Strong Anchors for Strategic Partnership Boeing: the Future Is

Issue No. 559 August. 2018 for Strategic Partnership UAE andChina:Strong Anchors Scale Heights Scale Team Tempestto A Specialized Journal on Military &Strategic Affairs - A Specialized JournalonMilitary is BuiltHere FutureBoeing: The MQ-4C TritonDeal MQ-4C Australia Seals 47

th Year -IssueNo. 559 August. 2018

There is no greater value than participating in the defence of the homeland and contributing to its development and progress at all levels. The great public celebration and welcome of the decision to extend the national service in social communication and in ‘Zayed’s Sons’ and the media and social networking since the announcement of the decision in July, reflect a state of social cohesion and unity rarely Decision to Extend witnessed in any country in the world. This is perhaps the most important thing that distinguishes the people of the UAE, who National Service Term take pride in and rally around their leadership and believe that all its decisions are in the best interest of this country. The youth of the nation who performed national and reserve By: service, as well as those preparing to join the ranks of the Armed Staff Lieutenant Colonel / Forces during the coming period, have applauded this decision. Yousef Juma Al Haddad It empowers young people, allows them to make the most of Editor in Chief the programmes, training and expertise provided by the Armed [email protected] Forces, and enables them to make effective contributions to the country’s comprehensive building and progress. Since the national and reserve service came The feelings of the nation’s youth and their positive response into force in June 2014, it has reflected the to the decision have embodied their pride in the national statement, “The House is Unified”, made by identity, which is manifested in the competition among them His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al to protect the country’s soil, preserve its various gains, and Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy uphold the UAE’s values and principles of supporting the truth Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. and defending legitimacy. This has simultaneously showed The positive response from the youth and their the special status enjoyed by the Armed Forces in the hearts families for the decision to extend the term of Emiratis, as it represents discipline, responsibility and good of national and reserve service to 16 months, planning, and establishes positive and effective values and reflect the deep-rooted values of loyalty and behaviours in all its personnel. The description of the Armed the national spirit flowing in the arteries of the Forces as “the factory of men” did not come from a void; it is a sons of this country who are competing with result of its vital roles, which is not limited to the preparation each other to have the honour of joining the of fighters and improvement of their readiness to perform the ranks of the Armed Forces and performing the tasks assigned to them efficiently and competently at home and service as a sacred duty. abroad. This constructive interaction by the nation’s youth is a source of confidence and reassurance about the present and future of this country. This is a matter of pride and honour, because the good legacy implanted by the late His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God rest his soul, is still present in the minds and hearts of the children of Zayed, who affirm day after day that they are the true wealth of this homeland, the source of its steadfastness and its ability to face any challenges to its security and stability, and a real guarantee to build a future that guarantees for the coming generations a stable, secure and prosperous life. Issued By UAE Armed Forces. Established In August 1971.

A Specialized Journal on Military & Strategic Affairs - 47 th Year - Issue No. 559 August. 2018

UAE and China: Strong Anchors for Strategic Partnership

Team Tempest to Boeing: The Future Scale Heights is Built Here

Australia Seals MQ-4C Triton Deal Eurosatory: Setting New Highs 559

General Supervisor Chairman of the Administrative Council Staff General\ Salem Saeed Ghafan Al Jaberi Vice Chairman of the Administrative Council Brigadier General\ Dr. Abdulla Rashid Al Neyadi Editor in Chief 06 Staff Lieutenant-Colonel \ Yousef Juma AL Haddad Editorial Manger 181 Major \ Jamil Khamis Al Saadi Editorial Secretary Airbus and Safran Husain Al Mannaee Layout & Design make H125, H130 Moza Al Ali Ahmed Mahmmoud More Competitive Advertisement Ismael Mohammed Alblooshi Sakha Pramod ADVERTISEMENT O The views expressed in Nation NAVDEX Shield Journal are not necessar- IFC ily shared by, nor should they 23 EDEX be taken as the views of Nation Shield Journal. O The publication of advertise- ments does not in any way im- ply endorsement by the Nation Shield Journal. O All rights reserved. MQ-25: The Smarter Way For Tactical 34 Aviation Fuelling

Supacat’s 58 42 Formidable UAE and China: Strong Anchors HMT Range of for Strategic Vehicles Partnership

Arabian Peninsula History 72 68

MiG-35: Russia’s New Multirole Fighter 6 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Events Eurosatory: Setting New Highs

Eurosatory has unquestionably established itself as the leading international exhibition in the field of land and air defence and security. The 2018 edition held at Paris was a high water mark in the history of the exhibition with 1,802 exhibitors from 63 countries and 57,056 professional visitors attending the event.

