february’12• R40

Covering Military Affairs since 1975 journal

Bringing back the Ebo 4 Exercise Good Hope V

ATE Test Fires the Ingwe

US & in Hormuz African Implications LAND FORCES AFRICA

Collaboration and co-operation for African landward defence and security.

Leading industry speakers include: Land Forces Africa 2012 is the only content-rich platform for leaders in the defence and security industry to discuss the collaboration and streamlining Lieutenant General Vusi Masondo of landward military operations in Southern African and further abroad, to Chief of the counteract internal and external threats, symmetrical and asymmetric.

This 3-day event will assist to better co-ordinate military missions by looking at building capacity for peacekeeping in Africa, defending national borders, strategically preventing warfare and terrorism, promoting internal security Lieutenant General Chander Prakash and reaching security objectives as well as facilitate the successful acquisition Force Commander for the UN of necessary equipment for land defence forces in . Stabilisation Mission to the DRC (MONUSCO) Serving military attend the El Ghassim Wane Director of Peace and Security, African conference for free!* Union Land Forces Africa will be offering 100 free delegate registrations to African serving military personnel*. Major General Fabian Zakes Msimang Chief Director: Policy and Planning, SA Air Reserve your complimentary delegate pass by registering at www. Force, landforcesafrica.com

Antonie Visser Chief Defence Matériel, Department of Gold sponsor: Bronze sponsor: Defence, South Africa

28 – 30 May 2012 Gallagher Convention Centre Johannesburg, South Africa

www.landforcesafrica.com African Armed contents

Forces 4 editorial 5 SITREP Editor: S J McIntosh 9 industry news

publishers: 16 Feature articles Africa Conflict & Defence Monitor Bringing the african union south PO Box 87561 South africa - German exercise Houghton, 2041 homeland Defence: Arguments For A Net Republic of South Africa work Centric Approach

Tel: 011 487 3396 26 Africa flashpoints Fax: 086 269 3378 Nigeria, Niger & , somalia [email protected] www.aafjournal.co.za 27 interview: CSIR Defence, Peace, Safety & Security printed by: Business Print Centre 29 global issues affecting africa Pretoria Conflict in the Hormuz Strait AND THE implications FOR AFRICA Subscriptions: 12 Months – 11 Issues: 32 profiles and appointments Local R290 Electronic COMMANDER, U.S. AFRICA COMMAND R390 Print south African Secretary of Defence International €160 Electronic €190 Print 34 letters

35 briefing room The copyright in all materials 36 book reviews printed in this journal is expressly Battle for Cassinga reserved. However, consideration will be given to any requests for selous Scout the use by others of news reports, articles and photographs, on the condition that the source of the item is clearly stated.

Submitting copy: All contributions to the journal are welcome. Articles may be emailed through to [email protected]. ISSN 0379-6477 The publishers will exercise all care but do not accept responsibility Cover Image: The USS John C Stennis in the Indian for photographs and manuscripts. Ocean. A conflict between Iran and the US Navy would Editing, changes to content and involve carrier fleets off African coastlines. Image overall editorial control is done at courtesy US Army Africa. the sole discretion of the editor.

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 03 mission The AAFJ is committed to providing its readership a quality service in order to stimulate and improve the defence debate editorial in Africa. Vision: To provide African military fter numerous deployment over recent years that involved peace professionals a public platform to support, peace enforcement combat operations the Australian discuss issues of mutual interest. Defence Force is now engaged in radical restructuring of the Army. Objectives: The focus is now on the provision of three regular force manoeuvre • Champion the role of professional Abrigades that will have amphibious capability These three brigades will be militaries within the context of the supported by six reserve brigades and all nine will include the component parts African Union in securing the peace that in the past were found in what were classed as Light Brigades, Motorized and security required for human Brigades and mechanized brigades. Each of the Regular brigades will be linked and economic development. with two of the reserve formations perhaps not so different from the present • Advocate appropriate civil-military South African Army structure. relations, especially non-partisan Experience gained over recent years with numerous deployments to curb parliamentary oversight. violent unrest on the island nations of the Pacific and to active operations in Iraq • Advance confidence and trust and Afghanistan have played a major role in this restructuring process. What is of among African armed forces and interest is the increasing focus on an amphibious capability and the purchase of military professionals. two landing helicopter dock (LHD) ships as an addition to an already existing ability. • Encourage the establishment of The Australian Army is similar to the South African Army in regular manpower Reserve Officers’ Associations and which provide their three brigades, but they are able to provide their ORBAT with reserve components within armed six Reserve Force brigades. This is something that warrants investigation, one forces. obvious reason is the way that they implement the reservist system. • Enhance and improve the The suggestion that should the situation require the deployment of a readership’s level of professional military education. peacekeeping force in Syria that South Africa would be prepared to participate and supply troops for such a mission will have come as a surprise to many. • Promote and market the indigenous defence industry. While it is generally accepted that the South African Defence force is under funded it has been able to undertake all its tasking and project the country’s image most succefully playing a major African military role in Africa. It has the ability to advisory panel apply an African solution to an African problem. In Southern Africa South Africa Dr Martin Rupiya - Executive Director has helped to develop the African Union brigade from the defense forces of the of The African Public Policy & Research region and together they have created a brigade which is an example of joint co- Institute based in Preoria. operation. The brigade has a working command and control structure that works as shown by the recent join exercise undertaken by the air force of the regional Prof Sibusiso Vil-Nkomo - Dean and countries regional countries and which showed a high standard of serviceability of Professor - Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, University of a mixed aircraft component. Perhaps the experience that has been gained by this Pretoria brigade could be used and developed by the military office of the African Union. This offer to consider deployment of South African troops outside of Africa could Maj Gen Keith Mokoape - General be seen as an indication of a flexible foreign policy. Manager: SA Army Foundation, Chief The recent Reserve Force conference in Pretoria raised a number of questions of SA Army Reserve that the system faces and not for the first time. It is now time that action be taken Brig Gen Pieter Vosloo - Former SA to address them. Of prime importance is the need for supportive employment Army Chief of Staff Infantry Formation for the reservists and it was stated that the Post Office was one employer who and former Deputy Chief Director SA provided both support and understanding. It should not need much thinking Army Force Structure. or effort to approach the other departments of state. At least to give some advantage to those who have completed the two years of voluntary service Prof Garth Shelton - Associate Professor of International Relations, when seeking employment. Wits University

04 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 Sitrep sitrep A summary of defence reports

Ebo Trust Set to Return Ebo 4 from The Ebo Trust, under the management of its chairperson, Maj Gen (Ret) G. Opperman, is set to begin the excavation and identification of four South African Defence Force (SADF) personnel killed in Ebo during part of rust T bo E

Angola officials point to one of the deceased SADF members’ suspected burial site.

Operation Savannah. A several-year project will soon see the servicemen interred at the Wall of Remembrance “Through a favourable within the grounds of the Voortrekker Monument, Pretoria. The team sets relationship enjoyed The 23 November, 1975 Battle at Ebo, which out for Angola in May. by South African resulted in Trooper Lombard was killed. The servicemen were killed in two President Zuma and separate incidents during the Ebo attack. Capt DJ Taljaard, 2nd Lt KA Angolan President Williamson, and 2nd Lt EB Thompson Dos Santos, the were shot down by Angolan anti- aircraft fire while on a reconnaissance process of identifying flight over enemy lines. Their Cessna the soldiers’ likely 185 crashed on 25 November 1975 and the bodies were never located. burial locations and rust

T Both pilots and Capt Taljaard were facilitating their return bo E killed either during the initial attack to South Africa has and subsequent crash landing, or on the ground. The details on their deaths been accelerated.“ The Eland 90mm Armoured vehicle in have not yet been confirmed. which Trooper Lombard was the driver.

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 05 Sitrep

Trooper N Lombard was the Andersen hosted the SANDF driver of his Reserve Force Strategic Work (Panhard 90mm armoured vehi- Session at the St George Hotel cle manufactured under licence in Gauteng, South Africa, from in South Africa) and was killed 16-18 February. when it was hit by an Angolan The work session is held every 75mm . four years and is designed to Through a favourable relation- take stock of Reserve Force ship enjoyed by South African achievements and objectives President Zuma and Angolan for the future. The 2012 President Dos Santos, the pro- work session highlighted the cess of identifying the soldiers’ achievements of the Reserve likely burial locations and fa- Forces so far, including the cilitating their return to South deployment in 2011 of around Africa has been accelerated 15000 reserves on operations, as somewhat. Within Ebo, local well as the significant response Angolans have been highly sup- to university recruitment drives portive of the project, with the held in targeted provinces. local Mayor and other authori- The session was visited for a part ties actively offering their sup- of the duration by the Minister of port to Opperman and his team. Defence, Lindiwe Sisulu, as well What remains to be done is a 5 as visiting American and British Chief of the Lt Gen May trip to Angola, where the Carlo Gagiano arrives at the SANDF Reserve officers invited to the event. team of forensic anthropologists Force work session. The Reserve Force has a tightly- and archaeologists shall knit relationship with the New exhume the bodies, identify and York National Guard, and has transport them to South Africa, resulted in visits by both SANDF Soldiers of 21 Battalion Conducting where further DNA tests will Reserve Force members and US a Fighting in Built-Up Areas (FIBUA) demonstration be conducted to confirm each National Guard servicemen to individual’s remains. Following their respective sister institutions that, the interment into the across the Atlantic. SADF Wall of Remembrance is scheduled to occur during the SAAF Explains the 3 June SADF Commemoration Cause of Three Day ceremonies. A109 Crashes The ceremony will represent the The three A109 Light Utility return of the last of all deceased Helicopter crashes in recent SADF personnel from Angola, years caused by mechanical closing an important chapter failure and pilot error, but all in the former defence force’s problems have been history and bringing closure resolved, the chief of the South to friends and family of the African Air Force has said. deceased servicemen. Lieutenant General Carlo Gagiano reacting to the incident SANDF Reserve involving three August 109 Force Strategic Helicopters, said “All problems Work Session have been identified and Under the co-ordination of rectified,” noting that “Air Force the Chief of the Defence Minister of Defence and Veteran’s Affairs technicians went through all the Force Reserves, Maj Gen Roy Lindiwe Sisulu addresses the work session. A109’s systems and checked all

