China and Iran Frigates and Destroyers Geospatial Intel Main Battle Tanks Manpads Protection Tankers and Freighters

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

Asia Pacific’s Largest Circulated Defence MagaZine

CHINA AND IRAN FRIGATES AND DESTROYERS GEOSPATIAL INTEL MAIN BATTLE TANKS MANPADS PROTECTION TANKERS AND FREIGHTERS

www.asianmilitaryreview.com new Boeing P8i_AMR 10590546vA_BDS_P8_Proven_210x270_X1a.pdf 1 8/18/16 10:10 AM

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K Contents December 2016/January 2017 VOLUME 24 / ISSUE 8

Dr. Aniseh Bassiri Tabrizi and 44 Veerle Nouwans examine the growing defence relationship between Iran and China.

Front Cover Photo: Flares are being supplanted in some cases as the preferred countermeasure to spoof infrared-guided missiles, as MATERIEL ON explained in this issue’s Turning Down the Heat article. THE NEW SILK ROAD 14 24 32 38

Turning Down Geography Frigate or the Heat Lessons Tanked Up Destroyer? Thomas Withington explains the Geospatial intelligence is in Investment is flowing into Which is best, a frigate or contribution that Directional high demand in the Asia-Pacific, main battle tank procurements destroyer? Dr. Alix Valenti argues Infrared Countermeasures Percy Monroe discovers, with and upgrades in the that both have their role and can make towards protecting many nations fulfilling these Asia-Pacific,Stephen W. Miller that both are in demand in the aircraft against infrared guided requirements through the discovers. Asia-Pacific. weapons. private sector. 16 28 06

The Signal Fueling and the Noise Navies are increasingly Strength demanding electronic warfare David Oliver examines recent systems which can provide a developments in the world of detailed electronic order-of- air-to-air refuelling, and their battle on the high seas and in implications for air forces in the the littoral, Thomas Withington Catch up on all the latest defence radio frequency news and Asia-Pacific. explains. analysis in Thomas Withington’s regular Pulse column.

| DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 | 03 Index of Advertisers AMR WEBSITE 43 Editorial BOEING P8 COVER 2 BOEING V22 COVER 4 DSEi COVER 3 THE NUCLEAR FLIR 5 IMDEX 41 OPTION IMDS 53 ISDEF 47 uch of the world remained in shock KEYSIGHT TECH 9 while these words were written in LAAD 49 mid-November. One week earlier, LIMA 35 on 8 November, Donald Trump had been elected as the 45th president of the MADEX 37 MUnited States of America. Mr. Trump had punctuated his campaign with openly racist and RENK 11 misogynistic rhetoric, at one point mocking Serge Kovaleski, a disabled reporter, during an electoral rally in South Carolina in November 2015. ROSOBORONEXPORT 17 UKRSPECEXPORT 7, 13 Mr. Trump’s victory means that the world will have to work with a hard right populist who is now the world’s most powerful politician. This has clear implications for the Asia-Pacific’s strategic landscape. In an interview with the New York Times published this March, Mr. Advertising Offices Trump asked: “Would I rather have North Korea have (nuclear weapons) with Japan sitting

France/Spain there having them also? You may very well be better off if that’s the case.” Stephane de Remusat, REM International Tel: (33) 5 3427 0130 Such a belief is misplaced. Successive Japanese governments have shown strong support for E-Mail: [email protected] the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons. Japan already enjoys protection from US nuclear Germany/Austria/Switzerland/Benelux Sam Baird, Whitehill Media weapons in the form of Extended Nuclear Deterrence (END); effectively placing a US Tel: (44-1883) 715 697 Mobile: (44-7770) 237 646 nuclear umbrella over Japan, and other countries in the Asia-Pacific such as the Republic E-Mail: [email protected] of Korea. Any nuclear attack by the DPRK, for example, against either country would East-Central Europe/Greece/Turkey/UK Zena Coupé trigger a nuclear retaliation by the United States. For Japan to embark upon its own nuclear Tel: +44 1923 852537, [email protected] weapons programme would be financially wasteful and encourage a nuclear arms race with Nordic Countries/Italy the DPRK, and possibly also with the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Emanuela Castagnetti-Gillberg Tel: (46) 31 799 9028 E-Mail: [email protected] The END fosters a de facto nuclear balance in the Asia-Pacific: The DPRK’s and

Russia PRC’s nuclear weapons are balanced by those of the US. A nuclear-armed Japan would Alla Butova, NOVO-Media Ltd, immediately tilt the nuclear balance in the US’ favour, by adding more nuclear weapons Tel/Fax: (7 3832) 180 885 Mobile : (7 960) 783 6653 Email :[email protected] to the US-led alliance in the Asia-Pacific. This would trigger a corresponding increase in South Korea nuclear proliferation in the DPRK and PRC so as to tilt the nuclear balance in their favour. Young Seoh Chinn, Jes Media Inc. Tel: (82-2) 481 3411 This would lead to more nuclear weapons in the region and a corresponding increase in E-Mail: [email protected] the risk of nuclear war. It also sends out entirely the wrong signal regarding discouraging USA (East/South East)/Canada (East) nuclear proliferation around the globe. Margie Brown, Blessall Media, LLC. Tel : (+1 540) 341 7581 Email: [email protected] Neither is the US in a position to remove END assurances from its allies in the Asia-Pacific. USA (West/South West)/Brazil/Canada (West) The US cements its regional alliances by providing overarching nuclear deterrence. Should Diane Obright, Blackrock Media Inc Mr. Trump remove such assurances via strategic disengagement from the region, then the Tel : (+1 858) 759 3557 Email: [email protected] US may receive an increasingly cool response from once-warm friends. This is something All Other Countries Mr. Trump can ill-afford if he wants to offset the rising power and muscle of the PRC. Mr. Jakhongir Djalmetov, Media Transasia Limited Trump is about to discover that strategic alliances are a two-way street in the Asia-Pacific, Tel: +66 2204 2370, Mobile: +66 81 6455654 Email: [email protected] as much as elsewhere. His comments to date regarding Japan and nuclear weapons suggest

Roman Durksen, Media Transasia Limited that this is a concept he has yet to grasp. Tel: +66 2204 2370, Mobile +66 9 8252 6243 E-Mail: [email protected] Thomas Withington, Editor

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

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04 | Asian Military Review | Standing Watch Twice the Standoff, Proven at Sea

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Untitled-1.indd 1 3/4/16 10:50 AM FLIR Standing Watch Asian Military Revue_FP.indd 1 3/3/16 3:19 PM by Thomas Withington

Thales unveils new naval surveillance radars, while BAE Systems is tasked with continuing electronic countermeasures work by the Defence Advanced Research Project Agency, and Harris reveals bandwidth enhancements for their tactical radios. Thales

Thales launched its NS-200 naval surveillance radar at this year’s Euronaval exhibition. Development of the radar commenced in 2014.

Radar Like the NS-100, the NS-200 is an S-band (2.3-2.5/2.7-3.7 Thales unveiled its new NS-200 naval surveillance radar at the gigahertz/GHz) radar using a conventional pulse-Doppler Euronaval exhibition in Paris, with the radar displayed on 18 architecture. Thales informed AMR that it is actively seeking October at the show. This new addition to the Thales naval radar customers for the NS-200, with the radar capable of equipping portfolio boasts an instrumented range of 215.9 nautical miles/ combatants varying in size from Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) nm (400 kilometres/km) and employs an Active Electronically to larger ships. As a means of comparison, the NS-100 has an Scanned Array (AESA) employing Gallium Nitride (GaN) in instrumented range of circa 151nm (280km). This latter radar the radar’s antenna. Thales’ Netherlands subsidiary, based in is currently equipping the eight forthcoming Republic of Hengelo in the east of the country, commenced the development Singapore Navy ‘Independence’ class corvettes in a deal worth of the NS-200 in 2014. Although the radar has used Thales’ $57 million concluded in 2008. The radar is also used by the existing NS-100 naval surveillance radar as its baseline, it Royal Netherlands Navy’ (RNN) HNLMS Rotterdam amphibious includes a number of important modifications improving assault ship, the installation of which, Thales disclosed is the radar’s capabilities, notably an increase in the number of expected to be completed by the end of the year. transmit/receive modules mounted on the NS-200’s antenna Alongside offering the NS-200 as a standalone radar, Thales compared to those used on the legacy NS-100 system (see below). is proposing it as a part of a package to include the firm’s APAR-

06 | Asian Military Review | new BTR-4 for magazine.pdf 1 10/14/16 3:17 PM

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K be completed in 2020, following the Terma has announced that its SCANTER-6000 radar has completion of testing in 2019. All of been selected to equip vessels Terma these radars use AESA architecture, belonging to the Indonesian Coast Guard and the Royal with the Kronos Powershield and Malaysian Navy. Installations are expected to commence in 2017. Kronos Quad employing GaN in their antennae T/R modules, with the Kronos Starfire employing Gallium Arsenide. All of these radars are destined for forthcoming Marina Militaire (Italian Navy) surface combatants. For example, the Leonardo/Fincantieri LHD (Landing Helicopter Dock) amphibious assault ship will be outfitted with the Kronos Powershield and the Kronos Starfire, with the possibility of the ship also receiving the Kronos Quad in the 2020 timeframe. The navy’s forthcoming so-called Multipurpose Offshore Patrol Ships will receive the Kronos Quad, and will accommodate the Kronos Starfire. No further details are forthcoming regarding the capabilities of these radars, although the firm has told AMR that it expects the Kronos Powershield to have an instrumented range of up to 324nm (600km), with the possibility of 2 naval surveillance radar. The APAR-2 X-band (8.5-10.68GHz) this being extended to circa 540nm (1000km) to perform ballistic radar, for which Thales is seeking customers, also employs missile detection and tracking. Leonardo expects to install the an AESA antenna using GaN in its T/R modules, and has an Kronos Quad on the LHD in circa 2020, and on the Multipurpose instrumented range of 80.9nm (150km), although the APAR- Offshore Patrol Ship from 2021. Meanwhile the Kronos Starfire 2 has a volume search capability which the legacy APAR does and Kronos Powershield are expected to complete development not. The radar includes a radio frequency uplink/downlink by circa 2022. to enable the radar to perform fire control for Semi-Active/ Staying in the naval domain, Terma has supplied AMR with Active Radar Homing (SARH/ARH) Surface-to-Air Missiles additional details regarding two recent procurements of its (SAMs). The company added that this enables the radar to work SCANTER radar family. In late October, the firm announced that with Raytheon’s RIM-162 ESSM (Evolved Sea Sparrow) Block-2 SARH SAM. The company is promoting the APAR-2 as a retrofit option for existing APAR users (RNN, USAF Royal Danish Navy and German Navy), and for the new-build frigate market. In terms of concepts of operation, Thales suggested to the author that the NS-200 (see above) and APAR-2 could be combined on a surface combatant, with the NS- 200 performing target detection, and the APAR- 2 providing fire control for a SAM engagement. The firm continued that it expects to eventually replace the legacy APAR in the firm’s catalogue with the APAR-2. A short walk from Thales’ stand at the Euronaval exhibition, Leonardo gave AMR updates regarding the current status and development of its Kronos naval surveillance radar family. The family now contains the Kronos Quad C-band (5.25-5.925GHz) and Kronos Starfire X-band naval surveillance radars, The USAF’s forthcoming B-21 Raider alongside the Kronos Powershield L-band strategic bomber could be one of the platforms which benefits from the (1.215-1.4GHz) system. The company informed installation of technology being developed AMR that this latter radar is currently under as part of DARPA’s ARC programme. development, with development expected to

08 | Asian Military Review | HARDWARE + SOFTWARE + PEOPLE = 5G INSIGHTS capable of detecting aircraft flying at 6000 feet (1828 metres) at ranges of up to 15nm

Harris (27.8km) from the vessel.

Electronic Warfare The Defence Research Advanced Projects Agency (DARPA) which develops emerging technologies on behalf of the United States Department of Defence hopes to migrate technology developed by BAE Systems for DARPA’s Adaptive Radar Countermeasures (ARC) programme onto current and future United States Air Force (USAF) combat aircraft, sources close to the programme have informed AMR. The ARC programme commenced in 2012, and BAE Systems began its work on the initiative in 2013, the company told AMR via an official statement. According to DARPA’s official literature, the goal of the ARC programme is to: “automatically generate effective countermeasures against new, unknown and adaptive radars (surface-based and airborne) in real-time in the field.” To this end, the ARC architecture is designed to: “isolate unknown radar signals in the presence of other hostile, friendly and neutral signals. Deduce the threat posed by that radar; Synthesize and transmit countermeasure signals to achieve a desired effect on the threat radar. Assess the effectiveness of countermeasures based on over-the-air

Harris has enhanced its observable threat behaviours.” The need RF-7800W radio with a software for the ARC architecture, which will upgrade to enable it to increase its bandwidth to allow ever-higher data rates develop signal processing and algorithms on the battlefield while on the move. The firm is providing these improvements as standard on all to achieve these goals, DARPA continues, new RF-7800W transceivers. is to enable the next generation of radar warning receivers to detect radar signals the Indonesian Sea and Coast Guard had ordered the company’s transmitted by systems employing complex and agile waveforms SCANTER-6000 X-band (8.5-10.68GHz) naval surveillance radar and frequency-hopping techniques to reduce their probability of to equip its ‘Trisula’ class patrol boats. The firm told AMR, via a detection and interception. This is distinct from legacy analogue written statement that, as far as the Indonesian ships are concerned, radars which have traditionally employed fixed transmission no fixed schedule has yet been agreed for the installation of the frequencies, and hence been easier to detect. new radar, which will furnish all five ships in the class, as this In early November, BAE Systems was awarded a contract will depend upon the availability of the ships for the installation by DARPA to commence Phase 3 of the programme worth $13.3 to take place. Separately, in late October, Terma announced the million. While Phase 2 of the project, which was also led by procurement of the same radar by the Tentera Laut DiRaja Malaysia BAE Systems, demonstrated the ability of the ARC architecture (RMAF/Royal Malaysian Navy) to equip the fleet’s ‘Leiku’ class to characterise radar transmissions, and to then adapt a frigates; two of which comprise the class. While the value of the countermeasures response to address such threats, Phase 3 will contract for the procurement of these radars by the RMAF is complete algorithm development for the ARC initiative, and confidential, Terma has told AMR that the first ship to receive work on transitioning the ARC architecture to USAF aircraft. the new radar will by the KD Leiku. She will undergo harbour According to John Tranquilli, the technical director for signals acceptance tests with the new radar between 1 February 2017 and communications processing at BAE Systems: “The DARPA and 5 February 2017, with site acceptance tests then following programme is slated to end in 2018. I can’t name specific between the 10 February 2017 and 12 February 2017. Installation platforms, but certain types of aircraft are more likely to face the of the SCANTER-6000 is finally expected to be completed on the electronic threats that ARC technologies are designed to counter. ship by 15 February 2017. The firm added that the schedule for After DARPA’s role ends, the transition programmes would take the KD Leiku’s sister, the KD Jebat has yet to be drafted. In terms the technology and incorporate it in their development cycle of performance, Terma’s official literature states that the radar is (so fielding would vary based on those timelines).” Ultimately,

10 | Asian Military Review | this may mean installation on existing platforms such as the network centric operations, where information sharing at near- Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning-II and F-22A Raptor fighters, real time is required to create an accurate picture of the dynamic plus future platforms such as the Northrop Grumman B-21 environment.” Raider strategic bomber. Mr. Tranquilli continues that: “Work is The company’s enhancement takes the form of a software ongoing to refine the signal processing, machine learning, and upgrade to the radio. This upgrade will be available to be intelligent algorithm technologies that are at the foundation of downloaded into existing RF-7800W radios, with all new RF- the ARC. That work should be completed at the end of Phase 3 7800W radios to have the capability installed as standard. in 2018, after which transition programmes would incorporate Ms. Betancourt added that the company expects to have this the technology and ready it for fielding through their existing software upgrade available from the end of November. In terms development cycles.” of bandwidths, the radio can now handle up to 100mbps of data during non-line of sight transmissions, with the radio capable Tactical Radio of maintaining data rates of between 50mbps to 100mbps even Harris has unveiled an enhancement to its RF-7800W across five hops. Moreover, rates of 428mbps have been achieved Multimission High Capacity Line-of-Sight radio which operates at line-of-sight ranges of up to 160 kilometres (100 miles). The in the 4.4GHz to 5.8GHz frequency band. Reflecting the ever- software improvements developed by Harris also enable the present desire for data bandwidth on the battlefield, Harris RF-7800W to be accessed from smartphones and tablets using has improved the radio to ensure that it remains capable of the radio’s Internet Protocol (IP) address, providing that these providing high data rates while on the move as well as when devices are permitted on the network; the company added. In at-the-halt. Harris’ official literature states that the RF-7800W addition, the improvements allow the radio to seamlessly move currently has a standard data rate of 428 Megabits-Per-Second between two base stations when roaming; onboard a vehicle, (mbps) capacity. According to Esther Betancourt, director of ship or aircraft, for example. Meanwhile, the RF-7800W’s new product management for network systems at the company: Electronic Interference Mitigation enhancement means that the “We know that the battlefield is transitioning from a voice only radio will automatically search for and use a new channel if a battlefield to information sharing … high rates on the move and specific channel suffers interference. security are required capabilities to transition the battlefield to Staying with Harris, in early October, the US Army awarded

| DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 | 11 Harris

All of the Harris’ AN/VRC-118(V) vehicular radios ordered by the US Army as a result of the firm’s recent LRIP have been delivered the force.