As a dominant concept, “innovation” ing of a new hall mainly dedicated to fered by the defence and security sec- characterised the 26th edition. This was this field, attest to the growing impor- tors. The participation of the following accentuated by the presence of many tance of security issues. defence and security majors was the start-up companies in the Eurosatory For live demonstrations, the real speci- highlight of the show. LAB and GENERATE incubator of GICAT. ficity of the show, the presence for the BAE Systems Highlights New CV90 MkIV In total, more than 80 start-ups par- first time of security forces such as RAID, This fifth generation MkIV combat-prov- ticipated. The number of new products GIGN, Prefecture of Police (with the BRI en Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) com- unveiled for the first time at the Eurosa- and the BSPP), Special Forces and the bines improved battlefield speeds and tory trade fair has been on the increase Ground Forces, was a great success. handling with an upgraded Electronic and reached a new high this year. Besides, there were no less than 71 con- Architecture to support future growth The field of security is now a full com- ferences on varied and complex topics capabilities. The MkIV represents the ponent of Eurosatory alongside the during the expo. On the last day, Euro- next step in the evolution of the CV90 defence sector. The duality of technol- satory invited students to allow them concept. Building on a legacy of best-in- ogies on many stands and the open- a chance to discover the many jobs of- class mobility and survivability spanning 7

First production Supacat vehicle for Norway more than two decades, the CV90 MkIV also added blast seats and blast mats brings superior technological capabili- and boosted the transparent armour to DCI is looking to increase its activities in ties and flexibility to today’s complex a B7 ballistic protection level. the Middle East battlefield. Thales Presents Defence Cloud Offering Sandcat Supports Wide Range of Missions Thales launched the first comprehen- assembling a chassis, which is certified SandCat, Plasan’s family of 4X4 ar- sive private cloud infrastructure solution to MLC70, and a light turret operated moured vehicles, offer the flexibility to improve the operational efficiency by only two crew members instead of and robustness needed for defence and of the armed forces. With Nexium De- three, the EMBT brings together the best security missions. While providing high- fence Cloud, Thales is at the heart of the in the battle tank, with an exceptional end protection, SandCat maintains its digital transformation of its customers growth potential (roughly 6t) which al- manoeuvrability and agility, even when and adapting to the specific needs of lows to integrate many evolutions. equipped with surveillance and com- armed forces operating in constrained Patria Showcases New 6x6 APC munications systems. The SandCat fam- environments with stringent security At the show, Patria launched a new ve- ily has been designed to support a wide requirements. Thales’ complete, resilient hicle, Patria 6x6, which brings the basic range of challenges and missions includ- solution enables armed forces to stay principles behind its predecessor into ing: law enforcement, Special Forces, connected with any device at any time the present day, with its multifunctional homeland security, border patrol and and operate with complete autonomy transport capacity and modularity that armed conflicts. SandCats are also used in the field. It offers users private access adapts easily to the customer’s needs. to transport troops, as command and to data in the constrained environment Patria 6X6 is a successor to the Pasi Ar- control centres, and to transport VIPs of military infrastructure networks, from moured Personnel Carrier and to com- though conflict zones. To date, there are central command to forces deployed in plement the vehicle fleets of customers over 15 variants of SandCats, tailored to theatres of operation. of the legendary Patria AMV 8X8. Patria meet specific field conditions. KNDS Presents Joint Franco-German Tank 6X6 is a multipurpose transport vehicle. AM General Unveils NXT 360 KNDS exhibited its first joint product, The chassis structure is based on the AM General introduced a next-gener- the EMBT, less than three years after same components as the AMV, but with ation light tactical vehicle that builds being created around KMW and Nex- one less axle. The vehicle is driven by all upon its M1100 series of Humvees. The ter. The hull, engine and entire chassis three axles and steered from the front NXT 360 officially debuted on the open- comes from the Leopard 2 A7 and were two, or all three, depending on its equi- ing day of Eurosatory. The company said modified to host the compact and light page. Optional equipage can be added the truck would have increased surviv- turret with automatic loading from the to bring the 6X6 closer to the AMV. For ability, off-road mobility and payload ca- Leclerc. Composed of proven and tested example, various ballistic and mine pacity. The vehicle includes increased ki- technologies, the EMBT is a short-term protection levels, weapon systems, self- netic energy threat protection and blast response to the operational need of the protection systems and other interior protection for the wheels. AM General market for high-intensity battle tanks. By equipment are available. 8 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Events

