TAWAZUN Launches New Range of Aerostat Systems Nuclear Reactors

[ A Specialized Monthly Journal On Military & Strategic Affairs ] 40th Year | Issue No. 484 | May 2012 Nuclear Reactors.. A Boon or a Curse?

UAE Al Fursan Team Stuns the World

TAWAZUN Launches New Range of Aerostat Systems

th INTERVIEW 36 Unification Anniversary Deputy Chief of Staff : Our Armed Forces is an impregnable Shield to Defend the Nation

484 COVER

[ A Specialized Monthly Journal On Military & Strategic Affairs ] 40th Year | Issue No. 484 | May 2012 Nuclear Reactors.. Deputy Chief of Staff: A Boon or a Curse? Gulf Security is a strategic option for GCC UAE Al Fursan Team Stuns the World

TAWAZUN Launches New Range of Aerostat Systems

th INTERVIEW 36 Unification Anniversary Deputy Chief of Staff : 48 Our Armed Forces is an impregnable Shield < to Defend the Nation

The world rethinks increasing reliance on nuclear power

Rafale: Best choice for 5 8 54 the Indian Air Force < Advertisements MAHINDRA EMIRATES IBC EUROSATORY 25 SPRUNG INSTANT STRUCTURES 29 GENERAL DYNAMICS 33 ILA BERLIN AIRSHOW 41 IDEX 45 THALES 47

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| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 5 Report

UAE Al Fursan Team Stuns the World Al Fursan Aerobatics Team Stuns the World with Breathtaking Shows

By: Amal S. Al Hosany national team to represent the UAE in came at Dubai Air - Show 2011 which this Exhibition. Following a recommen- was held between 11 and 13 Novem- Al Fursan Aerobatics Team, a part of the dation by Staff Pilot Air Vice-Marshal ber 2011 when the Team was officially Air Force and Air Defense, dazzled the Mohammed bin Suwaidan Al-Qamzy, launched before the media and the pub- world with a stunning, rightly lauded Commander of the Air Force and Air lic from various parts of the world. The aerobatic show. To shed the light on the Defense, instructions were given by His Team gave a 20 minute- aerobatics show Team activities, we had this interview Highness General Sheikh Mohammed with 7 participant planes. with His Excellency Brigadier Staff Pi- bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of lot Khaled Omer Bahussein, Al Fursan Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Com- Why was it called “Al Fursan”? And Aerobatics Team Manager. The follow- mander of the Armed Forces, to build what does the crew consist of? ing are excerpts of this interview: a national aerobatics team to represent “Al Fursan” -Arabic for “Musketeers” the UAE at local and international lev- or “Cavaliers”- is synonymous with Could you explain how and when els. strength, courage and gallantry which Al Fursan Aerobatics Team was - Al Fursan Aerobatics Team was of- are a common refrain of Arab poetry. formed? ficially launched on two stages: Stage I The term refers also to leadership, origi- The idea came early in 2008 following came locally during the Air Force and nality and high fighting skills such as Al-Ain Annual Aerobatics Exhibition – Air Defense Unification Day celebra- manoeuvrability and diving which “Al-Ain Aerobatics”- in which more than tions on 6th January 2011 when the characterize aerobatics. The name was 20 planes participated by giving daily Team was officially launched. The Team chosen by His Highness General Sheikh shows of the best aerobatics teams in the gave a 15 minute-aerobatics show with Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, world. Meanwhile, we felt the need for a just four participant planes. State II Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Dep-

6 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Al Fursan Team Manager uty Supreme Commander of the Armed with certain international standards Forces. Every team consists of three where nominees should sit for aca- main crews working with one another in demic, professional and psychological Al Fursan total coordination and harmony as one tests to make sure they are fit for the Team is an team: the air crew is a group of pilots job. Candidates interested in joining Al- involved in designing, performing and Fursan Crew should have the expertise, embodiment of day-to-day training in aerobatics. The skill and mental and physical fitness to technical crew is tasked with part suit- exercise highest control of the planes in UAE’s potentials ability, periodic maintenance and timely a shoulder-to-shoulder formation, use preparation of the planes involved in the system capabilities best, make the right show. Lastly the team is also involved in decision in the right time, enjoy a high administration, supply and needs re- sense of leadership, act in a team-work As the crew is required to work as a quired to provide a successful show. spirit and with mutual trust with fel- team with utmost accuracy and pre- low members of the crew, and be able cision, how the team was trained to What are the criteria set for selecting to serve the team with dedication, self- overcome hardships? Al-Fursan team? denial, discipline and commitment to all The Royal directives provided for form- Considering the sensitivity of the mis- instructions, as missions require flying ing a top-standard, highly sophisticated sion, water-tight criteria are set for se- on near-supersonic speed, very low al- team on equal footing with renowned lecting “la crème de la crème” of com- titude and with a fraction-of-a-second international professional teams. Ut- bat air force pilots. Absolute attention reaction time. most care was exercised to select the is given to the selection process in line best pilots and have them properly and

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 7 Report

Al Fursan Aerobatics Team adequately trained. Moral and mate- to join the force in future, and instill a A breathtaking show should mix pleas- rial support was provided by the Armed sense of brotherhood, mutual respect ure with excitement, take the highest de- Forces General Headquarters (GHQ) to and fair competition with other Arab gree of air safety into account and avoid form the team and comply with what - and friendly aerobatics teams which monotony by providing fresh ideas all ever requirements. The job was done have been sitting on top for years. the time. So, brand new designs are in- according to pre-set plans and with troduced on yearly basis by Al Fursan astonishing success, as pilots sat for What type of planes and smoke are team who would start training on them intensive year long, UAE-based train- used by Al Fursan? for perfection. The experiment would ing and rehabilitation courses preceded We use the Italian Air Force Aermacchi then be evaluated and approved in prin- by a 6 month course in Italy by Italian MB-339 aircraft which is powered by ciple by the Team Manager. A “grand fi- Air Force aerobatics team “Vergie Tri- a Rolls Royce Viper 632-43 engine. It nale” is rehearsed before His Excellency colore”. At this point, Al Fursan team is one of the best aerobatics aircraft in the Air Force Commander for final ap- has become ready to give breathtaking the world, and Al-Fursan aircraft were proval. aerobatic shows with the highest degree painted in gold (referring to desert The aerobatics show includes a num- of professionalism and air safety. sands) and black (referring to elegance ber of intricately programmed collective and UAE’s “black gold” (oil). and solo air manoeuvres by a 7 aircraft What is the message Al Fursan Team Smoke used during the show comes formation flying shoulder to shoulder is trying to convey locally and inter- in the four colors of the UAE’s flag, at almost supersonic speed and on very nationally? which is imported from highly special- low altitude for 21 minutes. Al Fursan is a national team designed ized companies abroad. It is environ- to reflect UAE’s potentials and embody ment-friendly where the materials are Al Fursan team has participated in the UAE people’s pride in their wise, far- mixed together according to accurate many local and international activi- sighted leadership and their fathomless calculations by highly qualified profes- ties. What are these activities and love for their nation. The Team has an sional UAE technicians to give the beau- what was the reaction? ambassadorial mission as a messenger tiful portraits you see during the show. The team had, with God’s Grace and of love and peace drawing a masterpiece It is worth-mentioning that Al Fursan is with the limitless support of our senior of our beloved flag in local and interna- the only team world-wide yet to use four commanders at all levels, participated tional functions and activities. Another color-smoke. successfully in the following activities: mission is to get the younger generation familiarized with our Air Force and Air How do you prepare the “air paint- - Air Force and Air Defense Unifica- Defense, and perhaps encourage them ings” before the show? tion Day celebrations on 6th January

8 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Four colour UAE Flag display

Al Fursan flying past Burj Khalifa Highly professional Al Fursan team in gold and black

2011 (date when Al Fursan was officially - International Volvo Ocean Yacht and Isolo Exhibitions. launched). Crossing Race in 2012. Locally, we have a strong presence in - IDEX Abu Dhabi 2011 - Bahrain International Air Show in all national occasions and activities. - Air Force and Air Defense Open 2012 which was held under the patron- Day military parade in Al- Fujaira on 9 age of His Majesty King Hamad bin Any last word you would like to give June 2011. Eissa Al Khalifa (first international par- to Al Fursan team? - Graduation ceremony at Khalifa bin ticipation for Al Fursan). The team has realized impressive results Zayed Academy in 2011. - Abu Dhabi Private Jet Flight Exhibi- over a very short span of time since offi- - Dubai Air Show 2011 tion in 2012. cially launched on 6 January 2011.It has - 40th anniversary of the National become a strong competitor amongst Day celebrations when aerobatic shows Are there any future plans on Al Fur- decades-old international aerobatics were given over Memzer Park in Dubai san team agenda for participation in squads – something we are, indeed, and Corniches of Ajman, Abu Dhabi local and international exhibitions? proud of • and Al-Fujaira. Official invitations have been received - 40th anniversary of National Day from UK to participate in FairFord In- celebrations at Zayed Sports City on 2 ternational Exhibition – the biggest of December 2011. its kind in the world- from 6 t0 8 June - Dubai 2011 World Free Fall Cham- 2012. It is held annually and attended by pionship. 170000 visitors daily. We had another - Air Force and Air Defense Unifica- invitation from France to participate tion Day celebrations on 6th January in AEROX and Ford Exhibitions, and a 2012. third from Italy to take part in Grado

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 9 Events SOFEX 2012 attracts international participants The show is to be held during May 7-10

Personal Protection

The Special Operations Forces Exhibi- national pavilions from all corners of the Media tion & Conference (SOFEX) takes place globe. International media coverage of the biennially at the King Abdullah I Air- event is ensured with the presence of base in Amman in the Hashemite King- High level delegates leading international and regional de- dom of Jordan. Final preparations are Numerous high profile international fense publications who will attend both taking place for the 9th SOFEX, which delegations and military and defense the conference and exhibition daily. The will be held under the Royal Patronage, officials from across the world attend Nation Shield, the official journal of of His Majesty King Abdullah II and the SOFEX. This presents an ideal oppor- UAE Armed Forces is supporting the supervision of HRH Prince Feisal Bin Al tunity to network with key military and event with media coverage. Hussein and the backing of the Jordan government decision makers. Interna- Armed Forces and SOFEX affiliates. tional exhibitors including small and Conference The SOFEX surpasses expectations medium size companies, as well as the SOFEX kicks off with a prominent each year in terms of an increase in the major international manufacturers will one day conference - Middle East Spe- number of participants that include ex- be demonstrating their latest equipment cial Operations Commanders Confer- hibiting companies, international pa- and technologies. ence (MESOC) that includes a series vilions, and international delegations SOFEX, an event showcasing the of comprehensive and topical seminars headed by ministers of defense, chiefs of world’s largest fully-integrated and inno- delivered by top military officials from staff and special operations command- vative special operations forces, home- around the world, tackling a wide range ers, as well as numerous impressive deals land security and peacekeeping forces of issues pertinent to current counter that are signed at every SOFEX event. equipment and solutions from around terrorism and homeland security issues. The 70,000 m² of indoor and outdoor the world is one of the largest expos of its The 6th edition of the MESOC is organ- exhibition space attracts exhibitors and kind in terms of exhibition floor space. ized by Institute for Near East & Gulf

10 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | SOFEX kicks off with a prominent one day conference - Middle East Special Operations Commanders Conference HH Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan during the tour AESA Radar_SABR thermal imaging and radar surveillance systems, chemical and explosive detec- Military Analysis (INEGMA). nel and electronic equipment. tion products, and turn-key integrated SELEX Elsag, a Finmeccanica com- sensor solutions to governmental enti- Sponsors pany, is to feature a range of its opera- ties across the globe. The main sponsors are KADDB In- tionally proven Force Protection and Other participants include the fol- vestment Group (KIG) and Northrop battlefield communications solutions at lowing: Grumman. Other sponsors include the SOFEX. GUARDIAN provides “elec- Shoghi Communications is a leading King Abdullah II Design and Develop- tronic armor” Force Protection against supplier and provider of customized ap- ment Bureau (KADDB), Royal Jorda- radio frequency-initiated Remotely plications designed for intelligence col- nian Airlines, Arab Ready Meals, Or- Controlled Improvised Explosive De- lection, processing and for information ange, DRS Technologies and Lockheed vice (RCIED) threats. Preparation and denial & suppression for military forces Martin. operation are extremely simple. The and intelligence agencies. They develop FrontLine Soldier Radio (FSR) applies manufacture and support a wide range Highlights next-generation technologies to provide of systems for mission critical and sus- ATK, Boeing Defense, Space & Secu- enhanced capability over current Solider tained military requirements. rity Systems, L-3 Communications, Radios. Its modular architecture ensures Laser Shot’s LRPSS system which will PHOTONIS, Ultra Electronics TCS, an extended lifetime and the ability to be at SOFEX, consists of a robust Mili- Eurocopter, Oshkosh, Northrop Grum- adapt to changing operational require- tary Skills Engagement Trainer (MSET) man, Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, ments. powered by advanced software and one Aselsan, Cobham, Bell Helicopter, Gen- Aerodyne Research Manufacturing, a or more magnified optic systems (MOS) eral Dynamics Land Systems - Force participant, is well known in the world- that attach to training or live-fire weap- Protection, COGES (Eurosatory), IDEX wide parachute industry for the design ons. The advanced training courseware etc are some of the prominent organiza- and manufacture of military and sport of Virtual Battlespace 2’s Tactical Weap- tions participating at SOFEX. parachutes. on Simulator (VBS2-TWS), combined Saab will be at SOFEX with Barracuda Another exhibitor is FLIR systems, a with exclusive laser-based individual or Mobile Camouflage System (MCS) with leader in the design, manufacture and crew served training weapons, enable integrated heat reduction system (Cool- marketing of thermal imaging infrared Laser Shot to deliver the most immer- Cam). It effectively reduces heat build- cameras. They have stabilized thermal sive conditions possible in a training en- up from solar loading and environmen- imaging cameras for law enforcement vironment. This system is ideal for the tal heat while operating in hot climate aircraft, radiometry devices for use in designated marksman or sniper to com- conditions. The system drastically re- monitoring industrial systems, and ther- plete tasks that would normally require duces interior vehicle temperatures, cre- mal imaging systems for use in ground- a large training area as solo tasks or ating better conditions for both person- based security and search and rescue, team and squad tasks as part of a larger