a so-called ‘Milestone-C’ contract for the Limited Rate Initial certification also ensures that Codan’s radio can work with Production (LRIP) of the Harris AN/VRC-118 Mid-Tier other HF radios already certified by the organisation. This Networking Vehicle Radio (MNVR). The order is worth $10 is a particularly important consideration for US forces when million. Harris was selected to provide this transceiver to the US operating with other nations which may be using this HF radio. Army in September 2013. The AN/VRC-118(V) is, as its acronym For example, in recent years, Codan has supplied its radios to suggests, a vehicular radio designed to carry voice, data and the Afghan National Army (ANA) and also to the Iraqi Army. In imagery traffic from brigade and battalion levels to companies 2009, the firm was selected by the US Army to provide HF radios and platoons. Certified to the US National Security Agency’s to the ANA in a deal worth $5 million, which included supplies Type-1 encryption standard, the AN/VRC-118(V) carries legacy of the firm’s 2110M HF manpack transceiver. waveforms such as SINCGARS (Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System) and HAVE QUICK-I/II, while also SATCOM carrying the WNW (Wideband Networking Waveform) used at On 9 November, the Canadian Department of National Defence the battalion, platoon and company levels, and the SRW (Soldier (DND) announced a requirement for new deployable Satellite Radio Waveform) used by dismounted troops. The radio thus Communications (SATCOM) terminals to equip each of its armed forms the junction where dismounted communications using services. The DND wishes to acquire three specific terminal the SRW connect to the next tactical echelon using the WNW. types: a small manpack terminal which can be operated by Harris has told AMR that all of the radios ordered as part of the deployed troops, a transportable terminal and a Heavy Strategic Milestone-C LRIP have already been delivered. Deployable Terminal, according to the requirement. The latter Elsewhere in the tactical radios domain, towards the end of would be deployed at the headquarters level, and be capable October, Codan announced that it had received certification from of sustaining high data throughput. The DND has stated that it the US Department of Defence’s (DOD) Joint Interoperability expects to spend up to $15 million to acquire these terminals. The Test Command (JITC) for its 2210 Envoy High Frequency (HF: procurement is necessary, the DND announcement continued, three gigahertz to 30GHz) radio for automatic link establishment to allow Canada’s armed forces to access the US DOD’s Boeing requirements. These requirements are enshrined in the DoD’s Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) satellite constellation. Military Standard MIL-STD-188-141B stipulations which cover Canada is a partner in the initiative, having joined in 2011. The performance and interoperability requirements for HF radios. country contributed $337 million to the programme, and began According to an official announcement from the JTIC, this to use the WGS constellation in May 2012. AMR

12 | Asian Military Review | TECHNICAL SUPPORT MACHINE MTP-72

PURPOSE

Technical Support Machine MTP-72 is designed for the most labor intensive maintenance and current repairs of tank T-72 in the field. The structure of the machine includes a trailer with equipment and racks with niches and special boxes for transport and storage of spare parts and consumables for the repair of the tank.

SPECIfICATIONS Chassis KrAZ-632207 Trailer type Body type Full metal, welded Crew 3 (driver - crane operator, locksmith - mechanic, electrician - welder) Workshop overall dimensions, mm: Length 14720 Width 2760 Height 3640 Total weight of a workshop, kg 22750 Maximum speed, km/h 80 Fuel consumption, l/100 km 48 Maximum grade ascending ability, angle degree 25 Fordable depth, m 1,2 Zar-system voltage, V 24, 220, 380

STATIONARY CHARGING STATION SZS-U PURPOSE Stationary charging station SZS-U is intended for a charge of acid accumulator batteries, and also alkaline batteries with the rated voltage of 12 and 24 V, with the capacity from 7 to 200 A·h, what is applied in automobile and armored vehicles (personal armored vehicles or tanks) The station represents the stationary boxing of frame type, it is divided into two compartments. There is the chargers block in the front compartment, it’s consisting of twelve independent charging modules. There are niches for laying of 12 charging cables sets and 1 powering cables set (220 V and 380 V) in the rear compartment. Charging modules provide a high long-term charging rate with low fluctuations at the exit, they are interfering to premature wear of accumulator battery’s plates, and also are capable to determine the rated voltage of the charged battery automatically.

SPECIfICATIONS Type Stationary, power supply from external network Output voltage, V 12, 24 Station voltage, V 220, 380 Number of at the same time charged accumulator batteries 12 Time necessary for station expansion, no more, min. 5 Outline dimensions, mm length 1000 width 800 height 1000 Weight, kg: 100

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AMR X3CM 7/12.indd 1 5/16/16 11:36 AM land WARFARE

TANKED UP

NORINCO developed the PRC’s most advanced MBT in the form of the Type-99. This MBT has been fielded in limited numbers with only 200 understood to have been produced.

It is an often repeated adage that Main Battle Tanks (MBT) are unsuitable for operation in the jungles, mountains and paddies common to Asia-Pacific environments. Yet many armies in the region are investing in updating their MBT fleets. by Stephen W. Miller

14 | Asian Military Review | Japanese Imperial Army tankssurprised and rough ormountainousterrainignores that MBTs are uselessintropical vegetation their British counterparts by successfully their British counterparts bysuccessfully history. During theSecondWorld War, O power on the ground. The idea power ontheground. Theidea investment is that the MBT investment isthattheMBT remains thepremier platform ne reason forthisregional for the application of combat for theapplicationofcombat

NORINCO | DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 Although Australia usesMBTs suppliedby Abrams acquired forthe 1st Armoured Agency forDefenceDevelopment/ Australia’s MBTs with duringmanoeuvre, Afghanistan andIraqfurtherreinforced the The Royal Australian Army Armour Corps Corps Royal Australian Army Armour The Australia Refresh andRemediation Programme has Regiment. The Australian models BAE SystemsM113AS trackedarmoured developed asaresult of lessons learned domain, what are Asia-Pacific armies Asia-Pacific are what domain, with third partydefencecompanies, MBTs for their localenvironments with Singapore Meanwhile, locallydevelopedMBTs M1A1. However, thearmyhaslaunched Hyundai RotemK2BlackPantherMBT, personnel carrier which does not have the personnel carrierwhichdoes not havethe procurement: “willtransform Australia’s attacking through the supposedly attacking through thesupposedly air conditioning,improved armourand armament, protection andmobility. modern with Asia-Pacific the in actors Fighting Vehicles (IFVs)withgreater are oftendevelopedincooperation army from essentially(alightinfantry armament thantheM113AS. According a tendertoacquire 450newInfantry impenetrable Malaysian jungle. The role of impenetrable Malaysianjungle.Therole of in the world.” That said, an IFV fleet of fleet IFV an said, That world.” the in in US Army urbanoperationsinIraq. include theTank UrbanSurvivabilityKit being offered forexport.Forexample, contemporary operations. tanks duringrecent US-ledinterventionsin life to2035.Regarding the operationof been underwaytoextendthevehicle’s the US, the Singaporean Army has opted currently has59General Dynamics M1A1 technology from theRepublicofKorea’s to seethatforce expandedinthefuture. adequately to difficult be would size this currently thelatterhas UnitedDefence/ to one Australian defenseanalyst,this mobility, higherprotection andlarger specialised urbancombatpackages. speed orprotection tooperateclosethe support with such a small existential MBT support withsuchasmallexistential MBT seeking andwhatare their plans? selected toequiptheTurkish Army’s recognition oftheircontinuedrelevance to resulting inadvanceddesignswhichare notably thetank’smaingun,hasbeen force. Therefore, itwouldnotbeasurprise force) intooneofthemostpotentforces Otokar Altay MBT. So,inthe MBT Some armieshavecustomisedtheir Since 2013a$59millionTank Technical Today, MBTs beingacquired by | -stabilised Safran VIGY-15 fire control fire VIGY-15 Safran -stabilised Away from Malaysia, theRoyalThai Army T-72 familyMBTbuthasaPolishPZL- T-84 OplotMBTs, however, deliveries 120mm gun. Meanwhile,neighbouring Wola S-1000RengineandPolish-designed (TDM/Malaysian Army) in2010.ThePT- Thailand Ukraine. This first delivery of 40 vehicles vehicles 40 of delivery first This Ukraine. Kinetics withadditionalarmour. Referred dictated by the need for ammunition dictated bytheneedforammunition delivered. Thedelaysandsometechnical delivery sizeofupto200examples. ERAWA explosivereactive armour. The Chechnya).” To datefundshavenotyet Leopard-2A4 MBTs in2006. A numberof was seen as the first part of an eventual aneventual of part first the as seen was were delayed due to the civil war in Labedy PT-91Ms. Prototypetesting Mohamed Affandi RajaMohamedNoor, May 2016 the army announced that it May 2016the armyannouncedthatit aasa curd t cret B fleet MBT current its acquired Malaysia However, the first T-84s were not received partly due to the vulnerability of theT-72partly duetothevulnerability problems suffered regarding theMBTs until 2014,laterthanpromised, although of 96Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) armoured regiment. Despite being in 23 percentaccuracy by whencompared also has the longer barrel Rheinmetall L55 and Chinese alternatives (this limit was and Chinesealternatives(this limitwas 91M isderivedfrom theUralvagonzavod been budgetedforanynewMBT. in December 2015 to consider Russian in December2015toconsider Russian by IBD Deisenroth Engineeringand ST by May 2016 a total of 20 tanks had been by May2016atotalof20tankshadbeen the survivabilityofPT-91M (thelater mechanical reliabilityand concernsover candidate forthisnewunit.Localsources asecond toform intent the confirm commander of the TDM, appeared to to theT-72 family. In2015GeneralRaja commander and gunnerhave the gyro to astheLeopard-2SG thisupgradedMBT modified MBTsspecially these been have the acquisitionof40Kharkiv-Morozov common totheT-84’s 125mmgun).In shown during recent conflicts in Iraq and Iraq in recentconflicts during shown suggest: “therecriticism of hasbeen service, thePT-91M maynotbetheonly stabilisation, increases the armament new gun system which,coupledwith service with theTenteraDarat Malaysia signed in2003,andtheMBTenteringfull started in2000withanacquisitioncontact replace itsCadillacM41A3lighttankswith has commencedanambitiouseffort to have caused the Thai army command have causedtheThaiarmy command had formallysigned anagreement with for a European solution via its acquisition from Poland, taking delivery of 46 Bumar- WARFARE land 15 land WARFARE

2A4 MBTs in May 2016 out of a total of 61. These are in addition to 46 Leopard-2RI versions already delivered. A Rheinmetall spokesperson shared that the company: Rheinmetall Rheinmetall “is currently carrying out a performance upgrade of the Leopard-2A4 on behalf of the Indonesian armed forces … Two different versions, the Leopard-2A4 and Leopard-2RI, are being modernised. The programme includes a climate control system (for both MBTs), improved ballistic protection, conversion to an electric turret drive, an auxiliary power unit, and the fitting of a rear camera (to the Leopard- 2RI).” Rheinmetall is also converting the 120mm smoothbore gun in the Leopard-2RI to fire Rheinmetall’s new programmable DM11 multipurpose round.

The Leopard-2SG is an upgrade of the Leopard-2A4 MBTs which the Singapore Army acquired Republic of Korea from its German counterparts. This upgrade has provided the Singapore Army with vehicles As noted above, some MBT manufacturers equipped with state-of-the-art protection and lethality. in the Asia-Pacific are entering the international market place. The Korean the China North Industries Corporation which debuted in 2012 at the Eurosatory Defence Development Centre and Hyundai (NORINCO) to buy their MBT-3000 MBT. exhibition in Paris. Rotem have designed state-of-the-art Reportedly, the first of 28 vehicles ordered MBTs. For example, the K1 family MBT for $150 million will be delivered by the Indonesia was designed in 2007 with assistance from end of 2016. This is the first export of the Further south, the Tentara Nasional Indonesia General Dynamics and shares much of the MBT-3000, itself an export version of the Angkatan Darat (TMI-AD/Indonesian Army) M1A1 design (see above); a major exception People’s Liberation Army (PLA) T-99G accepted its first eight upgraded Leopard- being the MTU MB-871-Ka-501 engine built Rheinmetall

Indonesia’s fielding of the modernised Leopard-2RI (shown firing) gives it an advanced MBT force that is further complemented by its acquisition of surplus Rheinmetall Marder IFVs.

16 | Asian Military Review | new ROE Asian_Military_Review_All_213x286_eng (2).pdf 1 12/6/16 3:44 PM

CMY

K land WARFARE

The indigenous K2 Black Panther development has not only provided the ROK with one of the most highly advanced MBTs but has also generated ROK Army potential export opportunities.

under license by the ROK’s Ssangyong millimetre wave radar to detect incoming S and T Dynamics automatic transmission Heavy Industries. The commander has missiles for long range targeting/ranging from late 2016. the Safran SFIM two-axis, independently and target acquisition, and incoming stabilised, panoramic sight manufactured threat detection. Used in conjunction with Japan by Samsung under license. The K1s also the thermal imaging sights, the system will Unlike the ROK, Japan has been have an adjustable suspension that allows follow a designated maneuvering target, developing its own MBTs for the Japanese the tank to ‘squat’ reducing its visual profile, even a low flying helicopter at a range Ground Self Defence Force (JGSDF) for or ‘kneel’ to increase either gun elevation or of nine kilometres (5.5 miles). The FCS some time, for example, the Mitsubishi depression for firing in undulating terrain. is linked to the gun/turret stabilisation Heavy Industries (MHI) Type-90 MBT Beginning in 2014 the K1A1 MBTs were which assures firing is initiated at the equipped with Rheinmetall’s L44 120mm upgraded to the K1A2 status with a digital exact instant that the gun is accurately gun is the (produced under license battle management system, identification aligned with a target thus compensating by Japan Steel Works) is the current friend or foe capability, and front and rear for vehicle movement induced error. The standard MBT of the JGSDF. Circa 340 surveillance cameras. new gun fires the unique Korean Smart Type-90s are in service although Japan is The K2 (see above) is not so much a Top-Attack Munition (KSTAM-1/2). The currently developing a new MBT known successor to the K1 as a complement. KSTAM is a fire-and-forget, top-attack as the MHI Type-10. The objectives of After over 15 years in development the anti-tank munition that is fired at high the Type-10 programme were to provide first K2 entered service in June 2014. Its elevation and deploys by parachute to use reliable protection and survivability, and main armament, though with a calibre its own sensors to seek and attack targets an MBT more compatible with the road of 120mm, has a higher 1400 metres-per- at nine kilometres range. Thus the K2 can and rail network, given that the Type-90, second (4600 feet-per-second) muzzle engage targets while in defilade or that tipping the scales at 54 tons, was limited velocity due to its longer 2.6-metre (24- are out of sight. The first 100 K2s will use where it could operate. The Type-10 feet) barrel. The tank’s Fire Control System the MTU’s 890 engine, but it is intended having a 44 ton basic weight has greater (FCS) includes not only the panoramic that this will be replaced by the Doosan employment flexibility in this regard. sight and thermal imaging capability but a DST 1500 horsepower/hp engine and an The lower weight of the Type-10 is partly