Safran Reveals Geonyx Diehl Exhibits IRIS-T SLM System Geonyx is one of the most compact, Diehl Defence showcased, amongst robust and reliable land inertial naviga- IRIS-T SLM is the others, its modern air defence system, tion and pointing system in the market. IRIS-T SLM. A special feature of the sys- It combines high-grade autonomous or first deployable tem is the flexible software architecture hybrid navigation, target geolocation, that allows any national device to be positioning and pointing accuracy in a air defence added to it. For example, Sweden will SWaP system. Based on the HRG Crys- use the system with national radars. tal, the proven pioneering hemispheri- system totally This flexibility will also allow any future cal resonator gyro, Geonyx offers a real autonomous of technologies to be added or any part breakthrough in terms of operational exchange to be realised with low cus- efficiency, integration and costs of the vehicle tomisation effort. Another noteworthy ownership. feature is the realisation of system ele- MBDA and Milrem Robotics to ments in standard containers. With this Collaborate container based technology IRIS-T SLM MBDA has teamed up with Estonian company’s joint venture with MBDA is the first deployable air defence system firm Milrem Robotics to begin develop- Deutschland will take the lead in re- totally autonomous of the vehicle. The ing the world’s first unmanned ground sponding to the Request For Proposal containers might be added to any suit- vehicle (UGV) specially designed for (RFP) for the TLVS bid. able national vehicle; also the vehicles anti-tank purposes. The joint project will “The threat environment has changed might be changed during the lifetime. feature the Integrated MMP Precision since the Medium Extended Air Defense FLIR’s Black Hornet 3 nano UAV Flies High Attack Combat Turret (IMPACT) system System (MEADS) programme first came FLIR Systems, Inc presented the Black Hor- from MBDA that will be integrated onto to Germany,” St John said. “We have net 3 nano- UAV for use by global militaries, the THeMIS UGV by Milrem Robotics. been working closely with the German government agencies, and first respond- The system will be remotely operated government over the past year, helping ers. The Black Hornet Personal Reconnais- and is in line with the system develop- them to shape the TLVS requirement.” sance System (PRS) is one of the world’s ers’ main aim of replacing humans on The company is aiming to respond to the smallest combat-proven nano- UAS, and the battlefield with robots. proposal by the end of 2018, and hopes FLIR’s next generation Black Hornet 3 Lockheed Martin in Close Co-opera- to secure a contract in early 2019. St John nano-UAV adds the ability to navigate in tion with Germany noted that the MEADS forms the tech- GPS-denied environments, enabling the At Eurosatory, Lockheed Martin’s Ex- nical foundation for the TLVS bid, with warfighter to maintain situational aware- ecutive Vice President for Missiles and Diehl’s IRIS-T SL medium-range intercep- ness, threat detection, and surveillance no Fire Control, Frank St John, said that the tor acting as the effector for the system. matter where the mission takes them.

Arnold Defense, “FLETCHER” land-based, 2.75-inch/70mm Weapon System Rheinmetall’s Lynx KF41 made its debut at the show 9

HENSOLDT Debuts 3D Multifunction- a side storage box for all modules. As a al Radar result the MFK 2 is ready for use in less HENSOLDT showed its newly devel- General than 30 minutes, the company stated. oped TRML-4D radar system for ground- Depending on the configuration, it is based air defence for the first time. The Dynamics able to prepare complete meals for up 3D multifunctional radar, which belongs European Land to 250 persons or 600 simple dishes. to the TRS-4D radar family, will deliver GDELS Vehicles Provide Tactical rapid response detection and tracking Systems (GDELS) Mobility of approximately 1,500 targets in a ra- At the show, General Dynamics Europe- dius of up to 250km and at an altitude presented the an Land Systems (GDELS) presented the of up to 30km. new Ascod IFV and Medium Main Battle TRML-4D uses the latest Active Elec- new Ascod IFV Tank (MMBT) variants. Both versions tronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar are based on the common platform technology, which enables the acquisi- and Medium principle and designed with an open tion of targets after just one rotation architecture to provide an optimum of of the antenna, thus improving the re- Main Battle Tank tactical mobility, manoeuvrability and sponse time and hit probability even in variants fightability. The two new vehicle vari- a complex environment. According to ants were the result of consistent de- the company, HENSOLDT has set up a velopment efforts and investments in a precise coordination of all the antenna Kärcher Displays Innovations common vehicle platform that was first elements in the C band (NATO G band) Kärcher Futuretech presented four nov- implemented with the two early Ascod and special signal processing modes, so elties: The WTC 500 water purification (Austrian-Spanish Cooperative Develop- the radar can provide extremely exact system, the HWM 100 B hot water mod- ment) variants, namely Pizarro in Spain information on the targets, thus guaran- ule with buffer tank, the MPDS 2 uni- and Ulan in Austria, followed by the teeing early and precise weapon assign- versal decontamination system and the Donar SP artillery system and the repair/ ment. An integrated secondary radar MFK 2 mobile catering system. The mod- recovery versions through to the Brit- system for identifying friend or foe (IFF) ular concept of the MFK 2 field kitchen ish AJAX variants. The MMBT version on has been integrated to prevent friendly attracted interest, since it can be built up display was based on the proven Ascod fire. The system can be transported by in a lot of different configurations and running gear and was equipped with a air in an A400M or C130 transport air- therefore covers almost every scenario. Hitfact 120 mm turret from Leonardo. craft, but can also be transported by rail. It is set up on an off-road trailer to al- Spotlight on Turkish Anti-Tank Ve- One customer has already placed an or- low transport with any suitable vehicle. hicles Project der for 10 systems. Power and fuel are centrally supplied in The FNSS booth showcased the PARS

Colombian Pavilion National police forces of France 10 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Events

