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now78 Some pertinent points to be looked at: • Su-30MKI: Mainstay of IAF as of today • The combat squadrons have reduced from 39.5 to close to 30 in numbers • Amidst tranformation • Is IAF sufficiently equipped to meet the present

RNI NUMBER: DELENG/2008/24199 and future challenges?

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

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Table of Contents News Flies. We Gather Intelligence. Every Month. From India. AviationIssue 10 • 2010

39 Operations: WAC Beyond the Sky

41 Operations: CAC Destroy the Enemy

43 Operations: SWAC Victory, thy Motto

45 Operations: SAC Meeting Challenges

47 Operations: EAC Battle all Challenges

49 Interview ‘Boeing is committed to executing its commitments to India’ Fully loaded multi-role strike fighter aircraft Su-30MKI is expected to form the backbone of the Indian Air Force’s fighter 50 Interview 28 fleet to 2020 and beyond ‘F/A-18E/F is easy to fly aggressively and safely’

Hall of Fame First 51 Analysis Aspy Engineer 6 First Engine Run Regular Department Civil On Wings 8 Business Aviation Towards CENTENARY 5 A Word from Editor What’s New The IAF is in the midst of a NewsWithViews self-claimed transformation. 19 12 Regional Aviation – Delayed Decision-Making It is true that it is transiting Growing Big – Indian Aewcs through unique challenges IAF SPECIAL but also open prospects for new 21 InFocus opportunities. AFNET Kick-Starts 18 Messages • PLUS: • New Business Jets Special • New Regional Airliners 22 Forum 25 Interview ISSUE SP’s AN SP GUIDE PUBLICATION ‘We are in the process of Effective and Secure

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

RS. 75.00 (INDIA-BASED BUYER ONLY) BUYER 75.00 (INDIA-BASED RS. Communication introducing radical changes in Aviationwww.spsaviation.net OCTOBER • 2010 the training environment’ is 52 News Digest 26 Interview IAF ‘We are at the threshold of becoming a first world 56 Last Word now78 Move Forward, Be an air power’ Some pertinent points to be looked at: • Su-30 MKI: Mainstay of IAF as of today • The combat squadrons have reduced from 39.5 to close to 30 in numbers Aerospace Power • Amidst tranformation • Is IAF sufficiently equipped to meet the present 32 Industry RNI NUMBER: DELENG/2008/24199 and future challenges? Opportunities Ahead 38 OEM Cover Image: Su-30MKI is the mainstay of IAF. By 2015 IAF Next Issue: APG-80 AESA Radar: Providing will have 12 squadrons of these aircraft. Middle East and Innovative, Dependable Business Aviation Industry Performance Cover Photograph: IAF

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 1 Table of Contents

PLUS... Publisher And Editor-in-Chief design & LAYOUT Jayant Baranwal Senior Art Director: Anoop Kamath Designers: Vimlesh Kumar Yadav, Assistant Group editor Sonu Singh Bisht R. Chandrakanth DIRECTOR SALES & MARKETING Neetu Dhulia Senior Visiting Editor (Retd) V.K. Bhatia SALES & MARKETING Head Vertical Sales: Rajeev Chugh Senior Technical Group EditorS SP’s websites Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey Sr Web Developer: Shailendra Prakash Ashish Lt General (Retd) Naresh Chand New Business Web Developer: Ugrashen Vishwakarma 8 Jets Copy editor © SP Guide Publications, 2010 Sucheta Das Mohapatra Annual Subscription Assistant Correspondent Inland: Rs 900 • Foreign: US$ 240 Abhay Singh Thapa

Assistant Photo Editor Email: [email protected] Abhishek Singh LETTER TO EDITOR Contributors [email protected] India [email protected] Air Marshal (Retd) N. Menon FOR Advertising details, contact: Group Captain (Retd) A.K. Sachdev [email protected] Group Captain (Retd) Joseph Noronha [email protected] [email protected] Regional Aviation Europe SP GUIDE PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD 12 Alan Peaford, Phil Nasskau, A-133 Arjun Nagar, Rob Coppinger (Opposite Defence Colony) New 110 003, India. USA & Canada Sushant Deb, LeRoy Cook, Lon Nordeen, Tel: +91 (11) 24644693, Anil R. Pustam (West Indies) 24644763, 24620130 Fax: +91 (11) 24647093 Chairman & Managing Director Email: [email protected] Jayant Baranwal Postal address ADMIN & COORDINATION Post Box No 2525 Bharti Sharma New Delhi 110 005, India. Survi Massey Representative Office Owned, published and printed by BENGALURU, INDIA AFNET Launched Jayant Baranwal, printed at 534, Jal Vayu Vihar 21 Kala Jyothi Process Pvt Ltd and Kammanhalli Main Road published at A-133, Arjun Nagar Bengaluru 560043, India. (Opposite Defence Colony), Tel: +91 (80) 23682534 New Delhi 110 003, India. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be MOSCOW, RUSSIA reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or LAGUK Co., Ltd., (Yuri Laskin) transmitted in any form or by any means, Krasnokholmskaya, Nab., photocopying, recording, electronic, or 11/15, app. 132, Moscow 115172, Russia. Tel: +7 (495) 911 2762 www.spguidepublications.com otherwise without prior written permission of the Publishers. Fax: +7 (495) 912 1260

2 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net I CAN’T AFFORD TO WAIT IT OUT.

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last year, with deliveries dropping by a mere 4.1 per cent. The speed ramp-up remaining before compressibility effects set bottom half—jets costing $4-24 million—fell by a catastrophic in and the much-reviled sonic boom is generated. Companies 42.8 per cent. The market has never seen bifurcation like this like Aerion are also striving to bring a supersonic business jet in any previous downturn or growth spurt. And this trend is to the market within the next 5-6 years, but that’s a different expected to continue. The bottom half of the market is unlikely story. The G650’s tall and wide-bodied cabin will boast the lat- to rebound faster than the top half, implying a permanent shift est in comfort and convenience. What’s in favour of more expensive models. Demand for large-cabin And what would Bombardier do to preserve its present NEW jets will also continue to outpace that for light jets by a striking pride of place at the pinnacle of the business jet market, cour- degree. That’s good news for Gulfstream Aerospace. tesy the Global Express XRS? Bombardier believes the G650 Most manufacturers have emerged stronger from the crisis. is likely to be inferior to the Global, but concedes that the for- Resurgence in demand for business jets, driven primarily by a TOP OF THE LINE mer’s matchless range of 7,000 nm will indeed be momentous. Gulfstream’s Jason Akovenko says, “We continue to see signs Longer range aircraft contribute immensely to the globalisa- gradual recovery in global economic prospects, is now encouraging of gradual improvement in the business jet market. Customer tion of business aviation and Bombardier will need to move them to bring their latest offerings to the market. interest in Gulfstream aircraft remains healthy and we have quickly to claim the top spot in this category. It might either some 200 orders for the Gulfstream G650. We continue to see choose a clean-sheet design or decide to upgrade. The latter order strength across several emerging markets, including the option—a so-called Super Global Express—could be ready by Asia-Pacific region, one of the strongest markets for business 2013. It will be far less costly to bring to fruition and is an usiness aviation has been Aircraft Market Forecast and Industry aviation and for Gulfstream in particular. Large-cabin deliver- option that probably makes better business sense. The Super By Joseph Noronha, Goa languishing for nigh on two Overview, released earlier this year, ies remain on track and will go up to 76 this year.” The Gulf- Global Express might simply lengthen the existing XRS cabin years. The global financial anticipates production of 13,965 busi- stream G650 is indeed the most mouth-watering prospect for and coax out increased range by improving wing aerodynam- crisis and reckless attacks ness aircraft worth $233.1 billion (`10, the next couple of years. Promised for first delivery in 2012, ics. The new aircraft will probably use twin Rolls-Royce BR725 by the US politicians and 57,400 crore) (in 2010 dollars) over the public alike have seen the next 10 years (2010-2019). These are value of the market (in terms of new no mean figures. They include 10,285 Bbusiness aircraft deliveries) plunge by business jets worth $184.1 (`8, 34,300 over 24 per cent. This made it the hardest hit of any aero- billion). Though it will take some more time to reduce high space segment. Though the pain was severe, the industry did inventories of pre-owned jets, strong growth in deliveries of not lose heart. Behind the scenes, executives and engineers new aircraft can be expected to resume by 2012. And a host continued toiling to develop new and improved models for of new business jets have recently debuted or are readying the market, confident that a time would come when business for release over the next couple of years or so—just in time jets might regain their rightful place as an indispensable to capitalise on the rebound. productivity-enhancing tool. Yes, several important proj- Before the economic crisis began there was much interest ects were scrapped—among them Cessna’s Columbus, Das- in very light jets. But according to the Teal Group, the most sault’s Falcon SMS and Hawker Beechcraft’s Hawker 450. unusual aspect of the business jet scene at present is the But what’s becoming increasingly clear is that faster the fall, unprecedented bifurcation of the market. The top half—jets the better the bounce. The Teal Group 20th Annual Business costing $25 million (`11 crore) and more—barely felt any pain

TOP-NOTCH: (OPPOSITE PAGE) CESSNA’S CITATION CJ4 OFFERS A WIDE CHOICE OF TRIMMINGS; (TOP) it will fly out of the factory as the LEGACY 650 WITH ITS NEW PROJECTED TRADITIONAL BUSINESS JET MARKET ENGINE CAN COMFORTABLY world’s fastest and longest range SHARE PERCENTAGE (2010 – 2019) FLY BETWEEN NEW DELHI business jet. Twin Rolls-Royce AND LONDON; DASSAULT BR725 engines will power the Hawker Honda Aircraft FALCON 900LX, IN THE LARGE JET CATEGORY, HAS G650 to a maximum cruise speed Beechcraft IMPROVED RANGE AND of Mach 0.925, making it the 8.1 0.8 AVIONICS KNOTS world’s fastest civilian aircraft. Embraer Gulfstream 8.2 Aerospace It will also have an astounding 28% range of 7,000 nautical miles. Its range, size and speed may even merit the creation of a new market category. The world’s fast- Cessna 12.7 est business jet is a tag Cessna has rightfully claimed for the Citation X since 1996, when the aircraft made its debut. The fleet has now accumulated more than a million hours. Since 15.9 26.3 2003, when Concorde bowed out, the Citation X has been the fastest civilian aircraft in the sky, of any size or type. This is the distinction the G650 now seeks to claim. Cessna is un- Dassault Aviation Bombardier likely to surrender without a fight, but there’s only so much

8 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 9

8-11_BizJets-Revision2.indd 8-9 27/09/10 1:24 PM

PLUS: • New Busi ness Jets

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is OCTOBER • 2 IAF 010

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G/2008 N • Su-30 MKI: Mainstay of IAF as of today E • The combat squadrons have reduced from 39.5 to close to 30 in numbers MBER: DEL

I NU • Amidst tranformation N R • Is IAF sufficiently equipped to meet the present and future challenges?

PLUS: • New Business Jets Special • New Regional Airliners ISSUE SP’s AN SP GUIDE PUBLICATION

News Flies. We Gather Intelligence. Every Month. From India. RS. 75.00 (INDIA-BASED BUYER ONLY) BUYER 75.00 (INDIA-BASED RS. Aviationwww.spsaviation.net OCTOBER • 2010 IAFis

now78 Some pertinent points to be looked at: • Su-30 MKI: Mainstay of IAF as of today • The combat squadrons have reduced from 39.5 to close to 30 in numbers • Amidst tranformation • Is IAF sufficiently equipped to meet the present

RNI NUMBER: DELENG/2008/24199 and future challenges?

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Winner of the last month’s poll: Amaresh Wagh Winners get one year subscription of SP’s Aviation magazine A Word from Editor In the context of the emergence of a resurgent India as a regional power and the expanding strategic global footprint of the nation, there is an imperative need for the IAF to move rapidly into the regime of “aerospace power” and to be counted amongst the leading air forces of the world

s the IAF celebrates its 78th anniversary, it Apart from the challenges and opportunities for the IAF, is acutely conscious of its role and responsi- this Special Issue has a critical analysis of the rapidly chang- bilities. In the context of the emergence of a ing character of the regional jetliner. New players emerging resurgent India as a regional power and the on the scene, such as Russia, Japan and China are about expanding strategic global footprint of the na- to challenge the dominance of the well-entrenched manu- tion, there is an imperative need for the IAF facturers of regional jetliners—Bombardier of Canada and to move rapidly into the regime of “aerospace power” and Embraer of Brazil. In the business aviation segment, there Ato be counted amongst the leading air forces of the world. is a comprehensive review of what the manufacturers have Undoubtedly, in its pursuit of the lofty objectives, the IAF on offer as also their plans for the future. would have to confront an array of formidable challenges On the occasion of the Air Force Day, we at SP’s offer along the way. Of primary concern would be the progres- felicitations to the glorious Indian Air Force while deeply sively dwindling strength of its combat fleet vis-à-vis the appreciating their invaluable contribution towards the rapidly growing air power of the principal adversaries in safety, security and sovereignty of the nation. We also wish the neighbourhood. While both the political and IAF leader- the IAF all success and glory in their future endeavours. ship are conscious of the gravity of the evolving situation Jai Hind! as evident from their pronouncements, and there are major programmes for acquisition of weapon systems under way, the pace at which these have been progressing seem to inspire little hope of speedy redemption in the near future of the eroding combat potential. This should be a matter of concern for all. While there are difficulties, there is a tangible progress in some areas in which efforts at acquisition of hardware are fructifying. These are the heavy lift transport aircraft such as the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules, the Boeing C-17 Globemaster and possibly the Chinook CH47F heavy lift rotary wing aircraft as also a number of force- multipliers such as AWACS, AEWCS, UAVs and flight refu- elling aircraft. The potential that the Indian market has to offer to the global aerospace industry is unprecedented in recent times. One game changing event in the recent past has been the commissioning of the AFNET that has ushered in a modern, state-of-the-art digital information grid, based on a nationwide fibre-optic network. The first service to set up this facility, the AFNET, is a true force-multiplier that will provide network-centric combat capabilities. Dedicat- Jayant Baranwal ed to the nation on September 14, for the IAF, the AFNET Publisher & Editor-in-Chief has been a long felt need fulfilled.

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 5 irst F

F First Engine Run Lockheed Martin’s C-130J for India ran engines for the first time recently. It is now preparing for its maiden flight sometime this month

he first C-130J for India ran engines for the first tin, is the world’s most advanced tactical airlifter. Designed time on September 21. The tactical transport aircraft and developed with mission flexibility in mind— combat de- Tfrom Lockheed Martin is being prepared for its maid- livery, air-to-air refueling, special operations, disaster relief en flight sometime this month. The Indian Air Force is ex- and humanitarian missions—the C-130J has a unique mix pected to take deliveries of the first two C-130J in February of agility and performance to consistently operate at very 2011 and the remaining four by the year end, in a deal of high tempo operations efficiently and reliably. The aircraft’s around $1 billion (`4,60,000 crore). distinctive air-to-air refueling probe is over the left side of India will be joining crews from the United States, Aus- the cockpit. tralia, Denmark, Italy and the United Kingdom which are The C-130J Super Hercules is the only airlifter with the flying the C-130J. The programme for India includes six range and flexibility for emerging theatres and evolving con- C-130Js, training of aircrew and maintenance technicians, cepts of operation. SP spare parts, and ground support and test equipment. Also —SP’s Aviation News Desk included is India-unique operational equipment designed to increase the Special Operations capabilities. E-mail your comments to: [email protected] Photogra p hs: Lockheed Martin The C-130J Super Hercules, according to Lockheed Mar-

6 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net The Gulfstream G450 is the best large-cabin, long- range business jet in its class. What’s more, it shares Let the journey begin some of the advanced technology of the Gulfstream G550, while also retaining the qualities of the highly successful GIV/GIV-SP-series aircraft. And that was the best-selling aircraft in its category. Let the journey begin.

To learn more, please contact: Mach Air Sales India Pvt. Ltd., Gulfstream Authorized Independent Sales Representative, direct: +91 22 6758 2630, e-mail: [email protected] Jason Akovenko, Gulfstream Regional Vice President, Asia/Pacific +65 6256 8301, e-mail: [email protected] www.gulfstream.com/g450

SP'sAviaion_India_Oct.indd 1 9/10/10 9:15:54 AM Civil business Aviation What’s NEW Resurgence in demand for business jets, driven primarily by a gradual recovery in global economic prospects, is now encouraging manufacturers to bring their latest offerings to the market

usiness aviation has been By Joseph Noronha, Goa years (2010-19). These are no mean fig- languishing for nigh on two ures. They include 10,285 business jets years. The global financial worth $184.1 billion (`8,46,860 crore). crisis and reckless attacks Though it will take some more time to by the US politicians and reduce high inventories of pre-owned public alike have seen the jets, strong growth in deliveries of new value of the market (in terms of new aircraft can be expected to resume by Bbusiness aircraft deliveries) plunge by over 24 per cent. This 2012. And a host of new business jets have recently debuted made it the hardest hit of any aerospace segment. Though or are readying for release over the next couple of years or the pain was severe, the industry did not lose heart. Be- so—just in time to capitalise on the rebound. hind the scenes, executives and engineers continued toil- Before the economic crisis began there was much inter- ing to develop new and improved models for the market, est in very light jets. But according to the Teal Group, the confident that a time would come when business jets might most unusual aspect of the business jet scene at present is regain their rightful place as an indispensable productiv- the unprecedented bifurcation of the market. The top half— ity-enhancing tool. Yes, several important projects were jets costing $25 million (`115 crore) and more—barely felt scrapped—among them Cessna’s Columbus, Dassault’s Fal- any pain last year, with deliveries dropping by a mere 4.1 con SMS and Hawker Beechcraft’s Hawker 450. But what’s per cent. The bottom half—jets costing $4-24 million—fell by becoming increasingly clear is that faster the fall, the better a catastrophic 42.8 per cent. The market has never seen bi- the bounce. The Teal Group 20th Annual Business Aircraft furcation like this in any previous downturn or growth spurt. Market Forecast and Industry Overview, released earlier And this trend is expected to continue. The bottom half of the this year, anticipates production of 13,965 business aircraft market is unlikely to rebound faster than the top half, imply- worth $233.1 billion (`10,72,260 crore) over the next 10 ing a permanent shift in favour of more expensive models. aJet & HBC ier, gulfstream, H on d gulfstream, bombar d ier, viation, hs: cessna, embraer, Dassault A Dassault embraer, Photogra p hs: cessna,

8 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Civil Business Aviation

Demand for large-cabin jets will also continue to outpace that And what would Bombardier do to preserve its present for light jets by a striking degree. That’s good news for Gulf- pride of place at the pinnacle of the business jet market, cour- stream Aerospace. tesy the Global Express XRS? Bombardier believes the G650 is likely to be inferior to the Global, but concedes that the for- Top of the Line mer’s matchless range of 7,000 nm will indeed be momentous. Gulfstream’s Jason Akovenko says, “We continue to see signs Longer range aircraft contribute immensely to the globalisa- of gradual improvement in the business jet market. Customer tion of business aviation and Bombardier will need to move interest in Gulfstream aircraft remains healthy and we have quickly to claim the top spot in this category. It might either some 200 orders for the Gulfstream G650. We continue to see choose a clean-sheet design or decide to upgrade. The latter order strength across several emerging markets, including option—a so-called Super Global Express—could be ready by the Asia-Pacific region, one of the strongest markets for busi- 2013. It will be far less costly to bring to fruition and is an ness aviation and for Gulfstream in particular. Large-cabin option that probably makes better business sense. The Super deliveries remain on track and will go up to 76 this year.” The Global Express might simply lengthen the existing XRS cabin Gulfstream G650 is indeed the most mouth-watering pros- and coax out increased range by improving wing aerodynam- pect for the next couple of years. Promised for first delivery ics. The new aircraft will probably use twin Rolls-Royce BR725 in 2012, it will fly out of the factory as the world’s fastest and engines—the same as the Gulfstream G650. longest range business jet. Twin Rolls-Royce BR725 engines In the large jet category, Dassault Falcon will begin will power the G650 to a maximum cruise speed of Mach deliveries of the $39 million (`179 crore) Falcon 900LX 0.925, making it the world’s fastest civilian aircraft. It will also early next year. This follow-on to the Falcon 900EX fea- have an astounding range of 7,000 nautical miles. Its range, tures improved range and avionics. It uses less fuel and size and speed may even merit the creation of a new mar- boosts the range to 4,750 nm, thanks to its composite

toP-notch: (opposite page) cessna’s citation cj4 offers a wide choice of trimmings; (top) ket category. The world’s fastest legacy 650 with its new Projected Traditional Business Jet Market engine can comfortably business jet is a tag Cessna has Share Percentage (2010-19) fly between new delhi rightfully claimed for the Citation and london; dassault X since 1996, when the aircraft Hawker Honda Aircraft falcon 900LX, in the Beechcraft large jet category, has made its debut. The fleet has 8.1 0.8 improved range and now accumulated more than a Gulfstream avionics million hours. Since 2003, when Embraer 8.2 28% Aerospace Concorde bowed out, the Cita- tion X has been the fastest civil- ian aircraft in the sky, of any size Cessna 12.7 or type. This is the distinction the G650 now seeks to claim. Cessna is unlikely to surrender without a fight, but there’s only 26.3 so much speed ramp-up remaining before compressibility ef- 15.9 fects set in and the much-reviled sonic boom is generated. Companies like Aerion are also striving to bring a supersonic Dassault Aviation Bombardier business jet to the market within the next five-six years, but that’s a different story. The G650’s tall and wide-bodied cabin Source: Teal Group 20th Annual Business Aircraft Market Forecast and Industry will boast the latest in comfort and convenience. Overview. (Figures exclude turboprops, jetliners, and corporate regional jets)