18 | Asian Military Review | land WARFARE

achieved through use of a modular no MBTs. Current HKP requirements do PRC armour system allowing modules to be call for the procurement of MBTs, but the The majority of the People’s Liberation removed to lower weight and added to availability of funds for such a procurement Army’s MBT force continues to use the increase protection. remains in doubt. Previous candidate First Inner Mongolia Machinery Factory The Type-10 has an automatic platforms which have been mentioned in Type-96 family that was first fielded in loader (thus a three person crew), and open sources include the K1 and Type-74 1997. The Type-96 is similar to the T-72 a 120mm smoothbore main gun plus a platforms (see above) which are expected (see above) but with a more advanced turret-mounted remote weapon station. to be phased out by the ROK Army and fire control system and a 1000hp diesel However, it is the tank’s electronics and JGSDF. It is possible, however, that the engine. The Type-96 has been improved optronics that increase its lethality and Philippines’ new President Rodrigo via the Type-96G with explosive reactive operational capability. The commander’s Duterte’s improving relationship with the armour and thermal imaging replacing panoramic site has unobstructed People's Republic of China (PRC) could, its image intensification sights. Over 1500 360-degree views and allows for hunter- in the short term, remove the strategic Type-96s have been produced with some killer, hand-off or ‘from-my-position’ imperative for an MBT acquisition, if sources suggesting more than 2000. firing roles. The Type-10 is entirely a Manilla feels that the warming of relations Nevertheless, NORINCO has been Japanese design with many features allows the government to slow the speed pursuing an aggressive armoured vehicle not seen on comparable MBTs such as of defence modernisation? development programme, which includes its full semi-active, hydro-pneumatic MBTs, over the last fifteen years. In 1998 suspension and 1200hp diesel engine Vietnam it developed and trialled the Type-98, an linked to a continuously variable While the Philippines is not in possession MBT based on the Type-96 with turret and transmission allowing the same speeds of any MBTs, the Vietnam People’s Army armament improvements. Though not in forward and reverse. The tank has also currently has vintage Uralvagonzavod fielded, it led to the Type-99 which was been viewed with a bow-mounted self- T-55 and T-62 family MBTs in service. In fielded in 2011. This MBT has modular entrenching blade. First fielded in 2012, June 2106 it was reported that Vietnam ERA armour and an active laser protection circa 66 are now in service and it is expected was seeking Uralvagonzavod T-90MS system intended to disrupt laser-guided that the Type-10 will replace the 1975 MBTs from Russia, a modernised export missiles and blind enemy optronics. The vintage MHI Type-74 MBT which could version of the T-90S fielded by the Russian fully-stabilized ZPT98 125-mm smoothbore see a requirement for around 300 tanks. Army in 1993 which remains the force’s gun uses conventional rounds and cannon- principle MBT. Vietnam is understood to launched ATGMs. A new computerized Philippines have an initial requirement for 28 vehicles fire control system incorporates a laser Unlike the JGSDF, the Hukbong Katihan though final details regarding any order rangefinder, automatic target tracker and ng Pilipinas (HKP/Philippines Army) has have yet to be announced. thermal imaging in both the commander’s panoramic hunter-killer sight and the gunner’s sights. The MBT’s 1500hp diesel engine is based on MTU’s 871. The Type- 99’s price appears to have limited its JGSDF fielding to only 200 tanks. However, export versions have been developed known as the M3000/ VT-1A which are in service with Morocco and Peru.

Next Steps The concerns of various Asia-Pacific countries over their security and perceived threats to their national interest, perhaps best highlighted by the PRC’s increasingly muscular maritime and territorial presence in the East and South China Seas, and the availability of advanced armoured combat vehicles at a reasonable price have combined to create the current MBT market in the region. For some, like Vietnam and Thailand, their ageing MBT fleet is causing them to modernise simply to maintain a credible ground combat capability. For others, like the ROK and Japan, their efforts are simply a continuation of efforts to maintain their combat edge. Given the programmes in progress and initiatives Japan’s Type-10 is designed to allow its use not only on more of the country’s mainland islands being considered MBTs are destined to play but also to be deployed with reaction forces by naval or air transport, which its compactness and an even greater role within Asia-Pacific 44-ton base weight provides armies over the coming decades. AMR

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FUELING STRENGTH Although Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft play an important role in force projection, they have a limited niche market that will only attract those with deep defence budget pockets. However, this is not stopping the two major MRTT manufacturers, Airbus and Boeing, from aggressive marketing. by David Oliver

aving overcome and and wing refuelling pods that may delay Japan Air Self-Defence Force’s fleet of four expensive and protracted deliveries of the first 18 production Boeing KC-767 tankers in October 2015, development challenges aircraft by almost a year to early 2018, and with the approval of the Pentagon, to the tanker, in August according to recent reports. it moves it closer to becoming Boeing’s 2016 the US Department In September the Boeing tanker first foreign customer for the KC-46A. ofH Defence, cleared the Boeing KC-46A received a further boost when the US These aircraft will come equipped with for the production of delivery aircraft State Department approved a potential Cobham’s in-flight hose and drogue to operational United States Air Force $1.9 billion sale of four KC-46A aerial refuelling systems, Raytheon’s AN/ALR- squadrons. This decision was made refuelling tankers to Japan. The Japanese 69A digital radar warning receiver and in spite of ongoing problems with the government first announced its intention Northrop Grumman’s AN/AAQ-24(V) tanker’s fly-by-wire refuelling boom to purchase the new tankers to replace the Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures

20 | Asian Military Review | air POWER Boeing Airbus

Airbus has flown the first new standard A330-200 MRTT which will be the model to be delivered to the Republic of Singapore Air Force and the Republic of Korea Air Force.

system. More information on aircraft Airbus self-defence systems can be found in The KC-46A is in a head-to-head competition Thomas Withington’s Turning Down the with the Airbus A330-200 MRTT. Earlier Heat article in this issue. The sale will in 2015, the Republic of Korea announced The KC-46A Pegasus’ also include Pratt and Whitney PW-4062 it had opted to buy the Airbus A330-200 clearance for production turbofans which power the aircraft plus MRTT instead of the KC-46A. aircraft to equip USAF operational squadrons will a spare, and aircrew and maintenance The first A330-200 MRTT customer assist its export potential. training and support, according to an in the Asia-Pacific region was Australia announcement regarding the sale made which has taken delivery of five aircraft by the Japanese government. and two former Qantas Airways A330- 200 airliners which are being converted into A330-200 MRTTs by Airbus to be delivered in 2018. Royal Australian Air

Boeing Force (RAAF) A330-200 MRTTs, locally designated as the KC-30A, have been supporting Operation ORKA, the RAAF’s mission supporting US-led efforts against the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and Syria insurgent organisation since 2014, according to official Australian government announcements. Moreover, in April one of the KC-30As conducted air-to-air refuelling trials using its boom system delivering up to 15000 pounds/lb (6800 kilograms/kg) of fuel to an RAAF Boeing C-17A Globemaster-III turbofan freighter, according to media reports. The RAAF has announced that it plans to acquire two more KC-30As before the end of the decade, although it is not clear if these will be new or secondhand aircraft. Meanwhile Airbus is confident of more export sales to the Asia-Pacific region following the first flight, in September, of its new A330-200 MRTT. The new standard A330-200 MRTT features structural modifications; aerodynamic improvements to give a fuel-burn reduction of up to one percent compared to Japan has become the first export customer for the previous versions of the aircraft; upgraded KC-46A with an order for four aircraft to replace the avionics computers and enhanced military Japan Air Self-Defence Force KC-767 tankers. systems. The first new standard aircraft will be delivered in 2018 to the Republic

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The RAAF’s KC-30A tanker has been cleared to refuel the C-17A Globemaster-III using its boom system.

of Singapore Air Force followed by the Republic of Korea Air Force. The next step in the A330-200 MRTT’s evolution

is expected to include the possibility of David Oliver adding electronic intelligence capabilities in addition to its passenger and medical evacuation missions as well as increasing the aircraft’s maximum take-off weight to 523,600lb (238,000kg) to enable the aircraft to carry 20 percent more payload, compared to previous A330-200 MRTT A company-owned Airbus C-295W has been used to conduct a series of dry contacts with versions. The next step will be the a C-295 receiver aircraft, equipped with a palletised AAR kit. trialling of the fly-by-wire Advanced Aerial Refuelling Boom System in a fully automatic mode. The company claims platform has a particular application in for the Airbus AAR kit. that this would increase flight safety and the aerial refuelling of helicopters and could be adapted for refuelling unmanned Airbus has announced that helicopter- Philippines combat aerial vehicles in the next decade. receiver trials will commence before the Elsewhere in the region, the Hukbong However, in July 2016 the Indian end of the year. Helicopter proximity Himpapawid ng Pilipinas (Philippines Air government appeared to backtrack on flights have already been successfully Force/PAF) possesses no tankers but its plan to procure six A330-200 MRTT flown. some of the incoming new assets being aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The C-295 MRTT modification uses acquired for the PAF can be modified to This marks the second time that India a standard AAR kit fitted to pallets and use probe-and-drogue aerial refuelling. has scrapped the aircraft’s tender which involves only minimal modifications to These include the Korea Aerospace is estimated to be worth $2 billion but the aircraft related to the control systems Industries’ FA-50 Fighting Eagle fighters, Airbus is remaining confident with a for hose-and-drogue operations. Although twelve of which the PAF has on order. spokesperson telling AMR the company: developed mainly for the in-flight refuelling Future maritime patrol, airborne early “will engage with the Indian government of helicopters, the C-295 tanker could be warning and new Counter-Insurgency in finding a way to bring the A330-200 used for replenishing other aircraft at up to (COIN) aircraft to replace its Rockwell MRTT’s capabilities to the IAF.” 265 knots (485 km/h) and the company has International/Boeing OV-10A/C/M While Airbus is continuing to improve future plans to use the concept for the aerial Bronco COIN platforms that the PAF the A330-200 MRTT, it has also developed refuelling of unmanned aerial vehicles. aspires to acquire in the next few years an Air-to-Air Refuelling (AAR) kit that The concept would also enable the C-295 could also benefit from AAR capabilities. will enable its C-295 turboprop freighter to serve as a forward refuelling platform This year the PAF took delivery of a third family to become a cost effective MRTT. for ground vehicles. The Tentara Nasional C-295M. In PAF service the C-295M will In September 2016 Airbus successfully Indonesia-Angkatan Udara (Indonesian Air play a key role in the modernisation demonstrated the AAR capabilities of the Force) operates 21 C-295 and 14 CN-235 of the force´s transport fleet, and will C-295 using a company-owned C-295W aircraft but only two Lockheed Martin undertake a wide variety of military and equipped with a palletised AAR kit during KC-130B tankers. With a large fleet of humanitarian assistance and disaster which a series of dry-contacts (where Eurocopter/Airbus Helicopters’ AS-332 response missions. no fuel was provided to the receiving Super Puma and H-225M medium-lift aircraft) with an Ejército del Aire (Spanish utility helicopters, which can be fitted with Vietnam Air Force) C-295M receiver aircraft flying a probe for in-flight refuelling, currently To the east of the Philippines, the Vietnam at various speeds down to 110 knots (203 being delivered, and 17000 islands to People’s Air Force has taken delivery of kilometres-per-hour). The C-295 AAR defend, Indonesia could be a prime target three C-295 aircraft which, if fitted with

22 | Asian Military Review | air POWER

In addition to replacing the HS-748, it IAI was anticipated that the C-295W could be a contender to replace the fleet of circa 100 Antonov An-32RE turboprop transports but in October 2016 the IAF’s chief of air force staff Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha dismissed these reports. He explained that the HS-748 and An-32 are two different classes of aircraft that cannot be replaced by one type. He did confirm that planned development of Indo-Russian Multi-role Transport Aircraft (MTA) turbofan freighter to replace the An-32 is Alongside availability from Boeing, Israel Aerospace Industries offer conversions of existing 767 stalled due to technical differences, but turbofan transports, with its customers to this end including the Colombian Air Force. he was hopeful that this deadlock will be broken soon. Faced with continuing uncertainty over the contracts for both the an AAR capability, could support the has become the latest Asia-Pacific nation Airbus A330-200 MRTT and the C-295W; Vietnam People’s Navy’s H-225M naval to acquire the C-295W with an order for and the fractious relationship with Russia support helicopters. Another H-225M a single aircraft for Bangladesh Army over the future of the MTA programme, operator is the Royal Thai Air Force that Aviation. The aircraft will be delivered in the IAF will have rely on its small force of has no tanker aircraft to support its fleet the second half of 2017 under a contract six Ilyushin Il-78MK convertible tankers of more than 100 combat and special that also includes customer support and and freighters to support more than 500 mission aircraft. A single C-295 has been training, Airbus has revealed. It is the first combat and special mission aircraft. ordered by the Royal Thai Army that multi-engine fixed-wing aircraft to be While Boeing and Airbus continue could be used to fulfill a limited AAR role. operated by Bangladesh Army Aviation. to develop and market their respective Meanwhile, in October 2016 the Although an army asset, the Bangladesh tankers, the USAF is setting its sights government of Malaysia announced that Air Force is building up with Yakovlev on a next-generation tanker that will its defence budget had taken a serious dip Yak-130 fighter/light attack aircraft be able to support strike assets in compared to 2015: The amount allocated that can be equipped with a detachable increasingly dangerous skies. Lockheed to the Ministry of Defence for 2017 AAR probe. Furthermore, Bangladesh’s Martin is proposing a small, stealthy, was $3.6 billion, equaling a 13 percent erstwhile sibling Pakistan has one of the fuel-efficient, hybrid wing-body aircraft drop. This means that the Malaysian most diverse fleets of military aircraft in that can take-off and land on short defence budget has fallen to 2012 levels, the region in the Pakistan Air Force, with runways. The chief of the USAF’s Air representing its largest single reduction more than 300 combat aircraft supported Mobility Command, which operates since 1998. However, a number of its re- by a meagre fleet of Ilyushin Il-78MP the air force’s tankers, General Carlton equipment programmes have been ring- tanker aircraft. It also has four CN- Everhart, recently launched a study for fenced from these cuts, according to media 235-200 transport aircraft that could be a next-generation tanker dubbed the KC- reports, including the acquisition of four adapted for the Airbus AAR kit. Z, that would be very different from the Airbus A400M turboprop freighters for large-bodied, commercially based KC- the Tentera Udara DiRaja Malaysia (RMAF/ India 46A and A330-200 MRTTs now entering Royal Malaysian Air Force). Designed Meanwhile, beyond the A330-200 MRTT service. As potential adversaries develop from the outset to be a dual-role freighter aircraft discussed above, in May 2013, India sophisticated Surface-to-Air Missiles and tanker aircraft, the A400M provides issued a tender for a $2.5 billion competition (SAM), witness the announcement in air forces with a cost-effective way to for 56 Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) April 2015 from Russia’s state armaments acquire an AAR capability in addition to to replace the IAF’s current fleet of 30 export agency Rosoboronexport, that the a versatile freighter. Avro/Hawker Siddeley HS-748 turboprop People’s Republic of China is expected The standard A400M aircraft comes transports. Currently only the Airbus/Tata to acquire the Almaz-Antey S-400 high outfitted with much of the equipment and Advanced Systems consortium remains altitude SAM system, the date for the software provisions for AAR operations in contention for the HS-748 replacement delivery of which is unknown, current as standard. Any A400M can be rapidly with their C-295W offering which has tankers may become increasingly reconfigured to become a tanker able to upgraded Pratt and Whitney Canada PW- vulnerable. Ahead of an official US refuel probe-equipped receivers. The 127G turboprops to provide enhanced hot Air Force study on the KC-Z, expected RMAF also operates a growing fleet of and high performance. The C-295W has to begin within the next six months, H-225Ms. With Airbus’ admission that completed a series of flight evaluation trials industry is already gearing up to solve the A400M’s previously announced in India aimed at securing the contract for this problem. However, the KC-Z would capability for the air refuelling of 16 aircraft supplied directly from Airbus have a limited transport capability helicopters was unlikely to be achieved in and another 40 to be assembled in India in and because of this there could be a the near future, AAR kits for the RMAF’s partnership with Tata Advanced Systems. continuing requirement for conventional CN-235 transport aircraft may be an However, this contract has been deferred tankers in the next two decades which interim solution. Another country with on two occasions since the C-295W was can support all-important logistics no AAR capability is Bangladesh which selected in 2013. missions, in addition to AAR. AMR

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The PLAN is pursuing an energetic US DoD schedule for constructing new frigates and destroyers. These new ships include the ‘Type 54/Jiangkai II’ class frigates, the 25th example of which was launched in June.