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 11 Events

SOFEX 2012

SOFEX has established itself as one of the most important events on the defense industry calendar, and SOFEX’s continued success is illustrated by the significant participation at every SOFEX edition. With a greater anticipated number of participants, visitors and official delegations, SOFEX 2012 is certainly a must attend event. engagement environment through the HLA/DIS gateway (compatible with any other Laser Shot system). SAE ALSETEX, a subsidiary of Etienne Lacroix Group, is specialized in designing and manufacturing less lethal weapon systems dedicated to law enforcement for threats comprised between 0 - 200 meters. The system is used by the French Gendarmerie and Police as well as many other foreign security forces in the Middle East and worldwide. This system consists of: - 56 mm and 40 APACHE mm less lethal launchers: COUGAR MULTILIGHT, CHOUKA and COU- technology parachutes and equipment agency in Jordan, with the vision of pro- GAR 12 multi launcher for vehicles. and of course for the service. Brügge- viding solutions and handling their im- The new Trijicon SRS (Sealed Reflex mann has been supplying the UAE with plementation for all the activities related Sight) which will be unveiled at SOFEX, airborne troop equipment for many dec- to the electronic support tasks as re- is a reflex-type sight with a unique opti- ades. quired by the Jordanian Armed Forces. cal design, housed in a body length of Global Trading Consultancy , estab- LEMAX s.r.o. is a progressive Czech only 3.75 inches that virtually eliminates lished over a decade ago , offers a variety company with many years’ history deal- the “tube-effect” common with other, of services to international organizations ing with the development and produc- competitive red dot sights. The result to be introduced to the Jordanian market tion of special equipment. Primary — a field view that essentially provides and neighboring countries and achieve a products include weapon lights for .50 no obstruction to shooters. That means fruitful and successful business. It is ac- caliber, very powerful HID searchlights lightning fast target engagements at CQB tive in the Defense and Civil Markets for extreme conditions and tactical LED distances with no distraction from the and works very closely with the military and IR flashlights. shooter’s situational awareness. The SRS and security forces to fulfill their exist- MKD is a product development com- is ideal for military, law enforcement and ing needs; and has successfully executed pany that manufactures police and mili- other applications on a variety of firearm many major projects and supplied the tary training products in plastics. The platforms from AR’s to shotguns. military with the latest technological ad- product range includes training knifes, Brüggemann range of products com- vanced products to elevate their capabil- guns, rifles and bullets and the mission prises all kinds of parachutes, as well as ities and standards to the highest levels. is to provide safe training tools for the air transport and aerial delivery equip- JELS (Jordan Electronic Logistics Sup- trainer, trainee, weapon and environment. Brüggemann is internationally port) was founded in 2006 as a joint ven- ment. These products are made of high well known and highly valued for the ture between a group of military indus- quality recyclable plastics. The services experience, the high quality and state of trialization experts and a state-owned include custom product development

12 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | SAAB Mobile Camouflage System and engineering using state of the art cation levels up to TOP SECRET. Om- system from Saab Barracuda is a combat CAD, CAM, CNC, 3D scanning, rapid niCrypt™ encryption solutions offering proven system and now in use by many prototyping and mold making. uncompromising security are developed armed forces around the world. MODUL-X Solutions, LLC is a sub- to the highest quality standards entirely In support of Middle East regional sidiary of CitySafe, Inc. in Farmingdale, within Omnisec AG and produced ex- market development, Eomax is pleased New Jersey, USA. The company designs clusively in Switzerland. to introduce the Company’s Wolf Pack and manufactures patented modular ar- RUAG has production sites in Swit- system at SOFEX, a leading showcase mored composite systems used to con- zerland, Germany, Austria, Hungary, for special operations technology. Wolf struct structures that provide security Sweden and United States. RUAG Am- Pack is a unique MIL-SPEC, field-recon- barriers to extreme levels of ballistic, motec, is a European market leader in figurable imaging system that supports a blast and physical attack. The success small-caliber ammunition, develops and wide range of mission objectives across of these modular structures in prevent- manufactures high-performance stand- tactical operations, counter-IED and ing penetration is due to the use of ard and special ammunition for Hunt- high risk search, border security, search MODUL-X Armor Composite*. ing & Sports and Defense & Law En- and rescue, critical infrastructure pro- Based in Scotland, camera design forcement, as well pyrotechnic elements tection, and VIP security. and manufacturing company, NCTech, and components for industry in general. Wolf Pack enhances safety and effec- is launching the world’s first fully auto- MERGEFIELD TEXT The main cus- tiveness by providing stand-off view- matic instant 360º panoramic camera. tomers are Armed Forces, Special Units ing capabilities that enable operators to Eagerly anticipated, the iSTAR® is widely and Police. Particularly the Swiss and look around corners, over walls, under predicted to displace current technology German Forces, the NATO Countries, and around vehicles, up stairways and in globally across multiple sectors includ- some open Middle East Countries, Far many other hard-to-reach areas or con- ing military and defense. East region and USA. fined spaces. Wolf Pack’s multi-mission Omnisec stands for over 65 years’ ex- The MCS/CoolCam system is intend- flexibility, MIL-SPEC engineering, and perience in the field of cryptology and ed primarily for protection of vehicles ergonomic efficiency makes it a highly encrypted information exchange. Om- during movement and helps the vehicle effective technology solution for Middle nisec security solutions are successfully to blend in with the surroundings. It ob- Eastern homeland security • used worldwide by military organiza- structs visual and thermal infrared de- tions, government agencies, and inter- tection. MCS/CoolCam is a flexible so- national companies for the highly secure lution which can be applied in a number exchange of information at all classifi- of configurations. The MCS/CoolCam

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 13 News

Oshkosh JLTV Solution Delivers Next-Gen ThalesRaytheonSystems Performance and Crew Protection to showcase air defense The Oshkosh L-ATV is designed to keep Warfighters safe as battlefield radar cyber security threats evolve. The vehicle’s crew protec- ThalesRaytheonSystems (TRS) dem- tion system has been extensively tested onstrated it’s cyber security capa- and proven to optimize protection, bilities at FIDAE exhibition. TRS weight and mobility. The L-ATV can ac- solutions are aimed at detecting and cept multiple armor configurations so it countering cyber intrusions in an can easily be adapted to changing opera- Air Operations system and related tional requirements. air defense sensors. TRS cyber secu- The L-ATV also uses the Oshkosh rity consists of embedded solutions Oshkosh-JLTV TAK-4i™ intelligent independent sus- providing a cyber realtime picture, pension system, building on the success status information on all the critical Oshkosh Defense, a division of Oshkosh of the TAK-4 family of suspensions used resources and the ability to select the Corporation presented its solution for on more than 20,000 military vehicles. appropriate response to any cyber in- the Engineering Manufacturing & De- The TAK-4i system is tailored for high- trusion. velopment (EMD) phase of the Joint performance, lightweight vehicles to The demand for affordable, high- Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) program. give Warfighters unprecedented mobil- performance defense solutions will The Oshkosh L-ATV has been extensive- ity in severe off-road terrain. It uses an continue to grow as governments and ly tested and proven to meet or exceed all advanced Oshkosh technology to deliver security forces around the world face of the JLTV program’s requirements. 20 inches of independent wheel travel; new and evolving threats. TRS radars The Light Combat Vehicle, Rede- 25 percent more than any vehicle fielded are designed to both detect and coun- fined with the U.S. military today. ter emerging threats. More information about our medium- and long- range radars will be presented on the Thales and Raytheon stands. TRS’ radars are valued for their Fincantieri Clinched a $90 M Contract from the performance, deployability, reliabil- USCG ity and low manpower requirements. On the occasion of the Cruise Shipping contractor and program manager and will With the introduction of the Ground Miami Conference and Exhibition, the build 50% of the boats at its ACE Marine Master family of radars, TRS contin- most important event of the year, Fin- facility in Green Bay, Wisconsin. MMC’s ues to innovate on behalf of defense cantieri announced it has been awarded Teaming Partner, Kvichak Marine Indus- organizations worldwide. a contract from the U.S. Coast Guard for tries of Seattle, will build the other 50% of The Ground Master 200 (GM 200), the construction of 40 boats, scheduled the boats at its Kent, Washington facility. a medium-range, mast-mounted ra- for delivery in the second quarter of 2013. Commenting the new order Giuseppe dar, features an open architecture With an approximate value of Bono, CEO of Fincantieri said: “We are with the capability to integrate com- $89,600,000 the new boats are part of a very proud we can keep on serving the U.S. mand, control and coordination for multi-year, U.S. Coast Guard contract Coast Guard. This order confirms that the air C4I solutions and ground-based for the construction and delivery of up acquisition of our shipyards in the United air defense systems. The GM 200 is to 250 Response Boats – Medium (RB- States proved to be a winning strategy and a 3-D multi-beam solid-state radar Ms) at a total contract value of up to $600 allows our company to provide with top utilizing innovative and reliable tech- million. This new order brings the total quality vessels not only the Coast Guard nologies that share common software number of boats under contract to 166. but also the U.S. Navy, as well as a wide architecture with other Ground Mas- Marinette Marine Corporation, a U.S. range of non-government customers“. ter systems. Fincantieri company, will act as prime

14 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | FN Herstal displays expertise at FIDAE GAU-21machine gun. FN Herstal’s M3 machine gun, with high firing rate of 1,100 RPM, is a worldwide standard for rotary wing applications and is considered by end users as the best optimum performance vs. weight for the benefit of crew protection. Alternatively, FN pintle weapon systems can also be door- or window-fitted. The FN SCAR® Assault Rifle is available in two calibers (5.56x45mm NATO cal or 7.62x51mm NATO cal) and with two FN Herstal MDP Turning different barrel lengths, either short or FN Herstal, a world leader in small arms chanical and do not require any electri- standard for close-quarters combat or manufacture, displayed portable weap- cal power, making firing possible even standard infantry roles respectively. The ons and integrated weapon systems for if the carrier faces problems. The FN well-thought design features of the FN land and airborne applications during pintle-mounted system features a .50 cal SCAR® assault rifle makes it lightweight, the FIDAE Trade Show. FN HERSTAL or 7.62mm machine gun firing in open highly Accurate, and reliable in the most designs, develops and manufactures bolt mode, ensuring full safety and reli- difficult conditions. The innovative FN fully integrated airborne systems with ability, and is mounted on a soft mount, Fire Control Unit, or FN FCU, ensures unprecedented and unequalled firing ca- guaranteeing outstanding balance dur- immediate target neutralization in day pabilities for multi-role helicopters and ing firing, hence increased accuracy. or night conditions when firing 40mm subsonic aircraft while maintaining sim- The pintle weapon system displayed at grenades. The FN FCU features an ergo- plicity of use and crew safety. the show will be the FN Medium Ramp nomic and ambidextrous design, and is FN pintle weapon systems for helicop- Pintle, or MRP, that is ramp-positioned easy to use. ters and subsonic aircraft are fully me- and equipped with a .50 cal M3M/ Harris Receives $14.3 M in Orders Harris Corporation, an international This country is acquiring the system, ness, Harris RF Communications. “Our communications and information tech- consisting of Falcon III tactical radios world-class products, systems and in- nology company, has received $14.3 mil- and accessories, to deliver wideband net- country support form the basis for com- lion in orders to provide a transformation- working capabilities to its security forces. prehensive mission-critical solutions that al communications, command and control As part of the system, Harris will pro- deliver secure voice, video and data to the system to a country in the Middle East. vide the customer with Falcon III® RF- battlefield.” 7800M Multiband Networking Radios, The system integrates a full suite of RF-7800W High-Capacity Line-of-Sight software-defined radios from the Harris Radios and RF-7800S Secure Personal Falcon III® RF-7800 family. This includes Radios, along with networking compo- the lightweight RF-7800S, a soldier, body- nents, accessories and spares. worn radio for full-duplex voice and data “Harris is serving as a trusted partner communications over 2 kilometers; RF- in supplying the tactical communica- 7800M for wideband mobile ad-hoc net- tions and command and control capa- working, and RF-7800W High-Capacity bilities for the security forces of this na- Line-of-Sight Internet Protocol radio for tion and across the world,” said Brendan high-speed backhaul data communica- Command and control system O’Connell, president, International Busi- tions.

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 15 News

Sagem’s JIM LR binoculars win contract for British army Developed and produced by Sagem, asymmetrical threats: JIM LR incorporates in a single portable - Image fusion between the infrared optronics package a number of advanced and visible channels, to penetrate cam- features, including day/night (infrared) ouflage during the day, along with all- vision, range finding, laser pointer, North weather vision (through smoke, etc.). seeker, GPS and data transmission. Used - Ability to record images and videos for intelligence, surveillance, target ac- via a USB port. quisition and reconnaissance missions, Sagem will also provide training for JIM LR binoculars will significantly ex- users and maintenance staff. pand the capabilities of British infantry Several NATO forces deploy JIM LR units. binoculars in their infantry, artillery, in- The decisive factors in the DE&S’s se- telligence, special-mission, border and Sagem’s JIM LR binoculars lection were the JIM LR proven operabil- coast guard units. With this latest inter- The British Ministry of Defence, ity in severe combat environments, detec- national contract, there are now nearly through the Defence Equipment & Sup- tion and identification performance, and 5,000 JIM LRs in service or on order port (DE&S*), awarded Sagem (Safran a complete multimedia service designed worldwide, including 2,000 with French group) a major contract for JIM LR to support a real-time intelligence cycle. armed forces. Winning this coveted pro- (Long Range) multifunction infrared The JIM LR binoculars for the Brit- gram award also confirms Sagem’s lead- binoculars for its “Long Range Thermal ish army will incorporate new functions ership in portable optronics equipment Imager Programme”, worth a total of £5 enabling users to successfully carry out for front-line combat units. million (6 million Euros). their missions, in particular when facing

SELEX Galileo to deliver unique technology India’s Rustom-2 MALE UAS. SELEX Galileo also promoted its SEER Radar Warning Receiver, which is designed to protect a wide variety of airborne platforms from enemy threats and is the perfect fit for India’s Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer. Other products highlighted were Mi- rach 100/5 aerial target drone, Crex B, designed for Special Operational and Tactical Forces’ intelligence missions, quad-rotor DRAKO, Active Electroni- cally Scanned Array (AESA) systems, SELEX Galileo -MIRACH such as the Seaspray family of surveillance radars which have been selected by At DEFEXPO, SELEX Galileo promoted the standard fit on the Apache AH-64. As customers in the US, UK and by several its Electronic Warfare (EW) products Europe’s leading supplier of EW equip- others internationally and their PicoSAR such as the combat-proven HIDAS De- ment and ranking 3rd in the world, the Synthetic Aperture Radar which brings fensive Aid Suite for helicopters, a sys- company highlighted its next-generation a compact and light-weight AESA so- tem which includes our Aircraft Gateway ELINT system, ‘SAGE’, which we believe lution, suitable for ground-surveillance Processor (AGP) which is now part of is ideally suited to meeting the needs of roles on UAVs and light helicopters.

16 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Raytheon’s 1st New-production Patriot Sys- NGC to Develop New Atom- tem Debuts in Successful Flight Test Based Magnetic Sensor Northrop Grumman Corporation Raytheon Company successfully com- missile guidance.” has been selected by the Office of -Na pleted a system-level guided flight test The system-level test used new-produc- val Research to develop a new cost-ef- of the new-production Patriot at White tion major end items (radar, Guidance fective atom-based magnetic sensor, Sands Missile Range, N.M. The mod- Enhanced Missile-Tactical [GEM-T] or magnetometer, for antisubmarine ernized Patriot provides an affordable, missile, launching station, Information warfare operations. low-risk and rapid path to meet the Coordination Central, and Engagement The highly sensitive magnetometer warfighter’s current and future air and Control Station) against a long-standing will be part of a magnetic anomaly missile defense requirements. performance scenario to verify system detection system mounted on heli- “The system’s flawless performance -us capability. copters, unmanned aerial vehicles or ing all newly-built major end items is a In the guided test flight, the system submarines. Whether in the air above significant milestone for global air and searched, detected and tracked an air- the ocean or underwater as part of a missile defense. It also highlights the ca- breathing target flying at a low altitude towed array, the magnetometer will pability of the combat-proven Patriot and in a high-clutter environment, which the sense disturbances in the earth's the viability of the global Patriot supply GEM-T missile engaged and destroyed. magnetic field due to metallic objects base,” said Sanjay Kapoor, vice president This scenario was specifically chosen by in the vicinity, indicating a nearby for Integrated Air and Missile Defense at Raytheon and the U.S. Army for its abil- submarine. Raytheon’s Integrated Defense Systems ity to provide a rigorous test of all aspects Under a three-year $1.75 million business. “Our customers and warfight- of the Patriot system. This builds on the contract, Northrop Grumman is be- ers will greatly benefit from the new successful test of the first new ground-up ing tasked to develop a magnetom- designs, such as the color LCD displays production GEM-T missile announced eter that is smaller, lighter and more with touch screens and digital track via last October. accurate than current magnetic sensor technologies.