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 9 Civil Business Aviation

mid-level players: bombardier’s learjet 85 has already bagged 60 blended winglets. Dassault claims that orders; gulfstream’s Midsize Marvels the new aircraft burns 35-40 per cent g250 is optimised for At Gulfstream Aerospace, work is also pro- high-speed cruise and less fuel than any other in its class. At improved take-off ceeding apace on the G250, a derivative of the maximum take-off weight, powered by G200. The midsize Gulfstream G250, which three Honeywell TFE731-60 engines, the made its first flight last December, offers the jet can climb up to 39,000 feet in just 20 largest cabin and the longest range at the fast- minutes. Its maximum cruise speed is est speed. It can accommodate up to 10 pas- 560 knots. sengers. The G250 has an all-new, advanced transonic wing Embraer’s aim is to become a major player in the busi- design, optimised for high-speed cruise and improved take-off. ness jet market. It has shot up to over 8 per cent market Its twin Honeywell HTF7250G engines will give it a maximum share in a decade and mostly at the expense of Cessna. So cruise speed of Mach 0.85 and a range of 3,400 nm, allowing who can stop it? Its large Legacy 650 is an upgrade of the flights between New York and London. Gulfstream expects the Legacy 600. The new $25.9 million (`119 crore) jet will G250, which is being built by Israel Aerospace Industries, to carry 13 passengers in standard configuration and have a achieve certification and entry into service next year. range of 3,900 nm with a maximum cruise speed of Mach Bombardier already has more than 60 orders for its 0.80. This should comfortably permit journeys between New 10-passenger midsize Learjet 85, which will be its first all- Delhi and London. The aircraft boasts the new Honeywell composite business aircraft and the first clean-sheet Learjet Primus Elite advanced cockpit, better sound proofing and design in more than a decade. The company plans certifica- about 10 per cent more thrust than the Legacy 600. Em- tion and first delivery in 2013. The $17.1 million (`79 crore) braer claims that the Legacy 650 will be one of the least Learjet 85 will have a maximum cruise speed of Mach 0.82 expensive business jets in the large category. It expects cer- and a range of 3,000 nm. In the same category of business tification towards the end of this year. jets, the Legacy 500 (first delivery likely 2012) and Legacy

New Business Jets at a Glance First Delivery Category Max Take-off Wt (kg) Range (nm) Normal/Max Cruise Passengers Price ($ million) Gulfstream G650 2012 Ultra-long range 45,179 7,000 0.85/0.925M 18 64.5 Embraer Legacy 650 Late 2010 Large 24,300 3,900 0.78/0.80M 13 29.5 Dassault Falcon 900LX Early 2011 Large 21,900 4,750 560 kt 19 39 Embraer Legacy 500 2012 Midsize 19,050 3,000 0.80/0.83M 10 18.4 Gulfstream G250 2011 Midsize 17,962 3,400 0.80/0.85M 10 24 Embraer Legacy 450 2013 Midsize 17,690 2,300 0.80/0.83M 8 15.25 Bombardier Learjet 85 2013 Midsize 15,195 3,000 0.78/0.82M 10 17.1 Embraer Phenom 300 December 2009 Light 7,950 1,971 453 kt 6 6.65 Cessna Citation CJ4 April 2010 Light 7,688 2,002 453 kt 8 9 Hawker Beechcraft 2012-13 Light 6,260 1,546 473 kt 6 8 Premier II HA-420 HondaJet 2012 Light 4,173 1,400 420 kt 5 4.5 Source: Respective OEM’s websites. Prices are estimates only, sourced from www.aircraftcompare.com N.B. Some aircraft above are under development. Hence, first delivery, performance and specifications may be treated as approximate/projected.

10 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Civil Business Aviation

light jets: hondajet has room for six passengers and has a cruise speed of 430 450 (first delivery likely 2013) are antici- knots; hawker beechcraft it to have a maximum cruise speed of pated from Embraer’s stable. Both clean- premier ii will have more 420 knots and a range of 1,400 nm. The powerful engines and new sheet models will have fly-by-wire flight winglets to improve its HondaJet has a composite fuselage, with controls (unique for aircraft of this catego- performance metal wings and tail. Its over-the-wing ry) and feature flat-floor, stand-up cabins. engine nacelles are quite different from The $18.4 million (`85 crore) Legacy 500 the typical twin-engines-aft business jet will carry 10 passengers and fly 3,000 nm configuration. The company claims to at a maximum cruise speed of Mach 0.83. The $15.25 million have secured firm orders for more than 100 of the $4.5 mil- (`70 crore) Legacy 450 will take eight passengers and have a lion (`21 crore) planes. range of 2,300 nm. Cessna, though among the hardest hit in the industry, suc- cessfully delivered its first Citation CJ4 (Model 525C) in April. Light and Lissom While the $9 million (`41 crore) light category jet is not a clean- Embraer executives believe that by the end of this year they sheet design, it incorporates a great deal of what this leading are likely to capture some 50 per cent of the entry-level and business aviation company has learned about small jets dur- light business jet market. By any yardstick, this is an out- ing the last four decades. The CJ4’s more powerful Williams standing achievement for a company which only ventured FJ44-4A engines are derivatives of those on the CJ3 enabling into the light jet category two years ago. Its latest offering, a maximum cruise speed of 453 knots and an increased range the $6.65 million (`31 crore) Phenom 300—of which the first of 2,002 nm. Although the CJ4 is a comparatively small busi- was delivered on December 29, 2009—is all one can wish ness jet, carrying eight passengers, it comes with a wide choice for in light business jets. It can be flown single-pilot, boasts a of colours, fabrics, materials and finishes. At July’s AirVenture range of 1,971 nm, has a maximum speed of 453 knots, and 2010 held at Oshkosh, Wisconsin, USA, Cessna also announced climbs to a ceiling of 45,000 feet in just 26 minutes. Experts a new upgrade package for its Citation Mustang, of which 300 agree that the Phenom 300 is a game changer, with more have already been sold. Costing just over $3 million (`14 crore), passenger leg room and 20 per cent less fuel burn than a the Citation Mustang is the world’s first fully certified entry-lev- Beechjet. It has a well-equipped, comfortable cabin with an el business jet. It can cruise at speeds of 339 knots, has a range array of options usually found only in aircraft costing much of 1,150 nm, is extremely easy to fly, and can be single-pilot more. The cabin’s cool, clean lines and appearance are rem- operated. Called High Sierra, the $75,000 (`35 lakh) Mustang iniscent of high-end automobiles. The jet comes in two basic upgrade package includes a more luxurious interior, a special floor plans that can accommodate six or nine passengers. paint scheme, a two-year maintenance programme, synthetic The Hawker Beechcraft Premier II is a marked improve- vision, electronic charts and locking fuel caps. ment on the Premier IA. The $8 million (`37 crore) light jet There is no denying that business jet manufacturers have will feature higher maximum cruise speed (473 knots), 20 been through trying times. Some of them have been forced per cent longer range (1,546 nm) and increased payload, as to undertake comprehensive reassessments of their business compared to its predecessor. The aircraft will continue to use strategy. Major projects have had to be shelved; others scaled composite materials for the fuselage, more powerful engines back or put on the back burner. But most manufacturers have and new winglets to achieve performance improvements emerged stronger from the crisis. They are ready and eager over the Premier IA. However, the first delivery date has been for better times, mainly because they continued to fund re- pushed back to 2012 or early 2013 due to the poor market. search and development of new aircraft. Resurgence in de- The HondaJet is another delayed programme. Honda mand for business jets, driven primarily by a gradual recov- Aircraft now hopes to begin deliveries in the third quarter ery in global economic prospects, is now encouraging them of 2012, a year later than originally scheduled. This light to bring their latest offerings to the market with high hopes in jet has room for six passengers. The manufacturer expects their hearts. There will surely be many takers. SP

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 11 Civil Regional aviation

Growing The regional jet industry isBi becoming a lot more competitive.g On offer are products from new airframe manufacturers to address new markets and the leading companies are sharpening their knives for the battle ahead.

he Russians are coming, the By R. Chandrakanth 28 per cent to 19 per cent. The new play- Russians are coming… was a ers are first looking at developing their 1966 American comedy film. own domestic markets and then export- In the regional jet industry, ing, thus making the regional jet industry there is an adaptation … the a lot more competitive. In this article, we Russians are coming and so look at the product offerings of the new are the Japanese and the Chinese. Yes, airframe manufacturers, the markets they Tfrom a duopoly of Canadian Bombardier and Brazilian Em- are addressing and how the major companies are sharpen- braer, the regional jet industry is expanding base, albeit ing their knives for the battle ahead. While programme delays delayed. Whether the adaptation will be a runaway hit, re- have affected the first deliveries of all the three entrants—Rus- mains to be seen. sia’s Sukhoi; China’s ACAC and Japan’s Mitsubishi, the region- The fact that there are new entrants is indicative of the mar- al jet industry, per se, is getting bigger, as regional jets with ket potential and how the two established players—Bombar- 70- to149- seat capacities seem a viable route. Even the trio is dier and Embraer—are enhancing the product lines, including focused on delivering 90 to 100 plus seat aircraft. re-working the seat configurations as airliners are increasingly looking at offering lowest seat mile cost. The forecast is 12,800 Russian deal: Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircraft deliveries from 2010-29 with China estimated to By the year-end or early next year, the first delivery of Suk- receive 18 per cent and India 5 per cent (up from the pres- hoi Superjet 100 (SSJ100) is expected as SCAC, a joint venture ent 1 per cent), while Europe will witness a shrinkage from between Sukhoi and Finmeccanica of Italy, is sorting out the

SSJ100-75 and SSJ100-95 Seating capacity: 78- 98 respec­­­tively in single class 3 + 2 configuration Cabin: 127.48 inches width and 83.46“ height Aisle and seat width: 20.08“ and 18.31“ Engine: SaM146 from PowerJet Cruise speed: 0.78 M Range (full passenger payload): 2,900 km to 4,550 km from basic to extended range (ER) Operational efficiency: Claims to offer 10 per cent decrease of operation costs due to its weight perfection, economic fuel consumption and lower mainte- nance costs. hs: finmeccanica, bombardier, MR J & embraer bombardier, Photogra p hs: finmeccanica,

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

Civil Regional aviation

CSeries–CS100 and CS300 Seating capacity: 120 to 145 respectively Cabin: 129“ width and 84“ height Aisle and seat width: 20\22“ and 18.5\20“ in economy/business Engine: Pratt & Whitney PurePower PW1000G engine Cruise speed: 0.82 Range: 3,333 km to 5,463 nm from basic to extended range Operational efficiency: Optimising airframe design and other features, CSeries claims to offer 15 per cent cash operating cost advantage, gener- ated, in part, by a 20 per cent reduction in fuel burn.

problems with the SaM146 engine, developed by PowerJet, a 0.76 to stay in economic mode, SSJ100 has higher cruise joint project between the Russian Saturn and the French Snec- speed. The pitch of the manufacturers is that SSJ100 of- ma. The Deputy Industry and Trade Minister, Denis Manturov, fers airlines freedom in route and schedule planning with who heads the commission to monitor the implementation of its enhanced take-off and landing performance along with the Sukhoi Superjet programme, recently indicated that work all-weather operation, wide range and passenger payload on its final design had been almost entirely completed, but capabilities. problems remain. At the moment, there are 18 serial aircraft On the aspect of fuel efficiency, the company states that it in production, six of which are in the final assembly shop. is secured by the third generation supercritical airfoil wing The project has got utmost priority by the Russian Ministry and local aerodynamics. The perfectly balanced aircraft con- of Industry and Trade, enthused by an order book (inclusive of trol laws in autopilot mode add to fuel consumption savings. order of intent) of 256 for the Superjet 100-95, though there is Weight perfection and the SaM146 engine, tailored for the air- none for the Superjet 100-75. Mikhail Pogosyan, CEO of SCAC craft family reduce fuel consumption per seat by 10 per cent has said that a sale of 800 SSJ100 in the next two decades is compared to its rivals. feasible. The aircraft features fully electronic fly-by-wire control sys- Chinaware: ARJ21-700 tem for piloting, landing gear extension and retraction, and a Ultra-large state-owned enterprise AVIC Commercial Aircraft brake system to prove its high maintain- Company (ACAC) is developing the ability and weight perfection. Leading- ARJ21 regional aircraft, a medium- edge technologies, from design to devel- and short-range regional jet to princi- opment, are going to be at the core of the ARJ21-700 and ARJ21-900 pally serve the growing domestic mar- project to make it a modern, economically Seating capacity: 90-105 ket, besides exports. Like the other efficient and globally marketable aircraft. respectively in single class entrants, China too has run into rough Sukhoi Superjet 100, the company Cabin: 123.74“ width and 79.92“ weather on the first roll out. There are says, will be easy and safe to pilot and height four ARJ21-700 aircraft in the flight that only one pilot can land the aircraft. Aisle and seat width: 19“ and test programme with cumulative flight The cockpit design features a “passive” 17.9“ time of over 600 hours. The four air- side stick and “active” engine control le- craft are powered by GE CF34-10A Engine: Two GEAE’s CF34-10A vers. From the airline perspective, the high bypass ratio turbofan engines. company maintains that the new genera- engines. The aircraft is a 90-seater regional tion product will offer a perfect combina- jet designed for “hot and high” flying Cruise speed: 0.82 M tion of regional aircraft efficiency with the conditions and would be deployed on mainline level of comfort for passengers Range: 2,225 km to 3,700 km (LR) the western sector where the terrain and state-of-the-art technologies. Operational efficiency: Ac- is mountainous and the conditions The SSJ100 aerodynamic configu- cording to the company, low “too hot”. It would have a maximum ration is specifically optimised for high acquisition cost and an updat- range of 2,000 nautical miles. cruise M-speed without leading to a ed turbofan engine character- There are confirmed domestic and dramatic increase in fuel consumption. ised by low fuel consumption, overseas orders, inclusive of orders of When compared with the competitive would improve the economical intent, which total up to 240 and the aircraft which are bound to fly at M 0.75- efficiency of the airplane. first aircraft is scheduled to be deliv-

14 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Civil Regional aviation

MRJ70 and MRJ90 Seating capacity: 78 and 92 respectively in single class Cabin: 108.5“ width and 80.5“ height Aisle and seat width: 18“ and 18.5“ Engine: PurePower ® PW1000G engines by Pratt & Whitney Cruise speed: 0.78 M Range: 1590 km to 3449 Operational efficiency: Advanced aero- dynamics and weight reduction achieved through use of composite materials and a newly developed fuel efficient next-gen- eration engine, MRJ claims to offer over 20 per cent reduction in fuel consumption compared with other regional jets currently in operation.

ered in 2011 to Shandong Airlines. China’s regional jet is set economy and outstanding cabin comfort. It will feature a to offer a distinctive price advantage and reports are that the game-changing engine, state-of-the-art aerodynamic de- pre-sale price of the new ARJ21 is between $27 million and sign and noise analysis technology. It will significantly cut $29 million. The variants of the series include the baseline fuel consumption, noise and emissions. The MRJ will be a ARJ21-700, the extended ARJ21-900 version, the dedicated human-centred flight deck with fly-by-wire. The aircraft will freight carrier ARJ21F and the business class aircraft AR- be powered by the PurePower ® PW1000G engines by Pratt J21B. & Whitney, expected to deliver significant operating cost and The flight deck is fitted with five Rockwell Collins environmental benefits through increased efficiency. 10˝x8˝ high resolution liquid crystal adaptive flight displays. MRJ was to become the first regional jet to adopt carbon fi- A Rockwell Collins FMS 4200 flight management system bre composite materials for its airframe on a significant scale, provides multiple way point vertical navigation, flight time but later it announced that it would use alumininum for its and fuel planning and prediction, standard instrument wing box. Carbon composite parts will now make up only 10- departures and standard terminal arrival routes and ap- 15 per cent of the aircraft, mostly around the tail section. This proaches (SIDs and STARS). Honeywell is supplying the fly- change brought increase in the cabin height by 1.5 in (3.81 by-wire flight control system. The aircraft is said to have a cm) to 80.5 in (204.47 cm) and fuselage height increase to powerful take-off and climbing performance to allow the use 116.5in (295.91 cm), thus giving the MRJ a rounder cabin, of basic airports with short runways. which is wider and higher than its competing aircraft manu- The passenger cabin can be configured for 78 to 90 seats. factured by Bombardier and Embraer. The slim seat feature is The first-class seats are arranged four seats to a row with expected to give ample leg room to the passenger. a typical 38˝ pitch and the tourist class with five seats to a Again it was a domestic order which set the tone for the row (32˝ pitch). The aircraft is powered by two General Elec- new entrant. All Nippon Airways made a firm order for 15 tric CF34-10A engines. For improved cruise performance, MRJ90s and an option for 10 more. In 2009, US-based Trans the aircraft is fitted with 25 degree sweptback supercritical State Airlines booked 50 MRJ90 with an option of 50 more. wing with winglets. The cruise speed is M 0.78 and cruise altitude is 10,668m. The standard aircraft has a range of Bombardier’s CSeries: The future 2,225 km and the extended range version is of 3,700 km. Bracing up for the anticipated competition and also from the mainliners such as Airbus and Boeing, Canada’s Bom- Japanese foray: MRJ bardier which first sowed the seeds of the regional jet Following closely on the tail of the Russian and the Chinese revolution by introducing the CRJ-100, has in the pipeline, programmes is the Japanese offer from the stables of Mitsubi- though delayed, the CSeries family of commercial aircraft. shi Heavy Industries which has pegged the demand for 70 to The CSeries is expected to shake up the industry by redefin- 90 seat aircraft at 5,000 units in the next 20 years. Enthused ing operational flexibility, cost-effectiveness and passenger by such market demand, the company has embarked upon Ja- comfort in 100- to 149-seat class. pan’s first aircraft design and development since the NAMC Bombardier has forecast that the 100- to 149-seat seg- YS-11 of the 1960s.The first flight of the Mitsubishi Regional ments represent the strongest growth component in terms of Jet (MRJ) is to take place in the second quarter of 2012, and the deliveries within the 20- to 149-seat market. Of the 12,800 first delivery to All Nippon Airways in the first quarter of 2014. aircraft deliveries predicted from 2010-29, the number of The MRJ family MRJ70 and MRJ90 will be a next gen- turboprops will be 2,400. Of the remaining 10,400 jets, eration regional jet offering both top-class operational 3,700 will be in the 20 to 99-seat segment (the Japanese

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 15 Civil Regional aviation

Embraer-E-Jets (Embraer 170; 175; 190 and 195) Seating capacity: 80 to 122 Cabin: 108“ width and 79“ height Aisle and seat width: 19.75“ and 18.25“ Engine: General Electric CF34-8E Cruise speed: 0.82 M Range: 3892 km to 4,448 km Operational efficiency: Embraer says that the high degree of commonality among the E-Jets family helps airlines minimise costs for crew train- ing, spare parts and maintenance. Fly-by-wire technology increases operational safety while reducing pilot workload and fuel consumption.

and the Russians have estimated 5,000 and 6,000 aircraft, cost carriers or full service operators. And by the year end, respectively) and 6,700 (3,000 aircraft to retire during the Embraer is expected to make an announcement on a new period) in the 100 to 149-seat segment. platform that will make the competition interesting. The CSeries (CS100 and CS300) combines 70 per cent ad- The E-Jets, a family of four commercial jets designed vanced materials, leading-edge technology to give 15 per cent specifically for the 70- to 122-seat capacity segment is operating cost advantage, backed by 20 per cent less fuel con- pitched as “tap the gap” between larger mainline aircraft sumption. Besides unsurpassed economics, the CSeries offers and smaller regional jets. Embraer states that E-Jets are not environmental benefits such as reduced noise and emissions stretched from smaller airplanes or shrunken from larger

(20 per cent less CO2; 50 per cent less NOx; and four times lot platforms. This clean design approach sets new standards in quieter). The range will be 1,800 to 2,950 nautical miles. ergonomics, efficiency, engineering and economics among The aircraft will be powered by the Pratt & Whitney Pure- aircraft in their class. Power PW1000G engine with key features such as advanced Embraer is putting everything behind the passenger. The combustion technology; fan drive gear system; ultra high PAX Factor, Embraer has propositioned, suggests that prof- bypass fan; fewer stages and airfoils; and advanced Nacelle its can be increased not only by cutting costs, but also by technologies. The flight deck includes five 15.4˝ LCD displays, generating greater revenues with passenger-friendly equip- baseline dual graphical flight management system, dual cur- ment and a passenger-centric business model. Citing how sor control devices, an advanced multi-scan weather radar Air Canada had demonstrated success by introducing the system and baseline data link features with full format print- pay-for-use model with passengers, Embraer says many air- er. The avionics is designed with a high level of growth ready lines are embracing the “empowered passenger”. to accommodate upcoming and future functionalities such as The E-170 with 70- to 80-seat configuration and a range ADS-B IN/CDTI, synthetic and enhanced vision. of 2,100 nautical miles, looks and feels like a mainline air- Bombardier indeed has led from the front and the CRJ craft. It is powered by General Electric CF34-8E engines. family is all over the skies with over 1,400 CRJ regional jets The E-175 is a 78-88 seat aircraft with a range of 2,000 nm. being operated by 50 leading airlines in 24 countries. From With airlines discovering the untapped potential of 100-seat the first Bombardier CRJ which entered service in 1992, the capacity aircraft, the E-190 replaces old-generation jets and company has developed its product offering with the CRJ right-sizes fleets with a range of 2400 nm. The E-195 features family getting CRJ 700, CRJ705 and CRJ 900 that featured a 108- to 122-seat capacity and has a flying range of 2200 nm. complete redesign of the structures and systems. The ERJ 145 family was planned from the beginning with The CRJ NextGen offers next generation of passenger the regional airline market in mind. The ERJ 135 (37 seats); comfort, efficiency and performance. The NextGen series of ERJ 140 (44 seats) and ERJ 145 (55 seats) have held their own CRJ700; CRJ900 and CRJ1000 have bigger and better in- in the regional jet industry. As of August this year, nearly 1,000 teriors and also reduced emission levels (up to 30 per cent aircraft of the ERJ family are in service in about 39 countries, greener) and lower operating costs (8 to 15 per cent). but the course of smaller seat aircraft is narrowing.