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It has been authorised by Airbus De- fence and Space as a repair station for the CN-235 and C295 transport aircraft. Other types that have been worked on include the Boeing 737, Lockheed Mar- tin C-130 and Embraer Tucano, plus a range of helicopters. CIAC is also working with Airbus on the co-development of the Atlante+ UAV as part of a programme overseen by the Colombian and Spanish governments. Hexdrone Illustrates Modular Tundra- M Drone Tundra-M is one of the most advanced III 8x8, PARS 4x4 Wheeled Armoured Ve- Undersecretariat for Defence Industries and customisable professional drones hicles (AMV) and the KAPLAN-20 New (SSM) and conducted with FNSS as the created by Hexadrone for users special- Generation Armoured Fighting Vehicle prime contractor. This project covers the ised in defence and rescue. CRP Technol- (NG-AFV). In fact, the PARS 4x4 with the development, qualification and delivery ogy has manufactured the Tundra-M turret made its debut at the show and of a total of 260 vehicles that include the prototype via professional 3D printing the company is quite certain they will be tracked KAPLAN-ATV and wheeled PARS using Windform Carbon-composite able to present the it with a mortar turret 4x4 ATV platforms. materials. Tundra-M is Hexadrone’s first within one month. Insight into Colombian Aviation fully modular and easy-to-use drone The presented unmanned, remote-con- Expertise for industrial and multi-purpose tasks, trolled anti-tank turret on the PARS 4x4 Exhibiting as part of the Colombian Pa- made for extreme weather conditions has ballistic protection, two anti-tank vilion, the Corporación de la Industria thanks to rugged, waterproof design. missiles and a 7.62 mm machine gun. Aeronáutica Colombiana highlighted The rapidly detachable arms and three The turret recently performed its first its experience in the fabrication, repair quick release attaches make it extremely firing test with the anti-tank missile, dur- and maintenance of aircraft in the civil flexible to meet the needs of any profes- ing which it successfully hit its target at and military sectors. Established in 1956, sion, while making operational condi- maximum range. CIAC is a private-public organisation that tions easier to maintain. The vehicles shown were part of the undertakes MRO work on a wide range Rheinmetall Launches Lynx KF41 IFV Turkish Anti-Tank Vehicles (ATV) proj- of aircraft, including many of the Colom- Rheinmetall’s Lynx KF41 made its debut ect that was launched by the Turkish bian air force’s fleet. at the show as a command and control 11

vehicle and this infantry-fighting vehicle few hours from one role to the other. This containers were used to store modules (IFV) might be called “big brother” of the becomes possible due to the mission until whenever they were deployed. The air-transportable Puma. One of its nota- modules Rheinmetall has invented. modular option invariably resulted in un- ble factors is that Lynx can switch within A company statement said: “In the past, used resources and a waste of space and material. Rheinmetall mission modules can be directly deployed in standard ISO containers as a standalone solution, and thus play an active role in combat operations. And of course they can still be installed in the roof cut out of the Lynx as flexibly as ever, in the remarkable short time of just two to four hours.” The Lynx IFV exhibited was equipped with the new Lance 2.0 turret, the same turret chosen by the Australian Army. On both sides this Lynx had a missile launcher with two Eurospike missiles. Texelis’ New Platform Meets Strin- gent Requirements Texelis launched a new chassis system at the show. The unit, called the Tex- elis Platform or TXP family, has been designed for armoured vehicles up to 18 tonne gross vehicle weight. The chassis includes everything from the wheels through suspension, steering, powerpack, transmission to the dashboard and all the vehicle mobility electronics. Combining proven, in-production sub- systems from suppliers including Cum- mins, Powerline and Allison, the chassis provides customers with the ability to mount their own designed hull onto a chassis designed to meet the requirements of a rugged 4x4 off road vehicle. Drone Volt’s Expert Drones Drone Volt showcased its expertise on the development of new technologies based on its UAVs and UGVs used for civil applications since 2011. With its technical expertise and experience, Drone Volt, located in France and abroad (Den- mark, Belgium, Canada, Switzerland, Italy and the U.S.), designs and manufactures innovative commercial service drones with applications for agriculture, audiovisual, building and civil engineering works and security. 12 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Events

Xtek Demonstrates Ballistic Armour Australian defence tech company Xtek displayed its world-leading ballistic armour among a range of other defence equipment. Xtek’s ballistic plates and helmets, manufactured with Xtek’s proprietary patented XT- claveTM manufacturing technology, protect against 7.62x39mm mid steel core weaponry, but is up to 30 per cent lighter than traditional solutions. Other ballistic products are also available against higher threats using the Centaur Unmanned Ground Vehicle same technology. CNIM Group’s Innovative Systems As a leading player in defence and security in France and internationally, the CNIM Group and its subsidiaries Bertin Technologies, Bertin IT and Exensor presented their innovative systems and equipment for the projection and protection of the Armed Forces. Bertin launched several solutions for the protection of the Armed Forces on land and cybersecurity, including SaphyRAD MS, an innovative multiprobe military radia- tion metre for harsh environment and emergency situations, CamSight, a fam- Thales CloudDefense ily of compact and lightweight camera modules for night and day improved vision and Crypto Crossing, a highly secure email gateway solution designed by Bertin IT. BRONCO 3: ST Engineering’s All Terrain Carrier For the first time at Eurosatory, BRON- CO 3, an all-terrain tracked carrier was displayed. A highly mobile twin-cabin vehicle, BRONCO 3 is fully capable of achieving mission objectives across challenging terrains; including soft ground, snow, desert, swamps, and inland waters. It combines the outstanding mobility of Bronco 1 and the proven high survivability of Bronco 2 (Warthog) for tactical manoeuvrability and superior protection Texelis Platform or TXP family was in the field. Its smart design is modular launched at Eurosatory 2018 to allow quick changing of rear mission 13