P&W and Boeing Representatives Sign Engine Contract to Power USAF’s KC-46 Tanker Bennett Croswell, president of Pratt & ability with numerous commercial cus- gram as established by future purchase Whitney’s Military Engines division, tomers operating the engine globally,” orders. and Maureen Dougherty, Boeing vice said Croswell. “We are confident these “Pratt & Whitney’s PW4062 engine of- president and program manager, KC-46 engines will continue to perform excep- fers the KC-46 program an engine that Tanker Program, hosted a ceremonial tionally well in a military application for has proven performance, fuel economy, engine contract signing event at Boeing’s Boeing and for our ultimate customer, and durability – qualities that make it Tanker Program Office in Mukilteo, the men and women in uniform.” the clear choice to power the KC-46 Wash., for contracts previously awarded Two Pratt & Whitney PW4062 en- Tanker,” said Dougherty. “These engines to Pratt & Whitney. The contracts sup- gines, each with a 94-inch fan blade di- bring tremendous capability to the KC- port PW4062 engine purchases to power ameter, will exclusively power each U.S. 46, which supports superior multi-role Boeing’s KC-46, the U.S. Air Force’s new Air Force KC-46 aircraft. The program’s mission performance by delivering more airlift tanker. Pratt & Whitney is a Unit- scope, if fully exercised, calls for as many fuel, transporting more passengers and ed Technologies Corp. company. as 368 PW4062 engines to be delivered cargo, and offering enhanced aeromedi- “The PW4000 engine family that will between 2013 and 2027. Actual produc- cal capabilities to our United States Air power these aircraft has an exceptional tion engine procurement quantities will Force customer.” track record of performance and reli- be determined over the life of the pro-

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 17 Report BAYNUNAH Corvette Class Program The biggest warship construction program in the Middle East

Naval Staff Commander of the UAE Navy Rear Admiral Ibrahim Salem Mohammed Al-Mushrekh and Homaid Al Shemmari, Executive Director, Mubadala during the launch of “Mezyad”

The Baynunah Corvette Class Program enously and achieves self-reliance in is the biggest warship construction pro- warships construction. The vision is not ADSB hopes to gram in the Middle East. The lead ship only to meet the nation’s requirements is named after the Baynunah region in for a fleet of modern warships but cap- secure further Abu Dhabi. Six state-of-the-art warships ture the available gulf market for this are planned in this class. multi-purpose Corvette warship. orders for the Each of the highly advanced Baynu- The first was built in France by Con- nah Class Corvettes can be deployed structions Mécaniques de Normandie class from for various missions, including coastal (CMN), while the rest are being built in the Saudi and patrol and survey, helicopter operations, the UAE by Abu Dhabi Ship Building and peacetime patrols. (ADSB). Kuwaiti navies History First of Class demonstrations of various weapons and In 2004, to replace the Ardhana class The lead ship was launched on June 25, sensors. In order to optimize efficien- patrol boat, the United Arab Emirates 2009. The First of Class (FOC) was de- cy and cost effectiveness of this major awarded a contract to Abu Dhabi Ship signed and built by CMN in Cherbourg and sophisticated program, ADSB and Building for the Baynunah class of cor- with a Transfer of Technology contract CMN have decided within their close vettes. Abu Dhabi Ship Building, the to the Prime Contractor ADSB for the strategic industrial cooperation to com- Gulf’s only military ship builder, was construction of five more vessels at the plete the integration of the combat sys- made the Prime Contractor in Baynu- ADSB yard. tem in ADSB Abu Dhabi. nah class program to ensure a smooth The FOC has demonstrated impres- A final demonstration sea trip to transfer of technology so that these very sive performance and excellent qual- mark the end of the FOC program in sophisticated warships are built indig- ity during the sea trials which included France was held in Cherbourg on 4

18 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | ADSB Market Segments Naval / Military Ship Construction (10m RHIB Assault Boats to 72m Corvettes) Naval Ship Repairs, Refits & Upgrades (basic platform repairs to highly complex combat system upgrades) Commercial Ship Construction (15m Landing Craft to 50m Crew Boats) Commercial Ship Repairs (basic painting and blasting to replacing of major equip- ments).

Mezyad - the fourth vessel of Baynunah Corvette Class Program

October 2011 in the presence of CNF of UAE and the handover of the Vessel took place on 11 October 2011. Capabilities The Baynunah Class vessels are 72 meter multi-mission corvettes that will be fitted with cutting edge Combat systems with the capability to perform a wide range of military operations, including defense against both air and surface threats. It is a unique class of warship with multi-mission capabilities, including costal patrol and surveillance, mine detection and avoidance, helicopter operations, as well as anti-air and anti- surface capabilities. In performing these missions, Baynunah will utilize the very least in Weapons and Sensor Technol- ogy. Construction: The ships of this class have steel constructed hull and deck, with superstruc- ture fabricated from aluminum. The su- perstructure arrangement is designed to minimize radar cross-section. Combat System The combat system of Baynunah class corvettes is centered around a modern Mast

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 19 Report command and control system – IPN-S (from SELEX Sistemi Integrati). The IPN-S will provide primary control of the major weapons systems while providing the ship’s crew with a complete tactical picture combining information from ship’s sensors, external communications, airborne sensors, and intelligence reports. Primary ship sensors will include three dimensional air search and navigation radar with LPI capability. An EOMS infrared search and track weapons director will also be fitted. An In- terrogation Friend or Foe (IFF) function for both radar sets will be provided. The electronic warfare suite will -in 27mm Gun clude laser electronic countermeasures systems, a radar electronic support measures system (ESM) and electronic support measures and communications intelligence system will also be a part of the electronics warfare suite. The primary anti ship weapons will be 2 x Missiles. The vessel’s firepower is complimented with a single 76 mm main gun and two 27 mm side guns. The primary air defense system is centered on a vertical missile launcher system. This system will be controlled by the IPN-S combat control system, a fire control system. Missile fire control SSM Missile Launcher will be supplemented by a continuous wave illuminator. The air defense missile nications. This system will coordinate oil trade and is a major commercial sea system is augmented by a second set of and provide communications and data corridor. The Baynunah class of cor- surface to air missiles. These “fire and sharing between the Baynunah vessels, vettes is an excellent step towards broad- forget” missiles will be mounted on the other cooperating fleet vessels, land er seaborne defense and will be a major weather fairing of the 27mm side guns. based command and control centers, addition to the Gulf’s Naval Force. The All navigation system data will be and maritime patrol aircraft. ship is designed to provide the navies collected and displayed through an In- The vessel will also be fitted with a with a multi-role Surface Vessel capable tegrated Bridge system incorporating CHAFF launcher decoy system and of sustained operations throughout the a laser gyro system for ship’s reference RAM system. GCC region• and navigation. The integrated bridge system will include displays from the Significance of Baynunah Reference & Photo Credit: Navigation / LPI radar. www.adsb.ae A complex network of integrated The Arabian Gulf countries are strategi- communications is provided and will cally located which serves as the ship- include secure voice and data commu- ping route for 40 percent of the world’s

20 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | NGC Awarded Contract to Deliver UGS Contract to provide SCORPION and SCORPION II UGS

The U.S. Army has awarded Northrop sensors to cue long range, short range Grumman Corporation a contract and point blank-range thermal or day to provide SCORPION and SCOR- cameras to detect and assess potential SCORPION PION II Unattended Ground Sensor threats. SCORPION II combines un- (UGS) systems to protect soldiers with matched wireless day and night imagery II combines a remote persistent unattended surveil- performance with significantly reduced lance capability for improved situational size and weight, making portability and unmatched awareness and actionable intelligence. concealment faster, safer and lower in Northrop Grumman’s SCORPION power consumption and lengthening wireless day and UGS systems have been deployed world- mission life. night imagery wide. The primary function of SCORPI- The robust, modular, scaleable, open ON is to provide persistent surveillance interface architecture implemented in performance for situational awareness, remote area the Scorpion II system is easily adapt- monitoring and perimeter security. able to a myriad of COTS sensors from with significantly “While SCORPION remains the UGS most vendors as well as a wide variety of system of choice in Iraq, Afghanistan communication links. reduced size and and other deployments, SCORPION II’s Northrop Grumman is a leading size, weight and wireless performance global security company providing in- weight improvements significantly increase the novative systems, products and solu- available mission set for the warfight- tions in aerospace, electronics, informa- er,” said Martin Simoni, site director tion systems, and technical services to of Northrop Grumman’s Xetron facili- government and commercial customers Northrop ty. “This contract both supports existing worldwide • systems and enables multiple organiza- Grumman is a tions to combine their requirements for new systems, saving money for the U.S. leading global government.” security company Under the terms of this indefinite delivery indefinite quantity contract, providing Northrop Grumman will provide SCORPION and SCORPION II wired innovative systems and wireless UGS systems and support services over a five-year period. SCORPION II is the next generation of persistent autonomous surveillance systems for force protection and intelligence gathering. The systems use seis- mic, magnetic and/or passive infrared

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 21 Report Thales is a key player in the field of security Offers a comprehensive range of security solutions By Sakha Pramod ment of the resources to be deployed. Thales has built on a long-standing Thales Video Solution- an innovative presence in the United Arab Emirates, and high-end video protection solution dating back more than 30 years, accord- Thales Video Solution (TVS) is a ing to Mr Kamel Boussadia, Director, video protection system incorporating a Security Solutions and Services, Thales network video recorder (NVR) in stand- International Middle East. “Thales is a ardized format, with network band- key player in the field of security, with width optimisation and implementation activities encompassing the security of of real-time video content analysis and large cities, major sporting or political post-analysis. Easily configurable and events and territorial protection - bor- scalable, TVS can integrate legacy sys- der control, airport security, etc. “ he tems and is just as suited to installations said in an exclusive interview with the with as few as 100 or so cameras as it is Mr Kamel Boussadia, Director, Security “Nation Shield”. to very large systems with over 10,000 Solutions and Services, Thales Int. ME Today, as a leading systems integra- cameras. tor and supplier of value-added servic- Cyber security customers of the UAE and Middle East es, Thales offers solutions that facilitate As a major player in the field of Criti- Region more generally. the decision-making process both for cal Information Systems security, Thales Joint Ventures managing daily emergencies and for provides civil & military organizations Thales has 4 joint ventures in the UAE. handling extraordinary or major crisis with a modular and pro-active cyber se- Thales Advanced Solutions (TAS) - a situations. Thales offers a comprehen- curity approach. Thales’s offer consists joint venture between Thales and C4 sive range of solutions designed to help of services, equipment and resources al- Advanced Solutions (C4AS), which fo- decision-making, in relation to the pro- lowing the surveillance, detection, anal- cuses on new product development and tection of critical infrastructures, urban ysis and combat of all types of current is also the Thales channel to the defence infrastructure, border surveillance and and future cyber attacks. market within the UAE. transport. CYBELS (CYBer Expertise for Lead- National Telesystems and Services These include: ing Security) , is designed to protect (NTS) is a joint venture that focuses on Thales Hypervisor - Thales Hypervi- critical information systems against Human Resources and logistics man- sor is an all-encompassing, secure, inte- cyberthreats by anticipating, prevent- agement. grated, intelligent and modular supervi- ing and responding on time to attacks. Thalbat Advanced Technologies is a sion system. The solution is based on a Organized around a 24/7 cyber security joint venture which is dedicated to fight- Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) operations centre, it coordinates secu- er jet systems and maintenance. associated with a Human-Machine In- rity capabilities and provides the nec- CERT Thales Institute (CTI) is a terface (HMI) that provides operators essary protection levels across the full joint-venture training company be- with a global and cross-functional vi- system cycle of life. It offers police, law tween Thales and the Centre of Excel- sion of situations, along with a decision enforcement agencies and critical infra- lence for the Applied Research and making tool for optimal operational ef- structures with the solutions they need Training (CERT) of the Higher Colleges ficiency. to combat cyber attacks. of Technology (HCT), which provides ECHO- management support system With over 500 people employed in technical training. for handling alerts and emergency situ- Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the UAE is the Mr. Kamel was full for praise for the ations. ECHO is a system for real-time cornerstone of Thales in the Middle UAE and other Middle East countries as incident management and resource pro- East. In 2007, Thales opened the Middle business partners. He reinstated Thales cessing via the optimization of call pro- East Support Centre (MESC) in order to strategy that we are here to stay, support, cessing times and intelligent manage- bring local services and get closer to the cooperate and grow together•

22 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Boeing Military Aircraft greatly values its ties with the UAE Our approach is to create lasting ties with partners like Mubadala by Sakha Pramod ers. In addition, Apache helicopters are unique as attack helicopters. We sold the The Boeing Military Aircraft (BMA) P-8 to India, which is not in the Middle greatly values its ties with the UAE as East. And then in the Unmanned area it has long term plans to work together there has been a lot of interest in our with entities like Mubadala, according unmanned vehicles and we are happy to Christopher (Chris) M. Chadwick, about it. So it is really a part of our im- President, Boeing Military Aircraft, who portant products and portfolios.” was on an official visit to the UAE. He “I would say our weapon systems said that Boeing was confident of mar- have become more focused and have keting its high tech portfolios and air- been able to provide intelligence, sur- craft like C 17 in the region. veillance and reconnaissance. Our busi- “Boeing Military Aircraft is a $ 15 bil- ness is growing. And our growth was Christopher M. Chadwick, President, lion business employing 23,000 people more domestic than international, and Boeing Military Aircraft worldwide. The four main divisions are: now we see a change in our internation- Surveillance and Engagement; Global al mix which is about 30 per cent of our cased B-22 Osprey which is a relatively Strike; Mobility; and Missiles and Un- total business today and still growing. new product. The Show is really a game- manned Airborne Systems. Global Boeing has had long term relationship changer.” Strike is for fighters, trainers and attack with all the Middle East customers such He said Boeing faces stiff competition helicopters like Apache. We have got as the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar and, more re- in the sector of fighter aircraft as it has a a brand new capability for tankers for cently, Saudi Arabia as Boeing has been number of players such as Eurofighter, the US Air Force: the C-17 and KC-46 engaging with the Middle East for over Rafale, Grippen and we have got F-15 which are heavy-lift transportation,” he 50 years.” and F-18. “It is a very heated battle be- said in an in-depth interview with the “Global Strike and Boeing Aircraft cause they are all iconic in nature.” “Nation Shield”, the journal of the UAE are key elements of that engagement. He said Mubadala-Boeing relation- Armed Forces. Our people are stationed in these coun- ship spanned across Boeing’s entire “We have unmanned airborne sys- tries and many of these regions and our business. It goes from commercial to de- tems and also systems from lower tiers. approach is to create lasting ties with fense to R&D, and Mubadala is a perfect We have a division called Surveillance countries like the UAE or with entities opportunity to leverage shared destiny and Engagement and that is mainly the like Mubadala because we can provide for manufacturing, technology develop- P-8 which is the P-3 replacement. We products, help accelerate technology, ment, training and education. believe there is a 5-7 year window of op- training and learning for the longer Mr Chris was full of praise for the portunity for international sales in the term that are mutually beneficial. UAE and other GCC countries as busi- Middle East right now, as the customers He praised the IDEX and the Dubai ness partners. “The UAE is our newest are recapitalizing their fleets. It may be Air Show saying the two exhibitions al- customer for C-17 and we have been in noted that C-17 is one of a kind, with lowed companies like Boeing to show- talks with the concerned people. It is a the UAE being the most recent custom- case its products and portfolios. “I very unique product and may decide the er with four C-17s delivered last year would say that Dubai Air Show is right future path forward, which explains our and two C-17s this year. up there at the top. These shows attract intensive presence here.” He said that Boeing’s fighter planes are a lot of important customers, and we He praised Nation Shield for doing a also of interest to customers here. “F- take them as an opportunity to perhaps wonderful job by bringing the latest in 15 sales for Saudi Arabia were very big open up new markets and introduce defense and technology to the decision but F-15 and F-18 are being looked at new products. You have seen C-17 in makers around the world • very closely by the middle east custom- the past, and Dubai Air Show show-