FRIGATE OR DESTROYER? Budgetary and strategic factors are slowly dividing the Asia-Pacific region into navies that can afford destroyers, and those that cannot. This, in turn, is contributing to an increasingly blurred distinction between the two ship categories.

by Dr. Alix Valenti

or much of the twentieth cen- the mission lines between frigates and Australasia tury, the distinction between destroyers have become blurred,” says Mr. Koh continues that: “Australia and frigates and destroyers was Collin Koh, a research fellow at the New Zealand continue to operate frig- betrayed by their displacement maritime security programme of the ates, but Australia is the only country in- and intended missions. S. Rajaratnam School of International vesting long-term into new-build ships.” Traditionally,F frigates displace between Studies in Singapore: “Many new frigates In fact, the Royal New Zealand Navy 2000 tons and 3000 tons, and are have started to tout heavier AAW and (RNZN) operates two frigates but no considered to be small surface combatants even ASuW punches, even if they may destroyers, and has no plans to acquire specialised in Anti-Submarine Warfare still retain a primary ASW fit,” Mr. Koh any new ships in either category. Austra- (ASW). Destroyers, on the other hand, continues. The continued reduction of lia, on the other hand, is much closer to traditionally displace between 4000 tons defence budgets since the end of the the, “competition between countries and and 5000 tons, and were designed not Cold War combined with a wide variety major powers” currently taking place in only for ASW but also, in some cases, to of security and strategic factors, are the East and South China Seas propelled deliver a heavier punch than frigates by contributing to shaping a geographical by the maritime and territorial claims deploying Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) map of Asia-Pacific surface combatant which the People’s Republic of China and Anti-Air Warfare (AAW) capabilities: programmes that draws very clear lines (PRC) has in these two stretches of water, “However, if we fast-forward to today, between sub-regions. and is particularly concerned with “mili-

24 | Asian Military Review | sea POWER Brian Burnell

The Álvaro de Bazán class frigate is used by the Spanish Navy, and the design has also been selected as the basis for the Royal Australian Navy’s ‘Hobart’ class destroyers. tary modernisation in the region,” as its 2017, while HMAS Brisbane and HMAS the DPRK claiming in August that it was 2016 Defence White Paper which outlines Sydney should now be delivered in Sep- now in possession of a missile capable the government’s strategic and defence tember 2018 and March 2020 respectively. of hitting the United States. Therefore procurement priorities. As such, the Despite the ‘Hobart’ class delays, the both Japan and the ROK’s destroyers are Australian government has two major Future Frigate programme, also known as equipped with the latest iteration of the programmes: the Air Warfare Destroyer the SEA-5000 initative to the Australian Lockheed Martin Aegis Combat Manage- (AWD) and the Future Frigate. Department of Defence (DoD), was on the ment System (CMS) which can provide Through the AWD programme, the other hand brought forward, a DoD press command and control for ballistic mis- AWD alliance (which includes Navantia, release announced in August 2015. The sile defence, as does the allied US Navy: Australia’s Defence Material Organisa- programme involves the construction of “The PRC acquired its own ‘Chinese tion procurement agency, Raytheon and nine frigates to replace the eight ‘ANZAC’ Aegis’ in large to match what its imme- ASC) is building three ‘Hobart’ class class frigates currently serving with the diate neighbours are having, but also to AWDs. Displacing 7000 tons and armed Royal Australian Navy (RAN). In April provide fleet AAW cover for the (Peo- with a BAE Systems’ Mk.45 127mm main 2016 the DoD announced the three com- ple’s Liberation Army Navy/PLAN) air- armament and a Raytheon Phalanx Block- petitors shortlisted for the Competitive craft carrier and accompanying forces,” 1B Close-In Weapon System (CIWS), the Evaluation Programme (CEP) launched Mr. Koh continues. ship’s AAW capabilities include Lock- in October 2015: BAE Systems, Fincantieri In a continuous effort to increase its as- heed Martin’s Mk.41 Vertical Launch Sys- and Navantia. BAE Systems is offering sertiveness, the PLAN, has ongoing frig- tem (VLS) to accommodate Raytheon’s its Type 26 Global Combat Ship design ate and destroyer programmes. Regard- RIM-66 Standard Missile-2 (SM-2) and while Fincantieri is competing with its ing the latter, the PLAN has designed an RIM-174 Standard Extended-Range Ac- ‘Bergamini’ class frigate design already in updated version of the ‘Type 052C/Luy- tive Missile SAMs (Surface-to-Air Mis- service with the Marina Militaire (Italian ang II’ class destroyer dubbed the ‘Type siles). ASuW provision is provided by the Navy). Navantia’s design is: “based on 052D/Luyang III’ class. According to lo- ship’s Boeing RGM-84 Harpoon family the latest and most modern (‘Álvaro de cal sources, this latter class may displace Anti-Ship Missiles (AShMs) with the ves- Bazán’ class frigate operated by the Span- as much as 10000 tons and is fitted with a sel’s ASW punch provided by its Euro- ish Navy),” says Esther Benito Lope, a vast sensor suite including the Type 346A Torp MU-90 Impact torpedoes. Navantia spokesperson: “and Navantia’s naval surveillance radar. It is armed with The three ships in the class, HMAS added value is its experience with frig- YJ-18A/B AShMs and surface-to-surface Hobart, HMAS Brisbane and HMAS Syd- ates”, with five of these vessels built for missiles, China Precision Machinery Im- ney, were initially respectively slated for the Armada Española (Spanish Navy) and port-Export Corporation HQ-9 SAMs and delivery in December 2014, early 2016 three planned for the RAN via the ‘Hobart’ anti-submarine rockets. Jiangnan Ship- and mid-2017 however a number of de- class which uses this design as its base. yard built the first eight vessels of the class lays have continuously increased the and launched a ninth one on 28 July. The overall cost of the programme and post- Northeast Asia Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Company poned delivery. HMAS Hobart success- Further north, Japan and the Republic (DSIC) also began construction of ‘Type fully completed Builder Sea Trials off the of Korea face the common threat of the 052D/Luyang III’ destroyers on 28 No- coast of South Australia on 24 September Democratic People’s Republic of Korea's vember 2015, with the first ship currently 2016, and is slated for delivery in June (ROK) (DPRK) ballistic missiles, with being fitted the second one launched on 3

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‘Incheon’ class frigates that will be built by Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine

US DoD Engineering (DSME). The ‘FFX-II’ class has a full load displacement of 3600 tons and is armed with the Raytheon RIM- 166 Block-1 SAM, the SSM-700K AShM and Agency for Defence Development/ Almaz-Antey Cheolmae-2 SAMs. The first vessel, launched on 2 June, is slated to be commissioned in 2018.

South Asia The ‘Sejong Daewang’ class Looking towards South Asia, Mr. Koh destroyers are in service with the ROKN and will states that: “the key player remains India, provide the basic design of with comparable frigate and destroyer the new, improved variant of programmes relative to Northeast Asia this class which will include (see above) … whereas Pakistan continues the Aegis CMS. to focus on frigates as its largest surface combatant, after having retired the navy’s Cold War-era destroyers.” Pakistan, however, does not have any ongoing frigate programmes, while India continues with the construction of its ‘Kolkata’ class destroyers, of which the first two ships, INS Kolkata and INS Kochi, were commissioned in August 2014 and September 2015 respectively. Built by indigenous shipbuilder Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL), the ‘Kolkata’ class destroyers have full load August and third expected to be launched senior associate at Avascent, a Washington displacement of 6800 tons. The last vessel, shortly. Meanwhile, in the frigate domain, DC-based consultancy. As such, the ROK INS Chennai, is slated for commissioning construction of the PLAN’s ‘Type 054A/ Defence Acquisition Programme Admin- by the end of 2016. MDL was also selected, Jiangkai II’ class frigates continues. On 8 istration (DAPA), which overseas the in January 2011, for the construction four June, Shanghai’s Hudong-Zhongua ship- country’s defence procurement, signed ‘Visakhapatnam’ class destroyers. Accord- yard launched the 25th example, while an agreement with Hyundai Heavy Indus- ing to local sources, the ‘Visakhapatnam’ the Huangpu shipyard in Guangzhou, tries (HHI), on 24 June, to commence de- class will have a displacement of 7300 tons southern China launched the 24th exam- velopment of the second batch of ‘Sejong and will feature a deck with a low radar ple on 17 June. Daewang’ class destroyers. The three new cross section while maintaining the hull Accompanying Japan’s desire to show ships will be an improved variant of the form of the ‘Kolkata’ class. more assertiveness in the region in the face three batch one ‘Sejong Daewang’ class, of the PRC’s increasingly outward strategic with a full load displacement of 10000 tons Southeast Asia posture, the Japanese Maritime Self-De- and equipped with Lockheed Martin’s Meanwhile: “In Southeast Asia, the key fence Force (JMSDF) has launched its own Aegis Baseline-9 CMS (see above), and AN/ players, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, destroyer programme. The ‘Azikuzi’ class SPY-1D S-band (2.3-2.5/2.7-3.7 gigahertz) Thailand and Vietnam, are all into frigates, is expected to replace the JMSDF’s current naval surveillance radar. The ships’ sensor since destroyers are regarded as … too ‘Asagiri’ class destroyers. Two ships have suite also includes Atlas Elektronik’s bow- expensive,” argues Mr. Koh. While Singa- been ordered and are currently being built mounted DSQS-21 BZ-M sonar and MTeQ pore does not currently have any ongoing by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, with the towed array sonar. In terms of armament, programmes in this regard, the Philippines first one to be completed in 2017 according the ships are fitted with a single Thales have just recently signed a contract with to a local source. Very little information is Goalkeeper 30mm CIWS, Raytheon’s HHI for the construction of two frigates. available on the programme, other than that RIM-116 family SAMs and a Mk.45 Mod.4 Furthermore, in August 2010, Indonesia’s the ships will have a displacement of 5000 127mm naval gun. The ASuW capabilities Ministry of Defence (MoD) launched the tons, will have a high performance ASW include the LIG Nex1 SSM-700K Hae Sung SIGMA 10514 frigate project, resulting in capability and will be equipped with com- long-range AShMs and LIG Nex1 Hyun- the development of the ‘Martadinata’ class bined gas turbine electric and gas turbine moo-III surface-to-surface missiles: “Cur- vessels. The contract for the two vessels propulsion as well as using a new naval rently HHI is finishing-up the design, and was awarded to Damen Schelde Naval surveillance radar of an unknown type. plans to start building the ships within Shipbuilding (DSNS), which is working Away from Japan, in the last decade, the next two years,” says Seon Jeong U an with indigenous shipyard PT PAL in the the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) has HHI spokesperson. development and construction of the vessel. been focusing on procuring; “capable high Regarding frigates, the ROKN will The first eponymous example successfully end ships complete with ASW, AAW and receive eight ‘FFX-II’ class frigates; an completed sea trials on 7 September and, ASuW capabilities,” says Matthew Caris, improved variant of the ROKN’s existing according to Hein van Ameijden, the direc-

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The ROKN’s ‘Incheon’ class frigates are to provide the baseline design for the navy’s forthcoming ‘FSX-II’ class ships; the first of which is expected to be commissioned in 2018.

tor of DSNS: “As a result of the close col- though no additional information has been which are slowly blurring traditional dis- laboration between DSNS and PT PAL, we released since April to confirm this. tinctions between frigates and destroyers. expect to deliver both vessels according to After having experienced a num- Indeed, constrained by their finan- schedule: the first one in January 2017 and ber of significant delays since it was cial resources and the uncertainty of the the second one in September 2017.” launched in October 2013, the Philip- economic climate in the region, countries Away from Indonesia, while a contract pines’ Navy (PN) Frigate Acquisition throughout the Asia-Pacific are being for the multipurpose frigate programme Programme (FAP) was finally awarded pushed to design ever-larger surface com- was signed in August 2013 between DSME to HHI in August 2016. The contract to batants as a result of the factors discussed and the Royal Thai Navy (RTN), it was only build two 2600 ton frigates was signed above. As an example, the RAN’s ‘Hobart’ on 18 May that DSME laid the keel for the on 24 October, and the design, according class (see above) displace 6250 tonnes, con- first of the two frigates for the RTN. The to Mr. Jeong U, will be a smaller light sidered above the traditional classification design uses a modernised variant of the combatant version of the ‘Incheon’ class for a destroyer, while the PLAN’s ‘Type ‘Kwanggaeto Daewang’ class destroyer in frigate currently in service with the Re- 054A/Jiangkai II’ class frigates displace service with the ROKN, and is expected to public of Korea Navy (ROKN): “HHI 3900 tons; heavy for a ship classified as a have a displacement of 3650 tons. No ad- should start building the first ship in frigate. This increase in size allows navies ditional information is currently available a year’s time,” estimated Mr. Jeong U: to not only accommodate increasing capa- regarding this programme. Moreover, on “and we project delivery of the second bilities and pack a more significant punch, 29 April, Russia’s Zelenodolsk shipyard ship within 42 months of signing the but also to acquire a comparatively small- launched the first of an additional three contract,” in approximately mid-2020. er force of these ships for various roles: ‘Gepard’ class multipurpose frigates for “The idea of building (large frigates and the Vietnam People's Navy (VPN). This is Larger priorities destroyers) is also to provide for redun- part of a contract signed between the VPN The ongoing frigate and destroyer pro- dancies onboard to accommodate future and the Zelenodolsk shipyard concluded in grammes in the Asia-Pacific read like a retrofits and mid-life upgrades,” notes Mr. 2006, which has already seen the delivery map of regional priorities. While coun- Koh, as such extending the service life of of two ‘Gepard’ class multipurpose frigates, tries with sufficient defence budgets are the ships: “Frigates and destroyers conse- Dinh Tien Hoang and Li Taï Toh, in March building both frigates and destroyers to quently become larger, to accommodate a and August 2011 respectively. The last two match their neighbour’s naval capabili- greater repertoire of capabilities to suit the ships of the class were scheduled for de- ties, others are focusing on the construc- spectrum of missions their builders and livery in August and September 2016, al- tion of ships with designs and capabilities buyers envisage them to fulfil.” AMR

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THE SIGNAL AND THE NOISE

The electromagnetic spectrum is a loud, chaotic place. Navies must use their Electronic Warfare (EW) equipment to listen carefully to tease out the signals of interest from the cacophony of electromagnetic noise littering the littorals and the high seas.

by Thomas Withington

t has was a scenario that naval the part of the USS Mason, fire control strategists have been anticipating errors on the part of those whom launched in lecture theatres, wardrooms and the AShMs or design/engineering errors bars since the end of the Cold War, on the part of those who developed the where the scholastic decedents of missile. Nevertheless, it is known that theI celebrated father of naval strategy, the weapons were fired from the vicinity the US Navy Admiral Alfred Mahan of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a stretch of (1840-1914) cogitate on the future shape the Red Sea flowing past the west coast of the war at sea. The specific scenario of Yemen. The US Navy states that the is the attack of a US Navy warship from AShMs were fired from Yemeni territory land using Anti-Ship Missiles (AShM). under the control of Houthi Shia Muslim The bewildering array of militias; belligerents involved in the antennae mounted on a The very stuff of debate and examination warships’ masts betrays has now become reality. At around Yemeni civil war. how important the 1900 on 9 October, the USS Mason, an electromagnetic spectrum ‘Arleigh-Burke’ class destroyer, while Decoys is to contemporary naval underway in international waters in the According to the US Naval Institute (USNI), operations. Red Sea, came under attack from two a non-profit professional organisation AShMs. The destroyer had deployed based in Annapolis, Maryland, once the there on 3 October, following an AShM USS Mason had detected the incoming decoy transmits Radio Frequency (RF) attack on the HSV-2 Swift catamaran missiles, it fired two Raytheon RIM-66 signals and performs a flight trajectory operated by the United Arab Emirates Standard Missile-2 (SM-2) family Surface- mimicking a large ship in such a fashion National Marine Dredging Company to-Air Missiles (SAMs) at the incoming as to lure the AShM away from its original on 1 October, by a suspected China threat. The US Navy has not expanded target. The employment of the Nulka also Haiying Electromechanical Technology upon which RIM-66 SM-2 variant was provides us with a clue as to what type of Academy (CHETA) C-802 family AShM. used in the engagement, although it could AShMs were employed in the attack. The USS Mason was part of a three-ship have been the RIM-66M5 SM-2MR Block- As we know, the USS Mason fired Nulka deployment which also included the USS IIIB version. A single Raytheon RIM-162 decoys to spoof the incoming AShMs. This Nitze, one of her ‘Arleigh-Burke’ class ESSM (Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile) was suggests that both the missiles were known sisters, and the USS Ponce, an ‘Austin’ also launched from the ship to engage the to be, or strongly suspected of being, radar- class amphibious assault ship. missile; the first time this weapon has been guided. The exact missile type is open The US Navy has declined to state used in combat according to the USNI. Of to debate. Some sources suggest that the what missile types were employed interest to this article is the fact that the USS Mason may have been targeted by during the attack on the USS Mason, USS Mason was also said by the USNI the Chinese Hongdu Aviation Industry however it has shared that the two to have deployed BAE Systems’ Nulka C-101 AShM. Other sources dispute this, missiles crash-landed harmlessly in the missile decoys to spoof the incoming and state that the missiles involved were sea some distance from the warship. AShMs. Open sources state that the Nulka either China Precision Machinery Import Understandably, it has declined to state decoy is specifically designed to spoof and Export C-801 or C-802 family AShMs. whether this was the result of action on radar-guided AShMs, continuing that the Speculation has stated that the Houthi

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Spectrum Warfare manager at BAE Systems, argues that Saab The firing of the Nulka decoy was naval EW: “represents the ability for almost certainly triggered by the USS (navies) to control and dominate the Mason’s Raytheon AN/SLQ-32(V) family electromagnetic spectrum. Control of electronic warfare suite. Put simply, the radar signals, radio signals and infrared AN/SLQ-32(V) detects hostile radar signals across the spectrum enable (navies) signals, such as those being transmitted by to sense, protect and communicate. At the AShMs, and then triggers the launching same time, (naval EW) can be used to deny of decoys such as the Nulka (see above) to adversaries the ability to either disrupt or spoof the incoming threat. The incident use these signals.” on the Red Sea on 9 October underlines At its core, naval EW is focused on the importance of EW to navies around enhancing the situational awareness of a the world. Todd Caruso, low observable ship’s crew in their locale. Ole Frandsen, tactical aircraft business development Terma’s manager of C2 (Command Terma

Terma’s naval electronic warfare products include the C-Guard decoy launching system, as shown here. Decoys have a vital role to play in spoofing the radars of incoming anti-ship missiles.

militia alleged to have fired the AShMs may have received such weapons from Iran. Research performed by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, a non-governmental organisation based in Stockholm, Sweden, shows no record of Iran, or Yemen, receiving the C-101 weapon, although it does note that Iran has received both C-801 and C-802 weapons last decade and in the 1990s, with Yemen having received 25 C-801 AShMs from the People’s Republic of China in 1995. What is not in dispute is that all of these AShMs employ Active Radar Homing (ARH) seekers, by which the missiles employ a radar to locate their target, usually operating in Ku- band (13.4-14/15.7-17.7 gigahertz/GHz) according to some sources for the C-101 and C-801, and possibly X-band (8.5-10.68GHz), sources continue, for the C-802.