06 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 parts to isolate the problems. Since huri’s term of office has been extended the PSC had been regularised. But entering service around five years ago, to 2014. The length of the extension Charamba released his own statement the A109 fleet has been subject to of the terms of Commanders of the later announcing the extension of several engineering changes.” Defence Forces General Chihuri’s tenure, in a move widely The three helicopters crashed as Constantine Chiwenga, Zimbabwe seen as a slap to both Tsvangirai and follows: National Army Commander Lieuten- Mutambara. May 12, 2009, an A109 crashed into ant General Philip Valerio Sibanda, Air Analysts said that Mugabe’s position, Woodstock Dam, near Bergville Marshal Perrance Shiri and Commis- as captured by Charamba’s statement, in Kwazulu-Natal.3 Crew Killed sioner of Prisons Retired Major Gener- juxtaposed against Tsvangirai and (Lieutenant Simon Baloyi, 27, Flight al Paradzai Zimondi will be announced Mutambara’s stances that Chihuri was Sergeant Moné Zuidmeer, 32, and when their current ones expire. now an acting police commissioner Captain Bongani Mdluli, 34). Gagiano The reappointments followed a general could lead to a complete said the crash was judged to be caused meeting of Principals to the Global breakdown of the government of by pilot error, as it is ‘dangerous’ flying Political Agreement (GPA) on 8 national unity. over flat water that reflects the sky. February 2012. Two helicopters were damaged in However, while Zanu-PF insists Senegalese Military November and December 2010, that all the Principals agreed to the Personnel to Vote in without casualties. On December 15, reappointments, there is confusion, 2012 2010, an A109 made an emergency with the three leaders issuing Military personnel have been allowed landing near Ballito on the KwaZulu- conflicting statements on the issue. to vote in ’s 26 February Natal north coast while assisting the While Tsvangirai and Arthur Mutambara presidential elections, which will see police and Business Against Crime. said the principals agreed Chihuri was incumbent, Abdoulaye Wade, aiming “During the flight, the pilot lost control now working in an acting capacity until for a third term. of the helicopter and had to execute the principals decided on his future, This is only the second election where an emergency landing. There were President Mugabe insists the issue Senegalese army and paramilitary no serious injuries reported, but the is resolved because his contract was corps have been allowed to vote since commander of the aircraft and a civilian extended to 2014. independence in 1960. In the previous were taken to the Ballito Hospital for Tsvangirai’s spokesperson, Luke elections, observers believed that the observation,” the SANDF said. The Tamborinyoka, dismissed Charamba’s majority of officers and soldiers, who rotorcraft was carrying a crew of two pronouncement as “utter rubbish”. dressed in civilian clothes when voting, and two passengers. Mutambara concurred, saying: “We could have voted for Wade. One A109 damaged in a hard landing stick to the content of our press Since the beginning of 2012, Senegal near Potchefstroom in the Northwest conference yesterday (Wednesday). has been beset with pre-election Province in November 2010. No We have documented records of violence thus far with numerous serious injuries occurred. our meeting of principals done by groups opposing Wade’s run for a Gagiano said that the cause of one of the Chief Secretary to Cabinet (Dr third term. Wade holds that changes the 2010 crashes was due to tail rotor Mischeck Sibanda).” made to the country’s constitution, failure while the other crash was caused If he is reappointed, this will be the which was altered in 2001 to include when a swash plate control rod broke, 14th time that Chihuri’s contract has a presidential two-term limit, does not but that all mechanical problems have been renewed since his first term apply to him since his first term fell been solved. expired in 1997. Chihuri took over under the previous ruling. as acting commissioner from Henry Violence has been on the increase in Zimbabwean Police Mukurazhizha in 1991 before assuming Senegal as the elections approach, with Commissioner’s the position on a full time basis in 1993. the youth especially taking exception Contract Extended Before the GPA meeting, Tsvangirai to what they see as Wade manipulating – Defence Forces to met with Mugabe in their usual a system that will ultimately see his son Follow weekly meetings where, according to assume power. Among these groups Mugabe recently extended the terms minutes of their meeting which were are Y’en a marre (which means ‘fed up’ of office of all service chiefs. Police leaked to the media, they agreed to in French) and the June 23 Movement Commissioner-General Augustine Chi- defer the appointment of Chihuri until (M23), a movement that grew out

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 07 Sitrep

of the 23 June 2011 protests to to the position of a “hired thug” for No amount of arrest of leaders will Wade’s attempt to hold a constitution Goodluck Jonathan. stop us from striking, but... we will changing referendum. The South African Department of In- strike and it will be soon. Prominent opposition candidate, ternational Relations and Cooperation Other South Africa companies present and music icon, Youssou N’Dour’s (DIRCO) has noted that it will investi- in Nigeria include the following: presidential hopes were dashed, along gate these threats. Clayson Monyela, • Multichoice with a number of other opposition spokesperson for the department de- • South African Airways candidates at the end of January, clared that “it is matter we’ll look into • Sasol just before Wade was given the go- definitely: terrorism has to be rooted • Stanbic Africa ahead to run for a third term. This out.” Moreover, DIRCO seems con- • Securicor Gray has left Wade with only 13 disparate fident in the capabilities of Nigerian • Eskom opponents. authorities as Monyela stated that they • The Industrial Development have “always been responsive to acts Corporation MEND Threatens that are unlawful.” • Rand Merchant Bank South African In addition to threats by MEND, the • Protea Hotels Investments in Islamic terrorist organisation Boko Nigeria Haram, which operates mainly in The Movement of the Emancipation of northern Nigeria, has further threatened the Niger Delta (MEND) has resumed to attack all telecommunication hostilities in Nigeria. Not only have corporations operating in the state. they taken to targeting various pipelines and foreign facilities in the oil-rich south, but they recently “In addition to threatened to bomb South African investments in their country. threats by MEND, This decision follows an alleged the Islamic terrorist interference by President Jacob Zuma in the organisation’s organisation Boko mandate. In this regard, Henry Haram, which operates Okah, a former leader of MEND, is currently on trial in South Africa mainly in northern for terrorist attacks during Nigeria’s Nigeria, has further Independence Day celebrations in threatened to attack 2010. MEND further claims that Zuma has become a trusted crony all telecommunication of Nigerian President Goodluck corporations operating Jonathan, which shall lead only to unfortunate consequences. in the state. “

MEND issued the following warning through its spokesperson, This includes the likes of MTN, Airtel, Jomo Gbomo: Glo and NCC. Boko Haram claims that In the dark days to come, MTN, these entities aided the arrest of its SACOIL and other South African top members by providing Nigerian Investments will pay a heavy price security agents with the call logs of key for the interference of Jacob Zuma in leaders in the organisation. the legitimate fight for justice in the Boko Haram has issued the Niger Delta by its people. The South following warning: African president has reduced himself No matter what we cannot be deterred.

08 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 industry news industry news Developments in the sector

The salt Test. Milspec paint samples requires 500 hours in this Paint scratch test. Sample paint must not flake off when device. Varcol is proven to over 1000. scratched.

throughout units. South African Industry News The SA Army are currently provided by “Varcol has been a rather obscure (outside of the industry Varcol Paints the at least) paint manufacturer call Varcol. providing high-grade SA Army Varcol has been providing high-grade paints and coatings in The technology of military paint is often paints and coatings in South Africa for overlooked in examining a system and thirty years, and took over the provision South Africa for thirty its effectiveness in combat. Historically of paint for the SA Army when national years, and took over military paint has progressed to the paint giant Plascon withdrew its business the provision of paint point where simply adding a daub from the military sphere. The paint of whitewash during winter is wholly coating virtually all systems in the Army, for the SA Army when unsatisfactory for modern wartime from passenger vehicle to Ratel, has national paint giant equipment. Combining the correct been provided by Varcol and adhere to chemicals and compounds necessary for the strictest standards. Plascon withdrew its a paint coating that will not only provide Military Specification or “milspec” paint business from the good camouflage for vehicles, but also is not easy to make. It must conform to remain durable through all weather a very strict balance of colour, gloss and military sphere.” and combat conditions and ensure a infrared value. Achieving this balance consistent look and level of concealment is incredibly demanding, as altering

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 09 industry news

the colour can affect the other two additional supplementary surveillance detection performance of both air and properties in the paint. The benefit of capabilities. Reutech Radar Systems, a sea targets as well as the system’s ability utilising the water-based, South African- South African radar development and to classify targets as surface, fixed wing manufactured paint is obvious: It’s vastly manufacturing company was contracted or helicopter. Sustained performance in cheaper than European or American by Electronicon A.S. as the major sub- the presence of electronic counter-mea- counterparts, yet provides the same supplier into the program. sures has confirmed the status of RSR (and potentially better) quality. Providing To date RSR 210N has been installed 210N as a true naval radar. paint for a vastly cheaper price while The successful completion of the Final still maintaining its quality should be Qualification Review establishes RSR a significant consideration for any “Reutech Radar 210N’s operational standing aboard international defence company or Systems, a South principal warships of a leading NATO national military seeking to source navy. new paint providers for their African radar Source: Reutech products or systems. development and The military paint by Varcol is ATE Fires Ingwe from manufactured to British Military manufacturing company EC 635 specifications, which by extension was contracted by 20 January 2012 implies a rudimentary NATO Advanced Technologies and Engineering specification. The pain is also Electronicon A.S. as Co. (Pty) Ltd successfully completed the strictly tested both in-house by the major sub-supplier first airborne firing of the INGWE missile technicians and through the into the (RSR 210N) from the EC635 helicopter at the De Council for Scientific and Industrial Wet Weapons range near Research, or CSIR. The CSIR ensure program.” that the randomly-tested samples match the criteria of RSA-MIL- SPEC 42 through rigorous testing at their own Pretoria facilities. aboard KNM Otto Sverdrup, KNM Roald There is a common misconception that Amundsen and KNM Fridtjof Nansen Africa lacks a sophisticated defence with the balance of the five systems on industry beyond the offerings from schedule for delivery later this year and Denel and other larger manufacturers, early next year. but this is patently untrue. The A significant milestone was reached provision of world-class military paint with the successful completion of the is a capability provided in Africa, by Final Qualification Review following Africans, for a vastly reduced price. Sea Acceptance Trials in Norwegian waters at the end of June this year. As Reutech’s RSR 210N part of the run-up to these trials, several Air/Sea Surveillance engineering trials were conducted, Radar Completes often executed under adverse weather Final Qualification and sea state conditions. The trials Electronicon A.S. a Norwegian collectively proved the system’s defence equipment supply company ability to provide the ship with a was contracted in December 2007 high performance supplementary air/ by the Norwegian Defence Logistics sea surveillance capability as well as Organisation (NDLO) to supply five RSR to provide high accuracy helicopter 210N X-Band air/ sea surveillance radars. position reporting even under complex This contract was awarded for radar clutter conditions encountered in the systems to be applied aboard the Aegis- Norwegian landward, littoral and open equipped Fridtjof Nansen-class frigates sea environments. of the Royal Norwegian Navy with primary These trials comprised extensive accu- role as helicopter control radar and racy measurements, near and far range