Brazilian saga: Embraer’s E-Jets BAE Systems: The old warhorse “If you still think it’s a regional jet, you haven’t been pay- BAE Systems stopped production of the Avro RJ in 2002, At ing attention,” Embraer’s ad is loud and clear on how the least 330 aircraft are in the skies with some 60 operators Brazilian airframe manufacturer is redefining jet operations and BAE Systems offers a wide range of OEM modifications whether it is for short runs and five hour legs or for low and enhancements for the aircraft. SP

16 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Dassault Aviation • Snecma • Thales

What will protect India in the 21st century?

In matter of national defence, there can be no substitute for complete trust in the source, no compromise on the reliability and the availability of the aircraft and its technologies. For over half a century, we have proudly been supporting India’s air defence mission. Today, we look forward to keeping the privilege of serving India, for the next 50 years, with the world’s most advanced latest generation aircraft, Rafale. The OMNIROLE fighter

RAF_inde_210x267_SA_uk 1 24/09/10 17:32:04 IAF SPECIAL Messages

Minister of Defence • India

am pleased to learn that SP Guide hand with indigenisation. The all-around welfare of the Publications is bringing out separate Jawans, ex-servicemen and their family members contin- special editions on the Indian Air ues to be our primary concern. Force, and . I am confident that the special editions will be liked and Our Armed Forces have rendered read widely. invaluable contributions to the na- Please accept my best wishes for your future endeavours. tion–both in times of war and peace. I We want our Armed Forces to retain the competitive edge and rank among the best in the world. We remain committed to the modernisation of the Forces. However, modernisation must proceed hand-in- A.K. Antony

Air Chief Marshal P.V. Naik • pvsm vsm adc

he Indian Air Force is celebrating succour to the disaster zone. All this has been possible due its 78th Anniversary this year. The to the commitment and whole-hearted contribution of our IAF which is fast emerging as a finest force-multipliers–our Air Warriors! potent and reckonable aerospace SP’s Aviation is doing a commendable job in increas- power continues in its quest for ing awareness on defence matters in India and abroad. all-round capability build-up. I convey my best wishes to SP’s Aviation and its readers. T The Fire Power Demonstra- Jai Hind! tion ‘Vayu Shakti-2010’ at Pokharan showcased our preci- sion and lethality. The IAF gave a splendid account of itself during the international air exercises conducted in France and UAE as well as the various UN Missions. The Air Force has risen to every occasion in providing assistance in re- lief and rescue operations. The recent operations by the IAF at , against all odds in making the runway opera- tional in half a day, handling record number of aircraft Air Chief Marshal movements daily along with the all-round rescue effort Chief of the Air Staff proved critical in the air bridging efforts that brought Indian Air Force

18 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net NewswithViews IAF SPECIAL Delayed decision-making India is yet to shortlist contenders for supplying 126 fighter jets under the $11-billion (`50,600 crore) medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA) deal. “At the moment, the Offset Technical Committee—headed by the Special Secretary of Defence Production and including members from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Ministry of Defence (MoD)—is evaluating technical offset proposals and sending their observations to all the six contenders,” officials privy to the process recently stated. “Based on the observations, vendors would submit fresh and revised offset proposals,” they added.

VIEWS

eference to the so-called Offset Technical Com- By pre-empting the offset evaluation process, it ap- mittee appears to have been done erroneously. pears that the offset proposals of practically all the con- In all probability, the news is eluding to the set- tending vendors are being studied. As per reports based ting up of the Technical Oversight Committee on the observations of the TOC, vendors would be asked to R(TOC), the seventh step in the long winding path of India’s submit fresh and revised proposals which would then be Defence Procurement Procedure (for details see Forum taken into account for evaluating the vendors again, before ‘Make it Easy’ in September Issue of SP’s Aviation). The the TOC finally prepares its report for submission to the TOC comes into play after the completion of the ‘field tri- MoD. The MoD can decide on shortlisting the vendors only als’ and ‘staff evaluation’ carried out by the concerned when the technical oversight and field trials reports are service—in this case it is the Indian Air Force (IAF). Head- complete. It is only after this process is complete that the ed by the Defence Secretary, Contract Negotiations Commit- the TOC is supposed to have a tee (CNC) would be appointed to three-member team compris- carry the process further. ing one service officer (in this It is obvious that the TOC case from the IAF), one scientist will not be able to accomplish from the DRDO and one repre- its task in the assigned time- sentative of a Defence Public frame of 30 days as stipulated Sector Undertaking (DPSU) not in the DPP. The vendors would involved in the MMRCA ac- also have to be given sufficient quisition. As per the defence time to respond to the obser- procurement procedure (DPP), vations made by the TOC and the TOC’s mandate is to see resubmit their fresh/revised whether the trials, evaluation offset proposals. The exercise of results, compliance to quali- could easily take anywhere be- tative requirements (QRs) and tween three and six months, selection of vendors were done causing additional delays. Fur- according to the prescribed ther, as the entire process would procedures. The TOC also looks almost certainly throw up a into the methodology adopted ‘single/resultant single vendor’ during the trials vis-à-vis the situation, the CNC would, in all trial methodology given in the probability, get into extended request for proposal (RFP) and timeframe of up to 11 months the trial directive. (as authorised by DPP) to com- The TOC is given 30 days to plete its task. In short, there put up its report to the Defence appears to be no chance of a Secretary and after his accep- clear winner emerging before tance the stage could be set for or during the Aero India-2011 the acquisition process to move Air Show. As a matter of fact, it on to the commercial negotiations phase. The TOC, there- may not happen till the very end of 2011 or early 2012. fore, is required to, by and large, comment on the correct- The timeframe for signing of the contract would continue ness of the previous phase of the DPP i.e. field trials and to remain in the realm of speculation as it is certain that resulting staff evaluation. However, if the news is to be be- even after all the DPP hurdles have been crossed and the lieved, it is obvious that the TOC has been additionally man- Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) sanction obtained, dated to also evaluate the offset proposals which must have further government-to-government negotiations would be been put up by different vendors in the response phase of held to get additional benefits for the country. Clearly, the the RFP. This activity would normally have taken place in IAF has a long wait before it starts to reap the operational the next phase, along with the opening of the commercial benefits of the MMRCA deal. SP

i on: anoop kamath Illustrat bids of the selected vendors. —Air Marshal (Retd) V.K. Bhatia

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 19 IAF SPECIAL NewswithViews indian aewcs An Indian built airborne early warning and control system (AEWCS) will be integrated into Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft, which will fly in the country in January 2011. Three ERJ 145 will carry the active array antenna units (AAAU), an electronic phased array radar developed by DRDO. The Defence Electronics Applica- tion Laboratory (DEAL) is building the primary sensors, communication systems and data link. The Defence Avionics Research Establishment (DARE) is mak- ing self-protection systems, electronic warfare suites and communication support systems while the radar will come from Electronics & Radar Development Establishment (LRDE). The integration of the systems, mission computer, display and data handling is being done by the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS).

VIEWS

he first attempt by the indigenous aerospace indus- this year. It is understood that six more AWACS aircraft are try at acquiring an “eye in the sky” with the aim of planned to be procured in the next three five-year plans. boosting the air defence capability of the Indian Air With the induction of the AWACS complemented by the Force (IAF) was designated as Project Airavat, air- AEWCS, there will be a qualitative change in the surveillance Tborne surveillance platform (ASP). The project which essen- capability of the IAF which in turn will have a profound tially was a technology demonstrator, involved mounting of a impact on the tactics, strategy and doctrine of aerial war- rotodome on top of the fuselage of the HS-748 AVRO twin en- fare. Although precise operational capabilities of the Indian gine turboprop transport aircraft on the inventory of the IAF. AEWCS will be determined during user trials, data pertain- After three years of effort by CABS, during which two pro- ing to the system will in all likelihood remain classified. How- totypes were developed, the project culminated in a disaster ever, a similar system, the turboprop Saab 2000 Erieye from when in January 1999, one of Sweden, provides 300 degree the aircraft crashed near Arkko- coverage in azimuth and has nam killing the five scientists and an effective detection range of three crew members on board. around 350 km while operating The project was abandoned after at medium altitude. The ERJ 145 this devastating episode. based AEWCS is likely to have It was in July 2008 that Proj- similar performance, perhaps a ect Airavat was revived when little better, as being a jet aircraft India entered into an agreement it can operate at higher altitudes. with Brazil to jointly develop an However, the Phalcon radar of AEWCS for the IAF. The $415 the IL-76 based AWACS would million (Rs 1,910 crore) project provide higher detection ranges. that had received in-principle These platforms are capable clearance by the Cabinet Com- of detecting aircraft getting air- mittee on Security (CCS) in Sep- borne from enemy airfields that tember 2004, involved staggered lie within their detection range, delivery commencing in 2011, simultaneous tracking of hun- of three Embraer 145 regional dreds of targets and control- jets with appropriate modifica- ling multiple interceptions by tions for the installation of AAAU own air defence fighters. They being developed by CABS which can also serve as airborne com- was also nominated as the nodal mand and control centres free of agency. Development and inte- limitations of ground-based fa- gration of the various subsys- cilities and can enhance the ca- tems such as the primary and pability to detect aerial threats secondary surveillance radar, at low level. Besides, they are electronic countermeasures and relatively less vulnerable to elec- communication and data links tronic countermeasures. Apart into the modified ERJ 145 aircraft would be the responsibil- from defensive role, the system can also support offensive ity of the DRDO. The IAF and DRDO will jointly handle the strike missions, assist forces in the tactical battle area and test flight programme expected to commence in 2012. can intercept and counter unfriendly radar transmissions Concurrently, with the new DRDO project in March 2004, and communication signals. Equipped with data link, these the IAF signed an agreement with Elta of Israel and Russia systems integrate effectively with a network-centric envi- for the supply of three airborne warning and control system ronment and enhance the operational efficacy of other plat- (AWACS) aircraft. This system is based on the Phalcon radar forms such as combat aircraft, UAVs and satellites. AWACS mounted on the Russian IL-76 platform. The first and second and AEWCS complementarily could prove to be the most such system were delivered to the IAF in May 2009 and March potent ‘force multipliers’ for the IAF. SP

P hotograph: Embra e r 2010, respectively. The third aircraft is expected in December –Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey

20 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Infocus IAF SPECIAL AFNET kick-starts A dedicated fibre-optic network should be able to adequately meet the IAF’s current and foreseeable requirement of network activity vis-à-vis air operations. But can the AFNET cover the entire spectrum of network-centric warfare? n its long and continuing march to transform itself with stringent quality of service enforcement is planned to into a modern, highly capable and balanced force, the facilitate robust and high-quality voice, video and confer- Indian Air Force (IAF) is on the threshold of achieving encing solutions. a major milestone in ultimately being able to conduct On the operational front, the integrated air command network-centric operations. It is a well-known fact and control systems (IACCS)—an automated command and that it is the ability to collect, process, and dissemi- control system, especially for air defence (AD) operations— nate flow of information resulting in increased mission space will ride the AFNET backbone integrating all ground-based Iawareness and subsequent dominance, firmly fixed in a clas- and airborne sensors, AD weapon systems and C2 nodes. sical command, control, communications, computers, intelli- IACCS, when operationalised fully, would provide connectiv- gence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR) framework, ity for all the airborne platforms as well as ground platforms which constitutes the essence of present-day air operations. as part of the IAF’s network-centricity, enabling real-time However, even a most modern fighting force, with the best transfer of voice, data and images among aircraft, satellites of command and control structures, the best of ground/air/ and ground bases. space based sensors, the best of combat platforms and the Pioneered by the US Department of Defense, widely finest air warriors would be nothing but impotent and inef- tried during Operation Desert Storm and subsequently per- fective unless it possesses a robust and failsafe communi- fected during the later Operation Iraqi Freedom, network- cation systems, connecting all echelons of the force making centric warfare relies on computer processing power and possible for it to conduct network-enabled operations. networking communications technology to provide shared The milestone alluded to earlier refers to the formal launch information of the battle space among friendly forces. This of Air Force Net (AFNET) communication system by the IAF shared awareness increases synergy for command and con- on September 14. With the commissioning of the AFNET, the trol, resulting in superior decision-making, which in turn, IAF ushers in a modern, state-of-the-art digital information grid, based on a nationwide fibre-optic network. The IAF project, spanning a number of years for completion, is sup- IAF is the first among the three services to posed to be a part of the overall mission to ultimately network all three services. The mission flows out from the backdrop of complete the project of interlinking all its an information technology (IT) roadmap document of India’s Defence Ministry stipulating automation, simulated training major installations throughout the country on and mandatory computer proficiency in the services. On a much larger scale, the IAF has created a mandate to develop and maintain an assured, dedicated, secure and a high bandwidth network through AFNET interoperable communication network along with associated services/establishments to provide real-time, instantaneous enables conduct of complex military operations over long transfer of information between sensors, command and con- distances for an overwhelming war-fighting advantage. But trol (C2) centres and shooters. The IAF also feels it necessary the US network-centric warfare capability rides on a highly to use the communication network and IT-enabled infrastruc- robust, multi-layered communication system with copious ture for all other operational, techno-logistics and adminis- use of space-based satellites—not in single digit numbers trative functions to leverage development in the entire opera- but a whole constellation of them. Even the satellite commu- tional and support spectrum to enhance efficiency and ensure nications are a part system of systems to provide the overall cost-effectiveness. While all the three services are engaged in desired capability for the US armed forces. providing a high degree of automation and computer-based Granted that the AFNET — a dedicated fibre-optic net- networking, the IAF is the first among the three services to work that offers up to 500 MBPS encrypted, unjammable complete the project of interlinking all its major installations bandwidth should be able to adequately meet the IAF’s cur- throughout the country on a high bandwidth network through rent and foreseeable requirement of network activity vis- AFNET. The AFNET would replace the IAF’s old communica- à-vis air operations, including AD, UAV imagery, high-def- tion network, installed more than four decades ago—based inition video streaming, and so on, besides administration on a 1950 Troposcatter technology. and logistics. But the question that looms large is: can the With the AFNET in place, all major formations and static AFNET cover the entire spectrum of network-centric war- establishments of the IAF would have been linked through fare? The other questions that confront all fighting forces a secure wide area network (WAN). AFNET incorporates the pertain to redundancy factors and vulnerability concerns. latest traffic transportation technology in the form of inter- Will or can the AFNET test positive on all these counts? Turn net protocol (IP) packets using multi-protocol label switch- to Forum for some thought-provoking discussions. SP ing (MPLS). A large voice over internet protocol (VoIP) layer —Air Marshal (Retd) V.K. Bhatia

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 21 IAF SPECIAL Forum

Effective Force Multiplier: Minister of State for Defence M.M. Pallam Raju, Communications and Information Technology Minister A. Raja, Defence Minister A.K. Antony, CAS Air Marshal P.V. Naik and Minister of State for comminications and Information Technology Sachin Pilot during the AFNET launch ceremony Effective and Secure Communication While AFNET will provide the jumbo capability, it would have to be linked with satcom, ODL and HF links to complete the network-centricity loop

edicating it to the nation, Defence Minister nications to the IAF, it has still a long way to go to achieve A.K. Antony formally launched the Air Force the desired capabilities in terms of all-round connectivity and Network (AFNET) on September 14, usher- multi-spectrum redundancies to provide the necessary sur- ing in a new era of a modern, state-of-the-art vivability in a hostile combat scenario. But it would be equally digital information grid to provide network- important to understand as to how it all started and where it centric combat capabilities to the Indian Air is now and to determine what more would be required in the Force (IAF), which had been waiting for it for a long time. future to make the IAF a true net-centric force. DAFNET would indeed prove to be an effective force multiplier The communication scenario in the post-independence for intelligence analysis, mission planning and control, post- India was that of operator-assisted or finger-dialing bulky mission feedback and related activities like maintenance, lo- telephones for the elite both in the civil and defence establish- gistics and administration. The system also boasts of a com- ments. For the operational elements, there were mostly the prehensive design with multi-layer security precautions for good old hand-cranked ‘field’ telephones connected with rolls ‘defence in depth’ by incorporating encryption technologies, and rolls of D6 wires laid overground, powered by archaic intrusion prevention systems to guard against information batteries. Then, there were a sprinkling of rudimentary ra- manipulation and eavesdropping. But does it mean that the dars interspersed over locations considered to be the most vi- IAF has reached the acme of capabilities as far as its commu- tal — that too, only in the western sector. The East was almost nication requirements are concerned, enabling it to conduct entirely bereft of any radar capability. The author nostalgi- unhindered network-centric operations? The truth is that cally remembers scrambling in the first generation Toofani jet

Photogra p h: PIB while AFNET provides a quantum jump in secure commu- fighters from Gauhati (now Guwahati) on visual sighting of a