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and Control) applications, and C2 and Littoral Challenges sensor systems, told AMR that: “Naval Today, naval EW practitioners

picture compilation is the backbone of face distinct challenges regarding Harris every kind of naval operation; even the maritime operating environments. execution of the most simple surveillance As the engagement of the USS Mason mission requires some sort of maritime illustrated, navies can experience awareness.” Terma provides its C-Guard hostile actions in the littoral Decoy Launching System which has been adjacent to the shore. To the naked supplied to in excess of 100 navies globally, eye, on calm and bright days, such Mr. Frandsen notes. This maritime environments can appear as havens awareness includes RF signal detection of tranquillity, yet vis-à-vis the Harris’ naval EW products include its which: “provides an additional layer of electromagnetic spectrum, they can ES-3601S (pictured information in the picture compilation be raucous and cluttered. Pleasure here) and ES-3601U process and offers (crews) the ability to craft, trawlers and commercial products. The firm classify and locate RF emitters.” vessels can all be transmitting has notable expertise Signal detection forms one vital part radar and communications signals. in the detection and identification of hostile of naval EW. As a written statement Added to this, civilian cell phones radar signals. supplied to AMR by Saab notes, signals may still be capable of working at must be: “classified and identified and distances of up to twelve nautical the direction from which they originated miles (15 kilometres) from the shore. measured thus providing valuable To illustrate this complexity, as information for the situational picture. well as being employed by AShM When coupled with a database of possible ARHs as illustrated above, Ku- threat emissions (naval EW systems) can band transmissions can be used for rapidly determine whether the signals civilian Satellite Communications originate from a hostile, friendly or neutral (SATCOM). The challenge for naval source. Saab already provides a host of EW practitioners is to detect and naval EW products, such as the firm’s discriminate a Ku-band transmission in the littorals,” adding that: “Littoral USME family (Underwater and Surface from a missile amidst the mass of other, operations present a new challenge with Maritime Electronic Support Measure), entirely innocent, electromagnetic the ever increasing expansion of mobile and its Naval Laser Warning Systems and transmissions which may occur in telephone networks.” Communications ESM systems, although a vessel’s locale. As Saab’s statement Alongside the challenge posed by the company declines to mention exactly continues: “It is not unusual for ESM the littoral environment, the design which vessels, and with which navies, equipment to (detect) 150 or more characteristics of RF emitters such as these systems are in service with. emitters at any time while operating naval surveillance radars are challenging

Elbit’s naval EW products include its Aqua Marine system which has a digital and modular design. The product is believed to be in service with the Israeli Navy. Elbit Systems

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naval EW system engineers. Harris has

been involved in the naval EW field Saab since the early 1980s. Today, it has a significant naval EW systems portfolio which includes the ES-3601S/U Tactical Radar ESM and Surveillance System which can detect hostile RF signals in the two gigahertz to 18GHz waveband, encompassing the bandwidths used by most naval surveillance radars and ARH seekers. Similar bandwidths, with the option to increase these downwards to 0.5GHz and upwards to 18GHz are offered by Harris’ ES-3701S/U Precision Radar ESM System Family; to name just two. Radar technology, as noted by Harris’ Uri Lifschitz, is challenging naval EW practitioners and engineers: “The use of advanced, phased-array antennae It is also imperative for submarines to detect are becoming common-place among threats in the electromagnetic spectrum modern, military radar designs.” Basically when they surface. For this reason, ESMs a phased array radar produces RF energy have been developed which can be at one source, and then transmits this integrated with a submarine’s periscope. through several radiating elements positioned across an antenna. This process allows the radar’s beam to be ‘steered’ once again to hide their signals in the of the future will be fought in a digitised across an azimuth of circa 120 degrees morass of electromagnetic noise. environment where information is passed using a process known as constructive/ The assessments of Mr. Lifschitz between navies using satellite as well as destructive interference. Space is chimes with those of Elbit Systems’ conventional radio communications. Such insufficient here to discuss the workings Elisra subsidiary. The company has a information will encompass everything of phased array radars in detail however, long track record in the provision of from still or video imagery of targets, such radars produce low side lobes. Side naval EW systems, both for the Israeli radar track information, written messages lobes are residual RF transmissions which Navy, and other naval forces around and voice communications. Thus naval radiate out from either side of a radar’s the world. The company told AMR EW efforts will not only be focused main beam which can be used to detect via a written statement that it believes on trying to protect ones’ use of the a radar’s transmission without being future naval EW systems will: “have to electromagnetic spectrum, while denying directly in the radar’s line-of-sight. cope with future threats and scenarios it to others, but also to employ electronic To further complicate matters, Mr. and will provide answers for threats in warfare in such a fashion to protect one’s Lifschitz continues that such radars the forms of wider frequency coverage, own use of the electromagnetic spectrum, employ: “pulse-to-pulse frequency agility higher sensitivity and accuracy.” The while denying it to one’s adversary, for over very wide RF bandwidths and firm adds that such challenges maybe met the flow of information. arbitrary, not patterned, scanning of the through the application of increasingly At the market level, naval EW systems target’s azimuth and elevation space.” sophisticated software: “In order to cope are expected to be in demand in the coming What this means in practice is that radars with the future challenges EW systems years. IQPC’s publication Naval Combat do not perform sustained transmissions will have to employ advanced real- Systems: Trends and Analysis Report 2016 on a single frequency, instead changing time machine learning algorithms to states that of the key informants the firm their transmission frequencies at a rate of provide reliable and high resolution EOB contacted to compile its report, “Almost milliseconds across a wide frequency range. (Electronic Order of Battle) pictures.” In half (48 percent) indicated that electronic This makes the radar’s signal become a essence, EW systems will need to learn warfare systems would be a priority in needle in an electromagnetic haystack of from the electromagnetic environments the future.” This is because, the report noise, such as the littoral environment that they have observed in the past, and continued: “Navies are continuing to invest discussed above. Moreover, such changes look for similar signal characteristics, or in new electronic attack technologies to of frequency maybe performed in a behaviours, in the environments that they counter advanced radar threats … The pseudo-random sequence to frustrate are experiencing at that moment. market for naval EW systems alone is the attempts of naval EW practitioners forecast to exceed $10 million over the to identify a radar by its transmission Outlook next decade.” This demand has clear parameters. As if this was not complicated What does the future hold for naval implications for the Asia-Pacific: The same enough, Mr. Lifschitz adds that today’s EW? As with much of the EW domain report noted that 78 percent of respondents naval surveillance radars can employ more generally, in the land and air believed that the Asia-Pacific region would so-called Low Probability of Intercept spheres, experts such as Mr. Caruso be the most attractive global market for (LPI) techniques, which usually see them foresee a convergence of cyber warfare naval combat systems procurement over employing very low power transmissions, and EW capabilities. The naval battles the next ten years. AMR

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TURNING DOWN Bird Aerosystems THE HEAT

Man-Portable Air Defence Systems, better known as MANPADS, are a continuing source of Bird Aerosystems’ SPREOS concern for operators employs an RF-based missile approach warning of military and civilian system. The firm launched the product this June and is planes alike. Fortunately, seeking customers. investments into Directional Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM) technology is helping to protect aircraft. by Thomas Withingtonton

irst deployed in the 1960s, legacy versions of the FIM-92, according exhaust, to provide a more tempting tar- MANPADS are designed to to its manufacturer. This allows the get for the incoming missile. Some decoy protect infantry from low- engagement of targets at comparatively flare tactics call for the aircraft to pull altitude air-to-surface threats. longer ranges of circa 25000ft (8000m) away at a sharp angle after releasing the Definitions differ, but typically compared to earlier versions of the flare, and to then reduce engine power, MANPADSF provide short-range air weapon. While some MANPADS and hence the engine’s heat signature, to defence up to altitudes of between 15000 employ other guidance methods such cause added confusion for the incoming feet/ft (4572 metres/m) and 30000ft as Command-Line-Of-Sight (CLOS); by IR-guided missile. (9144m). The first generation of such which an operator manually steers the Yet decoy flares have disadvantages: a weapons included the General Dynamics missile towards its target, such as the finite number can be carried by an aircraft FIM-43 Redeye, which entered service Thales Starburst MANPADS, and laser- due to available space. The aircraft dis- with the US Army in circa 1967, and guided weapons, by which a laser beam persing the flares has to detect the incom- the KBM 9K32 Strela-2 which debuted is shone onto a target, with the missile ing missile as IR-guided weapons do not in Red Army service one year later. homing in on the laser’s reflection, such emit Radio Frequency (RF) energy un- The missiles equipping both weapons as Saab’s RBS-70 MANPADS family, it is like Semi-Active or Active-Radar Hom- employed Infrared (IR) guidance; electronic countermeasures against IR- ing (SARH/ARH) guided AAMs/SAMs. chasing the hot exhaust of an aircraft’s guided MANPADS which are of interest Hence pilots may rely on a nearby aircraft engine to reach their target. By and large, to this article. to spot the incoming IR-guided missile, IR guidance has remained the method of Traditionally, decoy flares have been which is a complex exercise given that the choice for MANPADS designers, albeit used to protect military aircraft against missile may approach the targeted air- with improvements in sophistication. all IR-guided Air-to-Air Missiles (AAMs) craft from aft, as it is chasing the aircraft’s For example, fourth generation and SAMs. Decoy flares work using a engine exhausts. Thirdly, as flares are py- MANPADS, including weapons such as simple principle; they are dispersed by rotechnics, some civilian airports may for- Raytheon’s FIM-92E Block-I Stinger use an aircraft and ignite, usually using a bid flare-equipped military aircraft from a Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) which metal, such as magnesium, which burns their facilities amid safety fears. Finally, has a wider field-of-view, compared to at a higher temperature than the aircraft’s later generations of IR-guided missiles

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employ software algorithms allowing depends on the number of flares carried its engagement in between two and five them to discriminate the heat signature by the aircraft. A DIRCM, on the other seconds from the detection of the mis- of a flare from that of an aircraft’s engine hand, continually performs engagements sile until its neutralisation: “The DIRCM exhaust. as long as the aircraft’s engines are gener- system must engage the IR-guided MAN- ating electricity. Moreover, as DIRCMs do PADS threat immediately after launch, DIRCMs not employ pyrotechnics, there are fewer regardless of the range from which it One way around these challenges is for problems regarding DIRCM-equipped was fired. For the most demanding, very military aircraft to employ DIRCMs. Most aircraft using civilian airports. For this short-range attacks, this requires excep- DIRCMs follow similar principles: Their reason, DIRCMs have proven attractive tional response speed with very few mov- modus operandi depends on two essential for quasi-military aircraft, such as those ing parts (in the DIRCM).” Finally, the elements; a method of detecting an in- flying heads of state or dignitaries, which lasers which are used to defeat the mis- coming missile, to defeat the challenge may need to be protected, but which may sile must have the necessary power and of detecting the missile in the first place, have to use civilian airfields. In addition, agility: “This demands advanced laser and a method of defeating the missile. As some airlines, such as Israel’s national technology (and) superior threat tracking noted above, unlike SARH/ARH-guided carrier, El Al, at a potentially heightened accuracy,” Mr. Innes continues. missiles, IR-guided SAMs/AAMs do not risk from MANPADS attack by insurgents, Regarding Leonardo’s MIYSIS prod- emit RF energy yet, like their quarry, they have also found DIRCMs to be attractive. uct, Mr. Innes states that: “While being do emit an IR signature from their en- smaller, lighter and drawing less power gine. This IR signature is detected by the SWAP than other DIRCM systems on the mar- DIRCM. Not only does the IR signature Designing a capable DIRCM is no easy ket, (MIYSIS) still offers the full spherical of the missile enable its detection, it also task. Tony Innes, Leonardo’s head of coverage required to counter advanced enables the missile to be tracked during DIRCM campaigns for its airborne and threats,” meaning that it is able to detect its flight. At the same time the missile is space systems division, which produce incoming SAMs/AAMs from any angle. being tracked, the DIRCM steers a pow- the MIYSIS DIRCM product (see below) Mr. Innes adds that the product has a erful IR lamp towards the missile’s IR stresses that Size, Weight and Power modular design. In practice, this means seeker. The lamp is used to shine a beam (SWAP) consumption are all major con- that MIYSIS can be configured to work of Ultraviolet (UV) light into the missile siderations: “DIRCM systems have to be with Missile Approach Warning Systems seeker, effectively dazzling it. A more small, lightweight and draw very low (MAWS) which may already be installed complex variation of this technique is to power from the host aircraft, while pro- on an aircraft, or can be delivered with a shine a laser into the seeker using a spe- viding optimum protection. In practice MAWS if this capability is lacking. Simi- cific waveform which confuses the seeker, this means designing a complete detec- larly, it can also work with existing de- and hence the missile’s guidance system, tion and protection system capable of fensive aids subsystems already installed persuading the missile that it is off course all-aspect (spherical) defence that would on an aircraft such as flare and chaff (to relative to its target and causing the mis- draw less than 500 Watts of electrical pow- counter RF-guided weapons) counter- sile to continually adjust its flight profile er and adds less than 88 pounds/lb (40 measures dispensers. Another key part of so that it no longer proves a threat to the kilograms/kg) to the host aircraft.” This Leonardo’s philosophy regarding the MI- aircraft, or until the missile runs out of is a particularly important consideration YSIS design is the drive for a low SWAP fuel. for comparatively small platforms such footprint to enable the product to be in- DIRCM’s have a number of advan- as light utility helicopters or Unmanned stalled on a range of aircraft from light tages compared to decoy flares: They not Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) which may re- utility helicopters, up to freighters or air- only defeat an IR-guided missile, but also quire DIRCM protection. Mr. Innes adds liners. Concerning customers, Mr. Innes detect it. Secondly, the number of missile that responsiveness is another key design is taciturn, although he did disclose that attacks that flares can defect ultimately criteria. Typically, a DIRCM can perform MIYSIS has been: “selected by a NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) customer for installation onto a fixed-wing platform in the very near future,” with a further three customers selecting the product for integration onto aircraft con- Leonardo figured for dignitaries, and two whom have selected it to equip undisclosed special missions aircraft.