10 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 industry news

during December 2012. The guided missile capability development forms shows GI-30: 30mm part of the second phase of the Stand CamGun Alone Weapons System (SAWS) As part of its development contract development programme contracted for South Africa’s new generation to ATE by European helicopter infantry combat vehicle, Denel Land manufacturer Eurocopter. ATE’s CEO, Systems (DLS) is progressing well with Willie van Biljon, praised the effort from the development of its GI-30: 30mm the development team in achieving this CamGun. major milestone. The GI-30 is a unique externally driven “The successful firing of the INGWE electro-mechanical cannon, utilising missile demonstrates the pinpoint a drum-cam to cycle the breech to accuracy capability of the SAWS and chamber rounds and extract spent EC635 helicopter”, stated Mark R. cartridges, thus minimising gasses in Henning, Eurocopter’s programme the confines of a turret and facilitate for Army, the weapon will have an effective manager for the Danube Programme. controlled firing rate. DLS designed range of 4000m. The first phase of the SAWS Programme the GI-30 to fire link-less 30mm x 173 All in all, the development of GI-30 is part comprising the qualification of the ammunition through a dual feeder – a of an contract signed during ballistic capability using the FN Herstal world-first for this kind of weapon. 2007 for the ‘Badger’ Infantry Combat HMP–400 12.7mm machine gun, Nexter As a single-shot weapon, GI-30 is also Vehicle. Successful milestones have thus NC-621 20mm cannon and FZ-233 unique for its sniper mode of operation. far been reached with the development 70mm rocket launcher was completed It is fired from a closed breech position, phase of the ‘Badger’ ICV. during the last quarter of 2011. which offers more accurate fire due to As a state-owned-enterprise, DLS is The qualification of the guided missile no movement taking place immediately a landward defence system solutions (INGWE) capability is planned for before the round is fired. business. Its primary focus is to provide completion during the first quarter of Another unique feature of the GI-30 is products to the South African National 2012. that of ‘next round selection’. Having Defence Force (SANDF), for which The SAWS will allow light and medium two feeders with general ammunition it acts as a prime contractor. It also helicopters to perform in a range of on the right-hand and specialist types serves the international customers as missions, including: in the other feeder, the weapon allows a world-class systems integrator and • Surveillance and armed reconnaissance the operator to select a specific round, subsystem supplier. • Airborne Command and Control without first firing off or ejecting an • Close Air Support unwanted round. NAVANTIA & VEECRAFT • Maritime patrol, littoral warfare (anti- Ammunition is replenished from the MARINE SIGN piracy), Coast Guard supply inside the turret. With an eye MEMORANDUM OF • Counter insurgency on specific requirements laid down by UNDERSTANDING • Anti-terrorism the client (the South African Army), DLS • Potential for light ASuW and ASW designed the weapon with a 3-round The SAWS typically comprises: burst-shoot mode at 60 rounds per • A core element including a Mission minute, for both general and specialised & Firing Control Computer, together ammunition. Empty cartridge shells are with controls and components to ejected to the left side of the weapon. interface the crew and the platform. So far, DLS conducted a number of • A choice of sensors: FLIR, TV, HUD, test qualifications of the weapon using HMSD. SAPHEI, APFSDS (Armoured Piercing avantia • A choice of guided weapons providing Fin-Stabilised Discarding Sabot) and TPT N the necessary flexibility for a given (Target Practice Type) ammunition types. mission. With its double baffle muzzle-brake, the February 2012. – Spanish shipbuilder • A choice of unguided weapons. GI-30 has a single recoil mechanism. In Navantia and South African shipbuilder - By John Reynolds its application as envisaged in the SA Veecraft Marine have signed a

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 11 industry news

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) One of the key strategic actions for the construction in South Africa recommended in Paul Rizzo’s ‘Plan of Navantia’s Avante class Inshore & to Reform Support Ship Repair and Offshore Patrol Vessels. Management Practices’ report, published Navantia was invited in June 2011 to in July 2011, was that “Navy Engineering submit information for the construction should be rebuilt and reorganised to of these vessels for the South African reduce fragmentation, increase authority, Navy in terms of Project Biro, and both clarify accountability, and enable the companies are gearing themselves up Head of Navy Engineering to fulfil his role for the possibility of new business that as the Technical Regulatory Authority.” may flow therefrom. concerted effort will be made to finalise The report continues: “It should be led The MOU is indicative of Navantia’s and certify the ASSTA 3.0 software. The by a 2-star Navy Officer to give weight to serious intention of offering vessels first Tornados upgraded will then be this important technical and compliance with cutting edge technology to the SA delivered to the German Air Force in function.” Navy whilst at the same time working mid-2012 as planned. Source: Babcock International hand in hand with local industry in the Source : Cassidian construction of these vessels. New USAF X-Plane, Columbian Naval the X-56A UAV Industry Grows In exclusive coverage, Aviation Week has international Industry News Stronger revealed a new U.S. Air Force X-plane, “A.R.C. 20 de Julio”, joins the National the X-56A Unmanned Aerial Vehicle US - Israel Arrow Navy fleet. 1000 direct work posts and (UAV), which will test active flutter Weapon System 1500 indirect work posts generated by suppression and gust load alleviation-- Completes Cotecmar through the construction of vital technologies that will propel the Successful Flight this vessel. The delivery of the “A.R.C. development of slender, lightweight, Test 20 de Julio” vessel by Cotecmar to high-aspect-ratio wings for future The Israel Missile Defense Organization the Colombian Navy consolidates the transports and intelligence, surveillance and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency and reconnaissance UAVs. Designed completed a successful test of the by Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works, the cooperative U.S.-Israel Arrow Weapon X-56A flying wing will also be flown by System (AWS) over the Mediterranean NASA and is considered the future of Sea today. Data collected from the flight high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) test will be used to verify functionality reconnaissance aircraft. of the Block 4 AWS. The success of the Source: Aviation Week test is the final test before delivery of the Block 4 Arrow Weapon System. This was a major milestone in the development of “Designed by the Arrow Weapon System and provides reemergence of an industry that, until Lockheed Martin’s confidence in operational Israeli recently, was not too widely known in Skunk Works, the capabilities to defeat the developing Columbia. ballistic missile threat. Source : Cotecmar X-56A flying wing will Source : Missile Defense Agency (MDA) also be flown by NASA Ernst & Young to 1st flight of TORNADO deliver Rizzo support and is considered the production aircraft Ernst & Young (E&Y) has teamed with future of high-altitude, with ASSTA 3.0 Babcock to win a contract to provide The first ASSTA 3.0 production aircraft support to the Royal Australian Navy long-endurance performed its functional maiden flight (RAN) in delivering a blueprint to (HALE) reconnaissance at Cassidian’s Manching site on 8 ‘Rebuild Navy Engineering Capability’, aircraft.” February. Over the next few months, a following the Rizzo Report.

12 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 Natick Uses Efficient need and confirm that the software Airdrop Testing “The goal of the was ready to test-fly, and the first Drop zone testing options for the Army and Air Force systems with that capability went Airdrop Technology Team at Natick is to reduce the risk into theater about 18 months later Soldier Research, Development and having withstood rigorous testing at Engineering Center have been used of ground fire by Yuma Proving Ground, Ariz., where all to ensure Science and Technology flying higher and systems are rigorously tested before research projects stay on schedule and fielding. within budget. farther away from “We scouted a particularly difficult ravine Commercial drop zones such as Skydive the intended airdrop to mimic the kinds of drop zones we Arizona and Red Lake are ideal facilities have in Afghanistan,” said Tavan. “The for Airdrop’s preliminary testing. system impact points. software is there now, and we continue “We started using these drop zones Within the past six to make it better. That’s something that a lot for early parts of the cargo drop years, Airdrop’s focus we would have had to start at square programs and tests,” said Steve Tavan, one, but we didn’t because we had it Airdop Technology Team research has been precision going.” leader. “I am allocated a budget and landing.” Besides upcoming projects, which have a defined schedule, as are lots of include video navigation and additional degrees of control authority for the parachutes, the Airdrop team is working on reshaping the flow of air by cutting a set of slits through canopies, which have flaps that are can be opened in flight. “This will decrease the amount of weight for motor and batteries, save weight and save cost,” Tavan said. The Airdrop Technology Team is clearly focused on efficiently providing the war fighter with what they need in the timeliest manner possible. By Alexandra Foran, NSRDEC Public Affairs Source : US Army

Japan Orders my other colleagues.” “We have a lot of Soldiers out there in Airborne Laser Mine “If I had to do everything at the most austere bases,” Tavan said. “We have Detection Systems stringent testing level, I don’t even think lots of places where men and women The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force it would happen, because we’re working are in combat situations and might not has purchased four helicopter-mountable, on cutting-edge technology,” Tavan be able to get supplies through any laser mine detection. This is the first direct explained. “It’s all new and different, so other means than from the air.” commercial sale of Northrop Grumman it has to be checked out thoroughly.” The team has worked extensively Corporation’s (NYSE:NOC) Airborne The Airdrop Technology Team has been on sophisticated flight software Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS) to improving airdrop capabilities at an ever- (essentially, an auto-pilot) that includes an international navy. increasing rate over the last 10 years. the ability to avoid crashing into The mine detection system is laser- The goal of the Army and Air Force is ground terrain. Six months after they based and utilizes streak tube imaging to reduce the risk of ground fire by started working on collision avoidance, light detection and ranging (LIDAR) to flying higher and farther away from the a Joint Urgent Operational Needs detect, classify and localize near-surface intended airdrop system impact points. Statement was released that required moored sea mines. With high area Within the past six years, Airdrop’s terrain-avoidance software. coverage rate capability, the system focus has been precision landing. Tavan was able to respond to this transmits a fan-shaped beam of laser