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 23 Report INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION Otokar The leading supplier of Turkish Armed Forces ARMA 8x8 armoured combat vehicle is the newest product of Otokar The biggest privately owned company of Turkish Defence Industry, Otokar is the main supplier of Turkish Armed Forces for armoured and soft-skinned tactical wheeled vehicles. Otokar’s mili- 2012 tary armoured vehicles ensure superior mobility, high protection-levels and ad- justability of the same platform for various missions. Their modular structure allows different choices of components and subsystems. Otokar armoured product range consists of 4x4, 6x6 and 8x8 vehicles with the brands Otokar APV, Otokar COBRA, Otokar ARMA, Otokar ISV. The company is also the Otokar Arma 8x8 LAND prime contractor for Altay, Turkey’s very first national main battle tank. lowing the success that we gained with armoured vehicle. With a superior mo- Otokar has been designing and pro- our 4x4 tactical armoured vehicles two bility ready to give service in all kinds ducing tactical vehicles for 25 years. years ago we also added the multi-wheel of terrains, ARMA 8x8 is also featured DEFENCE & SECURITY Its military vehicles provide the Turk- armoured combat vehicles to our prod- with amphibious kit. ARMA 8x8 draws ish Armed Forces with successful ser- uct family. The family developed as the attention among its kind throughout the vice. And in abroad, over 25 thousand ARMA brand are vehicles that are de- world with its superior mobility, high Visiting the leading tradeshow Otokar military vehicles are actively signed by Otokar’s R&D team; with a protection and unique survivability. Its used in more than 20 countries. The ma- careful study of evolving needs of the in- basic monocoque type body structure offers business opportunities jor indicator of the success that Otokar’s ternational users. After their first launch and safe seats provide efficient protec- tactical armoured vehicles gained in the we received our two orders within a tion to the crew against ballistic and international arena is the 58% share of short time like 12 months, and it proves mine threats. export within the company’s defence in- that we did right.” ARMA 8x8 provides an ideal ar- dustry turnover since 2002. Providing high protection against ex- moured combat vehicle for remote con- Stating that Otokar’s product range plosives and mines together with its su- trolled turret systems with its modular had significantly differentiated and perior mobility, ARMA 8x8 armoured structure suitable for various missions expanded with the addition of multi- combat vehicle is the newest product and its independent hydro-pneumatic wheel armoured vehicles within the last of Otokar specially designed according suspension minimizing the vibration 2 years, Mr. Serdar Gorguc, Otokar’s to the current and future threats us- inside the vehicle • General Manager, drew attention to the ing the newest technology. ARMA is R&D capability of Otokar: “As Otokar, prepared to give the best service to the R&D is one of our most important val- armies in the worldwide. Armoured ues. Today we’re the leading company combat vehicle ARMA 8x8 transports in designing and producing armoured ten dismounts, the driver and the com- combat vehicles. We also make signifi- mander and a maximum load weight of cant investments for our R&D studies. 24 tons. The compact engine positioned The fact that the 4% of our turnover at the front right of the vehicle provides belongs to R&D investments is the ma- large interior volume and ergonomic Under the patronage of jor sign of how we value that area. Fol- internal operating environment for the 11 - 15 JUNE 2012 / PARIS Presided over by

24 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | www.eurosatory.com INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION

2012

LAND DEFENCE & SECURITY

Visiting the leading tradeshow offers business opportunities

Under the patronage of 11 - 15 JUNE 2012 / PARIS Presided over by www.eurosatory.com Report ELETTRONICA: A Technical and Technlogical Know-How ELT is a great family that places “man’s ideas” in the foreground

Elettronica's Clean Room

The world of modern defence is increas- ni. The market in which Elettronica op- ingly relying on electronic sensors in the erates has, in the last twenty years, wit- conduct of military operations through nessed many unexpected changes and the integration of radar, infrared, and this has caused the company to formu- communications ESM/ECM asset. It is late a new business model, which puts precisely in Rome’s technological hub, a key focus on the international coop- that one of the most important inter- eration and the setting up of in-country national companies is located, devoted presence. In recent years we have cre- in mind, Elettronica allocates from year- to the design and production of defence ated important Joint Ventures, such as to-year substantial funds to research and systems. “We started 60 years ago as the UAE-based ELTBAT company in development. “It is our insurance on the a laboratory with basic know-how in 2007, between Elettronica and Baynu- future and should sustain the technical the microwave field. In recent decades, nah Aviation Technology. Similarly in and technological know-how that has however, we have been able to make India, Elettronica has set up a JV, named always been our strength” - states Mr. away into the highly competitive de- AEDS, with Alpha Design Technology. Enzo Benigni. fence industrial community, receiving The company undertook an ambitious Therefore there is no special secret: world wide recognition for our tech- growth plan to increase production vol- Elettronica is a modern firm that must nology and manufacturing capabilities” umes by exploiting not only improved compete every day with the present, and – declares the President and CEO Enzo in-house expertise, but also by imple- anticipate the future to produce its Hi- Benigni. The company was able to de- menting a renewed management pro- Tech products. ELT is a great family that velop a portfolio of international clients cesses. This policy has led to an internal places “man’s ideas” in the foreground, while maintaining strong roots in the resources optimization which allowed simply allowing such inventiveness to Via Tiburtina. “Every time our portfolio the achievement of significantly higher develop, take form and find its foothold becomes richer with new customers and levels of productivity and economic in the world market • foreign countries, the value our ideas results. Innovation has driven and will and the set of values that go with them continue to drive the business culture, gets confirmed. – continues Mr. Benig- and the current organizational With this

26 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Boeing Awards Contract to Mubadala Aerospace’s Strata Signs 10-year direct supply contract to produce ribs for 777 and 787

Boeing and Mubadala Aerospace announced a 10-year direct contract for Strata Manufacturing, Mubadala Aero- space’s advanced composite aerostructures facility in Al Ain, to produce commercial composite aerostructures for the 777 and 787 Dreamliner. In addition, the companies announced a strategic agreement that positions Strata to be a future supplier of the vertical fin for the Dreamliner, a major composite assembly for Boeing’s most advanced airplane program. These milestones grow the strong relationship between Boeing and Mubadala, a business unit of the Abu Dhabi-based Mubadala Development Company, a business development and investment Jim Albaugh, CEO, Boeing Commercial Airlines and Homaid Al Shemmari, Executive vehicle of the Abu Dhabi government, Director, Mubadala Aerospace to advance the commercial aviation industry in the United Arab Emirates ecutive Director Homaid Al Shem- supplier of the 787 vertical fin assembly. (UAE) and further Abu Dhabi’s plans mari. “The signing of this agreement, The announcement builds on agree- to become a global aerospace hub, a key here at the Global Aerospace Summit ments signed by Albaugh and Al Shem- part of the Emirate’s economic diversifi- in Abu Dhabi, is testament to how far mari at the 2011 Dubai Airshow to cation plans. Strata has come as a company in the establish Strata as a composite aero- “The UAE is one of Boeing’s most short 18 months it has been operational. structures supplier and develop a stra- important commercial and defense cus- Mubadala Aerospace is developing a tegic roadmap for Strata to become a tomers, and its leaders have transformed world-class - and crucially - sustain- major Tier 1 supplier to Boeing. its economy with aerospace investment able aerospace industry in the UAE, and These recent developments further and development,” said Jim Albaugh, Strata is at the heart of this develop- advance a framework agreement signed President and CEO of Boeing Com- ment.” by Boeing and Mubadala Aerospace in mercial Airplanes. “Boeing has been In Boeing’s first direct composites November 2009 to show their commit- committed for several years to build a supplier contract in the Arab world, ment to develop mutually beneficial ini- partnership with Mubadala Aerospace Strata will manufacture empennage ribs tiatives in areas where there is strategic that brings long-term, mutual benefits for the 777 and vertical fin ribs for the alignment between the two companies. to both companies. And we’re pleased 787 Dreamliner. Boeing has already Future partnership initiatives could in- that its company, Strata, will now sup- begun to provide tooling, operational clude military maintenance and sustain- port production of the breakthrough early training and other support for ment activities, as well as pilot training 787 Dreamliner and the 777, an airplane those work packages, and Strata’s deliv- and people development • that already plays an essential role in the eries of those components are scheduled success of our customers.” to begin in 2013. In addition, based on “This is an important milestone for its competitiveness and performance, Strata,” said Mubadala Aerospace Ex- Strata is positioned to become a future

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 27 Report

Sagem to supply EOMS-NG optronic system for French navy EOMS-NG will provide fire control for the Floréal class ships Sagem (Safran group) has signed a contract with French naval shipyard DCNS, under French defense procurement agency DGA as contracting authority, for the modernization of fire control systems on six Floréal class surveillance frigates. The modernization will be based on Sagem’s new-generation Electro-Optical Multifunction System (EOMS-NG). Developed and produced by Sagem, the EOMS-NG is a high-performance optronic system. It is a single unit, integrating day-night IRST (infrared search and track) type passive panoramic observation, identification, tracking and fire control. It will be operated from a dedicated work station of the operations room. Replacing the current Najir optronic system, the EOMS-NG will provide fire control for the Floréal class ships’ 100mm gun, their main artillery piece, and will contribute to their tactical situ- ation awareness and the self-defense of the ship. The system features very short reaction time between detection and engagement, and is particularly well suited to fighting piracy and illicit traffic. Its panoramic observation concept is the equivalent of 100 fixed cameras. This contract from DCNS, prime contractor for the modernization of the fire EOMS-NG Sensor Head - Photo Sagem control system on Floréal class frigates, is a significant success for Sagem’s new range of shipborne optronic systems. The first Floréal class frigate will sel, L’Adroit. Australia has ordered 29 be outfitted by the end of 2012. The Vampir NG infrared tracking systems, EOMS-NG system is also in production derived from the EOMS-NG, for its for the six Baynunah class corvettes to navy’s new LHD helicopter carriers, air be deployed by the United Arab Emir- defense destroyers and Anzac class frigates, and it is integrated in the DCSN’s ates • new Gowind class offshore patrol ves-

28 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Rapidly Deployable Engineered Structures

Military Hangar

Sprung Structures located in Manama Bahrain is a member a roof overhead very early in the erection cycle. This allows of the Sprung Group of Companies in business since 1887, our facilities to be constructed even in the hottest months of which has achieved international recognition by providing the year, with very little delay. shelter solutions for thousands of different applications in over Military applications including aircraft hangers, on-site ninety countries throughout the world. warehousing, vehicle maintenance, logistics storage, MWR Sprung is the inventor of the stressed membrane structure, Facilities, dining and food services, access control point shel- engineered to accommodate the world’s need for enclosed ters, bulk storage, maintenance shipping and receiving, and space quickly and economically. weather sensitive material enclosures • This innovative building solution utilizes architectural membrane panels placed under high tension within a non-corrod- www.sprung.com/Militarythere is white here ing aluminum substructure. Sprung provides an optional superior performing energy efficient insulation package. Widths range from 9 meters (30’) to 60 meters (200’) by any length. The non-corroding aluminum substructure and our high- quality performance fabric provide for an incredibly long lifespan. The performance architectural membrane provides all-weather protection from the elements with up to a 20-year guarantee. The benefits of Sprung structures include: speed of delivery and construction, large clear span interior, energy efficient insulation package, relocatable design, limited foundation MANAMA, BAHRAIN requirements. Each Sprung structure is manufactured from 00973 17730838 the highest quality products and materials, and individually [email protected] tested using strict performance measures. With a specialized high-strength aluminum alloy, our substructure has an un- limited lifespan. Sprung structures are engineered to meet or exceed the requirements of most building codes and standards. Sprung structures are generally available within 3 weeks of order. Our structures are designed and engineered for ease of movement. Sprung structures can be assembled and disassem- bled in sections and re-configured for different applications. All components come to the site pre-fabricated. Arches are raised and the exterior membrane installed within a few days of commencing work. As a result, all contractor services have WAREHOUSING • DINING HALLS • DORMITORIES

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LM Receives $1.05 Billion, U.S. Navy Contract Contract to provide digital cockpits, integrated mission systems and sensors U.S. Naval Air Systems vice commander. “This contract represents the Navy’s commitment to build and field the most technologically advanced maritime helicopter fleet in the world.” Specifically, the new multi-year contract includes 162 cockpits, integrated missions systems and sensors for MH- 60R “Romeo,” an anti-surface and antisubmarine warfare helicopter. It also funds 62 digital cockpits to complete the Navy’s program of record for Sierra aircraft, used for ship-to-ship cargo re- supply, search and rescue, and close-in defense of Navy ships. A multi-year procurement contract such as this one must meet rigorous Digital cockpit criteria before being approved by Con- gress, including being able to demonstrate double-digit cost savings. “This contract award ensures uninter- rupted, on-time deliveries of the MH- 60R and MH-60S helicopter to the U.S. Navy fleet,” said Dan Spoor, vice president of aviation systems for Lockheed Martin’s Mission Systems & Sensors business. “Plus the multi-year structure, versus an annual contract, allows us to provide our customer with more than 10 percent savings annually, surpassing Pentagon cost predictions.” Lockheed Martin provides the digital cockpit common to the MH-60R and MH-60S, and integrates the mission systems and sensors aboard the MH-60R helicopter in Owego, N.Y. MH-60R Both aircraft are designed and manufactured by Sikorsky Aircraft• The U.S. Navy awarded Lockheed Mar- “U.S. Navy crews operating the 300- tin a $1.05 billion, five-year contract to plus MH-60 Romeo and Sierra helicop- provide more than 200 digital cockpits ters already in the fleet understand just and integrated mission systems and sen- how critical these aircraft are to protect- sors for the Navy MH-60R “Romeo” ing our ships from surface and undersea and MH-60S “Sierra” helicopters. threats,” said Rear Adm. Paul Grosklags,

30 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Lockheed Martin’s DRAGON Series An Innovative Approach to Intelligence Unpredictable national security threats open, enterprise architecture and all in- For Dragon Stare, Lockheed Martin drive the need for advanced sensor and clude sensor and communications sub- offers a full range of IMINT, SAR or processing capabilities that provide per- systems. SIGINT Sensors for manned and un- sistent surveillance, leading to improved All Dragon configurations are net- manned aircraft. situational awareness. To help custom- centric capable. Configurations could For customers who already own air- ers meet these intelligence gathering be equipped with a full suite of multi- craft for ISR missions, Dragon Den al- needs, Lockheed Martin introduced the disciple collection systems as well as lows Lockheed Martin to provide fixed Dragon series; six innovative, cost-effi- wideband and narrowband data-links. or mobile ground systems to process cient airborne and ground system con- Airborne Dragon configurations could and exploit collected intelligence faster figurations that help customers address include a corresponding ground sta- and with greater accuracy. All systems a diverse range of intelligence, surveil- tion, both of which can be integrated can be seamlessly integrating into exist- lance and reconnaissance (SR) missions. into existing enterprise intelligence net- ing data architectures. “We developed the Dragon configu- works. Lockheed Martin can tailor the Fashioned for larger, longer range air- rations after extensive customer feed- following to suit customer budgetary craft platforms, Dragon Scout provides back, technical trade studies and real and mission needs: a complete multi-Intelligence config- world experimentation using our Air- The Dragon Star category addresses ured platform that can quickly go where borne multi-INT laboratory (AML),” customers that need mid range plat- needed, cover large areas of interest and said Jim Quinn, Vice President with forms such as the Gulfstream III, Havil- be completely interoperable with na- Lockheed Martin IS&GS-Defense. land D-8 or Beech Craft B 350 for their tional, NATO and coalition forces. The individual capabilities that are intelligence needs. Finally, for customers who have an within the family of Dragon ISR con- Dragon Shield is optimal for custom- immediate intelligence need for a short figurations offer Lockheed Martin’s ers who have cargo aircraft that are period of time, Lockheed Martin offers comprehensive ISR expertise in a broad needed for dual roles, such as airlift any Dragon option as a contracted ser- catalogue of single and multi-purpose and reconnaissance. Lockheed Martin vice under the Net Dragon ISR as a ser- integrated air and ground intelligence builds sensor systems into shelters or vice model. This can range from Con- platforms. The Dragon ISR options - pallets that can be rolled on and off the tractor Owned, Contractor Operated Dragon ScoutTM, Dragon ShieldTM, aircraft providing state of the art ISR yet (COCO) to Contractor Owned Gov- Dragon StarTM, Dragon StareTM, and allowing the aircraft to quickly return to ernment Operated (COGO) • Dragon DenTM – are all based on an cargo service.