Civil Defence Whereas products like Mysis can employ IR-based MAWS, Bird Aerosystems’ SPREOS DIRCM takes a slightly different approach in using a radar-based MAWS. This radar employs the Doppler Effect, by which the change in RF frequency from the radar’s transmitted pulse com- Leonardo’s MIYSIS DIRCM is available in a podded configuration. The company has optimised the pared to the pulse’s echo from the target, product to be suitable for installation onboard small platforms. is measured to determine the incoming

| DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 | 33 air POWER US Navy

Elbit’s MUSIC DIRCM Elbit Systems family is notable in that it is routinely used onboard civilian airliners, as shown here. Israeli carriers have been targeted by insurgents using MANPADS in recent years.

missile’s velocity and position relative ing airliners, including the 737, 747, 757, Army, BAE Systems announced in March to the aircraft. The use of radar, the com- 767 and 777 families, all of which (sans the 2015 that the AN/ALQ-212 had been ap- pany told AMR, results in an approach 757) are operated by El Al. Military air- proved for international sale by the US to detecting the missile that: “completely craft such as the A400Ms of the Luftwaffe Department of Defence. eliminates all of the false alarms of the (German Air Force) also carry MUSIC. system and ensures that jamming will be Dan Slasky, the vice president of Elbit’s Future Developments activated only on real threats.” In practice, electro-optics and laser business unit, ex- From a technological perspective, future this avoids the DIRCM being triggered by plains that the MUSIC product family is DIRCM development could see the con- other heat sources, such as decoy flares the only DIRCM operationally installed tinued imperative to reduce the SWAP ejected by friendly aircraft nearby, which on commercial airliners. This translates absorbed by such countermeasures. One might cause the countermeasure to be ac- into tangible benefits for military opera- potential development advocated by Bird tivated. Bird Aerosystems continues that tors because: “The systems are operating Aerosystems is the use of distributed la- it is currently seeking customers for the almost non-stop, just like a commercial sers around an aircraft’s fuselage, as op- SPREOS, having launched it at the Eu- airliner, which flies almost constantly, posed to positioning these in a single lo- rosatory defence exhibition held in Paris except to embark and disembark pas- cation on an aircraft which adds weight this June. Other new products to join sengers at the terminals. The result is that in a specific area, potentially affecting an Bird Aerosystems’ SPREOS include Indra Elbit’s DIRCM systems have logged tens aircraft’s performance. Locating the la- Sistemas’ InSheild, which has been select- of thousands of operational flight hours.” sers used to jam an incoming IR-guided ed to equip the Airbus A400M turboprop Much like the significant number AAM/SAMs around the aircraft could freighters of the Ejército del Aire (Spanish of flying hours accrued by the MUSIC distribute weight, while at the same time Air Force). Like other systems surveyed DIRCM in the civilian domain, recent, and removing the single point of failure for in this article, it employs an open archi- ongoing combat operations are enabling lasers mounted in the same unit as the tecture to allow it to easily accommodate DIRCMs to show their worth. BAE Sys- DIRCM’s other working parts. new technologies during its life. tems’ AN/ALQ-212 ATIRCM (Advanced Laser technology is also expected to Israel is no stranger to the IR-guided Threat Infrared Countermeasures) prod- develop further. Elettronica, which pro- AAM/SAM threat: On 24 November 2002, uct is in service onboard the US Army’s vides the ELT/572 DIRCM equipping the an Arkia Airlines Boeing 757-300 airliner Boeing CH-47D/F Chinook heavy-lift he- Aeronautica Militaire (Italian Air Force) flying from Moi airport, near Mombasa in licopters, and has, according to Tom Kirk- Lockheed Martin C-130J turboprop southern Kenya to Tel Aviv, was attacked patrick, the firm’s ATIRCM programme freighters and AgustaWestland AW-101 by Islamist insurgents using a 9K32 manager, been protecting these aircraft in medium-lift helicopters, sees this dimen- Strela-2 MANPADS. Such events have the Afghan and Iraqi theatres “for many sion of DIRCM technology evolving. Ac- focused the mind of Israeli defence elec- years.” This has led to the AN/ALQ-212 cording to a written statement provided tronics specialists with Elbit Systems pro- accumulating over 135,000 combat flying to AMR by the company: “laser sources viding the MUSIC DIRCM family which hours on the CH-47D/F and other undis- technology such as the quantum cascade unsurprisingly equips a number of Boe- closed airframes. In addition to the US laser … giving the possibility to increase

34 | Asian Military Review | AsianMilitaryReviewFullPageAds.pdf 1 12/6/16 5:11 PM

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cant danger or will choose to take on more risk. Furthermore, delays or cancella- tions of platform acquisition programmes would also have a domino effect on BAE Systems DIRCM acquisition plans.” Furthermore, Mr. Pavluk cautions that the uptake of DIRCMs by civilian air- line operators is likely to be much slow- er: “On the other hand the civil market is yet to adapt (to countermeasures such as DIRCM) and although they offer protection to aircraft, passengers and crew, unless induced by political legislation, safety regulations and a willingness to support the cost of upgrade and support by a third party (such as a government) BAE Systems’ AN/ARC-212 DIRCM has the acceptance of these systems to the been installed onboard several aircraft civil market will take time.” Quite simply, types and was cleared for international airlines are unlikely to be willing to fork procurement in March 2015. out the money necessary to fit expensive DIRCMs to their airliners as they continue to work to keep costs down to attract the number of laser emitters for further IR expects the Middle East and North African passengers: “The costs are simply too bands,” which may be used by missile IR regions to account for 15 percent of over- high for many airlines and most are not seekers in the future. all DIRCM spending between 2017 and receiving financial incentives from gov- 2021, with the demand from Europe being ernment to install the systems.” Regret- Markets low, primarily because of the dearth of new tably it may take the shooting down of an Regarding the future market for DIRCMs, military aircraft acquisitions compared to airliner with a MANPADS beyond hostile Bird Aerosystems is bullish vis-à-vis de- these other areas in the same timeframe. In areas such as the Syrian or Iraqi theatres, mand: “The main driver for introducing a terms of aircraft types, Avascent argues that or other war-torn parts of the world such DIRCM solution … is the growing threat the lion’s share of demand will come from as South Sudan, before DIRCMs become of MANPADS to both military and civil DIRCM installations for large, fixed-wing an imperative for airlines. AMR aviation.” The firm adds that as there is aircraft such as Boeing C- an increasing demand, it expects the 17A Globemaster-III and procurement costs for DIRCMs to pro- C-130J turbofan and turbo- gressively decrease: “Additionally the in- prop freighters, with a con- creasing maturity and decreasing cost of tinuing demand for DIRC- a DIRCM system enables it to be offered Ms to protect rotorcraft. Elettronica on a much wider basis to both the military However, Mr. Pavluk and (dignitary) markets.” This demand warns that, over the long for DIRCMs is observed by Joshua Pav- term, DIRCM spending luk, the principal of Avascent, a consul- could reduce: “DIRCM tancy based in Washington DC: “Overall spending is going to be in- military demand for DIRCMs is on an up- creasingly constrained over swing at the moment. We estimate global the next five years … The military spending in 2016 at nearly $500 relatively high cost of sys- million, which is actually higher than last tems means that DIRCM year’s total spend of about $400 million. is not a taste that will be Looking ahead, next year’s spend will be for everyone. For some, higher yet.” Mr. Pavluk attributes this to: the benefits outweigh the “continued threats from MANPADS and a costs but there are others push to modernise existing aircraft (with who simply don’t have the DIRCMs).” He expects the strongest de- budget … Even though the mand for DIRCMs to come from the US MANPADS threat is gen- military: “The US military is by a wide erally high, some countries margin the single largest buyer of DIRCM either won’t face a signifi- systems, at over 60 percent of the global total from 2017 to 2021. The Northrop Grumman AN/AAQ-24(V) LAIRCM Elettronica’s ELT/572 DIRCM turret (Large Aircraft IR Countermeasure is one has been installed onboard the C-130J and AW-101 aircraft operated driver) of recent acquisition in the US.” by the Italian Air Force. Beyond the United States, Mr. Pavluk

36 | Asian Military Review | new MADEX2017_213X286_(161206).pdf 1 12/6/16 3:43 PM

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The RQ-4B is proving increasingly attractive in the Asia-Pacific region to support GEOINT collection. Sales of the aircraft have USAF followed to the ROK and Japan, with Australia also acquiring a variant of the UAV.

GEOGRAPHY LESSONS

Having Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) domestic.” GEOINT requires persistence, at your disposal is a valuable asset to any so satellites and high-altitude Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are often used to military, but existential threats in the provide this level of data. In order to carry out this persistent GEOINT surveillance Asia-Pacific bring a new dimension to the need within the earth’s atmosphere, UAVs for timely availability of this information, with offer the most promising option for the tedious data collection task. Meanwhile, a number of options now available to this end. satellites can provide imagery from a stationary position, and are therefore the by Percy Monroe ultimate persistent capability. However they cannot be easily manoeuvred whereas UAVs, on the other hand, can egional threats, such as is happening in their own countries, be deployed where needed, and fly the People’s Republic of and at increasing stand-off ranges, continually for long durations while China’s maritime and the goings-on of their neighbours: constantly collecting data. territorial claims in the East “Geospatial intelligence has always Illegal activities can be timed around and South China Seas, and been, and still is, evolving in the Asia- the blind spots produced by orbiting theR monitoring of a nation’s borders, are Pacific region, but GEOINT has become satellites, and UAVs can help overcome key drivers behind the need for up-to- significantly more important, not only this. These aircraft can be deployed at a date GEOINT, as is the often prominent in defence but the broader aspect of far quicker rate with less planning, when threat from nature, such as extreme national security,” Chris Fowler, national compared to satellites, so predicting their weather that can debilitate whole cities, security lead for the Asia-Pacific at Esri, planned operations and flight paths is areas and even countries throughout the told AMR: “Nations are faced with, and more difficult for adversaries. Never- region. Having persistent surveillance of must be prepared for natural disasters, theless, in the Asia-Pacific there is little a specific location allows nations in the technological disasters, criminal activity, investment being made in indigenously- Asia-Pacific to identify changes in certain public health emergencies, social unrest developed high-end, GEOINT-capable areas, and map, analyse and locate what and intentional attacks; both foreign and UAVs, so nations that can afford it are

38 | Asian Military Review | LAND WARFARE

turning to American technology to bolster the sale of three to Tokyo made by the US tagonising to neighbouring countries their intelligence-gathering capabilities. government in 2015. The ROK is acquir- with which there are tensions such as the Collection of GEOINT data using UAVs ing a multi-intelligence sensor suite for its PRC and DPRK, the stand-off capability such as the Northrop Grumman RQ-4B RQ-4B Block-30 UAVs comprising a syn- that the RQ-4B offers could mean that Global Hawk aircraft and General Atom- thetic aperture radar and ground mov- Japan and the ROK, with the help of the ics’ MQ-1/9 Predator/Reaper UAVs was ing target indicator, plus a signals intelli- US, could monitor the whole region with- made starkly apparent during recent US- gence payload. Flying at 60000 feet (18288 out being detected by these potentially led operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, metres) and operating at a range of 12300 hostile actors. The Royal Australian Air where they were used to bolster satellite nautical miles (6641.5 kilometres) the RQ- Force, furthermore, is set to acquire the data monitoring activities and changes in 4B can carry a large payload for over 30 RQ-4B-derived MQ-4C Triton maritime patterns-of-life near troops and known hours, which brings advantages to opera- patrol UAV, which could further extend insurgent hotspots. Since the end of these tors seeking information on changes to the high-altitude surveillance reach of operations, the benefits that a persistent, patterns of life. It is also an all-weather militaries in the region. The USAF is also yet manoeuvrable, capability as offered system, so high levels of humidity and ex- in the process of assessing the plausibility by UAVs has spread internationally, not treme weather that is commonplace in the of transferring the Lockheed Martin U-2S least of all to the Asia-Pacific where these Asia-Pacific does not affect the operation reconnaissance aircraft’s sensor suite on systems are being acquired and are highly of the aircraft, enabling these UAVs to ef- board the RQ-4B, which could increase its sought after. However, UAVs are a so- fectively be operated in a fashion, akin to GEOINT capability. To this end, the UTC phisticated and costly acquisition, so na- satellites. Additionally, the US Air Force Aerospace Systems Senior Year Electro- tions with the larger defence budgets are stations its RQ-4Bs at Anderson airbase in Optical Reconnaissance System-2 (SY- the only ones opting for this capability at Guam, in the Pacific, and Misawa airbase ERS-2) has been tested on the RQ-4B and present, and even then, are yet to receive in the southern part of Japan’s Honshu is- testing of the UTC Aerospace Systems’ deliveries of such systems. land, with the latter providing an ideal lo- MS-177 that will replace this sensor in the The Republic of Korea (ROK) and Ja- cation to monitor activities in the Demo- future is also planned. The SYERS-2 can pan have both selected the RQ-4B, with cratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). sense through the atmosphere and into deliveries of four to the ROK to be com- While the acquisition of such a high- closed airspace, which lends itself to the pleted by 2019, and an authorisation for end surveillance aircraft is arguably an- persistent surveillance that nations in this region such as Australia, Japan and the ROK are looking for. The developmental MS-177, which offers longer range target identification and increased coverage per hour compared to the SYERS-2, has also been tested on General Atomics’ Avenger UAV, and is expected to move to RQ-4B testing in 2017. Italian Space Agency While the export of high-end sensor technology such as the MS-177 is likely to be limited, the future deployment of this level of sensing to the region, in line with the US military’s focus on the Asia-Pacific, will inevitably lend itself to allied nations that share what are considered to be similar threats to Washington-DC. India is another regional nation that also has both its eye on unmanned technology, plus border tensions with Pakistan, that it is keen to monitor. New Delhi has reportedly ex- pressed interest in both the MQ-9 and RQ- 4B, and its recent initiation into the Missile Technology Control Regime, a multilat- eral agreement which covers the exports of missiles and missile technology, could move it closer to acquiring such capabilities either domestically or internationally. Regionally, the PRC has a strong satellite network, and it pays for other nations in the Asia-Pacific to keep atop of the capabilities owned by their ubiqui- tous neighbour, but very few are rush- ing to launch their own GEOINT satel- GEOINT is already known for the contribution which it makes to commercial activities: With this lites when other equipment is higher on in mind, work has been carried out in Thailand to monitor changes in rice fields. the military shopping list. However, the

| DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 | 39 LAND WARFARE Telespazio

An earth observation centre located in Matera, Italy provides access to a number of satellites for customers around the world requiring GEOINT.

benefits of using GEOINT are apparent, pazio/Italian Space Agency joint venture, Comparini adds: “In the last ten years, and while it can be a costly capability to which operates earth observation centres this area has been devastated by the big- own if a sovereign system is sought, na- in Matera, southern Italy and Neustrelitz, gest tsunamis, earthquakes and typhoons tions have instead selected to utilise com- northeast Germany, through which ac- ever registered in the world … Telespazio, mercial constellations that are offering cess can be gained to a number of satel- through e-GEOS is mapping and monitor- GEOINT on a services basis. lites, including the Italian Space Agency’s ing the impacts (of such phenomena) on COSMO-SkyMed satellite, by countries in the land and at sea, using our own emer- Private Sector the Asia-Pacific: “The Asia-Pacific area is gency rapid mapping service and also Leonardo and Thales’ joint venture Teles- relevant from a geopolitical point of view,” through the Copernicus Emergency Man- pazio uses its satellite constellation to Mr. Comparini, who is also the chief ex- agement Service project.” The latter is an provide GEOINT services to nations in ecutive of e-GEOS, notes: “Immigration initiative by the European Union to pro- the Asia-Pacific, from operating bases issues, deforestation and illegal fisheries vide information regarding natural and located in Europe but which serve the require continuous monitoring using geo- man-made disasters to assist responders. international market: “Satellites provide information, in particular from satellites In terms of regional military applica- the ability to monitor wide and/or inac- due to the inaccessibility of the region.” tions, the SAR technology provided by cessible areas frequently and on demand,” Medium-sized satellites are used to the COSMO-SkyMed satellite includes Massimo Claudio Comparini, head of provide synthetic aperture radar-based maritime monitoring. The retrieval of geo-information at Telespazio, told AMR. imagery, and can repeat the same observa- this information, which includes ship Mr. Comparini continued that geospa- tion of an area several times to build up a positioning, is carried out within 30 min- tial information is often integrated with location-based picture. SAR benefits from utes of a satellite passing, the company “traditional information” produced from gathering imagery in all weathers, which says. A high resolution ‘spotlight’ mode, outlets such as aircraft and vessels, which is useful in the Asia-Pacific given high meanwhile, coupled with the frequent together will produce: “the best situation- levels of humidity in certain parts of the revisit of the satellite, allows for detec- al awareness possible in the shortest time region: “Taking into account the weather tion and monitoring of changes at sensi- with the minimum risk for people and conditions (mostly clouded), radar satel- tive military targets. Mr. Comparini says assets.” Rome-based e-GEOS is a Teles- lite images are particularly useful,” Mr. that commercial services lend themselves