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 13 industry news

light to establish its swath width, and an even higher rise in earnings: EBIT publish its final figures for fiscal 2011 on then relies on the forward motion of the climbed by €57 million from the €297 March 21, 2012. helicopter to sweep the light over the million figure achieved the previous year water in a “push broom” manner. – an increase of 19%. Hence, the EBIT GD and BAE Source : Northrop Grumman Corporation margin in the Group has improved from Demonstrate 81mm (NYSE:NOC) 7.4% (2010) to 7.9% in fiscal 2011. The Precision Rheinmetall Group also achieved a new Round Babcock tests AWD record in earnings before taxes (EBT) of General Dynamics Ordnance and torpedo launcher €295 million. EBT is up €66 million or Tactical Systems, a business unit of Testing of the Mk32 Mod 9 torpedo 29% year-on-year. General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), and launchers is underway at Babcock’s The Automotive sector excelled, with BAE Systems (LSE: BA) have successfully Techport Australia premises. Two Mk32 a very pleasant development in sales demonstrated a tactical version of their Mod 9 torpedo launcher assemblies combined with a particularly positive 81mm Roll Control Guided Mortar will be mounted in magazine growth in earnings. Automotive has (RCGM) at Yuma Proving Grounds, Ariz., compartments, port and starboard, on boosted sales by €331 million or 17% in January. each of the three Hobart class AWDs. to €2,313 million (2010: €1,982 million). Sixteen rounds were tested in total, all The system is made up of three main The sector achieved an increase in EBIT of which guided to within an average components; a launcher, an air charging of €70 million or 86%, which now totals miss distance of approximately seven panel and a torpedo loading tray. The meters from the target at ranges from air charging panel and loading tray have 980 meters to 4,000 meters. been designed by Babcock to meet the “The BAE Systems The tactical configuration of the RCGM requirements of the AWD Alliance. 81mm mortar system used the current UK L41 high explosive Source : Babcock International mortar round and a six-increment is in service with more propulsion charge system produced by Rheinmetall Releases than 40 countries BAE Systems. The guidance package 2011 Sales Figures developed by General Dynamics consists • Consolidated sales up 12% to €4,454 worldwide, including of a GPS receiver, standard M734A1 million the U.S. and UK, multi-option fuze components, and the • Growth in Automotive and Defence so we see a large company’s patented Roll-Controlled sectors Fixed Canard (RCFC) control system. • Earnings before interest and taxes potential market for This success is the result of a great team (EBIT) up 19% to €354 million this low-cost precision including the U.S. Army ARDEC and • Earnings before taxes (EBT) increases Yuma Proving Grounds test community. by 29% to €295 million round which can be The telemetry and high-speed video Rheinmetall AG, based in Düsseldorf, fired from our mortar coverage from the tests demonstrate, achieved significant growth in sales without a question, the maturity and and earnings in fiscal 2011. Preliminary tube without any capability of our 81mm RCGM. We are consolidated earnings before interest modification.” now in a position to offer the U.S., UK and taxes (EBIT) reached a new high and other allies an affordable guided at €354 million. Sales generated in the 81mm precision mortar capability in the fiscal year total €4,454 million according very near term.” to preliminary figures. heinmetall had €151 million (2010: €81 million). “The BAE Systems 81mm mortar system recently forecast sales of €4.4 billion and In the year under review, sales in the is in service with more than 40 countries EBIT between €340 million and €360 Defence sector increased by 7% or €134 worldwide, including the U.S. and UK, million. million to €2,141 million (2010: €2,007 so we see a large potential market for Rheinmetall has expanded the sales million). At €223 million, EBIT is slightly this low-cost precision round which can volume in both sectors and reports down on the previous year’s figure of be fired from our mortar tube without growth of approximately 12% in fiscal €234 million. With an EBIT margin of any modification,” said Ian Anderton, 2011 compared with the previous year’s 10.4% the Defence sector has again managing director of BAE Systems figure of €3,989 million. There has been reached a high level. Rheinmetall will Global Combat Systems Munitions.

14 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 Land Systems South Africa delivers security. For years, we’ve designed and produced mine-protected and armoured We deliver vehicles, mechanical transmission systems, weapons training systems and turrets for the South African National Defence Force and the , as well as many global customers. But as defence we build these products, we’re building our communities too. We help create and sustain thousands of jobs at more than 380 businesses in our supply chain and support and our work force and future generations through education, skills improvement and research. Most of all, we’re providing security to the men and women who make Security. the world a safer place for us all.

www.baesystems.com FEATURE ARTICLE

Using SADC as a lead actor in AU military Feature affairs. Article: By John Stupart Bringing the African Union South

There were allegations of intensive French lobbying for the re-election of Ping, which might well have triggered this reponse during the fourth round of voting. While giving Zuma a second chance at the seat is encouraging for SADC members, there is a very crucial aspect of the AU which SADC states would do well to consider: The Standby Force. The AU Standby Force (ASF) provides a very good opportunity for the SADC Brigade to place a 100 percent African military structure in the AU. With scepticism rife on French involvement in Ping’s election campaign, the entire Commission has been cast in some doubt. Combined with this, the ASF remains questionable in terms of whether it can actually fulfil its current obligations. The outline of Amani Africa II was widely-publicised he AU Commissioner position had election process is resumed. throughout the AU, and held a received a dramatic turn of events This turn of events gives new hope to respectable regime of preparations T during the fourth round in mid- South African Home Affairs Minister, designed at creating a force capable February. During a two day closed session, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, who is now of successfully completing a Scenario Ping was effectively deprived of the two- back in contention for the top seat. 61 exercise. Amani Africa I concluded thirds majority needed for re-election, Political leadership of the AU now successfully in October 2010 but was in itself a rather unprecedented turn of remains in question for six months, poorly attended by ambassadorial events, as the fourth round generally but provides an excellent opportunity staff. Nonetheless, the initial exercise only has one nominee on the roster, and for SADC member states to redouble pointed out the value and potential the outstanding nations generally rally their efforts. For now, however, Ping will of interoperability, teamwork, and around him or her. However, with the lack remain as Commissioner, along with the general multinational co-operation of a two-thirds majority – Ping was short commission heads, in order to ensure the that was achieved through the 200 by three – A new commissioner must operation of the AU during this somewhat odd personnel involved. be elected in six months time, when the unprecedented state of affairs. The African Peace and Security

16 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 Scenario 1. AU/Regional military advice to a political mission. “The outline of Amani Africa II was widely- Scenario 2. AU/Regional observer mission co-deployed with UN mission. publicised throughout the AU, and held a Scenario 3. Stand-alone AU/Regional observer mission. respectable regime of Scenario 4. AU/Regional peacekeeping force (PKF) for Chapter preparations designed VI and preventive deployment missions. at creating a force

Scenario 5. AU PKF for complex multidimensional PK mission- capable of successfully low level spoilers (a feature of many current conflicts). completing a Scenario 6

Scenario 6. AU intervention for example in genocide situations exercise.” where the international community does not act promptly.

Architecture (APSA) roadmap requires With the Eastern and Western battling Firstly, the political considerations were regional brigades to be ready to the rising scourge of terrorism in their a major consideration for the failure by implement Scenario 6 of the Conflict regions and the Northern Brigade in Zuma to gain the Commissioner seat. and Missions Scenarios: an understandable disarray following Political analyst Stephen Friedman But Amani Africa II is somewhat unclear, the Arab Spring, the rational course of noted that the real reason behind this with very little information forthcoming action would be to employ the SADC opposition to a SADC Commissioner on the status of the intiating conference Brigade commanders in the ASF as was due to the concern that with held in late 2011 nor of the 1st overall coordinators not only of Amani “SADC (and South African) economic Joint Field Reconnaissance that was Africa II, but of current operational infrastructure strength, other countries scheduled for February. The cycle is responsibility not adequately feared that SA would dominate Africa being jointly run with European Union, addressed by the AU as it stands. politically if given a chance.” The with the AU command component Johan Potgieter, a senior researcher at common sense reaction to this would including officers from Nigeria, Mali, the Pretoria-based Institute for Security be “why not?” If a SADC member Cameroon, and Ghana. Funded Studies (ISS) stated in 2010 that “The state, representing a region which through the EU African Peace Facility, selection and further development exudes capability, can take the helm of the cycle, while important, has a strong of senior leaders in missions should the AU and provide needed direction European presence. But without an be seriously considered, as making in an organisation that otherwise lacks unambiguous way forward towards decisions (any decision) seems to be a this, it should be done. the full completion of Amani Africa II, general problem.” In this regard, SADC The same applies in a military a major question is one of whether the commanders can assist in breaking the context (perhaps more so) in that the ASF can actually possess Scenario 6 paralysis of the ASF if given command SADC Brigade has proven its decision- intervention capability by 2015? in Addis Ababa rather than Gaborone. making ability in military interventions Currently the SADC Brigade is the On both the political and defence during Exercise Golfinho highlighted most functional and up-to-date standby considerations for the AU there are SADC readiness and progress along force at the AU’s disposal. But its serious obstacles to overcome in the roadmap towards Scenario 6. At involvement in ASF Brigade command considering a SADC Commissioner or present the SADC Brigade is on track is muted. This should be changed. SADC Brigade command in Ethiopia. towards this, and remains one of the

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 17 FEATURE ARTICLE

only regional forces with the potential reformation of the Northern Brigade, from external pressures, political to achieve that AU milestone by particularly when considering South and military, and select both a 2015. The true value in this regard is African experience in the problems of Commissioner and a command that is in the sense of a SADC-led ability to post-conflict reorganisation of a state based on the ability to make decisions expand decision-making and training defence force. and steer the organisation forward. efficiency throughout the ASF. It would Ultimately the AU is presented with If political envy of SADC economic certainly stand in good stead in the a golden opportunity to step away power can be put to the wayside in the interests of a common good, then all African parties involved in the ASF and beyond stand to benefit. ”If a SADC member state, representing a region which exudes capability, can take John Stupart has a Masters degree in Strategic Studies and works as an author the helm of the AU and provide needed for a major defence publication. He has direction in an organisation that otherwise presented work on North and Eastern lacks this, it should be done.” African strategic issues and has written his thesis on piracy in the Gulf of Aden. frica A rmy US A US

African Union soldiers can be best-prepared for ASF deployments through a sound command structure in Ethiopia.

18 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 FEATURE ARTICLE

The fifthS outh Africa - German Naval exercise will see a deepening inspection of counter- piracy capabilities South Africa – in the Mozambican Channel. Good Hope German Naval V has the potential for showcasing African Exercises: maritime capability in an ocean space exercise good dominated by foreign hope v Navies.

s part of South Africa’s bi- by the German Task Force Group major concern for governments from lateral military commitments outside of its NATO obligations. Somaliland to and South A and agreements, the country As the planning of the exercise provides Africa. Exercise Good Hope V will be engages regularly in bi- or multi-lateral for a major part of the exercise top be conducted off the coast of Mozambique military exercises with a number of conducted in the Mozambique channel, and the aim is to conduct exercises that countries. According to the South Mozambican observers were due to will facilitate the sharing of expertise in African Navy (SAN), the SAN has always sought to benchmark itself with and take its rightful place amongst the major navies of the world and regular exercises “This series of exercises, the fifth to be are conducted with foreign navies. conducted in South African waters between Exercise Good Hope is a large-scale bi-national and joint exercise between the two countries, is also the largest the SAN, the South African Air Force undertaken by the German Task Force (SAAF) and the German Navy and takes place off the waters of South Africa on Group outside of its NATO obligations.” a bi-annual basis. The first phase will take place between 29 February and 10 March, whilst the final phase will take place between 11 and 25 March embark on board the SAS Isandlwana for general and anti-piracy operations in 2012. Both Durban and Simon’s Town the first stage of the exercise. particular. The SAN will utilise their will be used during this later phase. frigate currently involved with anti- A German navy frigate is thus due Focus Good Hope V: piracy operations in the Mozambique in South Africa at the end of February Anti-Piracy Channel (Operation Copper). The to partake in Exercise Good Hope V, a Factors such as financial constraints German Navy will also be utilizing a series of naval and air exercises between and, more importantly, the threat of vessel that is returning from Operation and South Africa. This series piracy off the African East Coast, have Atalanta, the European Union’s Naval of exercises, the fifth to be conducted in combined to focus the exercise on a Force counter-piracy operation in the South African waters between the two real-life scenario that has grabbed Gulf of Aden and Somali Basin. countries, is also the largest undertaken the headlines and constitutes a The German Navy will be