Lockheed Martin DRAGON STAR AML - takeoff

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Report DESERT PIRANHA 5 Bringing Technology to the Middle East DESERT PIRANHA 5 – optimized for desert environment Adaptable for Operations Across the Spectrum of Conflict Global military operations have seen SERT PIRANHA 5 as an Infantry Fight- active protection systems, integrated on the demand increase for a vehicle that ing Vehicle (IFV) delivers the troop and the vehicle. In addition to these modu- bridges the gap between deployable light internal capacity of an APC, with seating lar systems, substantial advances have forces, with their inherent low surviv- for eleven, while a 30mm remote tur- been made in crew ergonomics, energy ability, and more survivable heavy forces ret enables small team, combined arms absorbing seating and occupant restraint that are difficult to deploy and have high operations through it’s comprehensive systems that further improve the sur- life cycle costs. DESERT PIRANHA 5 range of weapon and sensor systems al- vivability of the DESERT PIRANHA 5 has been developed in response to this lowing the detection and engagement of when facing the threats of today and to- need and takes advantage of the latest a wide range of battlefield threats. The morrow. technologies to deliver class leading sur- DESERT PIRANHA 5 can be delivered Unrivalled Mobility and Performance. vivability, capacity and mobility with low in either high or low roof configurations DESERT PIRANHA 5 features the latest through life costs and inherent growth with open architectures, over 15 tons! height adjustable McPherson strut sus- capacity. In addition the DESERT PIRA- payload and 120 kW electrical power. pension technology which endows the NHA 5 has been continuously improved This provides growth potential to secure vehicle with an extraordinary level of and enhanced during long termed ver- a long service life for the vehicle as new cross country mobility. This suspension satile and intensive testing in extreme technologies emerge and need to be in- in combination with the high output prevailing desert environment. tegrated into the vehicle. power pack, fourth axle steering and in- Adaptable for Operations Across the The New Survivability Benchmark. tegrated driver support systems ensures Spectrum of Conflict. DESERT PIRA- The DESERT PIRANHA 5, best pro- DESERT PIRANHA 5 has the highest NHA 5 has been designed from the tected 8x8 vehicle available, provides the level of terrain accessibility and is the outset with adaptability, flexibility and highest levels of mine, improvised explo- most agile wheeled armoured combat growth capacity as the corner stones of sive device (IED) and ballistic protec- vehicle available today. the design. Wheeled armoured combat tion. DESERT PIRANHA 5 has a next The DESERT PIRANHA 5 is equipped vehicles now form the core of a deploy- generation, full coverage, modular sur- with numerous other systems that enable land forces combat power and for vivability system that has been integrat- hance vehicle performance and flexibil- this reason they need to be effective ed in the vehicle design from the concept ity such as the digital CAN backbone, across the complete spectrum of con- stage. The entire survivability system has fuel efficient drive train technology, -in flict including peace keeping, counter been designed to be replaced or upgrad- tegrated heating, air-conditioning and insurgency and ultimately general war. ed through life to take advantage of new NBC protection system and the 120 kW A thorough analysis of the requirements survivability technologies as they mature Inline Starter/Generator (ISG). As an across these scenarios has been com- or to counter emergent threats. DESERT example of the unrivalled performance pleted to drive the design thus ensuring PIRANHA 5 also features a range of tai- DESERT PIRANHA 5 provides, the ISG DESERT PIRANHA 5 is suitable for the lor able survivability kits that allow the generates the power for on board sys- operations of today while providing the tactical commander to adapt the vehicle tems while simultaneously providing up growth needed to secure the future. DE- in theatre. This ensures the vehicles suit- to 100 kW AC exportable power to sus- SERT PIRANHA 5 provides the high- ability for operation in complex terrain tain military or civilian infrastructure. est levels of survivability against con- against aggressive threats such as IED The ISG also has the growth capability ventional and asymmetric threats while EFPs, or through rapid reconfigura- to recovery brake energy for re-use to having the capacity to fill all battlefield tion, allows DESERT PIRANHA 5 to boost the vehicle power output to 700 roles such as APC, Electronic Warfare, undertake roles requiring the highest hp while at the same time reducing fuel Ambulance, Reconnaissance, Com- levels of mobility and agility such as consumption • mand, Mortar and even Direct Fire with formation reconnaissance. The vehicle turrets up to 120 mm calibre. The DE- can be equipped with todays available

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DESERT PIRANHA 5 Bringing Technology to the Middle East gdels.com Report Etihad Wins ‘Fastest Growing Airline In ME’ Honours The award comes on top of other accolades including: World’s Best First Class Etihad Airways, the national airline of try, including airlines, hotel chains, car “In the months and years ahead we the United Arab Emirates, has won the rental companies and global distribution will continue to set new benchmarks as award for ‘Fastest Growing Airline in systems. we inaugurate routes and roll out more the Middle East’ at the 2012 Athens In- The main topics of this year’s work- and more innovative ways to further im- ternational Airport (AIA) Airline Mar- shop were the challenging 2011 market prove our offering in Greece and else- keting Workshop. conditions and the positioning of Ath- where on our network.” In its 12th year, the annual AIA work- ens and Greece given the country’s re- The award comes on top of other ac- shop presents awards to airlines that cent economic difficulties. colades recently bestowed on the airline, have demonstrated rapid and successful Accepting the award on behalf of the including: World’s Best First Class, as development over the past 12 months. airline, Etihad Airways Country Man- judged by over 18 million air travellers More than 150 travel managers, hu- ager for Greece, Dimitrios Karagkioules, worldwide in the annual Skytrax sur- man resource directors, facility manag- said: “Etihad Airways is just eight years vey, and World’s Leading Airline for ers, and travel buyers of medium and old and in that short timeframe, our air- the third consecutive year at the World large companies involved in the Greek line has established itself as one of the Travel Awards • travel management field voted for the world’s leading airlines. award, which was presented at a gala “The airline is growing rapidly, and event held in the Athens Music Hall. we are delighted to see our major invest- The workshop has become an impor- ment in Greece paying off, as we link tant point of reference for all the sectors this historic and ancient city with the of the Greek transport and travel indus- rest of our global network.

Etihad Airways Country Manager for Greece, Dimitrios Karagkioules receiving the award

34 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Oshkosh Defense Vehicle Modernization: Extending the life of equipment Rugged vehicles built to military specifi- cations have a longer lifespan than commercial vehicles, but even the toughest trucks start to show their age after more than 20 years of use. Demanding military missions take these vehicles across vastly different and often challenging terrain. In a matter of kilometres, military vehicle fleets can need to traverse mountains to deep desert dunes. An aging or static vehicle fleet put through such extremes will not be prepared to meet tomorrow’s mission requirements. OSHKOSH FMTV 6x6 But troops cannot wait for new vehicles to be procured and deployed every of these remanufactured vehicles have latest configuration and quickly return time old vehicles stop working or re- highly advanced hydraulics and electri- them to operations. Recapitalization quirements shift. International militaries cal systems. Upgrades can be carried out allows the integration of new technol- have many vehicles built in the 1980s or at the company’s headquarters or with ogy into the “old” vehicle – from sim- before. Internal resources can no longer local industrial and military partners ple things like brighter headlights, a economically keep these trucks in ser- across the Middle East region. four-point seat belt and improved brake vice reliably. Aging fleets need support Through the remanufacturing pro- pads to more complicated items like from an engaged OEM capable of of- cess, battle-damaged or worn-out ve- air-ride suspension, better armour pro- fering complete life-cycle sustainment. hicles are stripped down and rebuilt in tection and a more powerful engine. A When evaluating new procurements, like-new condition. Oshkosh Defense recapitalized vehicle gets new technol- militaries must look to vehicles designed tears the whole vehicle down to the ogy into the service much more quickly to succeed in today’s missions and evolve frame rails and then rebuilds the truck and more cost-effectively than newly for tomorrow’s. on an assembly line. All equipment can purchased vehicles or new procurement Remanufacturing the fleet be replaced – from electrical compo- programs. Oshkosh Defense has helped militaries nents, windows and tires to the engine To quickly assist militaries in upgrad- maximize their investments for decades or transmission. Oshkosh Defense has ing their fleets, Oshkosh Defense has a by providing extensive upgrades to older remanufactured trucks and returned team of Field Service Representatives vehicles through its complete remanu- them to their units in as fast as 75 days, (FSR) who go wherever needed to carry facturing services. This range of offerings getting the vehicles back into the field out vehicle upgrades and train troops to allows militaries to extend vehicles’ life where they are needed most. Much of do so themselves. For a vehicle rebuild spans and ensure vehicles give troops the the original vehicle materials are reused, a few years back, Oshkosh Defense cre- protection and performance capabilities and militaries can realize significant ated 12 installation locations through- that were not available when the fleet savings compared to a new vehicle pur- out the world to upgrade vehicles with was initially fielded. Oshkosh Defense chase. increased armour protection and get ve- has been remanufacturing medium, Another option that allows militar- hicles back to the troops as quickly and heavy and commercial vehicles since the ies to save funds and incorporate new effectively as possible. This history of 1960s. Since 1995, Oshkosh Defense has technologies into their existing fleets is providing local industrial participation restored more than 11,000 medium and recapitalization. This takes the remanu- has brought lasting value to the local heavy-payload military vehicles to zero- facturing process one step further to and regional economies of international hours, zero-kilometres condition. Many modernize the restored vehicles to the military customers•

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 35 Report Major Improvement Milestone on LEDS APS Saab has successfully tested a 3rd generation High Speed Directed Launcher (HSDL-306) integrated to the system to allow timely As part of its continuing quest to pro- defeat of threats by the application of vide customers with cutting-edge solu- layered counter munitions. Counter tions defence and security company munitions includes an advanced active Saab has successfully tested a 3rd gen- signature management material that eration High Speed Directed Launcher reduces the probability of detection or (HSDL-306). The directed launcher is lock-on by an attacking system. This an important sub-system of the Land same material is also extremely effective Electronic Defence System (LEDS) that in external fire suppression on the vehi- enables the system to guarantee hemi- cle and can be deployed pre-emptively spherical coverage and multiple shot ca- to reduce vehicle contamination in the pabilities to the installed platform. case of Biological, Chemical and Radia- The tests were carried out mid March Saab LEDS system components tion attack. The system has the ability to inCenturion,South Africa, and mark an detect laser beam rider missile attack at important milestone in enhancement of Curtiss-Wright Antriebstechnik GrnbH a range in excess of 5 km and combines Saab’s active protection offer for ground of Switzerland and the Saab business this with multispectral screening smoke vehicles. area Electronic Defence Systems. to interfere with effective guidance of “The tests went very well and the Land Vehicle Survivability Enhance- the missile. The hardkill capability is a evaluation showed good result. All our ment standoff solution that destroys the - at test objectives were met which veri- LEDS (Land Electronic Defence Sys- tacking warheads by using controlled fies we are on the right track and that tems) is Saab’s active protection system demolition principles thereby resulting our efforts to remain the international for ground vehicles. When installed in in minimal collateral damage and virtu- benchmark active protection concept full-configuration, the LEDS system ally no residual penetration. have been successful”, says Cobus van will neutralise all threats on the battle- One of the major benefits offered by der Merwe, Executive Manager Business field by means of combined active sig- the LEDS system is the significant con- Development for LEDS at Saab. nature management, soft- and hard-kill tribution to through life cycle cost sav- The tests included deployment of capability. Full hemispherical coverage ing to the customer. This is achieved by GALIX 13 multispectral smoke from is provided to detect incoming threats logistic standardisation due to the large Etienne Lacroix,France. The tests -in and alert the crew. The flexibility of -de commonality between the different cluded a combination of coverage angles sign makes it possible to protect vehicles LEDS baselines when used across the and different dispensing sequences. across the entire scope of operations entire vehicle fleet as well as the fact that The HSDL was mounted on a Pira- including Military Operation in Urban Saab is achieved a remarkable amount nha protected vehicle variant to also test Terrain (MOUT) and high-intensity of commonality between each airborne integration design and monitor aspects conventional warfare. land and naval self protection solutions• like recoil and power consumption re- Sensor options include laser warning duction. The primary benefits offered and/or radar warning. The sensors are by this next-generation launcher are the reduction in power consumption, size and weight. It also offers future design flexibility in terms of different payload options and operational mission applications. The HSDL-306 is a joint effort by

36 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | New radar brings advantages for Eurofighter missions Cassidian proves capabilities of a new e-scan radar demonstrated by simulation study Cassidian, the defence and security division of EADS, has demonstrated, in a simulation study, the operational advantages of the Eurofighter’s future e-scan radar and has introduced the first pilots to the particular features of this technology. The two-year study was carried out under contract to the military procurement office, which is the Bundeswehr’s Federal Office for Equipment, Informa- An E-Scan radar can fullfill several tasks quasi simultaneously tion Technology and Use (BAAINBw), in cooperation with IABG GmbH in Munich/Ottobrunn. For several years, IABG has been operating a man-in-the- loop simulator (MILSIM) to simulate realistic mission scenarios for German Air Force aircraft, such as the Eu- rofighter. The objective of the study was to compare, under realistic conditions, the new electronic beam scanning radar technology with the radar currently in use, which is based on mechanical antenna control. The results were intended to be used to demonstrate the technical E-Scan antenna in Eurofighter nose during test campaign und operational advantages of the e- scan radar with wide field of regard and from the fact that the radar beam is basi- (aircraft and unmanned aerial systems), to develop options for improvement of cally steered electronically. Unlike tradi- land, naval and joint systems, intelli- the future behaviour of the pilots during tional radars with mechanical steering, gence and surveillance, cyber security, missions. the transmitting energy does not origi- secure communications, test systems, “Our e-scan software has demonstrat- nate from a central transmitter, but is missiles, services and support solutions. ed that target detection is much better generated by more than 1,000 transmit/ In 2010, Cassidian – with around 28,000 and target tracking more stable with the receive modules (TRM). Operating the employees – achieved revenues of € 5.9 new technology, which means that both largest European assembly line for such billion. EADS is a global leader in aero- mission success and safety of pilots can radar modules, Cassidian is the pioneer space, defence and related services. In be enhanced,” explains Elmar Compans, of this technology in Europe. 2010, the Group – comprising the Di- Head of the Sensors & Electronic War- Cassidian, an EADS company, is a visions Airbus, Astrium, Cassidian and fare unit at Cassidian. worldwide leader in global security so- Eurocopter – generated revenues of In contrast to conventional radars, an lutions and systems, providing Lead Sys- € 45.8 billion and employed a workforce e-scan radar onboard the Eurofighter tems Integration and value-added prod- of more than 121,000 • can perform several tasks practically si- ucts and services to civil and military multaneously. The term “e-scan” results customers around the globe: air systems