ers, announced successful test firing results of their “FLETCHER” land-based, 2.75-inch/70mm Weapon System. The FLETCHER system can be mounted on military vehicles as well as base defence platforms. FLETCHER is a unique design that allows for ease of operation, maintenance and sustainment in support of combat operations. FLETCHER employs an existing suite of guidance modules, rockets and warheads, which are already used in well-known programmes and are read- Nexter highlighted excellence in artillery systems with CAESAR and LG1 ily available to global forces. Mission-critical Comms Systems from Frequentis Frequentis has been providing the defence market with mission-critical communication, information and surveillance systems for over seven decades. Frequentis’ fully redundant, highly-available communications framework is used by joint and combined forces in today’s command centre operations – be it in the air, at sea, or on land for a number of defence projects around the globe, including ECA Group showcased its IGUANA E UGV and its Land robotics solution voice communications for the UK Min- istry of Defence (MoD). modules, as well as network centric to en- by Atos and the French Ministry of De- FlyEye: Ideal UAS for Combat Zones able future technology insertions. fence (MoD). FlyEye is a mini UAS that is used for in- ATOS Brings Tactical Information Pyrotechnic Products From WesCom telligence, reconnaissance, and surveil- Solutions Defence lance of the battlefield, sensitive areas, Bull Battle Management System (Bull WesCom Defence, part of WesCom Sig- national borders, natural disasters, or BMS) is the solution that ensures the nal and Rescue, a specialist in pyrotech- large public events. The reliability and sharing of tactical information avail- nic products for signalling, illumination, usability of the FlyEye System have able on the battlefield, especially the training and simulation, displayed a been tested and proven during many location of friends via blue force track- range of high quality specialist pyro- field evaluations around the world, as ing. It is the functional and technical technic products for the defence indus- well as during active service in combat basis of SICS (SCORPION combat in- try and latest developments in pyro- zones with the Polish Armed Forces. The formation system), at the heart of the technic technology. These include, the system has been subject to field evalua- SCORPION programme that will renew ManPAD Simulator, MERS Illumination tions during both day and night and in the equipment of the joint tactical bat- Rocket and MECoSt Simulator Impact/ extreme environmental conditions such talions of the French army. Also pre- Thunderflash. as high wind, high and low tempera- sented was Auxylium, the information, Arnold Defense Tests Laser Guided tures, increased humidity and altitude control and communication solution Rocket System changes. used by the French Armed Forces for Arnold Defense, the St Louis-based man- Reference Text/Photo: domestic operations, co-developed ufacturer of 2.75-inch rocket launch- www.eurosatory.com 14 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 News

Defeating Enemy Drones With MyDefence Solutions MyDefence Solutions launched PIT- WINGMAN BULL, the next generation wearable 103, wear- Counter UAS solution that utilises smart able drone jamming to defeat enemy drones. PIT- detection for BULL was developed to have minimal special opera- impact on other signals while jamming, tions forces, in an effort to maintain own commu- and now nication. The Counter UAS jammer is a joined by the tactical solution weighing 775 grams PITBULL, dis- PITBULL is plug-n-play and requires minimal training to operate that has been designed to be worn on mounted sol- the uniform with the purpose of mini- diers will be the entire process of detecting and de- mising the cognitive load of dismounted able to both detect and defeat enemy feating malicious drones can be fully au- soldiers, so they can focus on the mission drones. PITBULL is plug-n-play and re- tomated, allowing the operator to carry instead. quires minimal training to operate. Used on with the mission without worrying Recently, MyDefence launched the together with the WINGMAN detector, about enemy drones. BAE Systems Debuts iFighting for Combat Vehicles

enable faster decision-making in combat. BAE Systems displayed the latest version of the CV90 In- fantry Fighting Vehicle, known as the MkIV, integrated with iFighting. The MkIV, the fifth generation CV90, features advancements in speed, mobility, and electronics, and is being offered to the Czech Republic to replace its aging fleet of infantry fighting vehicles. Based on technology integrated by BAE Systems, the iFight- ing concept fuses together data from different systems with- iFighting technology is designed to optimise vehicle and crew performance in the vehicle to filter through and prioritise the most critical information. This allows the crew to make quicker and more BAE Systems presented a new solution for addressing the chal- effective decisions to improve overall performance on the lenge of battlefield situational awareness at the recently conclud- battlefield. ed Eurosatory 2018. Called iFighting, the technology is designed The CV90 MkIV will also have the fourth generation Electron- to optimise vehicle and crew performance by harnessing data to ic Architecture compatible with NATO-standard Generic Ve- 15