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 19 FEATURE ARTICLE

represented by FGS Lübeck, a frigate between South Africa and Mozambique far south as in the Mozambique channel which also carries two Sea Lynx Mk covering South Africa’s assistance in are beyond the scope of control by the 88 helicopters and a marine boarding anti-piracy patrols was not yet in place limited Mozambique naval assets. The team. In January the Lübeck forced and consequently the Navy will cease to SAN is currently thus performing duties Somali pirates to release an Indian operate in the Mozambican Channel until that Mozambique cannot perform and dhow with 15 Indian mariners held such time as the MoU had been signed. would not seem to be able to perform as hostages and the ship would thus This will impact on the first part anytime soon. Exercise Good Hope V be able to impart valuable practical of Exercise Good Hope V, as it is should thus have been seen by Mozam- experience and lessons learned during supposed to be conducted in the bique as an opportunity for its naval offi- the exercise. The SAN will participate with two frigates, SAS Isandlwana in “Exercise Good Hope V should thus Mozambique and SAS Amatola in South Africa. A Super Lynx Mk 64 have been seen by Mozambique as an helicopter configured for surface opportunity for its naval officers and sailors search is embarked on the Isandlwana, whilst the SAAF will provide a to learn valuable lessons and perhaps even C-47 TP maritime patrol Dakota in lay the groundwork for tangible and direct Mozambique. SAS Queen Modjadji future assistance by Germany and the EU in 1 will be the submarine component and boarding teams consisting of expanding its naval capacity.” Special Forces and Maritime Reaction Squadron personnel will assist.

Potential Friction Mozambique Channel. A second cers and sailors to learn valuable lessons It would appear, however, that there stage of the exercise will be conducted and perhaps even lay the groundwork appears to be some confusion off the eastern and southern coasts of for tangible and direct future assistance regarding the continuation of South South Africa. by Germany and the EU in expanding its Africa’s anti-piracy operation in the It now appears that SAS Isandlwana naval capacity. This would be crucial in Mozambique Channel. The SAN, with will return to South Africa shortly and light of the fact that Somali pirates are the aid and support of Mozambique, Exercise Good Hope V will commence known to have conducted operations in has maintained a forward station at the off Durban and then proceed south to the northern part of the Mozambique port of Pemba since early 2011, under Simon’s Town. According to one naval channel and Mozambique’s fledgling Operation Copper. officer, Mozambique is not happy off-shore energy exploitation sector The naval presence generally consists about the fact that South Africa had could be at future risk of pirate attacks. of a frigate supported by a C-47TP the “audacity” to invite the German The Mozambican reaction to the Ger- Dakota reconnaissance aircraft of the Navy to participate in a joint exercise man presence in the Channel would thus SAAF. A SAN submarine has also been off Mozambique. seem relatively short-sighted, especially on patrol in the region. Navy frigate as Mozambique does not even have SAS Isandlwana replaced SAS Mendi on Comments a naval presence in the Channel, and station in December 2011. South African The Mozambican navy has no deep wa- a possible example of national pride parliamentary authorisation for the anti- ters capacity and is not even able to com- standing in the way of a practical ap- piracy mission expires on March 31 this bat illegal commercial fishing conducted proach to contributing to a solution to year and senior Navy personnel stated off the Mozambique coast, as its inshore a growing problem. It is believed, how- that SAS Isandlwana is due to return and harbour patrol vessels cannot pur- ever, that sanity would prevail and all to South African waters shortly as the sue those commercial fishing vessels too participants would gain from the experi- Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) far off-shore. Even pirates operating as ence of Exercise Good Hope V.

20 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 FEATURE ARTICLE

Homeland Brian Naude, Pr Eng, Defence: South Africa, CSIR DPSS, explains the value of a Arguments for a net-centric approach Network Centric to homeland security, particularly in securing Approach state borders

Perspective e) Militia incursions across borders countries are involved the equivalent Homeland Defence in Operations Other Each threat type has unique counterparts, especially security Than War (OOTW) is a challenging characteristics and needs to be agencies, also become role-players if business with many facets that determine dealt with differently by the various cooperation agreements are in place. the manner in which such a defence is government agencies in terms The presence of many role-players, given effect. The legal framework within of country and international law. each with its own function, and which Homeland Defence may take place Consequently the government agency culture, which are not well structured is complex given the various threat types individuals directly involved need to and cooperate on a mutual basis and the remedies available to deal with know what may be done by whom. The only, presents many challenges for them. The complexity is exacerbated in perpetrators will also have knowledge command and control efforts to achieve an international arena by agreements, of means to circumvent/ delay law Homeland Defence objectives. These different cultures and political agendas enforcement to their advantage. objectives can form a basis for common to serve national interests. The allocation Therefore there is a need for integrated intent amongst role-players. of resources is problematic as there are teams of diverse specialists to handle always shortages and the application each situation effectively. Command and Control thereof is hampered by organisational Command and Control (C&C) is an and technical interoperability issues. Role-players ancient issue and the effectiveness Several important factors that impact The key role-players in the RSA context thereof depends on many factors. Homeland Defence are indicated in consist of, but are not limited to, the Management or C&C functions in this Figure 1. following: case typically comprise: a) South African National Defence a) Setting goals Threats and Force (SANDF) b) Organising (roles, responsibilities) Characteristics b) Police services c) Creating business rules (how to) The threats identified come in many c) Customs and Excise d) Allocating resources guises and are categorised as follows d) National Intelligence e) Monitoring (assessing execution for this discussion: e) Foreign Affairs performance, implementing corrective a) Refugees f) Port Authorities action) The above functions are b) Illegal immigrants g) Civil Aviation generic in nature and are likely to be c) Cross-border criminal activity h) Social Services named differently depending on the d) Criminal activity in international i) Department of Justice environment and the level at which territory/waters In the case where neighbouring management functions are taking

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 21 FEATURE ARTICLE

place i.e. Strategic, Operational or Tactical. Understanding C&C, for the purpose of this discussion, is facilitated by the conceptual frame by Alberts and Hayes [1] in Figure 2. The traditional approach to C&C within the security environment is a centralised unitary hierarchical approach w.r.t. to decision-making. This approach is propagated down through the strategic, operational and tactical levels in terms of a hierarchical structure, facilitating very tight control. Organisationally it implies an individual is at the head of the entire organisation. In the case where many role-players are involved in a loose or “round table” organisation cooperation is based on mutual interest or common intent and structured C&C becomes interesting Figure 1: Homeland Defence Factors as there is no formal chain of command

on an entity needs to be analysed “Situational Awareness (SA) is the crux of any to characterise the entity in terms of attributes and behaviour for quick C&C effort, irrespective of the approach. The reference purposes to aid decision insight and knowledge obtained from SA is makers on a course of action. Given the multiple sources of dependent on the assimilation of information information and the many role-players and data obtained from multiple sources and involved in Homeland Defence it is the cross correlation thereof.” logical that a shared SA is required to facilitate the achievement of Homeland Defence objectives. The issue will be about what constitutes shared SA, as or rules amongst role-players as in the obtained from multiple sources and role-players tend to jealously guard traditional case mentioned above. In the cross correlation thereof. Sense- their information. such a loose arrangement a different making plays the key role in achieving approach to C&C is required to situational awareness as cognitive Performance Criteria facilitate the achievement of common processes are unique to each individual The effectiveness of the Homeland objectives. involved. Homeland Defence, as Defence effort needs to be reflected indicated above, is characterised by performance criteria that reflect Situational Awareness by many role-players who all have the success of all activities, including Situational Awareness (SA) is the crux information sources and have the application of resources and the of any C&C effort, irrespective of the information that needs to be shared to inherent efficiencies thereof. This approach. The insight and knowledge effect good, agile decisionmaking. The implies a management model and obtained from SA is dependent on the time value of the information is not to systems to assist in control functions. assimilation of information and data be neglected. Information gathered Setting performance criteria is a

22 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 challenge owing to the complexity use modern technology to ply their Concept of Operations- of the Homeland Defence. The many “trade” and consequently Homeland A Network Centric possible parameters that can be of use Defence requires modern technology Approach require a high degree of correlation for surveillance, detection and The Concept of Operations for in a dynamic environment. The prosecution of offenders. Homeland Defence needs to be creation of a Homeland Defence Index The use of modern Information and considered in terms of a Network (HDI) is of interest as this is a means Communication Technology (ICT) and Centric (or enabled) approach to effectively address some of the characteristics of Joint, Interagency, “Cultural differences will be challenging Inter-department and Multi-national irrespective of approach. Network-centric (JI2M) operations from a C&C perspective. Such an approach could structures can actually help solve issues as go a long way to alleviate the a result of autonomous C&C.” problems that will be encountered with the traditional C&C approach

to stochastically measure current performance against that of the past, using many different parameters. The means to measure the parameters must (of course) also be in place. The identification of these parameters is beyond the scope of this discussion.

Asset Employment Assets include all the material and intellectual means to manage Homeland Defence, gather information, and effect defensive actions. The employment of assets of various role-players needs to be co-ordinated in terms of decisions made in context of the common Figure 2: C&C Conceptual Framework SA perspective; this implies a level of consensus amongst roleplayers that requires a high level of mutual a plethora of sensors greatly enable (e.g. long decision lines). confidence to achieve real success. the collection, assimilation, distribution The JI2M operations are likely to be The availability of assets, within the and exchange of information in a loosely structured, procedurally and means of each role-player and national secure, fast and efficient manner. This organisationally, between main role- priorities and objectives, presents a includes the sharing of appropriate players who have more or less autonomy, challenge in itself as there will always information on a massive scale. The which will hamper the execution of be a shortage. implication of modern ICT systems is traditional C&C. Internal structures of that business processes are enhanced role-players may differ greatly w.r.t. Technology which enable organisations to become to central and decentralised C&C. A The role of technology cannot be very agile. The mass of relevant conceptual framework for network- under-estimated. Total reliance on information available to decision- centric operations by DS Alberts and technology is not a solution either. makers is in itself, a force multiplier. RE Hayes [1] is provided in Figure 3. Perpetrators of criminal activity also A network-centric approach favours

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 23 FEATURE ARTICLE

autonomous decentralised C&C as opposed to the central unitary C&C of the traditional approach. This implies the movement of C&C functions as far as possible to the outer reaches of the network facilitating force agility. Technology permits the interoperabil- ity at the JI2M level to share integrat- ed information and establish relevant shared SA amongst role-players. The success of such an approach will de- pend on the maturity of the JI2M or- ganisation role-players. Cultural differ- ences will be challenging irrespective of approach. Network-centric struc- tures can actually help solve issues as a result of autonomous C&C. Consider- Figure 3: Network Centric Operations Conceptual Framework able cross cultural awareness training may be required at all levels, certainly at the higher command levels where personal communication takes place. Mutually agreed strategies and pro- cesses shall facilitate interoperability between JI2M roleplayers.