40 | Asian Military Review | IMD0570-16_TradeVisitorAd213x286_AMR.pdf 1 28/11/2016 2:44:46 PM LAND WARFARE

teamed with DigitalGlobe to provide intelligence collected from the latter’s constellation to the former’s ArcGIS mapping applications. A long-term partnership between the two will give ArcGIS users access to high-resolution satellite imagery mosaics. Esri’s World Imagery Map is the basis of Italian Space Agency maps, data and software applications that use geographic information systems employing DigitalGlobe’s data. Esri says that Asia-Pacific nations are rapidly adapting to the application-based dissemination of GEOINT data to support the ad hoc missions that the company is increasingly carrying out. Mr. Fowler noted that in order for these nations to prepare for events such as national disasters, social unrest and regional tensions, the collection of prepara- tory data is important, and it does not have to come from one source: “The solution to these events cannot be addressed by one single agency and therefore it does not only define the requirements for the need of greater intelligence and data, but this also indicates the greater need for shared information across multiple jurisdictions and agencies to ensure better shared situational awareness,” he said: “The need is now to share that data across agencies and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is turn that into actionable intelligence, and seen here through satellite imagery share that with first responders and those collected by the Italian Space Agency. people that need access to this immediate- Such imagery can prove invaluable in planning responses to man-made and ly.” The company has regional offices that natural disasters. help support customers in the Asia-Pacific, which Mr. Fowler says includes Australia, India, Japan and New Zealand. Looking towards the future, the to military operations largely because of orbital velocity of four knots-per-second application-based provision of data is cost and efficiency: (7.5 kilometres-per-second), the company in line with commercial technological Away from the e-GEOS initiative, in says it will be able to ‘revisit’ any point developments, the adoption of which is order to support demand, a new GEOINT on the globe every three days, which will spreading to military use: “This evolu- satellite in the form of the WorldView-4 allow for a pattern of life to be built. tion is understood across military and developed by DigitalGlobal will join pre- The company has signed up a num- national security forces that embraces vious legacy members of the WorldView ber of so-called “Direct Access customers,” these technologies in their data, and satellite family (WorldView-1, -2, -3 and which allows defence and intelligence how this can significantly ensure better -4) that are already providing services agencies to contract time windows that support across multiple missions,” Mr. to military customers. Scheduled to be give them access to control of the constel- Fowler says. Applications can take the launched from Vandenberg airbase, Cali- lation, plus the Canadian Space Agency’s form of a mobile ‘app’ in the field, as fornia on 6 November the satellite will Radarsat-2 SAR satellite, to meet opera- well as common operational dashboards provide a panchromatic resolution of tional GEOINT requirements. This will that can be adapted to different missions, 300mm (11.8 inches) and multi-spectral become available after the WorldView-4 such as port security, border monitoring resolution of 1.2 metres (four feet): “With launch, and the company now has twelve and large event surveillance: “The app the additional (300mm) capacity that customers committed to the Direct Access revolution has not only allowed greater we’re bringing online with WorldView-4, programme. Militaries can either operate access to this information that is sup- and the investments we’ve made in our the constellation themselves through an ported by GEOINT, but also ensured that constellation Direct Access facility pro- access window, contract DigitalGlobe to the ability to create such mission critical gramme (see below), we are meeting the do so on their behalf, or order archived support tools can be done efficiently and growing demand from new and existing imagery that has previously been collected. cost effectively,” Mr. Fowler added. This customers alike,” Jeffrey Tarr, Digital- is opposed to operators having to deal Globe’s chief executive, told AMR. Mak- Esri with an “endless list of laundry require- ing 15 orbits per day at an altitude of 367.7 On the user side, one of the largest provid- ments” to support missions that require nautical miles (681 kilometres) with an ers for GEOINT services is Esri, which has immediate action. AMR

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Two experts from the Royal United Services Institute, a London-based think tank, examine the People’s Republic of China’s growing defence relationship with the Islamic Republic of Iran, and its implications for the wider world. by Dr. Aniseh Bassiri Tabrizi and Veerle Nouwens

44 | Asian Military Review | REGIONAL MILITARIES

the People’s Republic of China (PRC) future and the PRC’s economic growth and the United States established full objectives are likely to ride the economic diplomatic relations. Since the end of wave through enhanced economic inte- the Second World War on 2 September gration with its peripheral neighbour-

Broken Sphere 1945, successive US administrations hood, and beyond. The OBOR initiative had followed the original Kuomingtan consists of two trajectories along which government on the Chinese mainland the PRC seeks to invest in infrastruc- which repaired to the island of Taiwan ture and create ‘economic corridors’ that in 1949 towards the end of the Chinese in theory will serve to enhance market Civil War and the establishment of the integration for the country’s infrastruc- communist PRC. ture, productivity and outward invest- Thus in 1979, while the PRC was on ment. While one is maritime-based (the the brink of kick-starting its policy of ‘re- so-called 21st Century Maritime Silk form and opening up’ to the world, the Road), the other is the overland Silk Road diplomatic doors to Iran were slowly Economic Belt that stretches across Cen- shutting. While the former needed fuel tral Asia and Russia, and connects the to sustain its fast-paced economic growth, PRC with Europe. It also happens to run the latter needed buyers of its energy. through Tehran. Building on the foundation of solid economic ties developed over the last three Strengthening Links decades, Iran and the PRC are now em- It is in this context that the PRC is cur- barking on a ‘new era’ in their strategic rently strengthening its ties with Iran, partnership that will extend into the re- further expanding the economic rela- alm of defence cooperation as was com- tions that were established following the municated by the PRC’s defence minister Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988) and that, par- General. Chang Wanquan in mid-No- ticularly throughout the past decade, led vember during a three day visit to Tehran. the two countries to become significant However, what is the Sino-Iranian rela- trading partners. Iran has seen the PRC tionship and what specifically can we ex- as a crucial ally against the pressures expect from their commitment to ‘defence erted by the West, particularly in light of cooperation’? the regime of international sanctions im- Deng Xiao Ping, the chairman of the posed against the country between 2006 Central Advisory Commission of the and 2014 as a response to the Islamic Re- Communist Party of China between public’s nuclear weapons ambitions. The September 1986 and November 1987, be- PRC was involved in the negotiations lieved that the guiding principle for the over Iran’s nuclear programme together PRC as it developed and modernised was with France, Germany, Russia and the to “hide brightness and cherish obscurity.” United States (collectively known as the Those days, it seems, are gone. Instead, P5+1) and therefore abided to the dual the “Chinese Dream” is the guiding prin- track policy adopted by the group. This ciple du jour. President Xi Jinping, who approach centred on dialogue over a po- took office in November 2012, is tasked tential solution to the crisis coupled with with the immense challenge of meeting the issue of nuclear-related sanctions the Two Centennial Goals of the Com- against Iran. munist Party of China (CPC). When the Despite its role in the negotiations and CPC celebrates its centenary in 2021, the its reluctant imposition of sanctions, Bei- The PRC has been providing Iran with materiel for some PRC should have become a “moderately jing (and Russia) took a different stance time, with exports including the prosperous society” with a doubling of to that of the other P5+1 states by main- HY-2 AShM, a museum example the 2010 GDP (Gross Domestic Product) taining its trade and commercial ties with of which is shown here. and GDP per capita; while in 2049, on the Tehran throughout the whole period. centenary of the People’s Republic of Chi- When unilateral sanctions were imposed na (PRC), the country will have become a on Iran in 2010, the majority of Western “prosperous, strong, democratic and cul- countries withdrew their presence from n 1979, two distinct political shifts turally advanced socialist country.” Iran. The PRC did not. Instead, it capital- took place. The success of the At a time when the Chinese economy ised on Iran’s exclusion from the global Iranian revolution led by Grand is slowing down and fears of a hard land- market and became the nation’s dominant Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini ing for the PRC’s credit-fuelled growth investor and trading partner, particularly, engendered the establishment abound, the country has embarked on but not only, in the energy sector. Before ofI the Islamic Republic of Iran of an ambitious One Belt One Road (OBOR) the Iranian oil embargo in 2012, Iran was which he became the Supreme Leader. initiative that was launched in 2013. The the PRC’s third largest crude oil supplier, Diplomatic links with the United States Asia-Pacific is expected to experience the importing roughly 550,000 barrels per were cut immediately after. Conversely, largest share of global growth in the near day. By 2015, these imports increased by

| DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 | 45 REGIONAL MILITARIES Peng Chen Peng

Iran could emerge as a potential export customer for the PRC’s FC-10 fighter, which would provide a much-needed shot-in-the-arm for the Iranian Air Force’s ailing fast jet fleet.

30 percent, accounting for nine percent of nance; all of which fall under cooperation national spotlight. It seeks to reconcile the PRC’s overall imports of oil. The PRC on the OBOR initiative. its increasingly assertive posture in the has also invested in the non-oil sector in Following the nuclear agreement, Iran international domain with the image of Iran, exporting consumer goods, but also and the PRC have also discussed peaceful a responsible international heavyweight partnering with Iranian companies in the nuclear cooperation, particularly in light that seeks a peaceful rise. The continued field of telecommunication, construction, of the fact that the former is in charge of tensions in its immediate periphery, and manufacturing and transportation. By the modernisation effort for Iran’s Arak in particular the maritime and territorial 2014, the two countries traded more than heavy water reactor. To signal the impor- disputes with which it is involved in the $52 billion. tance of the OBOR initiative, in January South and East China Seas, have taught The 2015 nuclear agreement between of this year Iran sent a container ship, the Beijing that turning economic might into Iran and the P5+1, officially called the MV Perarin, to Guangxi in southern China. political right is neither immediately Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action The PRC in turn, has sent a long-distance nor unconditionally welcomed by the (JCPOA), carried with it certain expecta- 32-wagon container train from the east- international community. The PRC has tions. Given the nature of the economic ern province of Zhejiang to Tehran, pass- therefore insisted on portraying itself as engagement between Iran and the PRC ing through Kazakhstan and Turkmeni- a responsible actor that is committed to thus far, as well as the goals set by the stan along the way. international security and ‘win-win’ solu- CPC, the lifting of sanctions was antici- Beyond an economically viable Sino- tions for all. Indeed, the Chinese Ministry pated to translate into a further strength- Iranian partnership, however, still lies a of Defence, in a news feature on the No- ening of Sino-Iranian ties. As the first conscious strategic orientation away from vember bilateral meeting between Iran Chinese president to set foot on Iranian the West. By his own admission, Iran’s and the PRC, noted that the bilateral rela- soil since 2002, the visit of Mr. Xi just days Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei tionship and defence cooperation would after the deal was implemented has been this January stated that the nuclear deal play: “an important role in maintaining interpreted as a strong signal in that di- does not change Iranian relations with regional and world stability, security and rection. During the official visit, the two the West, which Iran never trusted, and peace.” The partners that it chooses, how- countries called for their ties to be char- that closer economic and security ties ever, are an indication that the PRC, as acterised by a “comprehensive strategic would be needed with the PRC. Beijing is the model for developing nations, seeks partnership” that would enhance cooper- more nuanced and careful in its choice of to move towards a multi-polar world, or ation in a range of sectors such as energy, wording. As a rising superpower, Beijing at least away from a uni-polar system in infrastructure, industrial capacity, and fi- is well aware of its position in the inter- which the United States is at the helm.

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A somewhat antiquated picture of the IRIS Sabalan, one of the Iranian Navy’s ‘Alvand’ class frigates, which has participated in recent naval exercises with the PLAN.

This has translated into a desire by Teh- in nuclear technology, US pressure and tween Iran and the PRC. On 14 November ran and Beijing to reinforce their partner- the sanctions regime against Iran meant in a meeting with Iranian defence minis- ship through security and defence cooper- a gradual decline in Chinese arms sales to ter Hossein Dehghan the two countries’ ation. This is not entirely new: Beijing was Tehran. Security ties between China and representatives signed a deal to enhance one of the first countries to establish nu- Iran, however, continued on other fronts. their military and defence cooperation clear cooperation with Tehran in the end in “the fields of human resource training, of the 20th Century. Indeed, the PRC con- Security Ties fighting terrorism and exchange of infor- tributed to the very foundations of Iran’s Since 2013, Beijing and Tehran have mation, as well as equipment and tech- modern nuclear programme through pro- strengthened their cooperation in the ma- nology,” according to media reports. The viding it with a 27 kilowatt miniature neu- ritime domain. In March 2013, the Iranian agreement calls for intensification of bi- tron source reactor and two 300 megawatt Navy’s 24th Fleet, comprosing of the ‘Al- lateral military training and closer coop- Qinshan power reactors. Such cooperation, vand’ class frigate IRIS Sabalan and the ‘Ol’ eration on regional security threats, with however, was halted in 1997 following US class oiler, IRIS Kharg docked at the port the fight against political violence being pressures and the Sino-US agreement. city of Zhangjiagang in Jiangsu province. at the top of the list. It also suggests that Similarly, in September 2014, two People’s the two countries will stage joint military Technology Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) destroyers exercises in the future. The PRC has also supplied Iran with some docked at the Iranian port city Bandar Ab- The agreement indirectly signals some- of its major defence technologies since the bas in the Persian Gulf, signalling almost thing else, namely, the possibility that arms 1980s, when arms were sold to the coun- certainly “a high-level Chinese decision might once again be provided to Tehran by try in its fight against Iraq. Among other to grow Sino-Iranian cooperation in the the PRC. The nuclear agreement between things, the PRC equipped Iran with tac- vital defence dimension,” according to the Iran and the P5+1 discussed above currently tical ballistic missiles, in the form of the Middle East Institute, a Washington DC- poses restrictions on arms and missiles sales CSS-8 short-range ballistic missile, circa based think tank. This was the first time for five and eight years, respectively. Coun- 200 of which were acquired from 1989, that Iranian ports were on the list of port tries are therefore required to gain United boosting Iran’s Anti-Access/Area Denial calls for the PLAN, despite the fact that Nations (UN) Security Council approval (A2/AD) posture, and Anti-Ship Missiles since 2008, the force has maintained a per- before warships, combat aircraft, missiles (AShM) such as the 82 HY-2 weapons pro- manent deployment in the Indian Ocean. or main battle tanks can be sold to Iran. vided between 1986 and 1987. More details Furthermore, the PLAN and Iranian Navy During the negotiations, the PRC insisted on Iranian anti-ship missile exports can be held their inaugural joint naval exercises on lifting the UN arms embargo against found in Thomas Withington’s The Sig- in the Persian Gulf in 2014. Iran and the recent meeting suggests that nal and The Noise article in this issue. The The recent visit of Gen. Chang to Teh- the PRC might seek ways to make weap- PRC also helped Tehran develop its indig- ran, therefore, only confirms this trajecto- ons deals with Iran, in line with, or in spite enous Nasr-1 AShM. Like its cooperation ry in security and defence cooperation be- of UN Security Council procedures. This

48 | Asian Military Review | REGIONAL MILITARIES

would help Chinese military strategists might seek to increase its anti-ship mis- the domestic legitimacy of its one-party to portray their ties with Iran as a way to siles capability with the help of the PRC system of governance. However, the counter US ‘hegemony’ in the Middle East through the transfer of weapons such as move into defence cooperation is not just and as part of an effort to build a more the China Aerospace Science and Technol- an economic move geared to greater tra- multi-polar world, but also provide the ogy Corporation CX-1 or YJ-22 surface-to- de and investment. It is also a conscious country with a foothold for greater regional surface missile. Additionally, Iran might political decision to build stronger sup- influence, beyond the realm of the economy. also seek to acquire customised ‘Type- port for a PRC that is growing not just 039A/Yuan’ class conventional hunter- economically, but politically and seeks to Materiel killer submarines from the PRC. move away from an American-led hege- Iran will certainly look with interest at mony to a multi-polar world order. Both what the PRC has to offer. In particular, Next Steps also continue to hold some suspicions Tehran might try to buy Chinese Cheng- The Islamic Republic of Iran and the Pe- over the West, Iran feels that the JCPOA du Aircraft Corporation (CAC) FC-10 ople’s Republic of China at one point or has not delivered on its promises, while fighters (the export variant of the CAC another have been side-lined in the inter- the PRC fears it is actively being contai- J-10A/B), unmanned aerial vehicles; sat- national political arena. Their pragmatic ned. The decision to engage in bilateral ellite navigation systems and services; approach to maintaining economic rela- defence cooperation therefore ticks both communications; surface-to-air missile tions and steadily building dialogue and economic and political boxes. The two systems, and electronic warfare equip- an appetite for engagement have seen countries, also, maintain that they are ment. Iran might also be interested in both countries return to the table. With seeking positive roles in the international expanding its A2/AD capabilities by the lifting of sanctions, Iran is poised to environment. Certain international legal obtaining the PRC’s ‘Type-22/Houbei’ welcome greater investment and coope- constraints will continue to limit their de- class missile catamaran which has been ration with the outside world. The PRC, fence cooperation to an extent and their designed with a low radar cross section. with its historical ties to Tehran, is ready next moves will thus be symbolic of what This would be a particularly likely deve- to use this opportunity for its own grand can be expected from the future Sino-Ira- lopment given the expanding naval rela- designs. The OBOR project needs part- nian relationship. In the meantime, both tionship between the two countries over ners across the Eurasian continent and countries know that the eyes of the world the last three years. Furthermore, Tehran the CPC needs the initiative to work for will be watching them closely. AMR

| DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 | 49 Regional News and Developments south asia