22 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 23 IAF SPECIAL Forum vapour trail emanating from the Tibetan Plateau in the north, the occasion, IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal P.V. Naik called it heading towards Dacca in the south. It took more than 25 a “giant step” for the IAF as it was entering the next-gener- minutes to reach the trail altitude by which time the so-called ation digital network-centric system. “It is a robust system intruder would have reached deep inside the airspace of erst- providing voice/data/video communication and it will be ef- while East , probably in touch with Dacca ATC for the fective communication during peace or war,” he added. Ajay descent clearance. It was only after the Sino-Indian war in Choudhary, Chairman and CEO, HCL Systems, the industry 1962 that the United States came forward to help India estab- partner and systems integrator for AFNET said, “For an In- lish a radar network with a handful of Star Sapphire ground- dian company, it is a matter of pride to be part of the largest based radars. To support the AD system, an elaborate com- network in the defence sector.” munication network called the Troposcatter was planned. The While kudos are certainly in place for the accomplishment programme was big enough for the IAF to create a separate of a gigantic task and creation of an unprecedented commu- establishment called the Radar and Communication Project nication network capability for the IAF, and while the claimed Organisation (RCPO) headed by a two-star Air Vice Marshal quadruple redundancy is well appreciated, one must not ig- (later upgraded to a three-star Air Marshal) appointment. The nore the age-old wisdom of creating an independent backup programme, however, got a severe jolt when the US imposed system, especially in the case of the armed forces which are strict sanctions in the aftermath of Indo-Pak War of 1965. But vulnerable to enemy action from various quarters including it was the grit and determination of the IAF pioneers ably sup- sabotage. It could be assumed that the Troposcatter system ported by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) that ensured con- would be in a ‘wind down’ mode, soon to be consigned to tinuation of the programme and the fact that it was regularly the annals of history. It would be imperative for the IAF to monitored by none other than the then Prime Minister Indira create a full-fledged alternative/complementary system pref- Gandhi. By the end of 1970s, major vital areas throughout erably based on space assets such as communication satel- the country had been networked into the Troposcatter system. lites. Some rudimentary capability does exist in this regard The US supplied Star Sapphire high-powered radars were in- through spectrum sharing basis but it is not adequate. The stalled in selected locations in the western, central and eastern IAF is known to be on the threshold of launching a dedicat- sectors to cater to the requirements of the western, northern ed communication satellite, but clearly this capability would and eastern borders, respectively. To support the air defence have to be built upon further. When one compares the US network, Troposcatter hubs were established largely at elevat- space-based capabilities with more than 100 military satel- ed locations such as Dalhousie, Kasauli, Mount Abu, Kurseong lites employed for myriad operational functions such as com- and other places such as Jaipur, Delhi, to name a few. Periph- munications, navigation, meteorological and ISR, etc, the erals were established at bases ranging from in the next to nil capabilities of the stand out north to Santacruz in the south and from Jamnagar/Naliya in in stark contrast. the west to Chabua in the east. Needless to say, that the entire The second major factor to be remembered is that network served the IAF well for many decades. However, it AFNET provides only the ground connectivity. For the IAF was not only the technology which belonged to the mid-20th to become a modern network-centric force, it would have century, but the Troposcatter equipment itself was getting too to provide operation data link (ODL) to its aerial platforms. old and difficult to maintain which pushed the planners to Ideally, this capability would be desirable for all airborne look for better alternatives. vehicles but if this was not possible due to resource con- At about the same time, India started to witness a revo- straints, there is no escaping the fact that at least all the lution in the fields of information technology (IT) and tele- combat platforms have this capability. The IAF had appar- communications. With India riding the wave of communica- ently taken some steps in this regard by issuing a global tion revolution, frequency spectrum became a very precious tender for a pilot project in 2006 to develop an operational commodity. The IAF planners decided to make use of this data link, which is rumoured to have been bagged by the Is- rare natural resource under their control in a most efficient raelAerospace Industries (IAI) as consultants/co-developers. quid pro quo manner with the Ministry of Telecommunica- Under the pilot programme selected aircraft and ground tion & Information Technology, which was desperately look- stations will be networked to obtain experience in devel- ing for additional spectrum to fuel the growth of 2G as well oping standard operating procedures, integrating platform as the introduction of 3G services in the country. That is mission computers and training of the concerned personnel. what gave birth to the AFNET, which evolved as network for Subsequently, the programme is scheduled to be enlarged to spectrum (NFS) component of the IAF. network fighter and transport aircraft, helicopters and sur- The vastness of the AFNET infrastructure and enabled veillance platforms and ground radars. The ODL network- IT services can be gauged from the fact that it includes centric warfare programme is stated to be carried out in more than 3,800 km of UTP cabling, 6,000 km of campus phases, to become operational by 2012. optical fibre, 4,200 locations with switches, about 30,000 IP Last, but not the least, it would still leave some elements, phones, 260 carrier class routers, over 500 captive power especially the ones operating in remote areas, such as MOFs, generation systems, and over 1,000 security and monitor- LLTRs, etc to continue to rely on HF radio links for commu- ing related devices. AFNET boasts of pan-India deployment, nications. They could also be provided mobile satcom links extensively covering the length and breadth of the country. as backups or vice versa. In the final analysis, while AFNET Defence Minister A.K. Antony who dedicated the AFNET to will provide the jumbo capability, it would have to be mixed the nation on September 14, termed the event as a momen- with satcom, ODL and HF links to complete the network- tous occasion as the network would enhance the adaptabil- centricity loop. SP ity, capability and interoperability of the IAF. Speaking on —Air Marshal (Retd) V.K. Bhatia

24 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net INTERVIEW IAF SPECIAL We are in the process of introducing radical changes in the training environment Integrity, ethics and values are the qualities which the IAF has always focused on during the selection of officers. In an interview to SP’s Aviation, Air Marshal K.J. Mathews, Air Officer-in-charge Personnel (AOP), spoke about different measures taken to ensure that the officers are fully trained to meet the challenges of contemporary modern military environment.

SP’s Aviation (SP’s:) The Indian Air Force (IAF) had pro- impact on safety, a replacement of the HPT-32 aircraft was un- cured the Hawk 132 advanced jet trainer for advanced der process even when the HPT-32 was flying. With grounding stage training of fighter pilots. How has this induction of the HPT-32, this process has been further hastened. The re- helped the training in IAF and how far has IAF been placement of HPT-32 with a modern basic trainer that would successful in achieving this aim? have its own simulators and computer-aided learning sys- AOP: The advanced stage of fighter training (Stage–III) was tems as part of the package, is now being progressed on fast earlier conducted entirely on the Kiran Mk-II aircraft fol- track. The case is in procurement stage and the first batch of lowed by training on to the MiG-21 aircraft (Stage-IV) before selected aircraft is expected to be available by 2013-14. the pilot was posted to the operational squadrons. Hawk Mk- 132 advanced jet trainer induction into the IAF was com- SP’s: With plans for induction of new aircraft like the Su- menced in 2008 as a lead-in fighter trainer with an aim to 30, MMRCA, etc, an increase in intake of pilots is envis- completely replace the Kiran Mk-II/ MiG-21 route of training. aged. How is IAF planning to accommodate training of this Training on a modern Hawk AJT is aimed at bridging the gap enhanced intake in the existing training infrastructure? between a slow speed subsonic Kiran aircraft and the high AOP: With many new inductions on the horizon, the require- speed fighter jet and enable the trainee to graduate smoothly ment of pilots in the IAF is bound to increase. The existing Air on to a more complex frontline fighter aircraft in less time Force Academy at would not be able to absorb than the Kiran–MiG-21 route. much increase in intake of pilot trainees due to constraints of airspace, infrastructure, etc. Thus, setting up of a second Air SP’s: What step is the IAF taking to ensure that the con- Force Officers Training Academy is being considered. temporary training is being imparted to the air warriors to meet the challenges of the 21st century? SP’s: The air warrior gets inducted at an early age and AOP: The IAF is in the process of introducing radical chang- since the engagement period is 20 years, they retire at es in its training environment through introduction of mod- an early age compared to their civilian counterparts. ern trainer aircraft, simulators and other modern training What are the initiatives from IAF to enable a second equipment into the training centres. This is to ensure that career for these personnel? the trainees are fully trained to meet the challenges of the AOP: An integrated IAF Placement Cell has been established contemporary modern military environment. at Air Force Records Office, New Delhi to assist retired/retir- ing air warriors to find suitable jobs in civil sector including SP’s: What is the current status of the HPT-32? Are there any public sector undertakings. To boost the employment oppor- plans for revival of the aircraft? What steps are being taken tunities for ex-air warriors across India, Regional Placement for procurement of a new basic trainer aircraft as a replace- Cells have been established at all Regional Commands. The ment for the already grounded and obsolete HPT-32 aircraft Placement Cell has a dedicated website through which em- to cater to the basic training requirements of the IAF? ployees and employers can register themselves. AOP: The HAL built HPT-32 was being used as a basic train- As of now, more than 635 companies have registered er for the training of ab initio pilots (Stage–I flying) of the with the IAF Placement Cell and more than 25,000 ex-air IAF, Indian Navy, and foreign trainees. warriors have been sponsored through the Placement Cell. In addition, the aircraft was also being utilised at Flying About 1,860 ex-air warriors have been re-employed through Instructors’ School in Tambaram for the training of flying placement fairs and IAF Placement Cell. SP instructors. Training flying on this aircraft was suspended after the fatal accident on one of the aircraft in July 2009. To read the complete interview log on to: Considering the reliability of vital systems, obsolescence www.spsaviation.net/interviews

Photogra p h: I A F of technology, limitations on the basic escape system and its

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 25 IAF SPECIAL INTERVIEW We are at the threshold of becoming a first world air power

The much awaited Hawk AJT has been with the IAF for more than a year now. Has this changed the flight safety scenario as anticipated? Please explain. DG: Yes, absence of a proper AJT has been an impediment in training young pilots of the IAF. Earlier, the pilots, after flying basic trainers (HT-2/HPT-32 and Kiran) were sent to Transonic aircraft (Hunter) and then to Supersonic aircraft like MiG-21, etc. However, after phasing out of the hunter fleet, a vacuum emerged necessitating graduation of the pilots directly from basic trainers to supersonic aircraft. After induction of Hawk trainer aircraft in the IAF towards the end of 2007, the gap in the training programme has been plugged and things have started improving.

SP’s: Bird hits have been another factor which contrib- Over the years, the Indian Air Force has been working towards uted considerably to the IAF’s accident rates in the past. reducing accident rates. In an exclusive interview to Could you explain as to what measures have been taken by the IAF to reduce this menace? What are the latest SP’s Aviation, Air Marshal A.S. Karnik, Director trends in this regard? General, Inspection & Safety, IAF, spoke about different DG: To reduce bird hit cases, a dedicated ornithology cell has been established at the Directorate of Aerospace Safety. measures taken to make IAF’s capability truly global. The cell has completed bird survey at 28 flying bases of the IAF & station specific anti-bird modules have been imple- mented. As part of anti-bird measure, environmental clean- SP’s Aviation (SP’s): The Indian Air Force (IAF) has ing within the airbases is being undertaken on a war footing come a long way in reducing accident rates. Please to deny a habitat for birds and animals so as to prevent their explain what further steps are being taken to improve collision with the aircraft. Also, a project called solid waste the statistics to bring them at par with other leading management, which is aimed at systematic management of air forces of the world? garbage from the township in the vicinity of our airfields so DG: Yes; over the last 10 years, the IAF has lowered its accident as to deny habitat for resting and roosting of birds has been rate and as we go along the downward trend is healthy. Ide- started at 10 selected IAF bases with financial assistance ally, we would like to have zero accident rate. But this may not from the Central Government. Subsequently, this scheme be practically achievable considering the size and diversity of would be extended to all other airfields. aircraft fleets that the IAF operates. Keeping these and various other issues in mind, we in the IAF have set an accident rate SP’s: The FS&I Branch at Air HQ is directly responsible to limit target of 0.2 for this year, which would be comparable to carry out periodic inspections of all units/stations of the most of the leading air forces of the world. IAF. Could you comment on the present capabilities of the IAF and what measures are being taken to improve SP’s: In the past, technical defects and human error these further? have been the major causes of accidents in the IAF. DG: Inspection teams are regularly sent to the field to moni- Could you tell us if there has been any improvement in tor and fine tune any issues that may arise to hamper the these areas? capability of the IAF. We now have the capability to stand DG: Though technical defect (TD) and human errors (HE) shoulder-to-shoulder with the best air forces in the world. have been the major causes of accidents earlier, there has And the air forces the world over recognise this fact and been improvement in these areas in the last 10 years. The often invite us to participate in international exercises. And accident rates due to technical defect and human error have ,there are no quarters given. In fact, when we take our Su- improved from 0.68 and 0.38, respectively in the financial 30s across, it is us, at times, making concessions to other year 2000-01 to 0.26 each in 2009-10. participating forces. SP

SP’s: In the past absence of a proper advanced jet trainer (AJT) has been considered to be a major cause To read the complete interview log on to: www.spsaviation.net/interviews Photogra p h: I A F of accidents, especially, amongst the younger pilots.

26 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net 277 mm Bleed 267 mm Trim 257 mm Live Scale: 1.0" = 1" = 1.0" Scale: 0 25 3C 4C 50 5100 75 41M 50C 41Y 50K Output printed at: printed Output Production Artist: Space/Color: Frontline Communications Partners Communications Frontline Retoucher: file Name: file Client - FRONTLINE Job # - 118466 Ver. - AD01A - Ver. 118466 - # Job FRONTLINE - Client Media: Bleed: Fonts: Date: If it is deficient or does not comply with your requirements, please contact: please requirements, your with comply not does or deficient is it If Trim: Live: Helvetica (Bold), Helvetica (Plain), Helvetica 65 Helvetica (Plain), Helvetica (Bold), Helvetica D. Seymour D. mm 277 x mm 220 mm 267 x mm 210 mm 257 x mm 197 Page–4-Color–Bleed Full Aviation SP 90% BOEG_BDS_IMG_2106M 9/15/10 Client: PUBLICATIONNOTE: Boeing 220 mm Bleed mm 220 Material for this insertion is to be examined carefully upon receipt. upon carefully examined be to is insertion this for Material Cyan Job Number: Job Guideline for general identification only. Do not use as insertion order.insertion as use only.not identification Do general for Guideline Magenta 210 mm Trimmm 210 BOEG_BDS_IMG_2106M Yellow Product: 197 mm Live mm 197 80CnuyPr at ut 01 o nee,C 90067 1011,CA Los Suite Angeles, East, Park Century 1880 Account Executive: Account Creative Director: Creative Black TrafficManager: Boeing Defense Space & Security & Space Defense Boeing Print Producer: Print Proof Reader: Proof Digital Artist: Copy Writer: Copy Art Director: Art Art Buyer: Art Vendor: Print Production at 310-601-1485. at Production Print Client: Legal: GCD: its 78th anniversary 78th its For Air Indian B oeing is proud to salute the salute to proud is oeing Schawk P P.Serchuk J. Alexander P.Serchuk Helen Kim Helen Boeing McAuliffe D. . Serchuk ce as it celebrates it as ce . Date/Initials Bleed Trim Live Approved IAF SPECIAL Analysis

By Air Marshal (Retd) V.K. Bhatia

orn in 1932, the Indian Air Force (IAF) celebrat- ed its Platinum Jubilee in 2007. On the occasion of the Air Force Day, on October 8, the then Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal F.H. Major in his anniversary message had stated, “The emerging geopolitical and security scenario requires our nation to possess comprehensive military capability, charac- Bterised by flexibility and speed of response, the mobility and transportability of all forms of national power, long-reach, pre- cision targeting, minimum fuss, collateral damage and reduced visibility. Aerospace power fits the bill perfectly. And the 21st century promises to belong to it for its ready applicability in all situations. Given the Indian situation, our concerns and aspi- On Wings Towards CENTENARY The IAF is in the midst of a self-claimed transformation. It is true that it is transiting through unique challenges but also open prospects for new

kamath & A bh i shek / Sp gu de p ubns p kamath anoo HA L, Photogra p hs: I A F, opportunities.

28 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Analysis IAF SPECIAL

China is moving fast to realise its aim to have a predominantly fourth generation air force, providing it with state-of-the-art offensive air arm with matching force-multipliers and support systems in a network-centric warfare scenario

rations, a strong and comprehensive aerospace capability is inescapable. India requires it in all its capabilities.” Since then, three years have elapsed and the IAF is pur- posefully winging its way to the centenary. But while march- ing steadfastly ahead, does the IAF also find itself on the right path to enable it to acquire the necessary capabilities, both in qualitative as well as quantitative terms? The IAF is said to be in the midst of a self-claimed transformation. It is true that it is transiting through unique moments of history which not only present new challenges but which also open prospects for new opportunities. The big question is: will the IAF be able to keep its tryst to be a world class aerospace power as it ripens in age to reach a triple figure? In the words of (Retd) Jasjit Singh, Director, Centre for Air Power Studies and an emi- nent air force historian, “What the IAF would be at that time would depend almost entirely on how it deals with its transfor- mation.” Could it be hoped that by the time IAF celebrates its

Air Chief Marshal (Retd) S.P. Tyagi It was 1963, when I walked in as a teen- ager to join the Indian Air Force (IAF). The expansion of the IAF post-Sino-Indian conflict in 1962 had started. No one then could, however, conceptualise that the IAF would grow to be a formidable force that it has become now. The journey from a propeller driven aircraft force (Hur- ricanes, Spitfires) to subsonic jets (Vam- pires, Toofanis) to transonic jets (Mysteres, Hunters, Gnats) to supersonic fighters (MiGs) to ultra-modern equipped combat machines (Jaguars, Mirages, Sukhois) to the hypersonic MiG-25 (now sadly no longer flying), it has been a fascinating journey. A similar story can be told for the Trans- port and the Rotary Wing Fleet. The glory that the IAF has achieved in all the operations it has been involved in has also been legendary. Personally, the most satisfying aspect for me in my 47 years of association with the IAF, starting from that fateful morning in 1963, has been the transformation of the IAF from a tactically minded force (Bur- ma, Jammu & Kashmir and even 1965 and to a lesser extent in 1971) to a truly strategic force with trans-oceanic capabilities. As we start a new year on October 8, may the IAF continue to grow as an outstanding aerospace force—the pride of the na- mainstay of tion. Truly, the sky is not the limit. Touch the space with glory. indian air force: Happy Anniversary Indian Air Force. sukhoi-30mki

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 29 IAF SPECIAL Analysis forces in the 1991 Iraq war. China’s modernisation drive to re- (PAF) has been given place its antiquated weapon systems with the help of Russian technology and expertise has resulted in rapid transformation maximum priority to develop into a modern of PLAAF. With the infusion of hundreds of Su-27s and Su-30s coupled with its continuing home production of J-11, and in- fighting force. The implications for India are that digenous development and production of other types such as JH-7/7A, FC-1 and J-10, China is moving fast to realise its aim it may soon have to contend with 1,500 to 2,000 to have a predominantly fourth generation air force, providing it with all-pervading capabilities of a modern, state-of-the-art modern jet fighters at its two borders offensive air arm with matching force-multipliers and support systems in a network-centric warfare scenario. Pakistan on the other hand has been and continues to reap the military ben- efits for supposedly partnering with the US in its Global War on centenary, it would not only have remained but improved upon Terror (GWOT). It has already received more than$11 billion being the prime repository of India’s credible conventional ca- (`50,600 crore) worth of modern weapon systems from the US pabilities while providing critical components of credible and which include the latest models of F-16 aircraft. In addition, survivable nuclear deterrence; that it would have changed Pakistan has started producing the JF-17 Thunder (Chinese from a subcontinental, geographically limited force to one with FC-1) indigenously. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has been giv- true continental reach and effect; that it would have acquired en maximum priority to develop into a modern fighting force. capabilities for the strategic role along with the capability to The implications for India are that it may soon have to contend perform tactical tasks more effectively; that it would have ac- with 1,500 to 2,000 modern jet fighters at its two borders. quired increasing ability to exploit space capabilities for en- Ironically, when its adversaries were in the process of hancing military operations; that it would have shifted from feverishly re-equipping themselves with modern combat a pure line-of-sight (LoS) capability to substantively beyond- platforms, the IAF went into a downward spiral in terms of visual-range (BVR) capabilities; that it would have integrated combat force levels, dropping from its original 39 ½ combat

new technology systems like AWACS, etc fully into service; that squadrons to a less than 30-combat squadron force. The IAF it would have built force levels to not only the currently autho- is now trying to come out of a deep well of decline by in- rised, but also to the recommended enhanced levels and lastly, ducting new fighter aircraft into its inventory. Spearheading that it would be capable to fully respond when called upon to the new inductions are the twin-engine Su-30 MKI air domi- serve a variety of national interests in contingencies and un- nance fighters more than a hundred of which have already predictable challenges and tasks, not only within the country been pushed into service in six combat squadrons. Continu- but also on a global scale? ing their production at the HAL Nasik factory, the total num- Any assessment of the future direction of the IAF must rest ber ordered has swelled up to 270 aircraft. With these, the on the likely capabilities of countries whose air power could IAF is likely to have close to 12 squadrons of Su-30s by 2015 impinge on Indian security. India has two major adversaries in or so. While the Su-30 MKI is fast becoming the IAF’s main- its neighbourhood, China and Pakistan, who individually and stay, however, this alone will not be able to fill the yawning collectively pose the gravest of security challenges for India. gap which has been created in the IAF’s combat capabilities. China’s military modernisation has been progressing purpose- Even a cursory glance at the emerging threat scenarios fully for more than two decades, since the time Beijing ob- would reveal that the IAF would not only have to regain its served the superiority demonstrated by the high-tech coalition original strength of 39 ½ combat squadrons but go much be-