Common Cognition Irrespective of agreements between the JI2M organisations the concept of a “common cognition” within the JI2M role-players is of key importance to give effect to any objective. The concept implies a high degree of common understanding between individuals and groups of objectives and how these are going to be achieved, and the role of each individual. Only once this state is achieved is effective collaborative action possible Figure 4: Cognition & Collaboration as the collective energy of the role- players can be successfully focused. Figure 4 highlights this relationship many advantages for Homeland De- ders by means of a larger co-ordinated and its intangible human complexities. fence in a multicultural and interna- defence effort to the benefit of collab- The effectiveness will depend enor- tional environment as it offers a means orating role-players. The visible benefi- mously on the skill and maturity of in- to manage complex mutual defence ciation to the respective economies as dividual role-players and the extent to efforts on a collaboration basis. The a result of the effort will strengthen the which they are able to collaborate. involvement of neighbouring states on collaboration efforts. The undermin- a common intent base permits the dis- ing of the collaborated efforts would Conclusion placement of threats away from physi- no doubt constitute the most serious The network-centric approach offers cal, political and socio-economic bor- threat to Homeland Defence.

24 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 AfricanArmedF 195x275photos.QXD 22/12/11 14:11 Page 1

INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION

2012

LAND DEFENCE & SECURITY

Join the Global Business

The most important and most comprehensive Land Defence and Security event of year 2012.

Under the patronage of 11 - 15 JUNE 2012 / PARIS Presided over by www.eurosatory.com africa Flashpoints

Africa Flashpoints

Niger & Mali Tuareg rebels have threatened almost 10 000 Malian civilians, who are now fleeing en masse into Niger. The Tuareg rebellion comprises insurgents and mercenaries who fought for pro-Gaddaffi loyalists during the Libyan revolution. Authorities are concerned over atrocities committed in and around Aguelhok, with over 100 estimated killed, with the rebels reportedly performing summary executions and cutting of throats as a standard course of execution.

nigeria The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) have threatened South African companies operating in the delta region, and potentially throughout Nigeria. Justifed as a reaction to the arrest in South Africa of Henry Okah, MEND have threatened to target South African assets with terrorist attacks, somalia while accusing President Zuma Al Qaeda chief Ayman of having “reduced himself to Al-Zawahiri, who replaced the position of a hired thug for Osama bin Laden, stated Goodluck Jonathan.” MEND have that “I will break the good been remarkably silent in preceding news to our Islamic nation, months, but a resurgence in their which will... annoy the terrorist attacks appears likely. crusaders, and it is that the Shabaab movement in Somalia has joined al Qaeda.” Although the link between al Qaeda and al Shabaab has been suspected for years, the explicit link has now been made, which can as a result greatly influence counter- terrorism policy in Africa

26 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 interview

Interview: CSIR Defence, Peace, Safety A look inside the CSIR DPSS and its plans for & Security 2012

Questions: African Armed Forces A flagship project for us will be an evolu- planning a strong presence. This is an Journal tion of the Awarenet concept, airborne, indication of the CSIR’s growing involve- Answers: CSIR wide-area surveillance system that will ment in matters of national and human help our security forces to identify and security. recognise threats and criminal intent. In your opinion, how was 2011 What other major events are the in terms of lessons learned and What major partnerships is CSIR DPSS participating in or hoping to achievements made for the CSIR’s DPSS hoping to broaden and launch? DPSS unit? showcase for this year? Our focus will be on evaluating and vali- We experienced a strong growth in ca- We are increasing the scope of our part- dating promising new technologies in pabilities, and now have a base of ap- nership with and support to the Depart- field trials many of them jointly with the proximately 300 R&D engineers. We ment of Defence (DoD) as their strate- SANDF. have also started improving our iden- gic science and technology advisor and tification of technologies that will have support base in many areas. We also Do you have any further comments most impact. intend to broaden our international in- or insights into CSIR DPSS or wider volvement in areas which are of strategic industry? In terms of 2012, what are you importance for the DoD and strengthen I see CSIR DPSS as a major national as- anticipating from CSIR DPSS in terms our capabilities. set that is contributing to RSA in many of projects or research? ways such as technology and decision We will develop new technologies and The Air Defence Symposium held support to the DoD, new technologies capabilities in radar, optronics, cyber se- on a two-yearly basis is a showcase and innovations, development of high- curity, command and control, aeronau- event for the CSIR. Although it will tech industrial capability, high tech ex- tics, landwards and special operations. not be held for 2012, is there another ports and above all development of a equivalent event this year? formidable advanced engineering capa- Can you elaborate on one specific Our focus this year will be on African bility base in South Africa. project that will be prominent in Aerospace and Defence 2012 (AAD) in 2012? September this year, where the CSIR is

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 27

global issues affecting africa

Global Issues By Derek L. Fleming Affecting Africa CONFLICT IN THE HORMUZ STRAIT AND period of time. THE IMPLICATIONS First acts of denial of area/access would be Iranian mine deployment FOR AFRICA into the straits especially the navigation channels at the 45km narrows south of the low-lying coast just to the east of Iranian conflict in the Straits of Hormuz than past encounters. African interests Bandar Abbas, Kish and both Tunba with the United States (US) would be would be affected almost immediately islands. The first surface fleet of the a one-sided string of engagements at the level of the economic and the coalition naval force (CNF) under USN if it were to happen this year, and political both at the African Union (AU) command & control would be suscep- would have significant implications and the United Nations (UN). However, tible to land-based missilery. The initial for Africa’s energy security needs. An besides Kenya and Djibouti no African CNF response would be ship/subma- Israeli air strike against Iranian nuclear state would be at risk of being drawn rine-launched cruise missile attacks facilities as intimated by Tel Aviv press directly into the conflict. on port and harbour facilities along reports over a three a month period the Iranian shores of the Persian Gulf: starting in April 2012, would trigger an IRANIAN BATTLE STRATEGY Bandar Abbas, Jask and Asaluyeh with Iranian response in halting mercantile Iranian weapons deployment of its area simultaneous air attacks on mobile shipping in the Persian Gulf. Iranian denial capability has been significantly launches in south eastern sector and naval and air doctrine (Ashura suicide upgraded and includes a network of south of the Zaboga mountains. The bombers) emphasizes asymmetric land-based cruise missiles (Chinese- calculus of attrition depends on how offensive and defense engagement supplied C-801 and C-802 with 170 many launches Iran makes a day and and not conventional naval surface km range) and over one thousand hence detections that are made. Hus- deployment. Other triggers of conflict are pos- sible, including extended European oil “Iran therefore has an improved military boycotts, United Nations (UN) sanc- capability to shut down sea lanes and destroy tions and even unilateral action by Iran itself. In the event of an American shipping for a protracted period of time.” or European vessel being crippled or exploded by sea-skimming missiles (Silkworm 300km range) or by acous- swarm small boats which constitute an banding one per day against surface tic mines, an armed response by the improvement over their performance mercantile and transiting tankers could US Navy (USN) from deployed units in the Gulf Tanker War (1987-88). extend rocketry reserves for over nine in its Kenyan Mombasa portage, the Missile upgrades and the crucial use weeks, assuming USAF efficiencies of Red Sea and Bahrain allows for an of mines beyond the moored types in the Iraqi Scud war period. immediate sustained response. Tar- that period would be significant. Iran Operations in the Gulf of Oman by geting however has become more therefore has an improved military Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps complicated since 1988 and the inter- capability to shut down sea lanes Navy and the Northern Arabian Sea play of the belligerents will be longer and destroy shipping for a protracted are a declared Iranian priority in setting

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 29 global issues affecting africa

up a blockade. Sea trials in 2011 tested a subsistence level. Humanitarian Africa would not be a target of such an this scenario for IRGCN. Hormuz strait assistance then becomes the priority. attack, accept possibly the USN fleet at mining and swarm surface attacks with The problem is Israel, with reliable Mombasa and CNF bases in Djibouti missile capability will constitute the reports indicating that on a number well within range of the Shahab rocket main Iranian effort, with the former of occasions both during the Bush systems with conventional warheads being the last to be resolved once and Obama administration’s, Israel - potentially disruptive but not the Iranian surface fleet is destroyed has put pressure on Washington to devastating. in the Omani Sea. Mine lift of the EM- take out Iran’s nuclear capability. An 53 bottom-tethered mines can be Israeli nuclear strike is unlikely as a laboriously slow and difficult. three-pronged aerial strike would mean radioactive contaminants (wind THE END GAME direction is north and north westerly) Accordingly for the United States, a spreading over , Oman, drawn-out campaign is to be avoided Somalia, The Seychelles, Pakistan, and scale of conflict limited in a drive India and parts of Kenya. While a to re-open the Strait as soon as safe remote prospect, Israel has in the past passage can be re-established. For rolled out its Jericho III nuclear missiles rague

Iran, short of a land invasion, extended from their bunkers for the benefit of P , though inconclusive hostilities that space-based reconnaissance to which deny outright defeat are the best Iran currently has private commercial mbassy US E US hoped for goal in its contest with access. the US Navy and Air force and the Iran has its own strategic deterrence. likely British and French anti-mine Its Shahab 4,5,6 MRBM (the latter campaign. with a range of 6200km) is certainly For Iran, the original cause of the a threat but their long-range rocketry conflict would determine in large guidance systems are not widely Shahab 4 Missile measure the type of end game that is tested outside of home bases and they acceptable. If it is an Israeli airstrike need high accuracy to strike Israeli At greater risk are Saudi and Gulf Co- operation Council states’ petroleum depots and oil fields by reason of their “Indian Ocean Rim (IOR) states like South Africa closer proximity to Iranian weapons systems. African shipping personnel who use Iran sour crudes for 29% of its Natref and vessels caught in the gulf would refinery supply (98 000 barrels a day) and Sasol also be vulnerable. A land invasion in a US Presidential 12 000 bpd will most likely see a significant election year is at best a reluctant supply disruptions in spite of the treaty with alternative for Washington to consider; Tehran allowing for reciprocal storage.” so aerial and naval containment off the Hormuz coastal littoral, no-fly zone over the entire country and mandatory on nuclear facilities with attendant industrial and urban targets. Despite embargoes on materiel would contaminant zones that wreck the possibilities of enough fissionable continue for anindefinite period unless economic recovery or its potential, material for Tehran to produce four a ceasefire is agreed to rapidly. surrender may be more productive detonable devices at present, delivery than protracted resistance. Iranian systems are a harder engineering step CONSEQUENCES FOR AFRICA tanker fleet itself would have been to attain within this year, so missile Africa will not be left untouched by the blocked in the Sea of Oman by attack on Israel would be conventional conflict and will need to consider risk CNF and its economy reduced to warheads only or at best radiological. mitigation measures on a number of