Asia-Pacific Procurement Update by Pierre Delrieu

Indonesia discusses PT Dirgantara Indonesia, possible defence as well as Indonesia’s PT sales with Pakistan Pindad Anoa six-wheel drive Indonesia’s state-run Armoured Personnel Carrier Antara News agency reported (APC), and assault rifles. on 21 September that the It is still unclear which country had offered to variant of the CN-235 sell defence equipment to Pakistan is looking to acquire, Pakistan, stating that former as Indonesia currently Indonesian Army General produces both the CN-235-200 (retired) Wiranto, who military version, operated by serves as Indonesia’s current Indonesia’s air force and the coordinating minister for CN-235MPA maritime patrol political, security and legal aircraft variant, which is in affairs met with Pakistan’s use with Indonesia’s navy. chairman of the joint chiefs The Anoa APC developed state-owned defence firms his visit to Indonesia in late of staff committee, General by the local manufacturer PT and their products. Ties September, Gen. Mahmood Rashad Mahmood, earlier Pindad, resembles the French and cooperation between also met with Gen. Gatot that week and discussed GIAT Industries/Nexter Indonesia and Pakistan have Nurmantyo, commander of possible defence sales. VAB four-wheel drive APC, considerably deepened in Indonesia’s armed forces, to Speaking from his and was first unveiled to the recent years, from business discuss ways to develop and office following the talks, public in 2006. deals to student exchanges: strengthen defence cooperation Gen. Wiranto announced Talk of sales between “Relations between the two and ties between the two that, among the equipment the two countries comes as countries’ armies are very countries, as well as various considered for Pakistan Indonesia’s President Joko close. Gen. Mahmood has geopolitical issues of common was an undisclosed number Widodo seeks to develop asked for maintaining and interest for both nations, of Airbus CN-235 family and promote Indonesia’s developing that relationship,” including the continuing turboprop freighters, local defence industry abroad, Gen. Wiranto told journalists threat from political violence produced by the state-owned developing new markets for following the talks. During throughout the region.

India to Lease Second second ‘Akula’ class SSN to The IN currently operates including its ‘Akula’ class Russian Nuclear At- the Indian Navy was signed two SNNs; the oldest of vessels, but Moscow currently tack Submarine in Goa, adding that the deal which is the INS Chakra, only has one of those new Russian media reports was one of many agreements, formerly the Russian Navy’s SSNs, the Severodvinsk, in suggest India and Russia which also included the K-152 Nerpa, commissioned service as of mid-2014. An have reached an agreement procurement by India of into the IN during April additional five to seven boats that would see New Delhi the Almaz-Antey S-400 2012. India’s second in the class are in various leasing a second ‘Akula’ Triumf long-range surface- SSN, INS Arihant, is an stages of construction for the class nuclear-powered attack to-air missile system, and an indigenously-built nuclear- Russian Navy but production submarine (SSN) from the agreement for the manufacture powered ballistic missile is advancing slowly; and Russian Navy at a total cost of ‘Admiral Grigorovich’ class submarine commissioned in Moscow has steered New of around $2 billion. frigates for the Indian Navy August 2016. Delhi away from the The deal was signed (IN). In addition, the meeting India has long been ‘Severodvinsk’ class. on 15 October, during the in Goa saw agreements signed looking to develop its SSN Reports suggest the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, regarding the development fleet, and had recently set delivery date for India’s China and South Africa) of a Russian-Indian joint its mind on Russia’s more second SNN is set sometime annual summit, held in venture for the production of advanced ‘Severodvinsk’ in the early 2020s, and will Goa, southwest India, where Kamov Ka-226T light utility class SSN developed by potentially include torpedoes Russian President Vladimir helicopters. Russia’s Malakhit Central and surface-to-surface Putin met with his Indian The Russian Navy will Design Bureau. The more missiles. However, the lease counterpart Prime Minister transfer the IN’s second modern and more expensive for India’s INS Chakra is also Narendra Modi, reported ‘Akula’ class SNNs after Russian SSN was designed set to expire around that time, the Russian business daily repairs and modernisation to replace Moscow’s ageing which would leave the IN Vedomosti, the deal to lease a to meet India’s specifications. Soviet-era submarines, with just one Russian SSN.

50 | Asian Military Review | Regional News and Developments southeast asia

HHI to supply PN with release published by HHI in two new frigates late October, the PN’s new The Philippine government platforms will be slightly has selected the Republic of smaller than anticipated, a Korea’s (ROK) Hyundai Heavy lighter version of the ‘Incheon’ Industries (HHI) to supply it class, more adapted to the with two new frigates for The PN’s specifications. Capable Philippines Navy (PN). of reaching a top speed of 25 The contract to build the knots (46 kilometres-per-hour) two ships, valued at $331 and a range 4500 nautical miles million, was announced (8334 kilometres), the PN’s in early September and frigates will have an overall formally signed on 24 length of 107 metres/m (351 October between HHI and feet/ft), and a displacement the Philippines’ defence of about 2600 tonnes. In anti-air warfare capabilities, each individual complete secretary Delfin Lorenzana. comparison, the ROKN’s and will be equipped ship costing $169 million. In The Philippine Department ‘Incheon’ class frigates with “the latest combat comparison, in 2014, Egypt of National Defence initially measure 114m (374ft), with a management system,” as well ordered four DCNS ‘Gowind’ had launched the frigate displacement of 3000 tonnes. as an electronic warfare suite. class corvettes, in many acquisition programme in Although the frigate’s The PN’s $331 millon ways comparable to HHI’s October 2013, in an effort to specific weapon configuration contract appears to include design for the Philippines meet the PN’s long-range remains unknown, HHI the hulls and the onboard Navy, agreeing to a $1.4 maritime patrol, surveillance, announced that the frigates electronics and munitions billion overal l deal, or about and interdiction capabilities. will be: “heavily armed with suite. If that is the case, $345 million per ship. For HHI originally pitched missiles, torpedoes, guns and the price does include more information regarding a design based upon the and sensors.” The company the sensor and weapons the PN’s acquisition of new Republic of Korea Navy’s also confirmed the PN’s new suite, HHI has offered frigates, please see Dr. Alix (RoKN) ‘Incheon’ class frigates will be configured for the Philippines quite a Valenti’s Frigate or Destroyer? frigates. As noted in a press anti-ship, anti-submarine and competitive package, with article in this issue.

announced in January weaponry consists of one 2013 and signed between OTO Melara/Leonardo Singapore’s government and 76/62 Super Rapid main gun, ST Marine. Singapore’s new two Hitrole 12.7mm remote- ships were designed by Saab controlled weapon stations and ST Marine and were from the same company, ordered to replace the eleven and one Rafael Advanced ‘Fearless’ class offshore patrol Defence Systems’ 25mm vessels in service with the Typhoon stabilised naval gun RSN since the mid-1990s. system, placed at the rear of The 1250 tonne the bridge. The first, second ‘Independence’ class vessels and third ‘Independence’ have a total length of 80 class ships; RSS Independence, metres/m (262 feet/ft), with RSS Sovereignty and RSS a twelve-metre (39ft) beam Unity were launched and a draught of three in July 2015, April and Singapore’s first LMV On 30 September during metres (9.8ft). Each ship is October respectively. RSS to be commissioned in a sail out aboard the RSS powered by two MTU 20V Independence has since been May 2017 Independence, the head of 4000 M93 engines and can put through a series of tests The Republic of the programme, Lieutenant attain top speeds in excess and sea trials and will be Singapore Navy’s (RSN’s) Colonel Chew Chun-Chau, of 27 knots (68 kilometres- handed over to the RSN’s ‘Independence’ class corvette told the media that additional per-hour), and a standard Maritime Security Task programme is well underway testing of the vessel’s Combat range of 3500 nautical miles Force’s 182 Squadron on 26 and on schedule, according Management System (CMS) (6482 kilometres) at 15 May 2017. The keel on the to the vessels’ shipbuilder, and mission systems will be knots (54km/h). Designed RSN’s fourth ‘Independence’ ST Marine. As announced performed over the following to accommodate a crew of class vessel, RSS Justice, was in late September, the RSS months leading up to its 23, including five officers, laid in May 2016, and the Independence, the country’s scheduled commissioning in the ships have a mission vessel is currently under lead ship in the programme is May 2017. endurance of up to 14 days. construction. All eight on track to be commissioned The platform is the In terms of offensive vessels are scheduled to be in May 2017. first of an eight-vessel deal capabilities, the vessel’s fully operational by 2020.

| DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 | 51 Regional News and Developments east asia

Japan and India have been discussing the sale of the aircraft for over two years, with six destined to serve with India’s Navy and six with the Coast Guard: “This being Japan’s first major defence export, there was no one responsible official on Japan’s side,” Mr. Nagao told AMR. But the main point of discord for India was the cost of the deal. In order to push the agreement and expand its partnership with India, Japan announced it was willing to reduce the price of the aircraft. The deal comes at a time of growing security concerns in the region, as the People’s Republic of China develops its military presence: “China has been Japan first export US-2 awaited sale of US-2 aircraft Japan has struggled to expanding its deep-water deal with India delayed was not finalized because break into the international naval presence and increased once more of differences over pricing defence industry since the lift its military activities in the Japan and India’s Ministry and other conditions: “It is a of the weapons export ban two East and South China Sea of Defence were supposed very important step for both year ago. The country was a and Indian Ocean,” Mr. to finally sign off the sale of countries,” Satoru Nagao, contender in the bid to build Nagao explained, adding twelve ShinMaywa Industries’ research fellow in security Australia’s new generation that: “a stronger relationship US-2 amphibious aircraft in and strategy at the Tokyo of conventional hunter-killer between Japan and India a deal worth between $1.5 Foundation, a think tank submarines (SSKs) to replace can be of important strategic billion and $1.6 billion. based in the Japanese capital, the Royal Australian Navy’s significance,” especially The deal was to be signed told AMR, “and it will not be ‘Collins’ class SSKs, but lost the after the election of the new on 11 November during Indian abandoned … It is the first bid to France in April: “The American President Donald Prime Minister Narendra defence hardware trade deal defence industry in Japan has Trump, who’s ‘America First’ Modi’s visit to Japan, and between Japan and India and been shrinking in size due to campaign promises to stir would have been Tokyo’s first one of the first major export budget deficits in defence and local concerns about reduced arms deal since the 2014 lift of deals for Japan,” Mr. Nagao because most defence related US engagement in the region. Japan’s 50-year ban on defence explained, adding that the deal manufacturers do not rely on Please see the editor’s The exports. Japan agreed to sell was: “a first step for Japan’s the defence sector,” explained Nuclear Option editorial in India civil nuclear power defence Industry towards Mr. Nagao: “and it really this issue for more discussion equipment and technology, finding more overseas partners needed the export deal to go of the significance of Mr. but an agreement on the long and markets.” through.” Trump’s presidency to Japan.

China promotes Anti-Ship Missile (AShM) The missile’s manufac-turer tonne warship. If reports are export of CM-302 which can also be used in CASIC claims the CM-302 correct, the CM-302 would be a supersonic ASCM the land attack role. The operates with a range of direct competitor to two other According to Chinese news report, published by the 151 nautical miles (280 kilo- supersonic AShMs available reports, the China Aerospace national newspaper China metres), carries a 551 pound on the market: the Indo- Science and Industry Daily, suggest that the CM- (250 kilogram) warhead, Russian BrahMos Aerospace Corporation (CASIC)CM-302 302 is the export version of and holds a 90 percent BrahMos and Russia’s NPO missile is being marketed for CASIC’s YJ-12 supersonic probability of striking its Mashinostroyeniya P-800 export as “the world’s best AShM, which is in service target. In addition to the Oniks family AShMs. The anti-ship missile.” with the PRC’s armed forces. technical specificities, the CM-302 is expected to attract The missile was It is “the best anti-ship missile manufacturer’s description a strong interest among showcased at the Zhuhai air available on the world’s arms states that the missile can sink international customers. show in the southern People’s market” and “(that is) not an large surface combatants, such Pakistan for instance, the PRC’s Republic of China (PRC) exaggeration,” Lyu Xiaoge, a as destroyers and aircraft leading client for conventional in early November, and is CASIC spokesperson told the carriers, claiming that a single weapons, could be a strong advertised as a supersonic China Daily. missile can disable a 5000- CM-302 potential customer.

52 | Asian Military Review | new IMDS2017_213x286_en (1).pdf 1 12/6/16 4:06 PM

CMY

K Regional News and Developments australasia

take great pride in attaining this major milestone of sending our first (‘Hobart’ class destroyer) to sea and successfully completing its platform trials.” The ‘Hobart’ class design has a comprehensive weapons fit, and will carry modern sonar, decoys and torpedoes, with a deck capable of carrying a Sikorsky MH-60R naval support helicopter. The RAN’s new destroyers will provide air defence for ships, land forces and infrastructure located in coastal areas. HMAS Hobart, the first in the class, was first launched in May 2015. The second-in-class HMAS Brisbane is schedule for launch in December 2016, while hull consolidation of the third and final ship in the class, HMAS Sydney, is RAN’s new Hobart- September and took place in equipment suppliers. scheduled for August of 2017. class SHIP completes the Great Australian Bight, Following the trials, the HMAS Hobart is scheduled initial sea trials off Adelaide. The exercise AWD Alliance programme for a second phase of more The future HMAS Hobart, lasted several days and was manager, Commodore Craig advanced trials early next the Royal Australian Navy’s conducted by the AWD Bourke told the media: “the year, during which its combat (RAN’s) first of three ‘Hobart’ Alliance, which consists completion of (the ‘Hobart’ and communications systems class destroyers, has left the of the government-owned class’) Builder Sea Trials is will be tested. Delivery of the naval shipbuilding company shipbuilder ASC, combat a significant step towards vessel to the Royal Australian ASC’s shipyard in Osborne, systems integrator and delivery of the first (ship) Navy is scheduled for June Australia, and successfully contractor Raytheon and the … the most capable warships 2017. For more information accomplished builder’s sea Australian Department of ever operated by the Royal regarding the PN’s acquisition trials off the coast of South Defence’s (DoD’s) Capability Australian Navy … the AWD of new frigates, please see Australia. Acquisition and Sustainment Alliance team of shipbuilders Dr. Alix Valenti’s Frigate or The sea trials began on 12 Group (CASG), as well as key and systems integrators can Destroyer? article in this issue.

Rolls-Royce to (MSC) project, the RNZN’s diesel fuel, 1550 provide engines future tanker is destined to tonnes of aviation for the RNZN’s replace the RNZN’s 30-year- fuel, and 250 new fleet oiler old oiler HMNZS Endeavour tonnes of fresh Rolls-Royce announced which has been in service water for resupply on 20 September that it since April 1988. The vessel missions. Rolls- would supply a Combined was acquired under a $360 Royce will supply Diesel Electric and Diesel million contract, announced four MTU diesel (CODLAD) propulsion by the New Zealand generator sets to system for the Royal New government in July. provide power Zealand Navy’s (RNZN) new According to the for the vessel ‘Polar’ class oilers. shipbuilder’s plans, the and for the ship’s Currently being new vessel will be 166 switchboards, built by the Republic of metres (544 feet) long and motors and drives. Korea’s Hyundai Heavy capable of displacing 24000 The platform’s Industries (HHI) as part of tonnes. Equipped with two bow thruster and electric RAS systems to HHI starting 2018. the New Zealand Defence Replenishment-At-Sea (RAS) systems will also be provided The RNZN’s new fleet tanker Forces’ (NZDF) Maritime masts, the ship will be able by Rolls-Royce. The company is scheduled for delivery to Sustainment Capability to carry up to 8000 tonnes of is scheduled to deliver these New Zealand in 2020.

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

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