30 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Analysis IAF SPECIAL key to success: direction but would need to be pursued diligently. (from oppposite page left) recently But fighter fleets alone do not give ‘comprehensive acquired awacs, capabilities’ needed for a modern air force to carry out all its uav, ongoing LCA multifarious tasks. Other combat and support elements in the programme (tejas) and light combat required quantities are equally important for the IAF to dis- helicopter (LCH) charge its responsibilities in full. The IAF has indeed chalked under development up an all-encompassing programme to bolster its capabilities in transport and helicopter fleets, air defence systems includ- ing surface-to-air missiles, unmanned aerial systems, force- multipliers such as the AWACS and flight Refueller aircraft, precision-guided and stand-off munitions, et al. Ongoing and proposed acquisitions such as C-130Js Hercules and C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft; heavy, light utility and at- tack helicopters and additional Mi-17s, Spyder SAM systems, additional UAVs, additional AWACS and FRA force-multipliers, additional radars including aerostat versions are all part and parcel of a well-thought out plan. The purely indigenous and joint-venture (JV) efforts include the Indo-Russian multi-role transport (MTA) aircraft, the Indo-Israeli medium-range sur- face-to-air missile (MR-SAM), Dhruv advanced light helicop- ter (ALH) and the under development light combat helicopter (LCH). The DRDO is developing the Indian version of AEW&C on a Brazilian Embraer ERJ-145 platform. In the field of the unmanned aerial vehicles, all types and sizes of UAVs are being developed. The latest reports indicate that even an unmanned

yond that to deter its adversaries, especially in a two-front combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) called Aura is being developed threat scenario. In February last year, the Defence Minister, indigenously and the design work of it is being carried out by A.K. Antony had stated that by the end of the 13th Five Year the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). Plan (2017-22), the combat fleet of the IAF would be increased In 2008, Air Chief Marshal Major had stated that the IAF to 42 squadrons. While a lot would have to be done to achieve was in a state of unprecedented transformation that would en- this, however, once achieved, a further increase to a recom- tail an investment of $100 billion (`4,60,000 crore). Perhaps, he mended 50-squadron combat fleet by the end of the 15th Five was alluding to a timeframe up to the 13th Five Year Plan pe- Year Plan i.e. 2032 (also the year of the IAF’s centenary) would riod. Stretching it to the 15th Five Year Plan period, it could eas- need to be planned and pushed vigorously. The IAF needs to ily top $200 billion (`9,20,000 crore). The IAF is indeed headed finally build up to a combat force level of around 1,000 air- for a bright and starry centenary. SP craft to be able to adequately meet its requirements of nuclear/ conventional deterrence. The ongoing LCA (Tejas) programme, —The author has been the -in- the 126-MMRCA acquisition programme, the fifth generation Chief of IAF’s 3 operational commands including the PAK-FA Indo-Russian joint development programme and the largest operational command i.e. Western Air Command futuristic MCA indigenous programme are all steps in the right headquartered in New Delhi

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 31 IAF SPECIAL Industry Opportunities Ahead The IAF will have lucrative opportunities for the global aerospace industry in the coming decades

By Air Marshal (Retd) B.K. Pandey, Bengaluru

n February last year, Defence Minister A.K. Antony The mandatory levels of “offset” prescribed for defence in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha equipment related contract in the Defence Procurement Pro- had said that by the end of the 13th Five Year Plan cedure (DPP) 2008 as amended from time to time ranges period (2017-22), the combat fleet of the Indian Air from 30 to 50 per cent. It will therefore devolve upon the do- Force (IAF) would increase to 42 squadrons from the mestic aerospace industry to cope with new business worth current level of 32 squadrons. The figure stated by a minimum of $30 billion (`1,38,000 crore). The prospects the Minister of Defence is higher than the government sanc- in the wake of the staggering levels of investment intended Itioned strength of 39.5 squadrons. The increase therefore is to be made by India for the IAF over the next 10-20 years, a mere 6 per cent. However, on the occasion of the anniver- would certainly be mouth-watering for both the global as sary of the IAF two years ago, the then Chief of the Air Staff well as the domestic aerospace industry. (CAS), Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi Major was more specific when he disclosed that “the IAF was in the process of an Aircraft Acquisition Programmes unprecedented transformation that would entail an invest- Even prior to the earth shattering disclosure by the CAS in ment of around $100 billion (`4,60,000 crore) for aircraft, October 2008, the IAF had already finalised a deal worth equipment and infrastructure over the next one decade or $1.1 billion (`5,060 crore) with US aerospace major Lock- so”. It goes without saying that the major share of the pie heed Martin for procurement of six C-130J Super Hercu-

Photogra p hs: abhishek / Sp guide ubns & iaf would go to the global aerospace industry. les military transport aircraft for use by the Indian Special

32 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Industry IAF SPECIAL

due for upgradation: almost 100 jaguars are likely to be re-engined for stronger thrust

Forces. The first of the six aircraft contracted is expected 10 of the most advanced version of the aircraft through a to be delivered to the IAF in 2011. In another deal with government-to-government transaction also referred to as Boeing which was to the tune of $1 billion (`4,600 crore), foreign military sales (FMS) programme of the US Govern- the IAF has received three customised Boeing business jets ment. The agreement is likely to be signed during the US for VVIP travel. These have been operational with Delhi President Barack Obama’s visit to India in November this (Palam)-based Air Headquarters Communication Squadron year. With this acquisition, India would have the largest since April last year when they were formally inducted by C-17 fleet outside the US. At present this privilege is with the the . In March this year, the IAF signed a UK that has a fleet of eight C-17 Globemaster aircraft. The $750 million (`3,450 crore) contract with AgustaWestland, IAF plans to bid for another six of these mammoth aircraft a Finmeccanica company for 12 AW101 helicopters once after induction of the first 10. again for VVIP travel. In the regime of rotary wing, the IAF is looking for 22 After conducting extensive trials in India last year, the attack helicopters to replace the ageing fleets of Mi-35 for IAF selected the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III heavy lift mili- which the request for proposal (RFP) has been issued. The tary transport aircraft to replace the ageing fleet of IL-76 products available in the global market that could conform aircraft and as the mainstay meet its requirements of strate- to the qualitative requirements of the tender are Agus- gic mobility and reach. The IAF is currently engaged in the taWestland A129, Bell AH-1Z Cobra, Boeing AH-64D Apache process of finalising the $5.8 billion (`26,680 crore) deal for Longbow, Eurocopter Tiger, Kamov Ka-52 and Mil Mi-28.

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 33 IAF SPECIAL Industry The IAF is also seeking 15 heavy lift helicopters to re- Deal about to close place the Mi-26 that are of Russian origin. The RFPs for Boeing C-17 Globemaster III this requirement has been sent to Eurocopter, Bell He- Number of aircraft: 10 licopter, Sikorsky Aircraft, Boeing, AgustaWestland and Cost: $5.8 billion (`26,680 crore) Kamov Design Bureau. Updates: Deal likely in November After the tender for the attack helicopter was floated for the second time, Boeing has entered the race with an offer of the renowned attack helicopter Apache AH New Requirements 64D. In the case of the heavy lift helicopter require- Attack helicopters ment, the IAF is evaluating the Boeing Chinook CH-47F Number of aircraft required: 22 which will be acquired through the US Government’s Update: RFP issued FMS programme. Together, the two contracts would be in the region of $2 billion (`9,200 crore). The lead time On Race: AgustaWestland A129, Bell AH-1Z Co- bra, Boeing AH-64D Apache Longbow, Eurocopter Tiger, Kamov for delivery of the helicopters to the IAF would normal- Ka-52 and Mil Mi-28 ly be three years after the contract is signed. There is no transfer of technology (ToT) involved as the machines are being purchased outright and are not to be manu- Heavy lift helicopters factured in India. Number of aircraft required: 15 In July 2008, the Government of India cleared the pur- Update: RFP issued chase of 384 three-tonne weight category light utility heli- On Race: Eurocopter, Bell Helicopter, Sikorsky copter (LUH) worth $2 billion (`9,200 crore) to replace the Aircraft, Boeing, AgustaWestland and Kamov Design Bureau ageing fleet of Cheetah and Chetak that have been around for four decades. Of these, 125 machines would go to the Light utility helicopters IAF and 259 to the Indian Army. As a part of this project, the government has for the second time floated a $750 Number of aircraft required: 384 million (`3,450 crore) tender to six aerospace majors, for Update: Tender issued for 197 fast rack, off-the-shelf purchase of 197 LUH, 133 for the On Race: Eurocopter, Bell Helicopter, Sikorsky Indian Army and 64 for the IAF. The offset obligation in Aircraft, Boeing, AgustaWestland and Kamov Design Bureau this tender has been pitched at 50 per cent. Trials are un- der way and the contract is likely to be finalised in the Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft near future. The balance of 184 is to be manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, in all likelihood with lim- Number of aircraft required: 126 ited collaboration with a foreign partner. Update: Tendering process slow, but may be But perhaps the mother of all deals is the $12 bil- finalised soon lion (`55,200 crore) tender for 126 medium multi-role On Race: Boeing and Lockheed Martin from the US, Saab, EADS combat aircraft (MMRCA) for which six of the leading and Dassault from Europe and RAC MiG from Russia global aerospace majors are in the race. These are Boe- ing and Lockheed Martin from the US, Saab, EADS and Mid-air refuelling aircraft Dassault from Europe and RAC MiG from Russia. The Number of aircraft required: 6 tendering process has undoubtedly been slow but hope- Update: RFP to be re-issued fully it should be finalised soon. On Race: EADS, Boeing and Ilyushin, etc Force Multipliers A new area the IAF has ventured into is the acquisi- Jaguar upgradation (reengine) tion of “force multipliers” for which the requirement is Number of aircraft: 100 acute. The IAF needs force multipliers in sizeable num- Update: RFP expected soon bers and the acquisition process has already begun with the arrival of the IL-76 based AWACS equipped with the On Race: Honeywell & other engine manufacturers Phalcon radar. The IAF has plans to ultimately build up the fleet strength to nine aircraft. Meanwhile, the DRDO Surface-to-air guided weapon (SAGW) system replacement has ordered three Embraer ERJ-145 platforms for con- Induction: To commence in 2012 and be over by 2022 version to airborne early warning & control (AEW&C) system mounting indigenously developed AESA ra- Light combat aircraft Tejas engine dar. The IAF suffered a setback in its plans to enhance the reach of its combat fleet when the government re- Engines required: 99 jected the proposal to acquire six new mid-air refuel- On Race: GE Aviation and Eurojet ling aircraft, the Airbus A330 MRTT (multi-role tanker transport) aircraft of EADS. The RFP will be reissued Other requirements to EADS, Boeing and Ilyushin among others for a wider Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) including unmanned competition. The deals would be in the region of $1.5 combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), micro and mini UAVs billion (`6,900 crore). Other items urgently required in

34 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net flying high

With an engine made for India’s Jaguar fleet.

Honeywell’s F125IN engine will make the Jaguar roar. It meets or exceeds all performance requirements. It achieves more power, more range and more savings. It fits into existing Jaguar airframes. Tested and available today, the F125IN engine will help propel the Indian Air Force into the future. The future has arrived.

The F125IN engine: Drop-fit solution | Best-in-class thrust-to-weight ratio | Greater mission range | Increased pilot safety | Decreased pilot workload | Shorter high-hot takeoff | Minimal thrust deterioration For more information visit www.honeywellforjaguar.com IAF SPECIAL Industry

fairly large numbers are unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) Fleet Modernisation and Upgrades including unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAV), micro Some of the existing fleet of the IAF are lined up for major and mini UAVs. The IAF needs to revamp its air defence upgradation. Work on the first batch of the 105 An-32 aircraft surveillance capabilities both at high and low level through has already begun under a contract signed on June 15, 2009 induction of modern radar systems including aerostats and with Ukraine. A $2 billion (`9,200 crore) deal has been signed strike capabilities with precision attack weapon systems. with France to modernise the fleet of 50 Mirage 2000 aircraft on the inventory of the IAF. Under a contract signed in 2009, Russian Aerospace Industry Russia will upgrade the 60 MiG-29 fighters of the IAF by 2013 Russian companies have dominated the Indian market for extending their service life by another 15 years. There is a plan defence related hardware since the mid-1960s especially to re-engine the 100 or so Jaguar aircraft for which Honeywell in the aerospace segment. Despite the change in the global Aerospace is one of the contenders with an offer of the F125IN geopolitical and geostrategic equations after the collapse engine which is more powerful, is lighter and more fuel ef- of the Soviet Union, the Russian influence on the Indian ficient compared with the engine currently fitted. As per Hon- aerospace market does not seem to have waned. The IAF eywell, the engine is projected to save the IAF over $1.5 billion is in the process of receiving 80 Mi-17 helicopters and the (`6,900 crore) in life-cycle costs compared to other upgrada- tion options under consider- ation. The RFP for this project is expected soon. Meanwhile, GE Ready for a Makeover: Aviation offering the GE F-414 the fleet of mirage 2000 and Eurojet with the EJ200 are is likely to be upgraded by Dassault Aviation in the race for the light combat aircraft Tejas engine deal. The tender is for 99 engines valued at approximately $750 million (`3,450 crore). Hindustan Aero- nautics Limited (HAL) has pro- posed $2.37 billion (`10,902 crore) modernisation plan for the Su-30MKI fleet with the support of the Russian origi- nal equipment manufacturer (OEM). The project is envisaged to be completed in a phased manner beginning 2012.

Air Defence Systems IAF is in the process of replac- ing the surface-to-air guided weapon (SAGW) system. The ageing Pechora fleet of Rus- sian origin is to be replaced by new generation medium range surface-to-air missile system. Induction of the new system is expected to commence in the beginning of 2012. The IAF is proposal for another 59 machines is expected to be ap- to acquire the short-range surface-to-air missile system to proved by the government in the near future. The Rus- replace the OSA-AK system. This new generation low level sian aerospace industry is in for a bonanza as India is quick reaction missile system being developed by DRDO committed to jointly develop the two-seat fifth generation jointly with a foreign partner, is likely to be inducted into fighter aircraft (FGFA) based on the Russian T-50 PAK-FA service next year. In the interim, 18 Spyder low-level quick- platform to conform to the requirements of the IAF. Sub- reaction missile systems from Israel are being acquired by stantial funds, understood to be in the order of $6 billion the IAF at a cost of $400 million (`1,840 crore) to plug gaps (`27,600 crore) stands committed for this project which in the air defence network. By 2022, all obsolete SAGW as- is expected to fructify by 2017. The FGFA will be manu- sets would be replaced by new generation systems. factured under licence by HAL for both the domestic and Undoubtedly, the IAF offers lucrative opportunities to the export markets. The other major project in the offing is the global aerospace industry in the decades ahead. SP joint development of the twin-engine multi-role transport aircraft needed by the IAF in large numbers to replace its —The author has been the Air Officer ageing fleet of An-32 aircraft and add to the strategic and Commanding-in-Chief of IAF’s Training Command tactical airlift capability. headquartered in Bengaluru

36 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net 26966_EF_UNRIVALLED_SP'sMilYrbk_2010_Feb10_267x210_Layout 27/05/2010 15:12 Page 1

www.eurofighter.com n o t h i n g c o m e s c l o s e IAF SPECIAL OEM APG-80 AESA Radar Providing Innovative, Dependable Performance

emanding, instantaneous, and persistent processes as the USAF F-22 APG-77 and F-35 APG-81 are words which describe today’s danger- AESAs—provides the F-16IN and the Indian Air Force a su- ous aerial combat environment. The F-16IN’s perior product that is available now. Others who are only APG-80 Active Electronically Scanned Array in the testing phase of AESA development will need many (AESA) radar tames this environment with more years to achieve the performance and dependability mode-interleaved, operationally-proven AESA that APG-80 demonstrates today. performance, supported by unmatched dependability. In Northrop Grumman’s legacy mechanically-scanned ra- Dover five years of operational use, no APG-80 AESA has ever dars won many USAF and international awards for depend- failed in the field. Pilots who have flown the APG-80 in the ability. Because of Northrop Grumman’s 35-year wealth of unique F-16 Block 60 don’t want to fly again with any other electronically-scanned radar experience, APG-80 reached F-16 fire control radar, and know that they can count on its designed reliability goal in record time. The APG-80 APG-80 day after day. AESA continues to improve on this goal, operating daily in APG-80 is unique to the F-16IN and F-16 Block 60, and hot, humid climates. meets or exceeds MMRCA reliability requirements. APG-80 Like its APG-81 cousin in the F-35, APG-80 was designed provides twice the air-to-air detection range of other F-16 to be easy to maintain. While maintenance actions are limited radars, and is more than twice as reliable. The well-estab- because of the high reliability, APG-80 provides easy access lished APG-80 has not only been put through its combat to those few elements which must be removed and replaced. paces, but its sheer dependability has proven to be a boon to Northrop Grumman has produced over 300 airborne fire those who maintain and sustain it. During its development, control AESA radars to date—APG-77s, -80s and -81s. Un- for example, Northrop Grumman created APG-80 with high der existing contracts, Northrop Grumman will be producing performance threshold requirements. Since fielding, APG- AESAs for air forces worldwide for decades. Well established 80 has always met these design criteria. and fully vetted by air force pilots and maintainers, the F- Northrop Grumman’s long experience with producing 16IN APG-80 is the choice for maximum AESA performance AESAs–APG-80 is built in the same factory, with the same and dependability for the Indian Air Force. SP

38 ATC Advert.inddSP’S AVIATION 1 Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net9/28/10 2:05:47 PM OPERATIONS IAF SPECIAL prompt in action: relief material for leh flood victims being offloaded from iaf’s IL-76