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 37 Report Boeing, Airbus and Embraer to Collaborate on Biofuel Com- mercialization Accelerating Availability is Key Pillar of Sustainable Growth Strategy Boeing , Airbus and Embraer signed a memorandum of understanding to work together on the development of drop-in, affordable aviation biofuels. The three leading airframe manufacturers agreed to seek collaborative opportunities to speak in unity to government, biofuel producers and other key stakeholders to support, promote and accelerate the availability of sustainable biofuel for aviation by 2020.” is doing all it can to drive measurable new jet fuel sources. “We are all committed to take a lead- reductions in carbon emissions, while Boeing Commercial Airplanes Presi- ing role in the development of technol- continuing to provide strong global eco- dent and CEO Jim Albaugh, Airbus ogy programs that will facilitate aviation nomic and social value.” President and CEO Tom Enders, and biofuels development and actual appli- All three companies are affiliate mem- Embraer Commercial Aviation Presi- cation faster than if we were doing it bers of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel dent Paulo Cesar Silva, signed the agree- independently,” said Paulo Cesar Silva. Users Group, which includes 23 leading ment at the Air Transport Action Group “Few people know that Brazil’s well airlines responsible for approximately (ATAG) Aviation and Environment known automotive biofuels program 25 percent of annual aviation fuel use. Summit in Geneva. started within our aeronautical research Boeing and Embraer are already col- “There are times to compete and community, back in the seventies, and laborating on how to establish a sustain- there are times to cooperate,” said Jim we will keep on making history.” able aviation biofuels industry in Brazil Albaugh. “Two of the biggest threats to The collaboration agreement supports and exploring new technology pathways our industry are the price of oil and the the industry’s multi-pronged approach to broaden biofuel sourcing and avail- impact of commercial air travel on our to continuously reduce the industry’s ability. Boeing and Airbus are also active environment. By working with Airbus carbon emissions. Continuous innova- around the globe in helping to establish and Embraer on sustainable biofuels, tion, spurred by competitive market regional supply chains, while the three we can accelerate their availability and dynamics that push each manufacturer manufacturers have all supported nu- reduce our industry’s impacts on the to continuously improve product per- merous biofuel flights since global fuel planet we share.” formance, and air traffic modernization, standards bodies granted their approval “We’ve achieved a lot in the last ten are other critical elements to achieving for commercial use in 2011• years in reducing our industry’s CO2 carbon-neutral growth beyond 2020 footprint - a 45 percent traffic growth and halving industry emissions by 2050 with only three percent more fuel con- based on 2005 levels. sumption,” said Tom Enders. “The pro- “Having these three aviation lead- duction and use of sustainable quanti- ers set aside their competitive differ- ties of aviation biofuels is key to meeting ences and work together in support of our industry’s ambitious CO2 reduction biofuel development, underscores the targets and we are helping to do this importance and focus the industry is through Research and Technology our placing on sustainable practices,” said expanding network of worldwide value ATAG Executive Director Paul Steele. chains and supporting the EU commis- “Through these types of broad indus- sion towards its target of four percent of try collaboration agreements, aviation

38 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Milipol Qatar 2012 The gateway to the Middle East security market

at this year’s event. These are: Protection Delegates at Milipol Qatar of Industrial and sensitive sites, Law enforcement and crowd management, EVERY other year, Milipol Qatar – tendance figures which include literally Border control and management, and the region’s influential trade exhibition thousands of buyers. For visitors, sym- counter-terrorism. These are all hugely dedicated to internal State security – biotically, the number, range and quality relevant, and high on the public agenda. lands in Doha. The last such event took of the exhibitors is the draw. Qatar itself has a huge infrastructure place in 2010, so this means that in 2012 It is worth pointing out that State se- development programme going on right it’s time again to assemble for Milipol curity is a topic which is rarely out of the now and the economy is currently the Qatar 2012. news and has, indeed, featured promi- fastest-growing in the world. Up to $75 This is the ninth edition of the exhibi- nently worldwide in recent history, in- billion is earmarked for new infrastruc- tion which debuted back in 1996, and cluding within the MENA region. This ture, public facilities, sports facilities – this year the exhibition will take place is not the place to discuss ‘rights’ or the 2022 World Cup, of course – com- from October 8 to 10 at the Doha Exhi- ‘wrongs’ but this is the place to point out munications and transportation. All bition Centre. an obvious truth, that populations de- of these have security-related require- Milipol Qatar, co-organised by the serve to be kept safe and free enough to ments. Ministry of Interior of Qatar and the exercise their basic human rights. This Internal State and private security op- France-based Milipol organisation, is is the main ethos behind the exhibition. portunities exist in Qatar, as evidenced the technological showcase for innova- Milipol Qatar 2012 is set to be the big- above, but they also exist across the tive products and services in the public gest and best edition of the franchise to Middle East as a whole, where the secu- and industrial security sector world- date. It aims to eclipse the 2010 edition, rity market continues to grow strongly. wide, and for companies from around which in itself posted impressive par- For these reasons – and many more – the world wishing to develop their busi- ticipation figures with more than 5,500 Milipol Qatar 2012 is going to prove the ness in and around the Middle East. visitors from 61 countries visiting the most productive and successful event of The longevity of the event is testament stands of some 222 exhibitors. An added its type anywhere in the region. Unprec- to what it offers to exhibitors and visitors bonus for exhibitors and delegates alike edented levels of interest are anticipated alike. For exhibitors, there are numerous is the heavy press presence that Milipol in October’s event from exhibitors and benefits to be gained. These range from attracts with 2010’s event being covered delegates, as well as local, regional and the superb, state-of-the art venue at the by 117 journalists. international media • Exhibition Centre, to the rewarding at- Four main themes are to be examined

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 39 Report Defense and Security Exhibitor interest high in ILA 2012 11 to 16 September 2012, Berlin ExpoCenter Airport Experience innovative solutions for defense and security Planning for the layout on the exhibi- See effective industry and military partnership tions grounds at the ILA Berlin Air Show is currently nearing completion. Due to the strong interest expressed by Attend high-ranking international exchange exhibitors the organisers of this bi-annual air show have decided on a hall layout which groups the various aerospace sectors according to themes, thereby shortening the distances for international trade visitors at the fair. Barely a few months before the ILA opens its doors bookings have exceeded the last event’s levels for the same pe- National displays, including those of BMWi, DLR and the German aerospace riod. In addition to high demand from the UK, Italy, Romania, Russia and the industry in the BDLI, is on Europe and Germany exhibitors from France, Rus- USA. A combined international display Germany’s main space programmes and sia, the USA as well as this year’s partner with aireg and CAAFI, the two biokero- projects. country Poland have also applied for ex- sine initiatives from Germany and the Hall 5: Conference Centre 2, Press Cen- tra hall space. With numerous outstand- USA. tre ing conferences ILA 2012 has already Hall 2: National and international aero- Additional meeting rooms for the ILA’s underlined its claim as the leading aerospace industry programme of conferences are situated space trade fair and conference ahead of A combined display hosted by the BDLI here. Furthermore, in Hall 5 the inter- Providing the event. From 11 to 16 September, for and individual German representations, national media can make use of the the first time, ILA 2012 will take place at France, Switzerland, a combined stand Press Centre with its full range of tech- Berlin ExpoCenter Airport, on the new organised by Poland, the partner coun- nical facilities and services. exhibition grounds directly adjacent to try of the fair. Hall 6: International Suppliers Center defense BER, the capital’s new airport. Hall 3: Focus on the ILA HeliCenter and ISC Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), a the Bundeswehr Operations Pavilion The marketplace of the supply industry new section at the ILA, will be on show For the international helicopter market on the first three days of the ILA (11 in a dedicated area on the outdoor dis- the ILA HeliCenter is Europe’s estab- – 13 Sept.): the companies of the aero- and security play site. Roger Airfield, directly on the lished trade fair for procurement, op- space supply chain require a business flightline, is also new and on a display erations, service, training, financing and platform in order to access the global area covering 3,000 square metres will mission adaptation of modern helicop- market. September 11–16, 2012 feature aircraft representing regional ters. The so-called Operations Pavilion Hall 7: ILA CareerCenter civil aviation. in the Bundeswehr display section will On 14 and 15 September visitors to the Berlin ExpoCenter Airport Besides the various outdoor display be showing how cooperation between world’s largest aerospace job exchange www.ila-berlin.com sites there will be a total of seven fair the Luftwaffe and the military aircraft can find out about careers in the fasci- ghter Lee/Euroﬁ © Geoffrey halls and more than 40 chalets exhibit- industry is key to the operational capa- nating world of aerospace careers. ing products and services and providing bilities of the Bundeswehr. ILA Static Display catering for VIPs. The latest plans for Hall 4: ILA Space Pavilion and ILA An outdoor display site for aircraft of all allocating display sections on the ILA Space World, Conference Centre 1 sizes and types adjacent to the airfield. grounds are as follows: In 2012, ahead of the ESA conference The ILA Berlin Air Show 2012 is organ- Hall 1: National and international aero- of ministers, the focus at the ILA Space ized jointly by the German Aerospace space industry Pavilion in Hall 4, organised by ESA, Industries Association e. V. (BDLI) and Hosted by Messe Berlin GmbH •

40 | May 2012 | Issue 484 |

ILA_NationShielJournal_Defense_220x285.indd 1 17.04.2012 09:33:49 Defense and Security

Experience innovative solutions for defense and security

See effective industry and military partnership

Attend high-ranking international exchange

Providing defense and security September 11–16, 2012 Berlin ExpoCenter Airport www.ila-berlin.com © Geoffrey Lee/Euroﬁ ghter Lee/Euroﬁ © Geoffrey

Hosted by

ILA_NationShielJournal_Defense_220x285.indd 1 17.04.2012 09:33:49 Report Patria - high tech competence in defence, security and aviation Patria Nemo can easily be mounted onto various tracked and wheeled chassis

Patria Armoured Modular Vehicle

Patria is a trusted provider of defence, systems. The newest product of Patria’s In the military pilot training, Patria security and aviation life-cycle support mortar systems is Patria Nemo, which has reached excellent results in the el- services and technology solutions. Pa- is a 120 mm remote controlled mortar ementary pilot training under contract tria’s most significant export products turret, providing both direct and in- for the Finnish Air Force (phase I - II include the Armoured Modular Vehi- direct fire support. As a modern and training for conscripts, cadets and flight cle, Patria AMV and the Patria Nemo compact system, Patria Nemo can eas- instructors). Patria also operates in the mortar system, which have both been ily be mounted onto various tracked civilian sector specializing in profes- selected by global customers. and wheeled chassis. Due to its low sional pilot training. Patria Pilot Train- Patria is a globally operating defence, weight of only 1500 kg, Patria Nemo is ing is a leading Flight Training Organi- security, and aviation group providing now also adaptable to lightweight, high- sation (FTO) in Northern Europe. customers with competitive solutions speed vessels and can be effectively used System integration know-how based on strong expertise and collabo- for harbour patrolling and protection, Today’s defence systems are large enti- ration with trusted partners. Patria’s coastal guarding and infantry landing ties that are comprised of several sub- strength lies in its excellent products operations. systems. Patria’s solid system integra- complying with NATO standards. Patria AMV and Nemo mortar sys- tion know-how ensures that the entire Patria AMV and Nemo – at the core of tem, have both been selected by a prom- system functions faultlessly. Patria spe- modern defence inent Middle East Country. For Patria, cialises in reconnaissance, surveillance, One of Patria’s most essential export The Arabian Peninsula is an important and command systems, as well as their products is The Armoured Modular Ve- focus area in the future. integration and life-cycle support. Pa- hicle, Patria AMV. Today the number A firm footing in aviation tria’s system integration know-how has of globally contracted Patria AMV 8x8 With a firm footing in aviation, Patria is been developed for decades to meet the exceeds 1,400 vehicles. Patria AMV is one of the leading European providers needs of the increasingly complex sys- contracted among others by the Finnish, of aviation life-cycle support services. tems used by customers • Polish and Swedish Defence Forces, and Current operations focus on the life-cy- it has been fielded in ISAF operations cle support of F-18 Hornet jet fighters, since the year 2007. Hawk training jets, and NH90 transport Patria also produces advanced mortar helicopters.

42 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Intermat Stealth Technology Anti-Missile Protection Shield www.intermatstealth.com INTERMAT Group S.A. is specialized in the research, development and production of Stealth Technology Coatings & Materials for Defense/Camouflage applications for more than 20 years. إن إنرتمات جروب متخصصة يف البحث والتطوير وإنتاج تكنولوجيا اإلقتفاء الرسي والتغطية واملواد لتطبيقات الدفاع / التمويه ألكرث من 20 عاماً

Intermat Stealth Products Low Emissivity Paint / Anti-thermal Coating الطالء منخفض االنبعاثية / الطالء املضاد للحرارة Camouflage Nets شبكات التمويه

Only the left half of the building has been painted. Check the impressive disruption of the thermal pattern (closer distance), as well as the thermal blend with the environment (identification range). تم طالء النصف األيرس من املبنى فقط. راجع التشويش املذهــل للنمــط الحراري (مسافة أقرب)، فضالً عن االمتزاج الحراري بالبيئة مجال الكشف

This BMP has been painted with Intermat paint. After hours of operation it is not hotter than the environment. At long distances Intermat BMP is invisible. Detection distances are drastically reduced يتم تقليل مسافات الكشف إىل حد كبري للغاية

Left Hummer has been painted with Intermat paint. Right Hummer is painted with normal Army paint. At long distances Intermat Hummer is invisible. By blending into your thermal background you are less vulnerable to the heat seek- ing sensors while survivability is significantly optimized. عن طريق مزج بيئتك الحرارية، فأنت أقل عرضة أل�ة االستشعار التي تبحث عن الحرارة ويف الوقت ذاته يتم تحسني قابلية البقاء إىل أقىص قدر ممكن

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 43

C30119.080_Thales_DEFENCE_NationShield_May12_285x220_v1_V1 04/04/2012 09:47 Page 1 C30119.080_THALES_ADVERTORIAL_Nation Shield_285x220_v3_missile 05/04/2012 16:21 Page 1

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The maritime environment creates a major challenge for conventional missiles, with targets typically being highly mobile with a very small signature and severe background clutter. In addition, there is an increasing global threat to shipping from piracy, terrorists and rogue states employing a variety of Fast Inshore Attack Craft (FIAC) platforms.

The Aselsan Missile Launch System (MLS) Key features of LMM Systems with the Thales Lightweight Multi-role Missile LMM is a lightweight precision strike missile (LMM) provides an excellent opportunity which can be ﬁred from a variety of tactical for both Aselsan and Thales to address the platforms including naval vessels and growing market to defend against threats helicopters to deliver the following key beneﬁts: in littoral environments.

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Decisions about defence are increasingly complex. At Thales we serve all branches of the armed forces for air, land, naval, space and joint operations – as well as the new threat environments of urban security and cyberspace. Our interoperable, scalable solutions and services provide operational mission support where time and reliability are critical. By embedding all our systems, equipment and solutions within our Critical Decision Chain, we enable decision-makers to master complexity in critical scenarios and make timely decisions that obtain the best outcomes.

