777-9 airliners, and deals with Iran as a result of it, the effect produced oil and gas, that will help the will replace an antiquated mixed fleet of that the JCPOA’s lifting will have on economy, Dan Darling, senior military Boeing, Airbus and Fokker airliners, some Iran’s trade with the Asia-Pacific remains markets analyst for Europe and the Asia- of which date back to the 1980s. The Boeing speculative, although it is expected to be Pacific Rim at Forecast International, told deal was followed in early April with a significant: “While commercial trade ties AMR. He continued that this would also deal worth $3 billion with Iran’s Aseman may (likely will) improve with Europe help defer focus away from the pressure Airlines for 30 B737-MAX-8 airliners, provided Tehran does not violate its treaty being laid on Tehran from the West for with options for a further 30 aircraft. A obligations, the tectonic shift in global political reform. boost in technology transfer between Iran power, demographically, economically The so-called ‘siloed approach’ Iran and Europe has also followed the lifting and militarily, favours (the Asia-Pacific) had previously taken was both as a of sanctions with a contract in December over regions such as Latin America, result of the sanctions and the political for 100 Airbus commercial airliners (A320 Africa and Europe,” Mr. Darling said. standpoint: Crucially the country is one family, A330 family and A350 family) Trade between the Middle East the of the few Muslim states in the Persian worth a reported $18 million. This deal Asia-Pacific in general is already strong Gulf region which is not a monarchy, was subject to the US government’s Office and growing, he continued, and this also the country follows the Shia branch of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) which should continue as global wealth shifts as of Islam as opposed to the Sunni branch requires a granting export licences for it is doing from the developed West to the predominantly followed by many of sales containing ten percent or more US still-developing East, regardless of Iranian Iran’s neighbours. Both of these factors technology, these licences being achieved sanctions being lifted. A report entitled have arguably differentiated Iran from in September 2016 and November The World in 2050: Will the Shift in Global other nations in the Middle East. The 2016: “Airbus coordinated closely with Economic Power Continue? published in country may use its uniqueness in these regulators in the EU, US and elsewhere February 2015 by the professional services socio-political aspects to develop a larger to ensure understanding and full firm PriceWaterhouseCoopers stated that:

46 | Asian Military Review |

STRATEGIC ANALYSIS

systems and combat boats, it remains dependent upon legacy US, Chinese and Russian-sourced hardware ranging from combat aircraft to submarines, to air- defence systems.” Among the technology imported from the PRC was the T-59 Main

Wikimedia Commons Battle Tank (MBT) which formed the basis for the Defence Industries Corporation of Iran’s T-72Z Safir-74 MBT and of particular interest to Iran would be fixed- and rotary- wing aircraft, including fighters, transports, and a whole range of rotorcraft, as well as “force multipliers” such as airborne early warning aircraft, armed High-Altitude, Long-Endurance (HALE) or Medium- The export version of the Shenyang Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) J-6 was derived from the Soviet Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and MiG-19 family fighter, and used by warships, Mr. Darling added. Iran during the Iraq-Iran War, with the Islamic Republic having received Under the terms of the JCPOA and the type from China in the 1980s. the US’ lifting of its sanctions, if a UAV contains more than ten percent of American technology, it cannot be sold to Iran. A high proportion of MALE and “The global economic power shift away Materiel HALE UAVs are US-manufactured, such from the established advanced economies Following the 1979 Revolution and as the General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper and in North America, Western Europe and subsequent restrictions laid on military Northrop Grumman RQ-4B Global Hawk Japan will continue over the next 35 years. and technology exports into Iran as a respectively, with the next big supplier of China has already overtaken the US in result of sanctions, Tehran began to these categories of systems being Israel 2014 to become the largest economy in rely upon materiel from the Democratic which, among other aircraft, produces the purchasing power parity.” People’s Republic of Korea, Russia and Israel Aerospace Industries Eitan/Heron- Although the Asia-Pacific is generally the PRC. That said, it has notably become TP MALE UAV, will not trade with Iran, more of an arms-importing region rather more independent during the intervening although covert weapons supplies are than an exporting one, the continent years as it sought to present an image of thought to have occurred from Israel to is still a key export market for Iranian reliability on its own military capabilities. Iran during the 1980s. Therefore, the PRC trade, Mr. Darling said, noting that the For example, in February 2013, the is one of the most promising vendors PRC in particular will be an opportune Iranian government announced the for this type of technology for Tehran. seller: “China is a willing arms seller that development of a fifth generation fighter Current Chinese offerings in this regard places few, if any, political conditions with a low radar cross section dubbed include the Chengdu Wing Loong/ on a buyer,” he noted: “In this respect, the Iran Aviation Industries Organisation Pterodactyl-1 MALE UAV. it is attempting to sweep in and steal Qaher-313. At the time, the Iranian some of Russia’s longstanding market government characterised the jet as: “one The Road Ahead share: “Other arms-exporting Asia- of the most sophisticated fighter jets in the While progressive for Iran’s international Pacific nations such as the Republic of world.” Nevertheless, the Korea, Singapore and now Japan are less claims Iran makes about likely to provide Iran with weaponry at its indigenous systems the risk of upsetting the United States.” are often hyperbolic, He continued that: “Iran will still seek and “these claims nearly European investment, energy trade always outpace reality,” and diplomatic support…but in terms Mr. Darling observed. of a more like-minded approach to With this in mind, it