WESTERN AIR Beyond the Sky COMMAND From the mountains to the deserts, the Western Air Command guards the Indian skies with an indomitable spirit that can beat all odds

eople first, mission always, is the vision of Western Air Command (WAC). And time and again, the command per- sonnel have demonstrated that an indomitable spirit can beat all odds. The air warriors in WAC are aware that limita- tions do exist, but only in the mind. And their minds are al- Air Marshal ways guided by the command’s motto Aakashmasmtseema, N.A.K. Browne, Air Officer meaning sky is the limit. Commanding-in-Chief The IAF which stands at the threshold of a transforma- tion will see its role shift significantly from the tactical to the strategic realm. And spearheading this technological revolu- tion is the WAC. WAC’s air warriors and air defence infrastructure, be- sides guarding the skies are also responsible to provide air defence protection to the National Capital Region—both during peace and war. The WAC has thus been tasked to provide air defence cover for the Commonwealth Games. Path-breaking Year: The year gone by has been a very sat- Photogr ap hs: p i b & a f p Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 39 IAF SPECIAL OPERATIONS isfying one for WAC, as path-breaking efforts were made port aircraft, attack helicopter or even for the new set of towards increasing its combat potential. A comprehensive mountain radars and ground-based weapon systems. The plan was made for acquiring the necessary wherewithal to- operational expertise of WAC is crucial for such important wards the planned technology upgradation in the future. induction-related decisions as a majority of the new acquisi- The underlying mantra guiding all the actions has been to tions would be deployed first in WAC area of responsibility improve the efficiency and capabilities of the entire sys- (AOR). WAC is also well poised to meet the concomitant chal- tem in a holistic manner. As a starting point, an airfield lenges brought about by the rapidly changing geopolitical upgradation plan is currently under way. Airfields would situation in its neighbourhood. be upgraded to support and integrate the new inductions. Major radar systems and the first of the two Su-30 Sqns Considering the prevalent internal security situation, secu- in WAC AOR would be inducted next year. Thus, the WAC rity of the infrastructure as well as vital installations is also operation infrastructure plan focuses on bringing up the undergoing a major beef up. additional base infrastructure While Bhatinda airfield work for Su-30s as well as other ad- was completed on July 10, Sri- ditional facilities to support op- nagar airfield will be ready to erations around the clock. In undertake full-scale operations addition, support systems like commencing September 10 the ground exploitation system and Leh airfield work is pro- both for AWACS and Su-30, air gressing on schedule. combat manoeuvering instru- Casualty evacuation and mentation ground station and other disaster relief missions the integrated air command are also undertaken by WAC and control system (IACCS) frequently. Recently, during the would add more teeth to its war flash floods in Leh, the air war- waging capabilities. riors toiled incessantly to pro- Rapid upgradation of the vide much needed succour to communication infrastructure the locals. As all the major roads by the Chinese in Aksai Chin and highways were damaged, it and TAR area has become a was vital to operationalise Leh major concern. Alive to this airfield at the earliest. Though threat, WAC has embarked on the runway was covered with a major upgradation plan of thick mud and slush, the IAF resources in the sec- personnel at Air Force Station tor. Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) Leh operationalised the airfield and advanced landing in a record time of only eight grounds (ALGs) have been re- hours. Further, the WAC airlift- activated after a long gap and ed around 600 tonnes of relief are being used for regular air material and 400 personnel. In maintenance by fixed wing addition, 114 HU—the Siachen transport aircraft. On Septem- Pioneers, a premier operational ber 18, 2009, WAC reactivated unit of WAC which had earlier ALG for fixed wing air- been honoured with CAS Unit craft. Strategically located, this Defending the air: IAF Citation in 2002, added another reaches with lifeline ALG has a vast operational po- feather to their cap by evacuat- support at leh (Top), tential and plans are already ing 120 stranded foreign tourists by flying 63 WAC personnel in action in place to upgrade it to a full-fledged air- Cas Evac sorties in a record time of six hours. field capable of fighter aircraft operations. WAC’s response to internal security cri- On June 22, 2010, Defence Minister A.K. ses too has been very prompt. When the Antony along with a high level team from government finally cleared the deployment the Ministry of Defence visited Nyoma and of air power for arresting the growing Naxal menace, WAC endorsed WAC’s plans for upgradation of infrastructure on despatched four of its Mi-17 1V helicopters for operations in this important airfield. the affected areas. At WAC, the legacy of Baba Mehar Singh landing his Da- The major WAC Exercise Abhyas, held biannually, wit- kota on a virgin piece of ground in the midst of towering nesses air operations in a realistic environment. During the Himalayan peaks still continues. A team of professionals re- last exercise, WAC resources were activated to operate at the trieved an almost written off Mi-17 1V helicopter which had highest state of readiness, 24x7. The newly inducted force crash landed at Chungtash DZ located at 15,300 feet. The multipliers were also exercised in a big way, so that they heavily damaged helicopter remained in deep freeze condi- could be fully integrated in the entire operational system. tions from December 2009 to May 10, 2010 before a handful WAC is actively involved in almost all the major pre-pro- of air warriors (two officers and 10 technicians) repaired the curement evaluation trials undertaken by the IAF— the me- helicopter and the tough machine was flown back to dium multi-role combat aircraft, strategic heavy lift trans- on June 2, 2010. SP

40 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net OPERATIONS IAF SPECIAL

hunting in pair: An IAF and RAFo Jaguar negotiate the rocky ravines near Salalah during exercise Eastern Bridge at Oman

central Destroy the Enemy air command Home to all the vital strategic squadrons, which have consistently brought laurels to the IAF, the Central Air Command has been contributing immensely towards various relief missions in India and abroad as well as doing its bit towards scientific research in the country

amaniya Atmashatrava, meaning destruction of the enemy, is the motto of this operational command and that sets most of its lethal weaponry. Since its inception, the Central Air Command (CAC) has built up an enviable war record including Indo-Pak War in Air Marshal 1965 and 1971. This Command has been home to all G.S. Kochar, the vital strategic squadrons, which have consistently Air Officer brought laurels to the Indian Air Force (IAF). Respon- commanding-in-Chief sible for the largest geographical land mass under a single Command HQ, the area covered by CAC starts from the snow-capped in the north and ends in the Central highlands through the Gangetic plains. The Central Air Command was formed at Rani Kutir, Calcutta and was relocated to Allahabad in Feb- ruary 1966, as it was equidistant from the units in the West, as well as the East. The IAF has placed most of its high value assets of significance under one umbrella and the Central Air Command is its custodian. The air warriors of Photo g r ap hs: i a f D Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 41 IAF SPECIAL OPERATIONS CAC have accomplished all assigned missions with aplomb AWACS Induction Ceremony: The second AWACS was in- and have brought laurels to the nation and the IAF through ducted into the IAF on March 25, 2010. The system, primar- their professionalism displayed at various international ex- ily used for detection of incoming hostile cruise missiles and ercises conducted within and outside the country. CAC has aircraft from hundreds of kilometres away, can also direct been contributing immensely towards various relief mis- air defence fighters during combat operations against en- sions in India and abroad as well as doing its bit towards emy jets. The AWACS from Israel are being procured under scientific research in the country. Some landmark events a 2003 deal worth $1.1 billion (`5,060 crore). The tripartite and achievements of the CAC in the last one year include: deal also involves Russia as the three Israeli Phalcon radars Ex Eastern Bridge (Oman): The IAF’s bilateral exercise to be mounted on Russian-made IL-76 heavy-lift transport with of Oman (RAFO), Ex Eastern Bridge aircraft. The AWACS have been carrying out extensive flying was conducted in October 2009 at Thurmait (Oman). Six IAF operations with frontline fighters such as the Su-30 MKI, Jaguars from Air Force base at Gorakhpur took part in the Mirage-2000, MiG-29 and the Jaguars. exercise. RAFO Jaguars and F-16 Block 50+ fighters oper- Vayushakti-2010: Su-30s, Jaguars, Mirage 2000s, An- ated for the first time along with IAF Jaguars. The aim of 32s and IL-78s took part in Vayushakti-2010 conducted at the exercise was to learn the nuances of joint strike opera- Pokharan Range. The IAF, for the first time exhibited its tions in an international scenario combat potential. The entire com- from the only country operating bat fleet, including the fighters, Jaguar aircraft in the Middle East. transports and helicopters, dem- This was the first-ever air exercise onstrated their capabilities. between the two countries. Operation Triveni: CAC was Exercise Garuda IV: From June tasked to control the helicopter 14 to 25, 2010, Base Aerienne deployment by the IAF in sup- 125 Istres-Le-Tube saw the arriv- port of state and Central forces al of mighty Sukhois once again, deployed in Naxalite-infested ar- but this time they were the more eas of Chhattisgarh and adjoining potent SU-30MKI. Singapore Air states. Four Mi-17 IV helicopters Force too joined in with their F- are operating from Raipur and 16s. The main aim of the exercise Jagdalpur under the Task Force was to conduct Air Defence op- Commander from CAC. The heli- erations in the AWACS and non- copters have been efficiently uti- AWACS environment as well as to lised to provide logistic support, enhance interoperability amongst movement of troops and rapid de- the three air forces. During the ployment of forces when required. exercise, the six IAF SU-30MKI Standard Presentation to 47 along with French Mirage 2000-5 Squadron and TACDE at Gwalior: and the Singapore F-16s engaged The President of India and the Su- in various air defence manoeuvres preme Commander of the Armed such as implementation of “no fly Forces, Pratibha Devisingh Patil zones” and large force engage- conferred the Presidential Stan- ments, both during day and night. dards to two premiere combat Relief and Rescue Operations: units of the IAF - No 47 Squadron The transport and helicopter and Tactics and Air Combat Devel- units have been providing a yeo- Flying high: HQ of opment Establishment (TACDE) at Central Air Command man service to people affected by at Allahabad (Top), an impressive presentation parade natural calamities, man-made disasters or President Pratibha held at the Gwalior airbase on November in support of central/state security forces. Devisingh Patil along 10, 2009. Group Captain Surat Singh, Com- With the CAC holding a large transport fleet with CAS Air Chief mandant TACDE, and Air Marshal S. Muke- Marshal P.V. Naik During as well as owing to its central location and Colour Presentation at rji, Commodore Commandant, received the consequent quick response time, the onus Gwalior standards for the TACDE. of undertaking relief missions at short no- Sports/Adventure: Wg Cdr Jai Kishan of Air tice rests with it. Two Mi-8s from 105 HU Force Station Agra took part in the Ever- were engaged in flood relief operations in est Skydive 2009 programme organised by Andhra Pradesh in October 2009 rescuing/airlifting person- Explore Himalaya at Shyangboche and Kala Patthar from nel and providing succour by way of dropping relief mate- October 17 to 28, 2009. On October 17, 2009, he created an rial. Similarly, IL-76 aircraft of this Command were tasked national record of undertaking skydive jump from the high- to airlift relief material after the devastation caused by cloud est altitude (27,500 ft) in the Everest region and on October burst and consequent flash floods at Leh in August 2010. In 28, 2009, he made a world record by landing at the highest July 2010, one IL-76 aircraft from 44 Squadron proceeded landing zone of the world in the Everest region at an alti- to Osh, Kyrgyzstan, with 28 tonnes of relief material as hu- tude of 17,192 ft. At a ceremony held on August 29, 2010, manitarian assistance for the people affected by ethnic vio- Wing Commander Jai Kishan received the Tenzing Norgay lence in that country. National Adventure Award from the President of India. SP

42 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net OPERATIONS IAF SPECIAL

spitting fire: mig-23 firing front guns at exercise vayu shakti 2010

SOUTH Victory, thy Motto WESTERN The South Western Air Command (SWAC) is in control of all air operations of the IAF in South Western air command sector. From President Pratibha Devisingh Patil flying the Su-30 MKI to having a new airfield in Phalodi and conducting several joint exercises, the SWAC has some remarkable achievements to its credit.

ai Shree Varte Veeram, meaning victory garlands the gal- lant, is the motto of this air command and the command has always lived by it. Established as No. 1 Operational Group at Jodhpur in 1972, it was subsequently rechristened as the South Western Air Command (SWAC) in July 1980 and had Air Marshal its headquarters in Jodhpur. But keeping in view the increas- P.S. Bhangu, ing operational importance of the command, the SWAC head- Air officer quarters was shifted to Gandhinagar, Gujarat, in 1998. The Commanding-In-Chief SWAC dedicated to securing the inviolability of the Indian skies and to ensure the integrity of airspace above the na- tion’s land and sea territories is in control of all air operations of the IAF in South Western sector including most of Rajast- han, Gujarat to Saurashtra, and Kutch to Pune. From President Pratibha Devisingh Patil flying the Su- 30 MKI to having a new airfield in Phalodi and conduct- ing several joint exercises, the SWAC has some remarkable achievements to its credit in the last one year. Presidential Standards Presentation: The President of India and the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Photogra p hs: iaf J Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 43 IAF SPECIAL OPERATIONS Pratibha Devisingh Patil conferred the Presidential Stan- by a landing by Jaguar aircraft. dards to two premier combat units, 49 Squadron and 107 Exercise SIMBEX-10: Singapore-India maritime bilateral Helicopter Unit of the IAF on March 9 at the Jodhpur air- exercise 2010 (SIMBEX-10) was carried out by IAF and the base under HQ South Western Air Command based at Indian Navy with the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) on Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Commanding Officer of 49 Squadron the eastern seaboard from April 12 to 16, 2010. The exer- Group Captain R. Dineshan and Commodore Commandant cise was undertaken in two phases, initially in the Andaman Air Commodore P.K. Singh and subsequently by Command- Sea followed by another in the Bay of Bengal. Jaguar aircraft ing Officer of 107 Helicopter Unit Wing Commander J. Ya- of 6 Squadron belonging to South Western Air Command dav and Commodore Commandant Air Vice Marshal P.K. operated from Vizag (INS Dega). The Singaporean Navy par- Roy received the standards in the presence of the Chief of ticipated in three naval ships and Fokker 50 maritime patrol the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal P.V. Naik and the Air Officer aircraft. The Indian Navy also participated in this exercise Commanding-in-Chief, South Western Air Command, Air with Tu-142, Dornier, Kamov 28, and Chetak aircraft. The Marshal P.S. Bhangu. exercise was coordinated by HQ MAO. President’s Flight in Su-30 MKI: President Pratibha Patil Synergy with Indian Army and Indian Navy: The IAF took created history on November 25, 2009, when she became the lead in publishing its service doctrine in 1995 wherein the first ever women President to have flown a frontline the need for developing a strategic reach, looking farther fighter plane and that too at the age of 74. She took off in a into enemy land and having a potent offensive capability Su-30MKI from Lohegaon Air Base near Pune which falls in were emphasised. The Indian Navy followed suit with a the area of responsibility of SWAC. The mission was coordi- ‘book of reference’ in 2004, which pronounced its objective nated by HQ South Western Air Command at Gandhinagar, of becoming a regionally visible maritime force. This was Gujarat. “It was wonderful and unique,” said Patil. followed by the Indian Army which publicised its ‘cold start’ Exercise Vayu Shakti 2010: On February 28, 2010, the doctrine, which focuses on integrated battle groups, nota- silent deserts of Rajasthan once again reverberated to the bly with naval and air elements, intended to achieve swift deafening sounds of the most powerful bombs and missiles mobilisation and instant offensive operations in a limited in the inventory of IAF. The exercise included all aircraft conventional war. The first joint doctrine in 2006 marked a in the inventory of IAF. The demonstration showcased the major step towards military integration and interoperability

more from exercise vayu shakti 2010: jaguar dropping 1,000 combination of well-trained aircrew, robust lbs bombs; impact of among the three services. Keeping in view weapon aiming systems, accurate sensors bombs at night; su-30 the joint doctrine, several Tri Service inter- and smart weapons, over the air-to-ground dropping 250 kg bombs actions and joint exercises were conducted range at Pokharan. Vayu Shakti 2010 dis- by the SWAC in its area of operations. These played IAF’s preparedness and ability to de- include discussions and war games with the liver a lethal punch at a time and place of Army, notable among these being Ex Da- own choosing. During the display, frontline fighter aircraft kshin Prahar and Ex Prashikshan. With the Indian Navy, of the IAF namely Su-30MKI, Mirage 2000, Jaguars, MiG- maritime aircraft of SWAC (Su-30MKI and Jaguar) have 27s, MiG-21, An-32 transport aircraft, Mi-35 attack helicop- participated in exercises such as Tropex Tri Service Exer- ters and Mi-17 armed helicopters displayed their ground cise and DGX (Defence of Gujarat) and include activation of attack capabilities. forces of both the Eastern and Western maritime borders Phalodi Airfield inaugurated: The IAF operationalised a as well as Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In addition, in- new airfield at Phalodi in Rajasthan on April 6, 2010. Air teroperability of UAV operations was given the attention it Chief Marshal P.V. Naik inaugurated the airfield. Air Marshal deserves by conduct of joint UAV ops at various bases of the P.S. Bhangu and other senior officers from Air HQ/HQ SWAC IAF. Surveillance operations by UAV are regularly carried as well as several local civilian dignitaries were also present. out in support of BSF in the Saurashtra-Kutch region. One of The ceremony included a fly past by one vic each of Mi-17 the achievements of this was the spotting of an adrift barge helicopetrs, MiG-21, Bison and Jaguars. This was followed by the IAF UAV on August 13, 2010. SP

44 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net OPERATIONS IAF SPECIAL

power show: Jaguar Fighters with an International Flotilla during a recent International Maritime Exercise over the Bay of Bengal

Southern Meeting Challenges Air Command The Southern Air Command believes in being prepared to meet future operational challenges rather than fall back and revel in the glory of past successes. A number of operational exercises at honing operational efficiency was conducted by SAC in the last year.

hramo dadati sidhim is Southern Air Command’s (SAC) motto and long before 26/11 rudely brought home the chal- lenges from the sea, the command had already instituted the process of envisaging the changing geostrategic paradigms and institutionalising measures for meeting the challenges. Air Marshal Legacy issues are relegated to the background and the ten- S. Mukerji, dency is to dwell more on future operational challenges rather Air officer than fall back and revel in the glory of past successes. It is pre- Commanding-In-Chief cisely this aspect which characterises the operational surge of SAC and it is no surprise that the mantle of maritime air op- erations has passed to SAC. Along with the AD cover afforded by radars and allied equipment, a potent force of maritime Jaguars and Su-30 aircraft have now been placed at its dis- posal. The mounting of live operational readiness platforms (ORPs) of air superiority fighters (ASFs) in the area of respon- sibility (AOR) of SAC for the first time ever in 2009-10 makes a powerful and definite statement which resonates across the seven seas. This operational transition, beyond sensors and allied equipment onto weapons, marks the beginning of a new Photogra p hs: ia f s Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 45 IAF SPECIAL OPERATIONS epoch in air operations in the available, but the tempo in southern peninsula. conjunction with the Indian SAC is in charge of the Navy and the Indian Coast largest airspace of the nation. Guard has also touched hith- In terms of figures, out of the erto unknown levels. total national airspace of 2.8 A number of operation- million sq nm, 1.76 million al exercises, both joint and sq nm is maritime and the otherwise aimed at honing remaining 1.04 million sq nm operational efficiency, was is land based. Even on land, conducted by SAC in the last the geographical expanse year. Exercise Tropex-10 held covered by SAC is enormous. off the eastern sea-board in The efforts of SAC are di- March this year witnessed rected at obtaining the best participation of up to six mar- possible operational solu- itime Jaguars and four Su- tions and anticipating future 30 MKI aircraft. Nearly 300 needs, planning accordingly hours were flown towards the and enabling seamless inte- exercise with mission accom- gration of future assets. plishment figures at over 90 Joint Exercises: The typical- per cent. Similarly, Exercise ity of the terrain also endow Neptune-I, a first of its kind the unique requirement of not coastal security exercise con- only thinking jointly, but also ducted in January this year planning and conducting op- and aimed at defence of Lak- erations jointly with the other shadweep Islands, involved services and the Navy in par- not only the three services ticular. The numerous joint but also the Coast Guard, civil exercises conducted by SAC police and state administra- in the peninsular region are a tion. Apart from operational manifestation of its thrust ar- exercise and training, the in- eas. SAC believes that where duction of the light combat the operational challenges helicopter is in an advanced are to be met jointly, the quest stage. On similar lines is the for operational solutions is induction of other helicopters. also connected. A variety of sensors are also The economic, nuclear, being inducted. With regards technological and other to networking and connectiv- powerhouses of the nation ity, Air Force Net (AFNET) mi- are also based in the AOR of gration was first achieved in SAC. The southern peninsula SAC. The combat potential of is geostrategically located fighter aircraft has also been at the cross-junction of the gainfully tested during opera- maritime trade routes as also tional exercises like Dakshin air routes. The likely targets, Prahar. The potential radius threat patterns and geostra- challenges: Jaguar Fighters of action now apparent after tegic dynamics are progres- during a recent International the exercise have opened an sively shifting towards the Maritime Exercise with Harriers entire new realm to which of the Indian Navy and F-18 of peninsula and the operational implica- the US Navy Over the Bay of power and military force can be project- tions are clear. The focus of SAC is thus Bengal; Sarang helicopters ed. The targets extraordinarily distant are on obtaining operational solutions to in an Airshow at SAC and now within the operational reach of SAC. Mi-8 helicopter on a recent challenges and improving capabilities as Winching Op Exercise at SAC This capability is further being boosted by additional resources are made available. development of “Air Force enclaves” at a The challenge is not only to meet variety of civilian airfields which would the existing and foreseen challenges of again support SAC’s strategic initiatives. the changing security paradigms, but to In addition to operations, the intellectual meet these challenges without disturbing the existing deploy- investment to enhance operational efficiency is also being un- ment of forces or resorting to knee-jerk acquisitions which dertaken. Many seminars and workshops towards the same would cause additional expenditure to the exchequer. Keep- were conducted which included international events like the ing this in view, the responsibility of conducting and coordi- Indo-US Executive Steering Group meet, a Centre for Air Pow- nating maritime air operations was transferred to SAC with er Studies seminar on joint operations and also a Tri-Services the result that the potent fighter aircraft are now not only conference in May 2010. SP

46 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net OPERATIONS IAF SPECIAL