To ﬁnd out more about our Defence solutions, To learn more about our Air Defence Systems scan the QR code or visit thalesgroup.com scan the QR code or visit our website thalesgroup.com C30119.080_Thales_DEFENCE_NationShield_May12_285x220_v1_V1 04/04/2012 09:47 Page 1 C30119.080_THALES_ADVERTORIAL_Nation Shield_285x220_v3_missile 05/04/2012 16:21 Page 1

Designed to be ﬁred from Defence against a variety of platforms The world is complex. threats in littoral ’ environments Your decisions don t have to be.

Precision strike? Delivering precision effects within the battlespace while avoiding Cyber defence? collateral damage Active defence of cyberspace

Situational awareness?

To ﬁnd out more about our Defence solutions, To learn more about our Air Defence Systems scan the QR code or visit thalesgroup.com scan the QR code or visit our website thalesgroup.com Interview Deputy Chief of Staff : Our Armed Forces is a Solid Shield to Defend the Nation

Sixth May 1976 is a glorious day in history when the UAE Armed Forces was unified under one flag and one command to be an impregnable shield to defend our nation and our achievements. In this occasion, the “Nation Shield” Jour- nal had the pleasure to interview His Excellency Staff Major General Ei- ssa Saif Mohammed Al- Mazrouiy, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces.

By: Staff Major\ Yousef Juma AL Hadad

48 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Deputy Chief of Staff : Our Armed Forces is a Solid Shield to Defend the Nation

Mohammed bin Zayed with Deputy Chief of Staff

The following is the full text of the in- up-to-date technology and military sci- UAE’s socio-economic and social mas- terview: ences. ter development plan. The two building Since the early beginnings in 1970’s The armed forces have come a long processes went hand in hand in com- the UAE armed forces have been a pio- way on that track. Early beginnings plete harmony in all sectors of life. neer institution to instill loyalty and came in stages. First as “Coast of Oman A close look at this march is suffice to allegiance. As we celebrate the 36th Scouts”, then as “Trucial Emirates Force”, drive home the fact that the armed forc- anniversary of the Armed Forces Uni- later as “Defense Force”, and more re- es have been a candid reflection of the fication Day, would you shed light on cently as the Armed Forces. The credit different stages the UAE went through those beginnings, the role the armed in this step-by-step development goes in order to cope with modern age. forces played in recruiting national re- rightly to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sul- Speaking of armed forces development, sources and the criteria set for recruit- tan Al Nahyan (May God bless his soul), the credit should go first to Allah, then ing more citizens? Father and Founder of the UAE Fed- to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al The answer goes back to 1970s. Al- eration who laid the foundation for the Nahyan (May God bless his soul), Fa- though I was not part of the early days military thinking and doctrine adopted ther and Founder of the UAE Federation of the armed forces I can say that those by the armed forces until they became a whose shrewd thinking and far-sighted- beginnings have focused on the human highly sophisticated force. ness gave birth to the armed forces and resources as a cornerstone for any force The formation of the armed forces co- the plans to develop and train them meant to be a shield to defend the nation incided with the early days of the 1971 for their mission armed with science, and national achievements and to meet Federation, as the concept behind the knowledge and faith. the needs in terms of training, weapons, forces was in line with the new-born His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 49 Interview

With Khalifa’s support the UAE armed forces has become one of the top- rated world armies in terms of weapons and Deputy Chief of Staff with Nation Shield training. Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Com- The family and school are no longer the UAE and Supreme Commander of the mander of the Armed Forces, in a school sole catalyst for guidance. Armed Forces (May God protect him), tour. I believe the Armed Forces’ recruit- has played a key role in turning the late ment policy is a successful one, where- Cooperation with Civil Entities Father and Founder of the Federation by the “crème de la crème” are allowed The armed forces have signed agree- Sheikh Zayed’s vision into reality. His to join. This policy is still applicable, ments with various civil institutions. Highness was totally focussed on the though with different techniques. What is the target? armed forces development plans, estab- The world has become sort of a village lishing military academies and institu- Military Training under the new globalized system. It has tions to arm cadets with modern mili- How do you evaluate in-school military become a world based on specialization. tary sciences. training? Are there any future plans for A General Practioner, for example, is improvement to avoid the negative as- no longer qualified to handle a cardio- Recruitment of Human Resources pects of cultural globalization that go vascular condition. So, when we speak This is one of the missions that deserve counter to our traditions? about building a nation and a commu- our deepest recognition and apprecia- It is somewhere between B and B+ in nity, you would need a network of col- tion. Mine is a case in point. As a school- terms of community culture, and A+ in laborative institutions in order to realize boy, I decided to join the force following terms of objectives met. The experiment cherished goals. Teamwork is now the a visit to our school by an armed forces may be expanded to include all schools key. Inter-agency collaboration and co- delegation in the late 1970’s. I was deeply in future. I believe the term “military ordination is essential to comply with impressed by the delegation’s represen- training” is inadequate, and would better the communal requirements according tation about the armed forces and the be described as “educating the young”, to a fully integrated master plan. opportunities offered to cadets to fulfil i.e. getting them to adopt our genuine their dreams as engineers, pilots and values, especially when the defining line Women in the Armed Forces doctors. between various cultures is blurred by We all know how committed to the Later on, we had another visit by an globalization. We have a duty, as par- UAE women our wise leadership is and army team for recruitment and I had the ents, officials - military and otherwise - we realize that women now play a key honor to join the force. I was enrollled in and educators to enlighten our younger role in our military institutions. Are the Air Force and became a Lieutenant. generation. In-school training is suc- there any plans to expand women’s in- I had also the honor to accompany His cessful in bringing up a true citizen. volvement in the armed forces? Highness General Sheikh Mohammed There are plans to change curricula in Women have been, no doubt, the fo- bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of a way that suits present trends of the age. cus of attention on the part of our wise

50 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | leadership who has always believed that women had a role to play. So, trust was given, and women proved they were rightly up to it. Now, women work hand in hand with men to boost national development in all fields. They proved trustworthy and perfectly capable of joining the force. We feel proud, indeed, for women’s participation in various sectors of the armed forces. Particular reference should be made to the remarkable role played by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Head of the General Women’s Union and President of the Family Development Humanitarian Support Foundation and Chairperson of the Su- preme Maternity and Child Council, in ture included as a topic in our curricula. tribution? supporting women participation. Refer- The idea to establish in-country exhibi- ence should also be made to Khawal bin Message to the Youth tions is a brilliant one. The credit here Al Azwar Military School which was es- What is your message to our citizens? goes to His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin tablished in 1991 to train girl students in Do you think their involvement in the Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE military sciences. We also have military armed forces is compatible with their and Supreme Commander of the Armed academies and instuitutes where girl stu- expectations? Are there any obstacles Forces (May God protect him). The idea dents are accepted, trained and gradu- on the way? also offered us a rare opportunity to get ated in various ranks. The UAE has oil, but the real wealth of in touch with various military technolo- Women have played a key role in the armed forces is the human resources. gies to choose from. bringing up the younger generations, Our youth stand for the future, for hope, Our world class exhibitions have put and hence deserved our leadership’s sup- and our wise leadership is expecting us on an equal footing with other de- port and trust. much from them. veloped nations and enabled us to seek The Administration and Human Re- For citizens being involved in the transfer of technology in all military sources Authority have plans to expand armed forces, yes, they are always wel- branches from various parts of the world, women’s participation in the armed forc- come, but the number of applicants is which is cost-effective, time and effort es in future. much less than expected, I have to say. saving and provided our commanders There is a shortage of pilots, engineers and officers with priceless knowledge. Education Output and others in various branches of the There are other benefits involved in Do you think the current education armed forces. The reason is simple: all terms of revenues, tourist development output qualifies citizens adequately to citizens are allowed to take up whatever and highlighting UAE’s name on the join the force and assimilate modern they want as a profession, but joining world map. The world had a better op- military sciences? the force should be motivated by an in- portunity to know our nation and our No, it is not, for many reasons. Syllabus- trinsic sincere desire to serve the armed achievemenets better as the exhibitions es basically targeted certain categories forces where challenges are tougher. were well covered by international me- and addressed certain values. They were dia, carrying our name far and wide. changed and improved by 70-80 per Military Exhibitions Another beneficiary is the armed forc- cent, but the younger generations will be Special attention is given by the armed es. Our officers would meet with man- luckier and should be perfectly prepared forces to defense exhibitions, particu- ufacturers and consumers and attend to serve the nation. I think the next stage larly IDEX and Dubai Air Show. What workshops and symposia where high ca- requires us to focus on how to deepen do these exhibitions stand for, mili- liber papers are presented. Exhibitions, national identity by having military cul- tary-wise? How extensive is their con- moreover, offer representatives of top

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 51 Interview defense corporations a golden chance to exchange ideas and expertise under one roof and to close deals. They also prove world confidence in UAE’s ability to or- ganize international events effictently and competently. IDEX and Dubai Air Show work in harmony and complement each other to serve the national interests of the UAE.

Military Academies UAE-based military academies are a vital artery for armed forces development plans. How far have these acad- Gulf Military Cooperation emies been successful in coping with corresponding institutions world wide? Could you elaborate? ful solution satisfactory for both sides. If Have they been successful in adequate- It is a joint effort we are proud to be part this is Iran’s attitude now, how will it be ly training our human resources? Are of. All UAE vessels sailing through the after obtaining a nuclear weapon? there any plans for more military acad- Arabian Sea are protected by our naval I think the Iranian political discourse emies in the coming years? forces which have our full confidence in is worrisome, although neighborly coun- Academies, I can say, have done a per- their abilities. tries - especially the UAE- consider Iran fect job for which they were initially es- a neighborly Muslim nation. It is for the tablished. They have managed to match Iranian Nuclear Program Iranians to change their provocative at- the performance of globally recognized The Iranial nuclear program is highly titude and pursue a policy of reason, dia- academies, which explains why Arab controversial on regional and interna- logue and good neighborliness. and friendly nations compete to win a tional levels. How far is this program The Iranians have frequently an- seat in UAE military academies. Our seen as a threat to regional security? nounced plans to export their revolu- academies, including Command and The Iranian nuclear program is a threat tion. For Iran to have a revolution of Joint Staff College, were highly rated by to regional security for many reasons: its own is not UAE business, but they western experts. For Iran to own this capability while have no right to export it to the Emir- There are plans for more academies, still occupying the three UAE Islands- ates. Dictated agendas are unacceptable. and respective instructions are being Greater and Lesser Tunbs and Abu An Iranian nuclear weapn will certainly implemented by the military. One ex- Moussa- will have its implications on push the region into a heated race for ample is the National Defense Academy regional security, especially when the weapons of mass destruction. (NDA) where the first batch is scheduled Islands issue is still characterized by the The region harbors legitimate fears to graduate next year. NDA is attended Iran side as a misunderstanding. If they of a possible leak in the Iranian nuclear by civilian and military officials sched- think it is only a misunderstanding, how reactors or enrichment plants or techni- uled to take up senior positions in the would they explain President Mahmoud cal malfunctions in the still technically forthcoming stage. Ahmadi Nejad’s provocative and un- underdeveloped Iranian program. The As for Arabic as the language of in- acceptable visit to the island of Abu Chernobyl disaster is a recent case in struction instead of English, I beg to dif- Moussa, which was denounced by Arab, point where consequences hit as far as fer because most modern scientific ref- Islamic and world nations? Is this how Holland and Scandinavia. An Iranian erences in military and civil sciences are good neighborliness, one of the tenets of leak would be a major threat to the Gulf in English. Islam, is respected? How about interna- states a few miles away, a possibility that tional conventions? Or is it that the Ira- cannot be discounted. The armed forces have scored major nians care little for international peace The region has various sects, and successes recently against piracy in and security? They violated bilateral there is an underground war going on. the Arabia Sea and the Indian Ocean. agreements meant to work out a peace- It might be a sectarian strife like the one

52 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Ministry of the Interior, Power Plants etc.

UAE’s International Contributions How do you evaluate UAE’s various contributions to International peackee- ing force and humanitarian relief operations? What is the lesson learned? And how do these contributions help build the human resources of the armed forces? Did they help strengthen UAE’s position regionally and internationally? Chief of Staff & Deputy Chief of Staff going through Nation Shield Journal UAE Armed Forces had multiple contributions to humanitarian relief opera- Iraq is currently plagued with. An Ira- Force (PSF) a fully integrated Gulf tion world wide. They have played a vi- nian nuclear weapon would likely trig- platform capable of handling threats tal peacekeeping role under the United ger reactions from some regional states and challenges? Nations which earned them world rec- which will try to emulate Iran to main- It is basically one factor: The GCC’s will ognition and respect. There is no doubt tain power balance. This will have nega- to strengthen regional security and sta- that the wise policy laid down by the tive repercussions on regional security bility and defend national achievements late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and stability. against external threats. It is this deter- (May God bless his soul) and pursued by mination that will give PSF the desired His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Gulf Missile Defense (GMD) momentum to act confidently and com- Al Nahyan, (May God protect him), has How do you see the Gulf Missile De- petently. motivated the UAE people to extend a fense (GMD) program which was an- helping hand to the needy. They have nounced in Riyadh recently? Bahraini Case gained wide experience in handling peo- The program was meant to set up a fully Recent GCC cooperation regarding the ple of different backgrounds. integrated GCC early warning system. Bahrain case highlighted GCC’s need Our force was part of the Arab Deter- It is our view that evey nation has the to strengthen joint security and defense rent Force to maintain peace in Leba- right for self defense as prescribed by in- cooperation. How do you evaluate this non, helped the Somali people in the ternational laws. Joint GCC defense is s cooperation and ensuing challenges? early 1990s, joined in the liberation of strategic option and a rational decision. I do not think we have any problem re- Kuwait, and participated in relief mis- garding our will to strengthen inter-state sions in Kosovo, Pakistan and Yemen. Gulf Security security. The will is there, and all nations How do you evaluate future Gulf secu- are ready to encounter any challenges. Military Media rity in the light of UAE’s national secu- Stability in Bahrain means stability in How do you evaluate the performance rity requirements and regional strug- Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait and all GCC of military media? What are your ex- gle? nations. pectations from this vital sector? And Gulf security is a strategic option, per- how do you see media’s role in the haps the only one that would guarantee Cyber War armed forces and the UAE community GCC security and stability. Gulf security Do you consider cyber war a new chal- in general? is non-negotiable as was manifested in lenge to GCC armed forces? You have done a very good job, but huge Bahrain. Cyber war is certainly a new challenge challenges still lie ahead, considering the to all nations. It is a new dimension in digital media revolution. Efforts should Peninsula Shield Force (PSF) the security and stability equation, and be doubled, and a clear-cut vision is What are the common factors that a threat that should be neutralized by needed to face these challenges• could render the Peninsula Shield all state institutions: the Armed Forces,

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 53 Researches

Nuclear Reactors.. A Boon or a Curse?

The anniversary of the explosions at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan, has been an occasion for a general, worldwide rethink about the viability and usefulness of civil nuclear energy.