30 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 levels. The economic consequences will be disruptive to the global economy by shutting off 38% of global crude oil world supplies from the Persian Gulf and 15% of Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) supplies. Hostilities could entrap over 9% of the world’s tanker fleets within the Persian Gulf. Indian Ocean Rim (IOR) states like South Africa who use Iran sour crudes for 29% of its Natref refinery supply (98 000 barrels a day) and Sasol 12 000 bpd will most likely see a significant supply disruptions in spite of the treaty with Tehran allowing for reciprocal storage. Refinery compatibility makes source substitution difficult and would cost SA refiners US$38 million alone and take months to switch. • High maritime insurance rates and Iranian such as Nigerian Bonny Light Kenya imports 80 000 bpd of Iranian crewing costs on tankering from the and Angolan heavy crudes. crude. Gulf before and after the conflict; • Building storage capacity on Spot oil prices will certainly rise • The need to stockpile as much Iranian seaboard accesses near refineries. rapidly. The extent of economic crude once the scenario indicators In the hiatus, Africa eastern conti- dislocation around the Indian Ocean mentioned above play out. Indeed nental seaboard, including , Dji- and Asia (comprising 85 percent of analysts have warned that SA, for bouti, Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique Iranian crude exports) would depend example, should be stocking up now and South Africa will bear the brunt of on the duration of the blockade that with crude to offset the threat of sea lane disruptions, fuel scarcity and in turn hinges on the course of the interdicted supplies. rising costly maritime insurance rates conflict itself. Assessments put a • Prepare for the possible need for till all mines are lifted. Iran crude could Hormuz naval denial of the area by IMF and World Bank assistance in well be non-existent for up to eighteen Tehran at between two weeks and two energy subsidies. months as a result of CNF bombing of months. Total global oil reserves can • Inflationary pressures with rocketing well heads, pipelines and bunkering. last around 130 days. However, African fuel prices for kerosene and petrol. On the other hand, oil producers such coastal depot reserves are reportedly Crude oil prices could at least double. as Angola, , Equatorial Guinea, calculated in mere days’ duration • Growing social instability. Peoples , Libya And Sudan would ben- and economic slowdowns would take protests against rising energy costs efit in the short term from higher oil effect within the first week of the are becoming a feature of African prices. Politically Africa, as with Libya conflict even were diplomatic solutions countries i.e. Mozambique (2010) and will be divided on the appropriate re- immediately attempted. Projected Nigeria (2011). sponse to take should conflict break prices of US$250 per barrel may be • A rapid increase in Somali piracy out in the Persian Gulf. realistically reached within a month of attacks once CNF fleets depart the Red hostilities commencing. At two months’ and Arabian Seas for combat in the Derek Fleming holds degrees in law, interdiction of Persian crudes a severe Northern Arabian and Omani Seas. math, African Politics and Military Science global recession, effectively a double • An intermittent and slow return to pre- and was formerly with the International dip since 2008, can be expected. conflict Iranian crude supply levels. Organisation of Journalists and a Moving forward, critical issues that • Developing multiple sourcing of correspondent for Jane’s Defence. He is need to be factored into African planning crude compatible or adjusted currently an elected public representative scenarios include the following: compatibility to crudes other than on the Tshwane Metro Council.

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 31 profiles & appointments

Profiles & Appointments

COMMANDER, U.S. AFRICA Officer with the Opposing Force at the National Training COMMAND Center, Fort Irwin, California until 1989. He attended the GENERAL CARTER F. HAM College of Naval Command and Staff, graduating with distinction in 1990, and was then assigned to the US Army Appointment Infantry School at Fort Benning, Georgia. The United States’ Department of Defense, appointed Following his assignment at Fort Benning he went on General Carter F. Ham as Commander of the U.S. Africa to serve as a tour advisor with a Saudi Arabian National Command, which is based at Kelley Barracks Stuttgard, Guard Brigade in Riyadh before returning to Fort Benning, Germany on 09 March 2011. Gen Ham replaced Gen where he was appointed as executive officer for the Infantry William E. “Kip” Ward. School. Ham subsequently, commanded the 1st Battalion, 6th Background Infantry in Vilseck, Germany including a six- Ham graduated from Charles F. Brush High month tour with the United Nations Protection School, Ohio before serving as an enlisted Forces in the Republic of Macedonia. Infantryman in the 82nd Airborne Division. Following battalion command, he served After his service he attended John Carroll as the Senior Observer/Controller of the University in Cleveland, Ohio. In 1976, upon Timberwolf Team at the Combat Maneuver the completion of his tertiary education Ham, Training Center, Hohenfels, Germany. was commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant through In 1997, he graduated from the Air War the Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps College before returning to Germany where (Army ROTC) in the Infantry as a Distinguished he served as G-3, then Chief of Staff, 1st Military Graduate. He later received his master’s Infantry Division. From 1999 to 2001 he degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the commanded the 29th Infantry Regiment at Fort Benning, U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island as well then served as Deputy Director, J-8, United States Central as graduating from several military schools including the Command in Tampa, Florida and Qatar. Infantry Officer Basic Course, the Armor Officer Advanced In August 2003 Ham was assigned as the Deputy Course, the College of Naval Command and Staff of the Commanding General for Training and Readiness, I U.S. Naval War College and the U.S. Air Force Air War Corps at Fort Lewis, Washington. He went on to assume College. command of Multinational Brigade (Task Force Olympia) – Ham’s service at Fort Knox, Kentucky and tours of duty in North in Mosul, Iraq on 1 January 2001 serving there until Italy and Germany formed part of Ham’s early assignments. February 2005. After graduating from the Armor Officers Advanced Course, Upon returning from Iraq in 2005, Ham served as the he was appointed as a Recruiting Area Commander in Deputy Director for Regional Operations, J-3, on The Joint Lima, Ohio. In 1984, he served with a joint service unit in Staff until August 2006 when he assumed command of support of the Olympic Games in Los Angeles. the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas. He served After the Olympic Games Ham served as Assistant as the Commanding General until July 2007. He became frica

Inspector General, then as Battalion S-3 and Executive the 34th Commander of the United States Army Europe A rmy US A US

32 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 headquartered at Campbell Barracks, Heidelberg, on Monday. Admiral Locklear, aboard the flagship Mount Germany on 28 August 2008. Whitney, has tactical command of the Operation Odyssey In November 2010, the United States Senate confirmed Dawn joint taskforce. Our mission is not to support any Ham’s nomination to become the next Commander of opposition forces.” U.S. Africa Command. His nomination was successful and General Ham also indicated that he had “full authority” he assumed the post on 9 March 2011. to attack the regime’s forces if they refused to comply Ham commanded the US forces enforcing the Libyan with President Obama’s demands that they pull back from no-fly zone. Regarding the airstrikes against former Ajdabiya, Misrata and Zawiya. Libiyan Leader Muhammar Gaddafi Ham on 21 March Ham’s awards and decorations include the Army 2011 said: Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service “There would be coalition airstrikes on Colonel Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Legion of Merit with Gaddafi’s mobile air defenses and that some 80 sorties – two oak leaf clusters, Bronze Star, and the Joint Service only half of them by the United States – had been flown Commendation Medal.

South African Secretary of Dr Gulube worked in tele-medicine and this stimulated Defence: Dr Sam Makhudu his interest in Information Technology as a viable tool Gulube to improve quality and equity in healthcare services. From 2000 to 2003 he was Director of the National Appointment Telemedicine Research Centre at the Medical Research On 23 November 2011 the South African Cabinet Council (MRC) of South Africa. He served as the Chief approved the appointment of Dr Sam Makhudu Executive Officer of the Universal Service Agency of Gulube as Secretary of Defence (Director-General) in South Africa from April 2003 to April 2006. Dr. Gulube the Department of Defence for five years. The Minister was appointed the National Medical Director of the of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu, South African National Blood Services (SANBS) in May announced the appointment of Dr Gulube as the new 2006. Secretary for Defence, with immediate effect, on 27 He has also been chairman of the Presidential Medical November 2011. Team, a Trustee of the SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service, African National Congress (ANC) Deputy Representative Background to the United Nations, a member of the Business He is a graduate of Morehouse School of Medicine, Advisory Council of the United Nations Office for Project Atlanta, Georgia, in 1991. He did his General Surgery Services (UNOPS) and chairman of Medical Education Residency Program at the University of South Florida for South African Blacks (MESAB) South Africa Trustees. in Tampa, Florida, from 1991 to 1996. In 1997 he was He has also acted as advisor to Minister of State Security appointed as a Lieutenant Colonel in the South African Siyabonga Cwele and has been serving on Defence Military Health Services, in the post of General Surgery Minister Lindiwe Sisulu’s Defence Review Committee Principal Medical Officer at 1 Military Hospital in Pretoria. since August 2011. He led the SA Military Health Services Telemedicine Gulube was appointed chairman of the Resource project. Group within the DRC in August 2011.

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 33 letters

letters

to secure the capital’s airport, and if measured as a calculated risk against poorly-trained enemy combatants or conscripts, the odds of defeat remain quite low. With SA Army having many wheeled armoured vehicles armed with different turrets and weaponry, the consideration for thunder runs, or at least the theoretical consideration, should be thought of.

HQ While the airlift capability necessary to deploy armour abroad is not yet there, ormation

F future planning by armour commanders in Africa should incorporate the rapid rmour

A use of armour in an offensive, rather than

rmy defensive, posture. SA A SA It was armour, after all, that aided A armoured car patrol in the Eastern Free State in late 2011. Armoured greatly in extracting US Rangers and car crews of 1SSB in Bloemfontein conducted a practical exercise to further research and develop doctrine for armour in internal security operations. Special Forces from Mogadishu in Oc- Regular as well as a number of Reserve soldiers participated in the exercise. tober 1993, and it was armoured assets

Dear aaf, “In an asymmetrical environment – I was encouraged to see the improve- particularly in Africa – the ability to use ments made at 21’s Doornkop head- quarters. After the unit was shrouded armour in certain situations provides in controversy and various pictures a capability of force and protection emerged of the condition of their facili- ties, I honestly suspected the disband- otherwise unavailable.” ment of the battalion entirely. Thus seeing 21 Battalion not only emerging from this controversy intact, Thunder Runs that helped in securing key locations but actively preparing for deployment Reading the interview with SA Armour’s within Iraq and Afghanistan. There is no overseas is wonderful to see. It’s not very commander, I was struck by the impor- question of armour’s utility, but its use often the good aspects of government tance of armour even now. In an asym- remains highly underrated and under- projects emerge, and I doubt the anni- metrical environment – particularly in Af- emphasised in an African battlespace. versary parade by 21 was as well-publi- rica – the ability to use armour in certain R. Moorehead, UK cised as their protests. situations provides a capability of force Anonymous and protection otherwise unavailable. Letters to the Editor I am curious to know whether anyone Letters to the journal are welcome. We are hoping to run further articles outside of the USA has considered the Please ensure that all letters are no in the future on 21 Battalion. This unit employment of “thunder runs” or armour longer than 350 words and contain is definitely on the up and up, and it is columns moving rapidly through enemy the original author’s name. our intention to track their improvement territory to occupy strategic locations. All letters can be emailed to right up until deployment overseas. – Ed It was used to great effect in Baghdad [email protected].