U.S. Army Places $484 Million Order For Oshkosh’s JLTVs

Oshkosh Defense, LLC, an Os- we look forward to getting more hkosh Corporation company, re- soldiers and Marines into this ex- cently announced that the U.S. tremely mobile, protected, and Army has placed a $484 million proven next-generation light tac- order for 1,574 Joint Light Tactical tical vehicle.” Vehicles (JLTV) and associated in- Built with the capability to serve stalled and packaged kits. as a highly mobile and protected “This latest order follows the command centre, the Oshkosh completion of the Multiservice JLTV hosts a complete C4ISR net- Operational Test and Evaluation work solution while maintaining (MOT&E) conducted by the U.S. its payload, performance, protec- Army and Marine Corps and fur- tion and off-road mobility. In ad- ther demonstrates that the JLTV dition to the recently completed programme continues to be a operational testing, the JLTV also top modernisation priority for our completed Reliability Qualification armed services,” said George Man- Testing earlier this year, accumu- sfield, vice president and general lating over 100,000 miles and ex- manager of joint programmes at ceeding reliability requirements. A Oshkosh Defense. “The JLTV is Full Rate Production (FRP) decision Oshkosh JLTV hosts a complete C4ISR network solution ready to support our troops, and is expected in FY19. ACJ320neo Enters Final hicle Architecture (NGVA), which allows Assembly crews to manage large amounts of live- stream data and is interoperable within The first ACJ320neo has en- the NATO Alliance. This step change will tered final assembly in Ham- enable the introduction of autonomous burg, Germany, marking the crew support, machine-learning algo- start of a new era in Airbus cor- rithms — including artificial intelligence porate jets. Featuring one of the capabilities — and augmented reality largest cabins in its class, the with the support of 3D map data to en- ACJ320neo is due to be deliv- The final assembly in Hamburg able future adoption and growth. ered to Acropolis Aviation of the BAE Systems has partnered with several UK in the last quarter, together with a second aircraft for Comlux of Switzerland. Czech companies to offer the CV90 MkIV More than 300 A320neo Family airliners are already flying with carriers around the to the Czech Army. The MkIV was un- world, but deliveries of corporate jet versions are only just beginning. Like the airlin- veiled earlier this year as the latest ver- er versions, the ACJ320neo Family features new-generation engines and Sharklets, sion of the combat-proven CV90, which which save around 15 per cent in fuel and deliver a leap forward in range. is in service with numerous European ACJ320neo can fly 25 passengers 6,000 nm/11,100 km or 13 hours enabling routes nations. such as London to Beijing or Cape Town and Moscow to Los Angeles, while the ACJ- 319neo can fly eight passengers 6,700 nm/12,500 km or 15 hours. 16 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 News

On behalf of Rafale International, Dassault and Thales Dassault Aviation signed a partnership agreement with Thales to develop an Collaborate on Cybersecurity industrial cybersecurity centre of excellence in Belgium. This agreement is part of the Franco- Belgian strategic aviation partnership proposal. It is added to those already signed which cover a wide range of fields, from the maintenance of the Ra- fale fighter jet , to the training of aero- nautical engineers, to the participation in drone projects, the automation of lines production, additive manufacturing, predictive maintenance, simulation, advanced materials research and Smart City projects. A wide and diverse range of technological expertise and innovation will be developed at the federal and regional levels to cover all areas of cybersecurity Alain Quevrin, CEO of Thales in Belgium, and Benoît Dussaugey, including energy, transport, city man- International Managing Director of Dassault Aviation agement and telecommunications. Boeing to Develop Hypersonic Airliner

Recently, Boeing debuted its first passenger-carrying hypersonic concept at the American Institute of Aero- nautics and Astronautics conference in Atlanta. The company is working on plans for a hypersonic passenger aircraft that would cut the journey time military or commercial applications; dation of six decades of work design- between London and New York to this is just one of several hypersonic ing, developing and flying experi- around two hours. vehicle concepts spanning a wide mental hypersonic vehicles, which The concept jet, unveiled by the U.S. range of potential applications com- makes us the right company to lead aviation firm this week, would have pany engineers are studying. Engi- the effort in bringing this technology a potential top speed of more than neers are working company wide to to market in the future.” 3,800mph, close to five times the develop enabling technology that Although Bowcutt can’t speculate speed of sound. will position the company for the when hypersonic flight for global Reaching a speed of Mach 5 would time when customers and markets travel will be a reality, he says it’s allow the aircraft to complete a trip are ready to reap the benefits of hy- possible a hypersonic passenger ve- across the Atlantic in around 120 min- personic flight. hicle could be airborne in 20 to 30 utes, while a flight crossing the Pacific Kevin Bowcutt, senior technical fel- years. This concept was on display at would take roughly three hours. low and chief scientist of hypersonics the recently concluded Farnborough The passenger concept could have said, “Boeing is building upon a foun- Airshow, UK. 17 Rockwell Col- lins, Iridium to U.S. Special Ops Select Deliver Next- Raytheon’s Griffin Raytheon Company Missile Systems was recently awarded a $315 million con- Gen Solutions tract to produce the Griffin missile for U.S. Special Operations Command. The deal, announced by the U.S. Department of Defense, enables the company to produce the missile and provides support for product improvements, operations and sustainment. The work will be performed at contractor facilities in Tuc- son, Arizona. Fiscal 2018 research, development, testing and evaluation funds will be obligated to satisfy the contract minimum amount, and additional funding will be obligated on a delivery and task order basis. The Griffin missile is a multi-platform, multi-service weapon that has a proven track record for successful rapid integration on land, sea and air platforms. It is available in two variants: Griffin A, which is an aft-eject missile and Griffin B, which is a forward-firing missile. Raytheon continues to evaluate additional up- Iridium Communications Inc. re- grades to Griffin that enables the warfighter. cently announced Rockwell Collins The Griffin missile provides the user with flexible employment options through as the newest Iridium Certus service a simple, easy-to-operate, graphical user interface. The user can select from mul- provider for the aviation industry. tiple flight profile and fuzing modes. It also provides lethal effects and employs Rockwell Collins will be adding the GPS-aided inertial guidance and a semi-active laser seeker for pinpoint accuracy. service to its comprehensive suite of aircraft connectivity applications for commercial, government and ARINCDirectSM business customers. In addition to being a service provider, Rockwell Collins is also a value added manufacturer (VAM) for the design and production of Iridium Certus terminals. As a VAM and a service provider, Rockwell Collins will play an important role in delivering the next-generation L-band broadband solution to customers around Raytheon’s Griffin missile is a multi- the world. platform, multi-service weapon Iridium Certus will bring broadband functionality, with enterprise-grade quality of service, to the aviation high-gain antenna (HGA) solutions speeds of up to 176 Kbps. industry no matter where in the will provide data speed options of up Initial flight trials will take place later world an aircraft may fly. The service to 704 Kbps, and eventually as high this year, with Iridium Certus com- will soon deliver the fastest L-band as approximately 1.4 Mbps following mercial service introduction for avia- broadband speeds on the market full Iridium NEXT deployment, with tion users expected in mid-2019. at a competitive price with industry- an antenna size of approximately 24 Commercial service introduction for leading small form factor antennas x 10 x 6cm, while the low-gain anten- other verticals, such as maritime and and terminals. The Iridium Certus na (LGA) solutions will enable data land-mobile, is planned for 2018. 18 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports

Airbus and Safran make H125, H130 More Competitive

Airbus H125 and H130 helicopter cus- to these new improvements, the Arriel need for a calendar limit on modules 1, tomers will get a boost in their opera- 2D will feature one of the lowest direct 2, 4 and 5, while for module 3, the en- tions thanks to a significant reduction in maintenance costs of its class.” gine’s condition can be restored during direct maintenance costs for the Safran “Improving customer satisfaction and a periodic visit performed at a mainte- Arriel 2D engine, which equips both air- the competitiveness of our products nance centre. craft. The two main improvements pro- is one of our top priorities at Airbus Market Leading Performance vided by Safran are the extension of 25 Helicopters. These engine durability Both the helicopters lead the single- per cent of the time between overhaul enhancements are a clear illustration engine market, accounting for almost (TBO) to 5,000 hours for new and in- of our efforts in this direction,” said Axel 70 per cent of deliveries in the last five service helicopters, and the new three Aloccio, head of the Light Helicopter years. The H125 outclasses other single- year/2,000 hours warranty conditions, Programme at Airbus Helicopters. “The engines thanks to its performance in replacing the previous two year/1,000 TBO and warranty extension are very high and hot environments, versatil- hours warranty, for all H125 and H130 concrete improvements for H125 and ity and low operating costs. The H125 helicopters delivered in 2018. H130 operators around the world: those is a common sight at heliports, hospital “Safran continuously works to make its two types keep offering the best value landing pads, police department opera- engines more robust and easy-to-use,” for money.” tions centres and airports. With built-in said Nicolas Billecocq, Safran Helicopter H125 and H130 customers will also manoeuvrability, super visibility and low Engines’ vice president of the Light Heli- benefit from the removal of the cal- vibration levels in the cabin, the H125 copter Engines Programme. “Extensive endar limitation, which until now re- has earned its reputation as a true multi- endurance tests conducted on the Ar- quired an engine inspection at a repair mission workhorse. It, outfitted with a riel 2D and analysis of engine fleet data centre every 15 years, regardless of the FADEC-equipped 847-shp Turbomeca have enabled us to further validate the number of hours logged. The robust- Arriel 2D, provides spacious cabin while engine’s strength and simplicity. Thanks ness of the Arriel 2D eliminates the boosting the speed up to 137 knots. 19

H125 outclasses other single- engines thanks to its performance in high and hot environments