AIR Exercises: The Eac organises several international air exercises

Eastern Air Battle all Challenges Command The Eastern Air Command responsible for safeguarding the air space over the Northeastern states and part of Bay of Bengal including international boundary with Nepal, Bhutan, China, Myanmar and Bangladesh, is now all set to establish the first Archery Range in the IAF

amareshu Parakram is the motto of Eastern Air Command and this propels officials to accept all challenges that come on their way to victory. The Eastern Air Command (EAC) is located at Shillong, Meghalaya and is responsible for safe- guarding the enormous air space over the Northeastern Air Marshal states and part of the Bay of Bengal covering over 3 lakh K.K. Nohwar, sq km, 11 states and 6,300 km long international boundary Air Officer with Nepal, Bhutan, China, Myanmar and Bangladesh. Commanding-in-Chief In 1959, when the Eastern Air Command came into ex- istence, it had only a few formations like Air Force Station Kalaikunda and Air Force Station Barrackpore in West Ben- gal, Air Force Station Jorhat and No. 5 Air Force Hospital at Jorhat in Assam and No. 3 Tactical Air Centre at Siliguri, West Bengal. But the command grew steadily between De- cember 1959 and October 1962 when the nation’s overall security situation was changing rapidly. As China flooded the borders with its troops, India felt the need to strength- en its defences. In order to fortify the Indian position in the North Eastern Frontier Agency (NEFA), which is now Pho t ogr ap hs: i a f s Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 47 IAF SPECIAL OPERATIONS Arunachal Pradesh, the Command increased its war potential 2009 and culminated with the annual Station Command- by raising more bases, inducting more operational units, and ers’ Conference held at HQ EAC from November 28-30, strategically locating them in its area of responsibility. Today, 2009, and release of a coffee table book showcasing EAC’s Eastern Air Command has more than 24 stations and about evolution, growth, achievements and future vision. A book 121 formations and units under its wings. on history of EAC, a handbook on disaster relief operations As demand on the EAC kept increasing, so did its size and golden jubilee memento were unveiled by Air Marshal and strength. Its role continued to evolve and the quality S.K. Bhan, the then AOC-in-C, EAC. of its air assets also improved. The Eastern Air Command As a continuous process to enhance its operationability, took active part in the three major wars that the country a large number of state-of-the-art aircraft of all types, UAVs, was involved. medium power radars, mountain radars and low level ra- EAC during Sino-Indian and Indo-Pak War: The Sino-In- dars, air-to-air refuellers and AWACS are planned to be in- dian War in 1962 had startled India with a surprise and ducted in the near future. EAC added another feather to its massive offensive launched by China in the NEFA and La- cap, when the Su-30MKI aircraft were inducted at one of its dakh region, simultaneously. The EAC rose to the occasion airbases. It was the beginning of the modernisation plans of in support of the Indian Army by undertaking air mainte- the command. nance support including induction of troops in the forward areas using light transport aircraft and helicopters. Aircraft Exercises C-119 Packets, Dakotas, IL-14s and Mi-4 helicopters flew The EAC regularly conducts exercises in conjunction with much above the ceiling limits over the mountain ranges with Army to validate its concept of opera- heavy loads. The skill and endurance of the transport and tions and also to synergise response to all contingencies en- the helicopter pilots were tested to the limits in the absence visaged in the Eastern theatre by fielding all types of fighter of proper landing grounds and unpredictable weather. aircraft, transport aircraft and helicopters and various sen- During the September 1965 hostilities between India sors. As a run up to the Air Force Day 2010, Exercise Pralay and Pakistan, the Hunters and Toofanis of EAC were dis- was conducted in EAC wherein all facets of EAC Operation patched to the Western sector where they took part in the roles were exercised. The exercise was organised for four operations and provided extensive support to the Army. days. AF Station, Kalaikunda, one of the oldest and the most Likewise, during the third Indo- important airfields in EAC, is the Pak War in 1971, which resulted in venue for conducting internation- the liberation of Bangladesh, the al air exercises for the IAF. entire air operations in the Eastern Exercise Indradhanush–III has Sector was controlled by EAC and been planned with RAF in October- brought its offensive nature to the November 2010 and Joint Military fore. With the commencement of Training with RSAF is planned in hostilities on December 3, the IAF November-December 2010. launched a swift attack by bombing Adventure and Sports Activi- Tezgaon and Kurmitola Airfields in ties: Adventure Festival 2010 East Pakistan in day and night op- was organised in February 2010. erations. During these operations, The event proved to be the larg- seven Pak Sabres were shot down est conducted till date by any or- by Indian Gnats which resulted in ganisation in the world, with a total air superiority over the re- total 10,547 participants and 11 gion. The lightening campaign saw adventure disciplines. The age of aerial view: present EAC use its varied air assets like location of eac in the participants varied from 3.5 the MiG-21s, Gnats, Hunters, etc shillong, meghalaya years to 76 years. The adventure effectively to subdue the enemy forces. The festival was conducted with para jumping, massive airborne operation of dropping 50 para sailing, para gliding, para motor and Para Brigade and its entire supporting arms power hang gliding. New adventure sports at Tangail and pinpoint attacks on the Gov- like rappelling, zorbing and hot air balloon- ernor’s House at Dacca were instrumental in breaking the ing were also introduced. The fest also had boating, cycle proverbial back of the enemy resistance and forcing them to expedition and run-for-fun games. A cave expedition was finally surrender on December 15, 1971. also conducted on March 10 in Jaintiya Hills. In addition to these wars, the Squadrons from EAC were The Adventure Festival which was flagged off by Air Mar- deployed in IPKF Operations in Sri Lanka and in Operation shal K.K. Nohwar, AOC-in-C had a unique itinerary where Cactus in Maldives in the late 1980s. national record holders in the field of adventure were fe- EAC has been the Mecca of fighter training. Whether it licitated. Air Marshal L.K. Malhotra, Senior Air Staff Officer, was Hunter aircraft or MiG-21 aircraft, various units in EAC EAC was the chief guest at the closing ceremony. have trained hundreds of fighter pilots in the Operational First Archery Range to Come up Soon: The EAC is now all Conversion Training. set to establish the first Archery Range in the IAF. A totally Golden Jubilee Celebrations: EAC celebrated its Golden Ju- new concept of setting up Adventure Park at AF Stations is on bilee year at HQ EAC and other bases in EAC. The year-long its way. As a pioneer project, the first such park is being set celebrations started with a motorcycle expedition in March up by the EAC at its headquarters SP

48 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net INterview IAF SPECIAL Boeing is committed to executing its commitments to India

The MMRCA programme is an opportunity for a strategic, long-term, evolutionary relationship between India and the United States. Mark Kronenberg, Vice President, International Business Development, Boeing Defense, Space and Security, in an exclusive interview to SP’s Aviation claimed that the company is committed to meeting 100 per cent offset requirements.

SP’s: What are your expectations from President Obama’s positive step for India. Two areas that we believe are critical visit? Do you expect that the visit will give momentum to to achieving the offset policy objectives are the evolution of the the medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA) tender? offset guidelines and structure of the organisation responsible Mark: The upcoming visit to India by President Obama is rep- for evaluation and implementation of offset programmes. resentative of the strong relationship that is shared between the two nations. Our view is that the MMRCA programme is SP’s: What is your view on the current offset policy? Is a an opportunity for a strategic, long-term, evolutionary rela- 50 per cent offset requirement in deals like the MMRCA tionship between India and the United States. sustainable? Mark: With each procurement, Indian industry stands to SP’s: Some analysts believe that with American advocacy benefit through offset requirements that plough some of divided between the F/A-18 and the F-16, the US bids in those expenditures back into India in the form of manufac- the MMRCA could end up cannibalising each other. Your turing orders. comments Currently, Boeing has more than 60 active industrial pro- Mark: There is strong U.S. Government support for both US grammes worth more than $18 billion (`82,800 crore) in 24 offerings. However, each competing aircraft will ultimately be countries. Boeing has also completed programmes totaling judged on its own merits. We believe the combat-proven Su- more than $41 billion (`1,88,600 crore) in nearly 40 coun- per Hornet will provide India with the world’s most capable, tries over the past 30 years, with a 100 per cent success rate low-risk, 21st century multi-role fighter that today incorpo- in meeting offset requirements. rates advanced technologies with a 40-year growth path that Our MMRCA offer is a 100 per cent compliant proposal, ensures that the Super Hornet remains in front of known and and we are committed to meeting all offset requirements, as emerging threats throughout the coming decades. demonstrated by our ongoing 100 per cent offset success rate.

SP’s: Will the deadlock on agreements like CISMOA af- SP’s: Many international partners are learnt to have fect deals like the C-17? Will the lack of an agreement suggested an increase in the FDI limit in defence pro- prevent the delivery of certain systems? duction. What is your view? Mark: Over the past several years, the Indian and the U.S. Mark: The present FDI limit of 26 per cent represents a sig- governments have successfully signed many military agree- nificant foreign investment in India’s defense infrastructure. ments. We are confident the additional agreements will It also represents a vehicle for fulfilment of offset obligations achieve a similar successful conclusion. While the two gov- as the 26 per cent investment is eligible for offset credit. ernments continue to work on these agreements, Boeing is There is, however, scope to widen the aperture of this off- committed to executing on our commitments to India. set policy and increase the FDI limit to an amount higher than the present 26 per cent while still allowing Indian firms SP’s: There are reports of an impending revision of In- to keep management control of the joint business entity in dia’s DPP. What are your expectations? question. SP Mark: The DPP has an evolving offset policy designed to bring real benefits to India. Revisions so far have made real im- provements, benefiting from past procurement experience To read the complete interview log on to: www.spsaviation.net/interviews Photogra p h: boeing and from well-meaning guidance from the industry. This is a

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 49 IAF SPECIAL iNterview SP’s: What capabilities can the Super Hornet bring to the future for the Indian Air Force? Lall: The Super Hornet can bring the following capabilities F/A-18E/F is easy to the IAF’s future requirements: • Multi-mode AESA (lethal precision self-targeting) • Stealth for air-to-ground to complement PAK-FA (sur- vivability) to fly aggressively • Net-centric air-to-ground (force multiplier and tgt/ emitter locator) • Geo-registered air-to-ground (beyond PGMs) and safely • Single seat or missionised two seat/trainer SP’s: The MMRCA competition has six companies. What are the unique differentiators of the Super Hornet? Lall: The Super Hornet is continuously receiving upgrada- tion that will keep it relevant against current and future threats. This includes enhancements to the capabilities of the AESA radar, overall avionics, and the addition of new netted weapons capability. In fact, today’s Super Hornet has more advanced capabilities approved for export than similar aircraft in its class. The Super Hornet will remain a highly capable and com- bat relevant asset in the US force structure for the next 40 years, fighting along side the Joint Strike Fighter. This will ensure the IAF availability of spares and repairables for long-term support. The US Navy is the world’s fourth largest modern air force and operates globally from both sea and land-based locations. More than 430 Super Hornets have been sold to the US Navy. The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) is the first international customer to procure the Super Hornet. There are currently seven international air forces that fly F/A 18A/B/C/Ds. Moreover, the Super Hornet’s two General Electric F414- GE-400 engines are a model of performance and reliabil- The international Super Hornet roadmap, being offered to India, ity. If an engine needs to be replaced, Super Hornet ground crews can change one out in as little as 30 minutes. From is the next evolution of the Block II Super Hornet. Dr Vivek a growth perspective, the enhanced performance engine (EPE) is a derivative of the existing F414 engine currently Lall, Vice President, Boeing Defense, Space and flown in the US Navy Super Hornets. Security, in an interview to SP’s Aviation said that the F414 EPE technology upgrades are currently in develop- ment with GE Aviation. The EPE takes advantage of this in- Super Hornet is continuously receiving upgradation to meet herent airframe growth capability through enhancements to current and future threats the fan and core, resulting in a 20 per cent increase in thrust with no changes to aircraft structure or outer moldline.

SP’s Aviation (SP’s): The F/A-18 Super Hornet has been SP’s: We heard about the international roadmap for the described as a multi-role aircraft. Is this what the IAF is Super Hornet at the Farnborough Air Show. Can you tell looking for? us more about this? Dr Vivek Lall (Lall): The medium multi-role combat aircraft Lall: The international Super Hornet roadmap, being offered (MMRCA) that India is looking forward to acquire can aug- to India, is the next evolution of the Block II Super Hornet ment its present fleet of the larger Su-30s, smaller LCAs, and and delivers increased survivability, situational awareness, future PAK-FAs. As a medium multi-role aircraft, the Super performance and a compelling value proposition. Hornet will offer capabilities that are complementary to the The key attributes the International Super Hornet road- assets and capabilities that the IAF currently has. map include are the EPE engine, next-generation cockpit, The F/A-18E/F is a highly rugged and manoeuverable air- missile laser warning, internal IRST, conformal fuel tanks craft that is very easy to fly aggressively and safely in both the and enclosed weapons pod. SP beyond visual range (BVR) and the within visual range (WVR) arenas. The Super Hornet has a balanced fighter design which To read the complete interview log on to: includes mature sensor integration, low radar cross section, high www.spsaviation.net/interviews

Photogra p hs: boeing off-boresite engagement capabilities, and carefree flying qualities.

50 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net Hall of Fame IAF SPECIAL n May 1930, a chance encoun- Tata by a few hours. Though a third like Subroto Mukherjee and K.K. ter happened between two young contestant had finished the race a day Jumbo Majumdar. In 1939, Engi- Indians at a remote airfield in before him, Aspy was declared winner neer’s flight notched up a scorching Egypt during the course of a long- since that contestant could not com- 403 hours of operational flying, a re- distance air race. J.R.D. Tata, who plete the journey within six weeks of markable feat given the very limited Ilater became the Chairman of Air In- commencement. aircraft and crew available. For this, dia, came to the assistance of Aspy he was awarded the Mentioned- Engineer, who was stranded with in-Despatches. Three years later, engine trouble. Decades later En- he became the second Indian gineer became the Chief of the Air officer of the Royal Indian Air Staff. A humble spark plug, gra- Force (RIAF) to receive the Dis- ciously given, sealed the relation- tinguished Flying Cross (DFC). ship between India’s future civil Aspy Engineer was a Group and military aviation leaders. Captain during the 1947 Kash- The Irani family of mir operations. On being pro- had the unique distinction of con- moted to Air Commodore he took tributing four sons to the IAF. Aspy over command of No. 1 Opera- Merwan Irani, the eldest, was born tional Group. A decade later, he in Lahore on December 15, 1912. was appointed Managing Direc- At school, he was fascinated with tor of Hindustan Aircraft Limited mechanical things. So his friends (HAL) at a time when the factory gave him the nickname Engineer. was experiencing serious labour He liked the name and officially trouble. Fortunately, labour re- adopted it. He also took to flying lations improved and HAL was early in life. able to embark upon several In November 1929, Aga Khan new projects. Engineer may have of Karachi offered a prize of £500 ASPY ENGINEER been settling in for the long haul, for the first Indian to fly solo from (1912 - 2002) but fate intervened. The sud- England to India or vice versa. Ac- den demise in 1960 of Subroto cording to the rules of the Royal Mukherjee saw Engineer ap- Aero Club, it must be a solo flight ‘If the IAF today is a pointed Chief of the Air Staff in completed within six weeks from the rank of Air Marshal. During the date of starting. The prize will service of which we are all his tenure, the IAF was involved remain open for one year from proud, it is because of the in the Sino-Indian border conflict January 1930. In March 1930, of 1962, flying supply and trans- Aspy Engineer flew from Kara- high standards that you port missions to Indian troops in chi to England as second pilot and your colleagues set forward areas. Despite the pro- with a friend named R.N. Chawla tests of Engineer and his staff, in a de Havilland Gipsy Moth— from the start and have the Government did not allow a single engine, light aeroplane maintained ever since’ the IAF to fly offensive missions with rudimentary instruments against the Chinese, perhaps be- and no radio aids. They were the —J.R.D. Tata cause of a misplaced fear that first Indians to fly from India to this might escalate hostilities. England. On April 25, 1930, Aspy Engineer later supervised the took off from London, in an at- IAF’s transition to a supersonic tempt to fly the Gipsy Moth back service with the induction of the to Karachi alone and claim the first batch of Soviet MiG-21 fight- Aga Khan prize. However, when he Aspy was just 18 at the time and ers. He also improved the transport landed at Aboukir Bay in Egypt, he no- his prize-winning performance prob- and helicopter fleet, once again with ticed that a spark plug was not work- ably smoothed his way into the IAF. Soviet aircraft. ing. He discovered to his horror that At RAF Cranwell he won the Groves After retirement from the IAF in he did not have a spare one and was Memorial Prize for being the best all- 1964, Engineer served as India’s am- effectively stuck. Fortunately for him, round pilot of his term. After com- bassador to Iran. He died on May 1, shortly thereafter, JRD Tata landed at missioning, he joined ‘A’ Flight of 2002. J.R.D. Tata once wrote in a letter the same airfield. Tata, also in a Gipsy the IAF flying Wapiti aircraft in the to Aspy Engineer, “If the IAF today is a Moth, was making the prize attempt North Western Frontier Province service of which we are all proud, it is in the reverse direction—from Kara- (now Khyber Pakhtunwa in Pakistan). because of the high standards that you chi to London. He gave Engineer his When No. 1 Squadron of the IAF was and your colleagues set from the start spare spark plug and they resumed formed in July 1938, Aspy Engineer and have maintained ever since.” SP their race in opposite directions. Aspy was one of the three flight command- —Group Captain (Retd) reached Karachi on May 11, beating ers, along with other famous pilots Joseph Noronha, Goa

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 51 IAF SPECIAL News Digest Military deliver Australia’s 24th Super in numerous fields and to help RoundUp Hornet in 2011. in achieving peace and stabil- Quick Asia-Pacific ity in not only the Asia-Pacific Antony visits South Korea but also in the Indian Ocean Airbus Super Hornet with future region. electronic attack capability • Airbus has commenced production Honeywell bullish about of the latest Airbus product, the A350 India XWB, in Germany. The first German component measuring almost 32 me- tres by 6 metres, the upper wing shell is the largest integrated component ever to be built by Airbus from weight- saving carbon fibre reinforced plastic. The A350 XWB is a new family of wide Defence Minister A.K. Antony body airliners (A350-800, A350-900 was on a visit to South Korea and A350-1000) for which Airbus cur- Boeing has announced that it in September, accompanied rently has 528 confirmed orders. has completed production of by the Defence Secretary and Paolo Carmassi the first Royal Australian Air other senior officers of the de- Boeing Force (RAAF) F/A-18F Super fence forces and the Defence Honeywell Aerospace is up- Hornet that has the capability Research and Development beat about its partnership with • Boeing has announced that it has to be converted into an elec- Organisation. The Indian Hindustan Aeronautics Limit- received a contract from the US Air tronic attack aircraft. Boeing delegation also visited some ed (HAL) to build the TPE331- Force to provide spare servo-actu- is pre-wiring the RAAF’s sec- of the defence establishments. 12 engine programme. In ators for the AC-130U gunship. The ond lot of 12 Super Hornets Speaking at a luncheon, host- a press conference held on five-year contract, which includes a for potential electronic attack ed in his honour by the South September 27 in New Delhi, base year plus four out-year ordering capability conversion during Korean Chief of Naval Opera- Paolo Carmassi, President, periods, is worth up to $7.2 million. production at the company’s tions Admiral Kim Sung-Chan Honeywell Aerospace Europe, A total of $1.2 million of the first facilities in St. Louis. The Aus- at Jinhae Naval Base Antony Middle East, Africa and India, phase has been obligated. By July tralian government had an- said, the Defence MoUs signed said that the company is also 2011, Boeing will provide 10 servo- nounced in March 2007 that by the two countries during looking forward to export actuators for the trainable gun mount it would acquire 24 of the his visit have opened up new the engine around the world. systems needed to install 40-mil- advanced Block II versions vistas of cooperation. Describ- Referring to India as an intel- limetre guns on four AC-130Us. of the Super Hornet. Eleven ing the MoUs as the ‘starting lectual capital, he said that the Super Hornets are now oper- point’, Antony said these have company has about 8 per cent Canada ating at RAAF Base Amberley the potential to build on the of its employees in the country in Queensland. Boeing will strengths of the two countries and the flight • The Aerospace Industries Associa- tion of Canada (AIAC) is pleased with the Government of Canada’s decision to extend the maintenance contract granted to L-3 Communications MAS to support and maintain the CF-18 fleet up to 2020. Due to a strong government-industry partnership that spans over decades, Canada’s capabilities and expertise in aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) are recognised worldwide. An integral part of the Canadian Aero- space industry, the MRO sub-sector accounts for more than 19 per cent of the overall industry’s output.