34 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 briefing room

Briefing room Defence events on Africa

IFSEC South Africa Where: Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg – South Africa When: 19-21 June IFSEC South Africa is the African security event for any African security professional SADF Commemoration Service looking to stay up-to-date with the latest Where: Voortrekker Monument, Pretoria – product developments, industry knowledge South Africa and maintain relationships with suppliers and When: 3 June manufacturers. Time: TBA The annual South African Defence Force Commemoration day will include wreath laying and general activities surrounding the celebration of the SADF heritage. Included will be the re-burial of four SADF servicemen recovered from Angola.

CSIR Defence Industry Day Where: CSIR, Pretoria – South Africa When: 22 March Time: TBC Hosted by the CSIR, Department of Trade Global Aerospace Summit and Industry, and Department of Defence, the When: 16 to 17 April 2012 CSIR Defence Industry Day will bring together Where: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates major South African defence manufacturers and Global Aerospace Summit is a strategic interested parties in a showcase of practical, gathering of major players from aviation, applicable and viable defence systems suited aerospace and space to discuss future towards African and international markets. growth strategies.

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 35 book reviews

Book reviews Reviews of African military literature

Battle for domain, SWAPO’s version of the event gained considerable traction Cassinga: within the broader International South Africa’s Controversial community. Cross Border Raid, Angola The first South African attempt 1978 to address the avalanche of articles and pamphlets condemning the (Africa@War Volume 3) raid appeared only in 1983 when Mike McWilliams. the journalist, Willem Steenkamp, 30 Degrees South; (2011); 64 pp. published Border Strike (Butterworths 1983). With strict Battle for Cassinga, the third censorship laws in place, Steenkamp volume of the Africa@War series was able to produce only a watered launched recently by local down version of the event, mostly publisher 30 Degrees South - in using nommes de guerre with the conjunction with its UK based exception of the commander Jan partner Helion & Company Ltd Breytenbach. It was, however, the - deals with arguably the most only printed matter available on the controversial operation of the subject and, accordingly, for quite entire Border War. Operation some time served as the definitive Reindeer, of which the airborne Dombondola. account. The next publication to assault on the former Portuguese There have been a number of appear on Cassinga was Namibian mining town of Cassinga was but publications dealing specifically with Annamarie Heywood’s The Cassinga a component, was the first major over the years, Event (March 1994). (Interestingly, incursion into Angola since Operation most concerned with portraying Heywood lists two of Steenkamp’s Savannah (1975), South Africa’s initial the event in a particular light. In books including Borderstrike, attempt to fill the power vacuum left the immediate aftermath of the among her sources.) Terming her by Portugal’s hasty departure. The operation, the South West African booklet “an investigation into the non-airborne component of Reindeer People’s Organisation (SWAPO) records” Heywood’s account served entailed simultaneous mechanised accused the SADF of attacking an to buttress the official SWAPO strikes, utilising Ratel Infantry Combat innocent refugee camp at Cassinga description of what occurred. Vehicles (ICVs) for the first time, and massacring its inhabitants. Due Here it is important to pause and against two People’s Liberation Army to the South African Defence Force’s both remember and respect what of Namibia (PLAN) bases in southern (SADF) inability (or truculence) to put Cassinga has come to mean to the Angola, namely Chetequera and its side of the story into the public Namibian people. Any criticism

36 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 of their interpretation of the event the attack. At this point it must be of a number of senior PLAN members must not be viewed as a repudiation noted that McWilliams contributed present at Cassinga. Volschenk claims of the sacrifices they made to gain the foreword for Eagle Strike. to have shown it to an officer at the independence. Accordingly he identifies closely with time who dismissed it as unimportant. The next major contribution was an Col Breytenbach’s view of events. Unperturbed, Volschenk kept it unpublished Master’s thesis by McGill Essentially Battle for Cassinga is as a souvenir. While only further Alexander. A serving general officer a potted history of the operation research will be able to determine the in the SANDF, Alexander was able covering the entire build up and authenticity of this latest “find” it is to shine an educated light on much execution in 62 pages with some of an intriguing step forward in possibly of what occurred at Cassinga for the McWilliams own personal experiences providing an irrefutable resolution as first time. It took some 5 years for the providing colour and substance. From to the true nature of Cassinga. South African airborne community 1 Parachute Battalion’s perspective (44 While firmly of the opinion that no to wake up to its contents and what Para Brigade was not yet in existence intentional civilian casualties occurred, ensued was not their finest hour. as approval for its establishment had this reviewer finds little of substance Suffice to say, Alexander was heavily only been granted the month before) has been added, other than what criticised for some of his conclusions. the operation was, and remained, was already known, to clarify the Showing remarkable restraint and the premier airborne assault of the key controversies surrounding the losing none of his composure, entire war. Modest in size, limited to a operation. Readers should, however, he more than ably defended his composite battalion due to the South approach it with an open mind and viewpoints. The upshot of the fracas African Air Force’s (SAAF) restricted judge it on its merits. was that Col Jan Breytenbach, who ability to retrieve the paratroopers had been given a copy of the thesis once dropped, it was conducted upon its completion by Alexander, almost entirely by reservists and decided to write an account of the conscripts with a small permanent Selous operation. The result was Eagle Strike, force element at the helm. Scouts: the first book on either side to be McWilliam’s narrative consists of ten written by a participant. As with all short chapters accompanied by four Rhodesian previous accounts, it has its admirers appendices. Right from the start the Counter- and detractors, depending largely on author makes no bones concerning his which side of the fence a person is thoughts on a number of controversial Insurgency sitting. issues, nailing his colours firmly to This brings us to the book under the mast. If anything, this publication Specialists review, Battle for Cassinga, only the serves as a primer for the views of Peter Baxter. second account to have been written many SADF veterans on the matter. by a South African participant. (This Those familiar with Eagle Strike 30 Degrees South; (2011); 64 pp. excludes individual vignettes written should expect more of the same. An by participants in other publications.) interesting aspect of McWilliam’s The Selous Scouts were arguably the The author, Mike McWilliams - a account is the introduction for the first most famous Rhodesian special forces paratrooper - is a veteran of Cassinga time of an exercise book purportedly unit to emerge from the Rhodesian as well as the operation’s official picked up on the battlefield by Bush War. Considerably junior to their photographer. Prior to the airborne another paratrooper, Jan Volschenk. original Special Forces colleagues in C assault he had been identified as a Prior to publication, McWilliams Squadron, Rhodesian SAS, who were photographer and, apart from his was approached by Volschenk and able to trace their roots back to the normal combat duties, was handed a presented with the hand-written Second World War and the Malayan camera and film in order to document book. In it are the professed names Emergency, they nevertheless

African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012 37 book reviews

were able to create a comparable enviable reputation for both success guilty of insubordination. Operation reputation in just seven short years. and military professionalism. Miracle forms the penultimate chapter Selous Scouts: Rhodesian Counter Peter Baxter’s book is a nice tight with the final section dealing with the Insurgency Specialists is a concise, account of the nuts and bolts of the end of the conflict and the Regiment’s pithy account of just how the unit Regiment’s history and operational ignominious disbandment. achieved this remarkable feat. record. Broken up into eight chapters, A problem encountered by this The fourth volume in local reviewer was Baxter’s disregarding publisher, 30 Degrees South’s new of Dennis Croukamp’s Only Africa@War series and the first to my Friends Call me “Crouks”, deal with an elite unit as opposed a seminal autobiography by a to a battle or campaign, Selous leading personality within the Scouts examines the origins and unit, in compiling his manuscript. operational history of one southern Croukamp’s account is all the Africa’s more unique Special Force more important in that he severely regiments. The Selous Scouts, a criticised certain aspects of Reid- name originally associated with the Daly’s leadership while allowing Rhodesian Armoured Car Regiment, Reid-Daly accesses to the manuscript until it was relinquished in favour of prior to publication in order to Reid-Daly’s newly formed unit in include any response he might wish 1973, was initially created to pioneer to make. The result was that Reid- ’s pseudo-operations Daly’s responses to Croukamp’s (pseudo ops) concept, a concept criticisms are included in the main first used by the British against the text of Croukamp’s book. MRLA in Malaya and later, the Mau An obvious sign of Baxter Mau in Kenya. The Regiment was ignoring Croukamp’s account named after Frederick Courteney is the mistake Baxter makes in Selous, the famous British naturalist each representing an important stating that Croukamp was picked and hunter. aspect of the unit’s evolution up by Passaportis during Operation Known as Counter Gangs in and history, he takes the reader Mardon when in fact only his two Kenya, pseudo-operations met with through the complete odyssey of its team members, Paul French and Rob considerable success and showed existence and role, from creation to Wilson, were. Croukamp, in a feat both the British and Rhodesians how disbandment. Of particular interest is inexplicably ignored by Reid-Daly, the concept might be developed in the broadening of the unit’s role to both in Top Secret War and Pamwe future counter-insurgency operations incorporate external operations and Chete, walked back to Rhodesia in on the continent. Brought out of its pioneering work in small-team an impressive display of physical retirement to create and develop reconnaissance. As the success and endurance and mental resilience. It Rhodesia’s pseudo ops capability, reputation of the Selous Scouts grew, was the longest escape and evasion Col Ronald Francis Reid-Daly, a so did the tasks assigned to it. carried out by a member of the former Malayan Scout, Rhodesian SAS Chapter five deals with the role of the Regiment in the entire war. operator and RSM of the Rhodesian Regiment in intelligence operations All in all, despite certain limitations, Light Infantry, flourished in his new in neighbouring states while chapter Selous Scouts is a competent role. Within two years he had created six catalogues the events leading introduction to a unique Regiment an extremely professional unit from to General Hickman’s dismissal and and its proud place in Africa’s military the ground up and endowed it with an Reid-Daly being charged and found history.

38 African Armed Forces Journal | February 2012

MARAUDER It's been called the 'world's most unstoppable vehicle'. Protected against a double anti-tank mine under any wheel and STANAG Level III ballistic attack, it’s also one of the safest. Innovation. Perfected.

Leaders in Defence and Security Innovation

www.paramountgroup.biz