geopolitics provided Iran remains under is likely that Iran would: Wikimedia Commons control of the clerical regime it will tilt “seek as much localised towards the Asia-Pacific,” Mr. Darling workshare and technology said, noting that on 15th November 2016 transfer as it may finagle Iran and the PRC agreed to enhance under any (defence) bilateral military cooperation, having equipment deal related shared interests in gaining strength over to high-end capabilities,” the US: “Both consider the United States Mr. Darling said: “Though meddlesome (hostile from Iran’s view) Iran has worked at and an impediment to attaining their developing and manufac- China previously provided its T-59 MBT to Iran, which in turn was own respective regional hegemony,” turing unmanned a derivative of the Soviet-era T-54A. This MBT formed the basis for the T-72Z Safir-74. he added. aerial vehicles, artillery

48 | Asian Military Review |

STRATEGIC ANALYSIS Iraqi Ministry of Defence

Iran could turn to Chinese- built MALE UAVs like the CASC CH-4 that entered service with Iraq in 2015. While the US is a world leader in the manufacture of MALE UAVs, it is unlikely to authorise a sale of this technology to Tehran.

relations, the sanctions relief is facing a with Iran comes from any inclusion Democratic People's Republic of Korea number of challenges. Firstly, it only offers of an individual or company that is (DPRK) which is pursuing a clandestine relief on some of the restrictions that were categorised on the US government’s nuclear weapons programme. in place, the rest of which will be lifted Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) It would appear that the new in 2020 if Iran continues to adhere to the list. The SDN contains names of people, freedoms beheld to Iran have not JPCOA terms. Until that point, all deals organisations and vessels with whom been wasted, as indicated by the trade that will be made over coming years will US citizens and permanent residents deals that the nation has concluded, be scrutinised by the UN Security Council are prohibited from doing business. and the previously hostile nation has on a case-by-case basis, so the volumes of Additionally, the terms of the JCPOA taken advantage of the olive branch it trade expected between Iran and the rest state that the EU and US can reverse has been offered by the international of the world will vary in terms of scale, sanctions relief at any time if it seems community via the JCPOA to increase its size and technological sophistication, Mr. that Iran is not adhering to the measures reengagement on the international stage. Darling argued: “Beyond 2020, there is that it ensured it would follow when the Where this will go remains to be seen, also the question over whether Iran may process to lift the sanctions began. and Iran has to stay on track with its initially be able to afford more expensive Despite a number of challenges, and JCPOA commitments in order to retain hardware (such as advanced missile a less than clear path in which Iran the privileges it was granted some twelve systems and combat aircraft) without will trade with the US, Europe and the months ago. The situation in 2020 will being advanced a line of credit by the Asia-Pacific, the lifting of sanctions on a be a key indicator of how successful the provider,” he added: “Russia, for instance, nation that has previously demonstrated cessation of decade-long sanctions can often extends a line of credit to interested hostility towards these regions, be, and many players are hopeful that it buyers … Furthermore, the question of particularly the US which has been can be applied to states that are equally, if how much pressure a willing seller receives referred to as “The Great Satan” in some not more, antagonistic than Iran, such as from the US, Europe, and Middle Eastern official Iranian government statements the DPRK in the future. More discussion nations like Israel and Saudi Arabia over a since 1979, is progressive to say the of Iran’s emerging relationship with potential deal and whether that effectively least. A way to further the success of actors in the Asia-Pacific can be found alters the variables in an agreement or final the Iran nuclear deal would be use it as in Dr. Aniseh Bassiri Tabrizi’s article transfer also comes into play.” a template to conclude agreements with Chabahar Project Haltingly Moves Forward Another challenge to trading other ‘countries of concern’ such as the at www.asianmilitaryreview.com. AMR

50 | Asian Military Review | new MAKS ENG-213x286+3_V.pdf 1 5/16/17 10:10 AM

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K new Boeing P8i_AMR 10590546vA_BDS_P8_Proven_210x270_X1a.pdf 1 8/18/16 10:10 AM

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K