Embraer

• Embraer has signed a declaration of intent by the Ministers of Defence of Brazil and Colombia, for Colombia to take part in the development programme and in the production of the KC-390 military transport jet. This is the first step towards bilateral negotiations that will establish the terms and conditions of Colombia’s participation in the programme, and which could result in setting up a factory for machined parts in that Historic photo of Discovery’s last roll-out to the pad Wednesday country, in order to serve the aviation night in Florida in preparation for the November launch market, as well as in the purchase of Ph otograp h : B rian N elson

52 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net News Digest IAF SPECIAL Appointments management system RoundUp for large airlines is manufac- Quick Honeywell tured in India. The officials Honeywell announced on September 15 that also seemed very optimistic 12 KC-390 airplanes by the Colom- Mark Stouse has joined the company as Vice about the Jaguar upgrada- bian government. President of worldwide communications for its tion programme, wherein $10.8 billion Aerospace business, headquar- the company is offering Europe tered in Phoenix, Arizona. its F125IN aircraft engine. In addition to external and employee com- Speaking about the T-Hawk, • Military transport and tanker air- munications, Stouse will have responsibility for Carmassi said, “The first craft from the Netherlands, Belgium, Honeywell Aerospace’s marketing communica- T-Hawk demonstration was Germany and France are now under done in March this year. The a single command. Dutch Defence tions operations, including sales enablement second demonstration is Minister Eimert van Middelkoop and tradeshow operations, advertising, web, and corporate likely to be held in front of officially opened the European Air social responsibility efforts. various security forces includ- Transport Command at Eindhoven air Airbus ing the Indian Air Force at base in the Netherlands. The merger Chris Emerson has been appointed Senior Vice Presi- the Hindon airbase, Ghazi- should lead to better coordination dent Airbus Head of Product Strategy and Market Fore- abad, in November.” and more efficient deployment of cast, effective September 1, 2010. Part of his new role over 200 military aircraft from various air bases in Europe. involves responsibility for the Airbus Global Market Americas Forecasts. Chris will report to Airbus chief strategist and Boeing-built GPS IIF Satel- Honeywell Executive Vice President for Future Programmes, Chris- lite enters service tian Scherer. Boeing has announced that • Honeywell Technology Solutions BAE Systems the first of 12 Global Position- has been awarded a $219,4million BAE Systems announced on September 15 that Victor E. ing System (GPS) IIF satellites contract modification which will Gene Renuart Jr., a retired US Air Force general, has joined the company is building for provide systems and maintenance the US Air Force has entered engineering, network support the company as Vice President for national security. In this service. GPS IIF-1 is the integration, on-site and off-site depot role, Renuart will be responsible for ­enhancing BAE Systems’ newest member of the active level maintenance and software customer focus, a key element of its strategy to deliver total 31-satellite GPS constella- maintenance of the Air Force Satellite performance, and for ensuring it delivers best-in-class prod- tion, which provides accurate Control Network. ucts and services to the armed forces. navigation, positioning and Textron timing information to more Israel than 1 billion military and Textron Systems announced that Kevin J. Cosgriff, retired civilian users around the • A series of successful flight Vice Admiral of the US Navy, has joined the company as world. GPS IIF satellites offer tests aimed at opening the flight Senior Vice President, International Business and Gov- new and enhanced capabili- envelope have been completed for ernment, and Senior Advisor on the US military services. ties, including a jam-resistant the pre-owned B767-200ER aircraft, Based in Textron’s Washington office and reporting to Jack military signal, greater converted by Bedek Aviation Group Cronin, Chief Strategy Officer, Cosgriff will oversee Textron accuracy through improved of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) Systems’ international growth strategy and business devel- atomic clock technology, and to a multi-mission tanker transport opment activities. a protected civilian L5 signal configuration for the Colombian to aid commercial aviation Air Force. The converted aircraft is Safran and safety-of-life applications. equipped with two wing air refueling The Safran group has made several senior management pods of the ARP3 model, developed ­appointments, which took effect on September 1. They Boeing wins DARPA Vulture and manufactured by IAI. include:­ II Programme Alex Fain: Senior Vice President of Morpho The Boeing Company has Lockheed Martin Pierre Syx: Vice President, Finance, General Counsel and signed an agreement with Secretary of Snecma the US Defense Advanced • Lockheed Martin Corporation Diego de Viaris: Vice President, Finance and Administration Research Projects Agency has been awarded $315.6 million of Aircelle (DARPA) to develop and fly the contract modification for the Jacques Serre: Senior Vice President, Systems Engineering SolarEagle unmanned aircraft procurement of three fiscal 2008 at Snecma. for the Vulture II demon- Overseas Contingency Operations Martin Sion: Director of Snecma’s Space Engines division. stration programme. Under C-130J aircraft; one fiscal 2008 the terms of the contract, Overseas Contingency Operations KC- Raytheon SolarEagle will make its first 130J aircraft; and one fiscal 2010 Raytheon Company has appointed John P. Bergeron as demonstration flight in 2014. HC-130J aircraft. Director, Raytheon Six Sigma, Corporate Mission Assurance. SolarEagle is one of Phantom Bergeron is reporting to Dr James W. Wade, vice president Works’ rapid prototyping Raytheon Mission Assurance, in the company’s engineering, technology efforts, which also include and mission assurance organisation, headed by Vice Presi- Phantom Ray, a fighter-sized, • Raytheon Co., Missile Systems, has dent Mark E. Russell. unmanned, advanced technol- been awarded a $161.3 million con- ogy demonstrator scheduled tract modification which will provide Harris to make its first flight in early Enhanced Paveway II, III and GPS Harris Corporation has announced that Scott T. Mikuen, 2011, and the hydrogen-pow- adapter kits in addition to kit spares, will become Vice President and General Counsel effective ered Phantom Eye demon- adapter groups, readiness test sets, October 15, 2010. He will succeed Gene Cavallucci, who strator, a high altitude long bomb tool kits, Enhanced Paveway will retire in December after 20 years with the company. endurance aircraft designed

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 53 IAF SPECIAL News Digest Show Calendar SWIFT laboratory located in coal. The flight was a first for RoundUp Farnborough, UK. any department of defense Quick 13–14 October aircraft where a 50 per cent Aero Engine EXPO 2010 Northrop Grumman’s Global mix of JP-8 was blended tool sets, CAMBRE adapter kits and Grand Elysee Hotel, Hawk unmanned aircraft with 25 per cent renewable mission planning software. Hamburg, Germany Northrop Grumman Corpo- biofuel and 25 per cent fuel Raytheon Company and the Boe- www.aeroengineexpo.com ration and the US Air Force derived from the Fischer- ing Company completed the second commemorated the milestone Tropsch process, which is of three government-sponsored firings 19–21 October deployment of the first RQ-4 essentially liquified coal or of the Joint Air-to-Ground Missile. NBAA 63rd Annual Global Hawk unmanned air- natural gas. The JAGM used its imaging infrared Meeting and Convention craft system (UAS) to Pacific guidance system to hit an armoured Georgia World Congress Command (PACOM) with an Europe vehicle target at 4 kilometres. The Center, Atlanta, Georgia arrival ceremony on Septem- Raytheon-Boeing JAGM features www.nbaa.org/events/amc/2010 ber 20 at Andersen Air Force Selex Galileo to supply Prae- a fully integrated tri-mode seeker Base, Guam. Designated torian DASS that incorporates semi-active laser, 20–21 October AF-20, the aircraft landed Selex Galileo, a Finmeccanica uncooled imaging infrared and mil- ATM-AIRPORTS- AIRLINES successfully September 1, af- Company, has been awarded limetre wave guidance. INDIA INITIATIVES FOR ter an 18-hour flight from its a contract by BAE Systems INFRASTRUCTURE main operating base at Beale worth £400 million to supply Royal Air Force India Habitat Centre, Air Force Base, California. the Praetorian Defensive Aids New Delhi Sub System (DASS) in support • The 493rd Expeditionary Fighter www.atcguild.com US Air Force selects of the Tranche 3A Eurofighter Squadron, deployed from Royal Air Chromalloy Typhoons. Designed specifical- Force Lakenheath, England, assumed 28–29 October Chromalloy announced that it ly for the Typhoon, the Praeto- command of the NATO Baltic air World Air Forum 2010 has been selected by the US rian DASS comprises electronic policing mission from the Polish air Intercontinental Carlton Air Force to provide repairs counter measures (ECM), elec- force at Lithuania Air Force Air Base. Cannes, Cannes, France on TF33 first stage turbine tronic support measures (ESM) For the next four months, the squad- www.waf2010.com engine blades in a new three- and missile approach warning ron, comprising approximately 125 year contract valued at $1.2 (MAW) elements. It provides an people, is responsible for ensuring 2–4 November million. The remanufacture of unmatched level of situational the air sovereignty of Lithuania, Latvia Helishow Dubai the turbine blade repairs will awareness and protection for and Estonia. Airport Expo Dubai, be performed at Chromalloy’s Typhoon crews. The first A330 MRTT Future Dubai, UAE. Oklahoma City facility, in sup- Strategic Tanker Aircraft for the UK www.dubaihelishow.com port of Tinker Air Force Base Royal Air Force has completed the at Oklahoma City. Chromalloy Civil Aviation indoor trials, such as systems trials, 16–18 November currently provides repairs, required prior to first flight and has Heli-Power 2010 parts and other services on Americas been rolled out of its hangar at Airbus Olympia Conference Centre, other US Air Force, Navy and Military’s Getafe, Madrid facility to London, UK Army contracts. Chromalloy Brazil’s TRIP takes delivery continue with the outdoor trials, such www.shephard.co.uk is a leading independent sup- of the 900th ATR aircraft as fuel trials and others. Once all plier of advanced repairs and trials are successfully completed, services for gas turbines used the aircraft will be handed over to to stay aloft for up to four in aviation and land-based the fight test team for first flight days, also scheduled to make applications, repairs, and re- which is due in the first part of its first flight in 2011. furbishes and manufactures September. The aircraft has been engine components. converted from a basic A330-200 Lockheed Martin’s multi- airframe by Airbus Military. intelligence laboratory C-17 conducts flight test A flying ISR laboratory de- with Biofuel Safran veloped by Lockheed Mar- tin recently demonstrated ATR has delivered its 900th • Messier-Dowty (Safran group) has advanced capabilities to aircraft, an ATR 72-500, to produced the composite landing gear disseminate real-time intel- Brazilian airline TRIP Linhas braces for the Boeing-787 Dreamlin- ligence data, including Aéreas. This 68-seat aircraft er: a world’s first for an airliner which streaming video, imagery brings to 30 the total fleet has undergone its first flight test. The and communications feeds to of ATRs of the airline. TRIP braces are the two leg struts that a ground station. Lockheed is the second-largest ATR hold the main landing gear in place Martin’s airborne multi-INT operator in the world and during the landing and taxiing phases. Laboratory (AML) flew sev- the largest regional opera- On today’s airlines, these parts are eral flights using previously The US Air Force’s ongoing tor in Latin America, with predominantly made of steel. collected data to demon- alternative fuels certification flights over more than 70 strate intelligence collection, efforts reached a new mile- destinations in Brazil. This SuperJet International analysis, processing and stone when a C-17 Globe- new ATR 72-500 joins TRIP’s dissemination. During the master III flew on all engines existing fleet of 14 ATR 72s • SuperJet International, a joint flight experiments, the AML using jet fuel blended with and 15 ATR 42s. Before the venture between Alenia Aeronau- relayed streaming video as a combination of traditional end of 2010, TRIP will take tica and Sukhoi Holding, and the well as previously collected petroleum-based fuel, or delivery of three additional US leasing company Willis Lease communications and elec- JP-8, biofuel derived in ATRs. TRIP introduced its Finance Corporation have signed a tronic intelligence to a ground part from animal fat, and first ATR, an ATR 42-320, in memorandum of understanding for station at the Corporation’s synthetic fuel derived from 1999.

54 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net News Digest IAF SPECIAL Europe reached during a 1.1-hour time. While the structural RoundUp flight, is an unofficial speed test programme already has Quick ATR to open first training record for a helicopter. The validated the strength of centre in Africa demonstrator also reached the airframe, fatigue testing the purchase of 6 Sukhoi Superjet 260 knots in a very shallow looks at long-term, contin- 100 (SSJ100) aircraft plus 4 op- dive during the flight. ued use. This is the natural tions, for an estimated value up to progression of testing on a ßßßßßßßß$300 million. The first EADS North America KC-45 new airplane and part of the delivery of these LR aircraft in the EADS North America an- process to achieve the US 98-seat configuration is scheduled nounced that the company Federal Aviation Administra- for September 2012. has demonstrated, in flight, tion certification. that its offering in the KC-X Trident tanker competition fully Europe satisfies the US Air Force • Trident Systems has been awarded requirement for high fuel Piaggio Aero enters Russian a $48.5 million cost-plus-fixed-fee offload rate via the refuel- market contract for the procurement of ing boom system —the only technology solutions for persistent tanker in the competition to intelligence, surveillance, and recon- do so. EADS North America naissance on small unmanned aerial International turboprop will build and modify the vehicle platforms. It is expected to be manufacturer, ATR has an- KC-45, along with A330 com- completed in August 2015. nounced the opening of its mercial freighters, at a new first training centre in Africa aerospace centre of excel- US in partnership with South lence in Mobile, Alabama. African airline, Comair. The • The US military is boosting its centre, to be based in Johan- Lineage 1000 Jet long- flood-relief capabilities to Pakistan by nesburg, South Africa, will be range flight capabilities Italian business aviation deploying more aircraft and increas- operational in April 2011. It Manufacturer, Piaggio Aero ing the number of aid distribution will be equipped with a full announced its entry into the stations in the flood-stricken nation. flight simulator and will pro- important Russian business The number of US helicopters in vide training for ATR 42-300, aviation market during the Pakistan will almost double. The Army ATR 42-500, ATR 72-200 and Jet Expo the Business Avia- helicopters are predominantly CH-47 ATR 72-500 aircraft. tion Air Show at Moscow’s Chinook cargo helicopters, which are Vnukonovo airport (Septem- well suited to operate in the high ber 15-17). The company altitudes of the Swat Valley. Marine Industry announced that as a part and Air Force C-130 cargo airplanes of its market expansion are delivering food and fuel into Asia-Pacific Embraer’s ultra-large Lineage programme, it is currently areas of northern Pakistan at airfields 1000 executive jet demon- seeking Russian Certification in Gilgit and Skardu. Lockheed Martin extends strator aircraft recently made for its world renowned P.180 The US military marked a commitment to innovators history by completing the Avanti II aircraft and that historic milestone on September from India longest distance ever flown they would begin sales deliv- 1, as it made the transition from Lockheed Martin has an- by an Embraer airplane. In eries in April/May 2011, upon Operation Iraqi Freedom to Operation nouncing its extended its first non-stop flight from completion of the aircraft’s New Dawn. This transition signifies support for the landmark Mumbai in India to Lon- certification. Piaggio Aero a formal end to US military combat Indian Innovation Growth don’s Luton Airport (LTN) in has reached agreement with operations and reaffirms the US Programme, which boosts In- England, the Lineage 1000 Aviacharter to become a part- military’s commitment to the Iraqi dian technical breakthroughs covered a ground distance ner for the sales and mar- security forces and the government by helping transition them of 4,015 nautical miles keting activities of the P.180 and people of Iraq. to market. In collaboration (7,435 km) in 9 hours and Avanti II aircraft in Russia. with the Indian Ministry 15 minutes. This distance is US Air Force of Science and Technology, equivalent to 4,400 nauti- Lockheed Martin is extending cal miles (8,149 km) with no Space • For the past 55 years, U-2 Dragon support for the programme headwind. The flight was per- Lady crews have soared high above through 2012. formed in compliance with Americas the earth collecting intelligence, Indian Directorate General surveillance and reconnaissance Americas of Civil Aviation (DGCA) fuel Lockheed to launch earth- information to aid in the fight reserve requirements. imaging satellite against enemy forces. Throughout Sikorsky X2 technology- Lockheed Martin Commercial the years, even with the advances demonstrator Boeing begins testing on Launch Services, a wholly- in technology, the mission remained On September 15, Sikorsky 787 Dreamliner airframe owned subsidiary of the the same. Over time, several changes Aircraft Corporation’s X2 Boeing has begun fatigue Lockheed Martin Corpora- in the aircraft and protective equip- Technology demonstra- testing on the structural tion, announced that it has ment have evolved to help the U-2 tor successfully achieved airframe of the 787 Dream- been selected by GeoEye to and its pilots better perform their a speed of 250 knots true liner at the Everett, Washing- launch the company’s next- mission. Training to become a U-2 air speed in level flight at ton. Fatigue testing involves generation, high-resolution pilot has also evolved from “learn on the Sikorsky Development placing the 787 test airframe earth-imaging satellite, Geo- the fly” to a detailed training course Flight Centre, accomplishing into a test rig that simulates Eye-2, on an Atlas V rocket. requiring approximately nine months the programme’s ultimate multiple lifecycles to test how Financial terms are not being to complete. speed milestone. The speed, the airplane responds over disclosed at this time. •

Issue 10 • 2010 SP’S AVIATION 55 IAF SPECIAL Lastword Move Forward, Be an Aerospace Power

n the light of an expanding strategic trained. What flows from this must be an footprint of a resurgent India and the action plan, but what is most important is need therefore to safeguard its na- to action the plan. tional interests, the IAF must have a Much will also depend upon the way credible and demonstrable capabili- aerospace power develops in the future. We ty to operate effectively and decisive- need to think beyond 2060, beyond the me- ly. The profound influence that aerospace dium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA) Ipower has because of its inherent speed, and fifth generation fighter aircraft (FGFA) flexibility, reach, stealth, precision and ubiq- with a life span of 40 years. It is not easy uity makes it a natural instrument of choice to guess the shape and complexity of aero- for the national leadership to address con- space power—would the accent shift to un- ventional and sub-conventional conflict sit- By Air Chief Marshal manned flight, to missiles or would ‘air’ be uations as well as force projection. The IAF (Retd) Fali Homi Major more of ‘space’? Despite the unpredictability, therefore, needs to be structured, equipped it is certain that the need for application and and trained to do this and more. Given In- transportability of national power through dia’s concerns and aspirations, a strong and aerospace power would remain. Nations that comprehensive aerospace capability is inescapable. The IAF’s lack it will seek it. Aerospace power is bound to proliferate and modernisation plan must therefore aim at sustaining and en- permeate the national security apparatus more completely, hancing its operational potential and consolidate the speci- including homeland security. The IAF must seek greater spe- fied force levels through judicious and cost-effective acquisi- cialisation; tailored capabilities, an increased dependence on tions, replacements and upgradation of existing resources. It unmanned vehicles and greater accent on force enhancers. must be gradual but transformational modernisation. Space-based assets and defensive counter-space measures If we look at the way the IAF must evolve and compare it will be the way forward since a quiet ‘space race’ with a dis- to the path charted by advanced air forces around the world, tinct possibility of ‘weaponisation’ is already a global reality. there are essential similarities. Since aerospace power’s ca- Perhaps more than any other, it is aerospace power that is pabilities, effectiveness and most significantly enhanced by indeed its utility are premised the integration of space-enabled on technology, which in turn is capabilities, for there are essen- driven by operational needs— tial similarities. Evolving into all air forces would envision aerospace force is thus a logical evolving on similar lines. In progression. Any fledgling capa- fact, but for minor variations, bility requires an appropriate the IAF is on a globally recog- ‘parent capability’. Air power, or nised growth path. Therefore, the IAF, is the closest such capa- depending upon the circum- bility or organisation, suitable to stances, threat perceptions and host and nurture military space. resources, it is the scope and India’s rising status and accept- pace of growth of the IAF that ability are an opportunity for us essentially remains to be deter- to push for creating an adequate mined. Clearly, the IAF must be military space capability. equipped for long-reach, per- Since IAF requires a com- sistence, precision-targeting, prehensive capability, its fu- air dominance, networked Aerospace power is bound to proliferate and ture in the long-term will and space-enabled capabili- largely mirror the future ties. This requires hardware, permeate the national security apparatus including of aerospace power itself. organisation and people. The homeland security. The IAF must seek greater Though this path is invariably hardware must be well chosen influenced by leading nations and procured in time; the or- specialisation; tailored capabilities, an increased and their interests, the IAF ganisation must be adaptive; must be selective and seek cre- and the people must be com- dependence on unmanned vehicles and greater ative variations, both in terms SP illustration: anoop kamath illustration: petent, motivated and well- accent on force enhancers of hardware and doctrine.

56 SP’S AVIATION Issue 10 • 2010 www.spsaviation.net SPS Aviation SCACCHI 210X267:Layout 1 16/12/2009 16.25 Pagina 1

MASTER IN STRATEGY

Design and production of electronic defence systems by ELETTRONICA S.p.A. BETWEEN MULTI-NATION AND MULTI-MISSION, THERE IS ONE IMPORTANT WORD: HOW.

The C-130J delivers multi-mission capability to the most remote and demanding places on earth. Ready to serve nations of the world. Delivering mission-critical cargo virtually anywhere is all a question of how. And it is the how that makes all the difference.

301-58636_C130J_Multi_SPA.indd 1 4/16/10 10:30:26 AM