By: Robert Fox

54 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Ten years ago most advanced nations ment of the next generation of nuclear military purposes. Some nuclear energy had concluded, some more reluctantly plants for electricity and power. Even programmes seem geared specifically than others, that nuclear power gen- France, one of the pioneers of civil nu- to provide the high grade materials for eration would have to be developed for clear power, is to spend up to $10 billion nuclear weapons. The prime example is domestic power. Despite the safety con- over the next two decades improving its the facility at Yong Bong in North Ko- cerns about the technology itself, in par- 58 nuclear installations. rea – where one facility was built inside ticularly the vulnerability of most nucle- Japan, too, has considered switching the shell of a predecessor as a deliberate ar reactors then working in the world, away from nuclear energy. Environ- subterfuge from aerial and satellite sur- the case was being made for nuclear en- mentalists have argued in the Huffing- veillance. The same doubts and suspi- ergy. It would be reliable, whereas fossil ton Post that this is likely to lead to a cions apply to Iran – where the authori- fuel energy would not. Nuclear energy disastrous reliance on gas and coal fired ties still insist that they are developing could be delivered at a reasonable price. power stations, which at a conservative nuclear energy purely for civil purposes. Furthermore it would be required to estimate would mean to the emission of Covert nuclear programmes raise con- put a brake on global warming, which some 60 million tonnes of CO2 green- cerns about safety procedures to protect was accelerating largely due to fossil fuel house gases into the atmosphere over reactors and the core facilities – for dis- power generation. the next generation. sembling and concealment are part of Renewable energy generation by water, The UK, almost exceptionally, is to go the operation, as international inspec- wind and solar power cannot fill the ahead with building up to 20 third gen- tors from the IAEA have found in Iran gap. This still remains the case. Wind eration nuclear power plants, of French on several occasions. and wave power still contribute very lit- design and largely built by French prime Another major area of concern is the tle to the national electricity grids of the contractors. The argument of the Con- safety of nuclear reactors used for driv- economies of Europe such as the UK servative – Liberal Democrat coalition ing submarines and ships. More than a and the Netherlands, despite extensive follows that put forward by Tony Blair’s dozen nuclear powered submarines now investment and steady support from Labour administration a decade ago. lie at the bottom of the ocean after suf- governments of both the moderate po- Put simply, the UK government can- fering a catastrophic accident – most litical right and left. not see any way of filling Britain’s ‘en- not in the power plant itself – raising Yet the effect of the tsunami which ergy gap’ except by relying in large part questions about their long term threat hit Japan’s northern coast on the 11th on nuclear power plants. Tony Blair to the oceanic environment. March 2011, and led to the loss of nearly and David Cameron are strongly per- Iran and Fukushima colour and over- 20,000 lives, is still sending shockwaves suaded by the climate argument, and shadow the current nuclear debate through the nuclear lobby in Europe do not want to become reliant on fossil- – whether the world faces nuclear and North America. It has led to a radi- fuel plants again. Even so the process of meltdown due to the arms race, or the cal overhaul of nuclear policy in Japan, building the new nuclear installations inherent hazards of nuclear technology where all but two of the nation’s 54 nu- will be slow and expensive, but the Brit- even in its most pacific and controlled clear reactors have face permanent or ish believe that sufficient safeguards and application. temporary closure. safety procedures can be put in place to The story of civil nuclear power does The question posed by Fukushima is make nuclear power reliable, viable and not quite support the wilder and more whether nuclear energy is now under- secure. alarmist conclusions drawn from the stood to be too risky for any reasonable Even so, ten years from now the Brit- Fukushima disaster. In some 14,000 government to support? Certainly this ish economy could face a long period reactor years, the global nuclear indus- seems to be fuelling debate even in Chi- of intermittent and serious ‘brown-outs’ try has suffered only five major -reac na, potentially due to become the most as demand for electricity exceeds supply tor meltdowns. The first was at 3 Mile nuclear-dependent economy in the 21st from the creaking National Grid. Much Island in Pennsylvania on 28th March century. the same may well be faced by Germa- 1979, when a safety valve failed to The most emphatic answer to the prob- ny, Switzerland and Italy – all three now shut. The second was at Chernobyl in lem has been given by Germany, where turning against civil nuclear power. Ukraine on April 26th 1986. Reactor 4 Angela Merkel’s government has con- A further twist to the calculation of nu- exploded as a result of a botched safety firmed that it is to abandon develop- clear risk is the role of nuclear power for drill. The 14 meter tsunami tidal wave

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 55 Researches on 11th March 2011 accounted for the meltdown of three of the reactors at the Fukushima Daiichi plant. The 3 Mile Island accident took place 12 days after the release of the Hollywood thriller ‘The China Syndrome’, starring Jane Fonda and Jack Lemmon, who were to go on to be ardent anti-nuclear campaigners as a result. In it Fonda plays an investigative television reporter who dis- covers the concealment of a serious nuclear incident while she is filming a doc- umentary in a fictitious power plant in California. The title is taken from when one of the characters says that if the reactor melts down it will ‘melt through the earth all the way to China.’ In the event no one died at 3 Mile Island that March day in 1979. Some evacua- tion measures were hastily mounted – some 15,000 pregnant mothers were moved away from the surrounding area. “Red Forest” the result of Chernbyl disaster The United States federal authorities learned their lesson. They set up within to the nuclear industry, claim 200,000 Nuclear energy by the leading global months US Institute of Nuclear Power suffered cancer. They are particularly weekly journal ‘The Economist’ on the Operation – INPO – which today is critical of the failure of the Soviet au- anniversary of the Fukushima melt- scrutinizing some 140 nuclear installa- thorities to clear the neighbouring town down. The design of reactors is improv- tions in the wake of Fukushima. of Pripiyat as quickly as possible. ing steadily – and the third generation The story of Chernobyl is very different, The Fukushima story is also littered with reactors, particularly the ‘fast reactor’ and 25 years on the devastating effect of criticism of the authorities and the man- now being contemplated by Britain, for the accident is still felt over a wide area agement of the plant itself. No one died example, will be a lot simpler to make – and likely to be so for years to come. specifically because of the meltdown of and safer to maintain and run than the Initially 64 people died from direct radi- the three reactors – most were swept reactors at 3 Mile Island, Chernobyl or ation. Beyond this, it is hard to measure away, and some 3000 were lost altogeth- even Fukushima. the impact in reliable human statistics. er, because of the tidal wave. Most blame One design considered by the British Clearing the area took a long time, and is aimed at the electricity agency, Tepco. would mean that the reactors might be there was some attempt at cover up – Warnings had been made as early as able to re-use their own waste. Britain, particularly from the national and inter- 2002 that the plant was vulnerable and with its medium-sized nuclear industry, national media. better sea defences were needed to with- now has some 100 tonnes of Plutonium Part of the complex burned for ten days. stand tidal shock, which was well docu- waste, and 35,000 tonnes of depleted During that time, more than 250,000 mented in Japan. In 1933 a tsunami of uranium to dispose of. people were forced to move, most never 29 meters, just over double that at Fuku- Waste is the most toxic and volatile in- to return. In the ten years afterwards at shima in 2011, was recorded. gredient in the anti-nuclear lobby’s argu- least 50,000 people suffered from cancer, The two biggest concerns about -reac ments against nuclear power. In a foot- of which 25,000 died, according to the tors today are not their design so much note article of its 10 March 2012 issue, Union of Concerned Scientists. This is as where they are located and the risks the Economist states “Leave well alone: the lowest estimate. Greenpeace, the en- from their waste. This is the conclusion the best thing to do with nuclear waste is vironmental campaigners most opposed of a powerful 14-page special report on to stash it away, not reprocess it.” Vitre-

56 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Fukushima Daiichi nuclear explosions ous casing for spent submarine reactor commission reported that the ‘Ndrang- cores has been a success. So too has the heta – the mafia clans of Calabria – had Covert nuclear use of ‘dry casks’; and none of the dry been dumping toxic waste from a num- casks containing spent fuel at appears to ber of countries including the USA in programmes have leaked at Fukushima. Somalia, and had even taken a fee from The argument then turns on whether the Italian authority ENEA and dumped raise concerns to dump on land or in the deep ocean the waste into the sea off southern Italy. about safety – which is what countries like Britain Location of future nuclear installations and Sweden do for much of their waste. has become more critical in the after- procedures to Land based storage and isolation facili- math of Fukushima. Nuclear plants need ties have a troubled record. The US has huge water supplies, so many are on big protect reactors failed to operate successfully its site for river estuaries or by the coast. There is waste from civil power reactors at Yucca a strong case that the Fukushima plant and the core Mountain, Nevada. On the other hand, should never have been built because the the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant in the coast is fragile and exposed at that point. facilities slat caverns of Carlsbad, New Mexico, For a similar reason it is now unlikely the problem about nuclear technology is is working and with full consultation of that the Hamaoka plant south west of it that was oversold in the first place as the local community. Tokyo will ever be activated for com- a clean and cheap route to sustainable Reprocessing is a risk, and very expen- mercial business again. energy. The business is laborious, and sive, and there is no need to do so for Nuclear reactors, their use and disposal innovation is slow and expensive. But it at least another century, according to bear high risks and costs – but these are will deliver in the long run. the Economist. However, there is a rich not prohibitive. Fossil fuel is unreliable The alternative poses too great a threat trade in toxic nuclear waste, with even for the medium and long term – and to our environment and our lives to be the Italian and Sicilian mafias getting in- will be a huge, and perhaps unbearable, contemplated • volved. In 1995 an Italian parliamentary threat in terms of global warning. Part of

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 57 Techniques Rafale: Best choice for the Indian Air Force Fit with the most stringent battlefield needs

In making public, on 31 January 2012, its final choice for the Dassault Aviation Rafale in the MMRCA (Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft) competition, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has brought quite a lot of fresh air to the French defence industry as a whole. Emerged as the lowest bid- der in a hotly contested deal for procuring 126 modern combat aircraft for the IAF, the Rafale has clearly edged out its fiercest European rival, the Eurofighter Typhoon. By Jean-Michel Guhl - Paris

58 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Rafale: Best choice for the Indian Air Force Fit with the most stringent battlefield needs

powers. between India and France covering in- What finally, besides the price tag, depth technological and production co- made the Rafale win ? In the eye of the operation, based on a large scale transfer military experts many consider in New of the production license and all related Delhi that the French offer was clearly technology to Hindustan Aeronautics the best both on technical and political Ltd. (HAL). grounds. For many in the IAF, either The MMRCA Rafale for India will be veterans or current, the fighter planes tailored after the current Rafale Stand- built by Dassault Aviation have always ard F3 Tranche 4 for the French Air represented a valuable combat tool for Force. This model can use the complete the Indian pilots. Being one of the rare weaponry developed for the French air forces to fly, side by side the fight- fighter aircraft, including series pro- ers produced in England (Jaguar and duction Thales RBE2/AA advanced ac- Hawk), France (Mirage 2000) or Russia tive electronically scanned array radar (MiG and Sukhoi), the IAF has drawn (AESA) in place of the prevailing pas- over the years a huge experience in com- sive model. It is this very model, the parative evaluations of foreign hardware most potent of any Rafale, which the through their use in actual combat. IAF technical team is due to fly, once a As expected, the Rafale’s selection formal deal is made with Dassault and comes almost 60 years after India’s Air the production of a first batch of 18 Ra- Force purchased its first French fighter fale for the IAF is launched at Bordeaux- plane, the MD 450 Ouragan (or Too- Mérignac. The remaining 108 Rafales fani), in 1953. This was then the first -ex for the IAF will be assembled by HAL port contract ever booked by Dassault in Bangalore, Karnataka, using jig tools Aviation. imported from France. At this time, it As the winner of the MMRCA competi- Ever since Ouragans were first -ac is not known which systems and equip- tion, the multirole Rafale is earmarked quired by India in 1953, and up to the ments come under the wide transfer of to replace over the years India’s large and Mirage 2000 in current operation today technology scheme which New Delhi obsolete MiG-21 fleet which will start a with the IAF, India and France have insists upon. phase out process from 2014. “With the always enjoyed a good and longstand- induction of modern next generation ing relationship. In the field of combat Improving the breed aircraft such as the FGFA [Sukhoi T-50] aircraft, French aircraft have at all times Meanwhile in French service, the Rafale and MMRCA [Dassault Rafale], the been part of Indian history, serving the has been under constant review since it IAF will be a new look force,” insisted Indian Air Force and Indian Navy over was first commissioned with the navy, Indian Defence Minister A K Antony as the years and the wars with capable a decade ago as the Rafale Standard F1 the IAF is now on course to press into combat planes and soon enough with so as to keep the aircraft always fit to service within three years the first of the MMRCA Rafale. This aircraft is -re cope with the most stringent battlefield 126 Rafale Medium Multi Role Combat garded as much more than a simple ac- needs. Aircraft. The truth is that by the end of quisition process for India. It is the op- Now for the first time, an extended this decade, the Indian Air Force will be portunity to develop a bigger strategic set of highly sensitive passive systems one of the world’s most formidable air partnership and industrial cooperation give the Rafale a precious fighting ca-

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 59 Techniques

Rafale covers combat air- interdiction Length: 15.30 m missions with a high level of survivability

Store stations: Total: 14 Heavy-wet: 5

Performance: Max. thrust: 2x7.5 tons Limit load factors: -3.2g / +9g Max. speed: M= 1.8 / 750 kt Approach speed: less than 120 kt Landing ground run: 450m (1,500 ft) without drag-chute Service ceiling: 50,000 ft

pacity and high survivability. As such, much greater sensitivity makes it possi- Uniformisation of French military avi- the Rafale is the first European combat ble to detect smaller targets and detect ation along with the multirole Rafale is aircraft to use an AESA (Active Elec- them earlier. The use of active antennas now well under way. Designed from the tronically Scanned Array) radar. In op- opens new horizons in terms of future onset as a multirole combat aircraft with erational terms, the AESA RBE2/AA ra- radar functionality — particularly in the low observable and diminutive radar sig- dar can track many targets in the radar areas of jam resistance, detection of land nature (RCS), the Rafale, by virtue of the field of view irrespective of the relative vehicles and slow-moving aircraft and total electronic data fusion process from location between targets and/or the host enhanced synthetic aperture radar (SAR) sensors which characterises the unique aircraft. In addition, it allows a signifi- imagery. How much of that high-end innards of the French jetplane added cant increase in detection range on en- Thales proprietary technology will be to its outstanding weapons array, has emy aircraft and a significant increase shared and passed on to India remains proven versatile and better in everything in reliability with respect to previous- to be seen and discussed at high politi- compared to the Mirage 2000 intercep- generation radars. In air-to-air mode, a cal level. tors and fighter-bombers it is to supplant

60 | May 2012 | Issue 484 | Height: 5.30 m

Weight: Overall empty weight: 10 t (22,000 lbs) class Max. take-off weight: 24.5 t (54,000 lbs) Fuel (internal): 4.7 t (10,300 lbs) Fuel (external): up to 6.7 t (14,700 lbs) External load: 9.5 t (21,000 lbs) Wing Span: 10.90 m

during this decade. maintains a potent warfighting rele- from quick reaction alert to round the Combat proven with the French Air vance beyond 2030 or later. Next evolu- clock air-defence, to ground attack, sea force, the Rafale is a very mature com- tion will be the F3+ or F3-04T, adding a strikes, reconnaissance, as well as deep bat platform. All operational Rafales few more hi-tech functionalities to the nuclear strike missions (with the nucle- are now of the F3 “omnirole” variant actual design. ar-tipped ASMP-A cruise missile which with Thales Modular Data Processing By 2015-2020 the Dassault fighter jet is part of France’s nuclear deterrence), Unit (MDPU) – the Rafale’s backbone.. should become the linchpin of French all that with a high level of survivability, Through its modular architecture, the military aviation, with an operational owing to its twin-engine architecture system is highly adaptable, and new avi- career certain to last through at least and a sophisticated self-protection con- onics or new ordnance can thus easily 2050, thus well outliving all aircraft of cept, including stealth characteristics • be integrated without hassle. Actually, the Mirage family. Types of mission as- enough growth potential has been built signed to the Rafale in France currently into the Rafale to ensure that the design cover combat air-interdiction missions,

| Issue 484 | May 2012 | 61