The H125 offers the benefits of en- The H130 light single-engine helicopter incorporates latest technology hanced safety and reduced workload with the Vehicle and Engine Multifunc- tion Display (VEMD) for pilots. These carry up to four people (one pilot, one makes it a key member of Airbus Heli- attributes have led many law enforce- patient and two attendants) plus medi- copters, Inc.’s AStar product line, and it ment agencies to rely on the H125 AStar cal equipment. can be adapted to the needs of private for their most demanding missions. An The H130, on the other hand, is the users, as well as tourism and charter example is the Los Angeles Police De- quietest and safest helicopter in its operators. partment’s Air Support Division, one of class, having become the reference More than 1,000 Arriel 2D-equipped America’s most experienced airborne for passenger transport. The popular H125 and H130 helicopters are in ser- law enforcement units, that uses H125 H130 (formerly known as EC130) light vice worldwide and have collectively AStar to patrol a city of 465 square miles single-engine helicopter incorporates logged over one million flight hours. that encompasses dense urban areas, the latest technology, has a roomy The Arriel 2D offers extremely competi- an arid desert climate, the Pacific Ocean and modular cabin seating with 7-8 tive operating costs, 10 per cent lower shoreline and mountainous terrain. The passengers and brings comfort, great in average than those of earlier variants. H125 and its earlier versions have been operational performance, flexibility The Arriel 2D is also backed by a com- in service with the Air Support Division and versatility. Its Turbomeca Arriel 2D plete Safran service package, notably since 2001, logging more than 75,000 engine provides increased power at the Support By the Hour (SBH) contract hours of safe flight. lower specific fuel consumption, while and the 5Star programme, fully adapt- The H125 also performs safely and cost- other features include an active vibra- ed to customers operating fewer than effectively for air medical services. Con- tion control system and a redesigned five helicopters. figured for vital life-saving and emer- cabin interior structure. The H130’s Reference Text/Photo: gency transportation, the H125 can overall visibility, quietness and safety www.airbus.com 20 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports Indra and CODALTEC Work on Latin America’s First Air Defence System

The Corporación de Alta Tecnología para la Defensa (High-Tech Defense Corporation – CODALTEC) of Colombia and Indra, the technology and consult- ing company, will embark on the development of an air defence system that will meet the Colombian requirements and potentially those of other countries in the region. It is the first system with these characteristics being developed in Latin America, as a result of the success of the collaboration between Indra and CODALTEC. Both companies have worked hand-in- hand since they signed the first cooperation and technology transfer agreement in 2014. This agreement ended last year with a significant achievement after CODALTEC delivered an advanced high-mobility tactical radar, TADER (Tactical Air Defense Radar) to the Co- lombian Air Force, which had been specially designed to detect aircraft flying at a low altitude. In addition, this is the first military air surveillance radar that has been fully manufactured in Co- lombia and which will be marketed by CODALTEC in the region. The project represents a qualitative leap that will contribute in accelerating country. CODALTEC have extended their col- the increase of the capacities of the Co- In this regard, CODALTEC will become a laboration to the development of com- lombian defence industry, along with member of the exclusive circle of command and control systems, the tech- all other initiatives of the Grupo Social panies with the capacity to market air nology field in which Indra is a global y Empresarial de la Defensa (Social and defence systems, which require a high leader. This system will receive the Business Group for Defense – GSED), degree of knowledge and specialisa- data provided by different sensors and which is the benchmark in the region, tion for their development. merge it to present a comprehensive and will strengthen the sovereignty Shielding Air Space and integrated vision of the real sce- and technological autonomy of the To address this challenge, Indra and nario for military officers. The system 21

TADER (Tactical Air Defense Radar) is specially designed to detect aircraft flying at a low The TADER radar will be a key element of the sensor altitude network in the future CODALTEC air defence system will be capable of immediately detect- The company is also working on the set to drive Colombia’s economic and ing any risk and deploying the neces- development of a space surveillance technological development, in sec- sary actions to neutralise it. system that can detect uncontrolled tors such as Infrastructure, Public Ad- The TADER radar will be a key element objects orbiting in space. This system ministrations, Energy and Smart Cities. of the sensor network in the future will feature one of the most powerful Recently, it has deployed cutting-edge CODALTEC air defence system. In addi- radars in Europe – it will detect objects technology for managing the Parques tion, the system will be fully interoper- at a distance of 2,000 km from Earth. del Rio tunnel in Medellin and the Ren- able with any other type of subsystem, In the civilian sphere, Indra is also one acer tunnel in Coviandes, the fourth so it can incorporate new capabilities of the leading global providers of air longest in Latin America. Projects such as they appear in the future or integrate traffic management systems. It is a as these have established Indra as one the equipment used by the Armed leader in this field in Latin America and of the leading companies in Colombia Forces of other countries. has upgraded the main control centres and the region in the transport and traf- This scalability and flexibility will be a and air traffic radars in Colombia. fic sector. Other such projects include key element for the commercial suc- Key Projects in Colombia a solution deployed on the two-lane cess of the solution, since it will be Indra has been operating in Colombia Bogota-Villavicencio highway; a com- adapted to the specific needs of each for over 20 years and is one of the three prehensive mobility solution for Medel- customer. CODALTEC may deliver a leading technology companies in the lin, encompassing the Metro subway system adapted to each need, either country. With more than 2,000 profes- system, Metro Cable, Metro Bus and to protect a given area or as a shield for sionals and offices in Bogota, Barran- Ayacucho streetcar; and the deploy- the air space of an entire country. quilla and Medellin, as well as a Cloud ment of toll systems in Cundinamarca, To achieve these objectives, the Cor- Excellence Centre in Bucaramanga and Los Llanos and the Autopistas del Café. poration will receive Indra’s support. two Software Production Labs in Bogo- In the Public Administrations and Smart Currently, Indra’s Radars and systems ta and Pereira, which act as technology Cities sector, Indra’s initiatives include protect the Southwest flank of Europe, hubs to drive emerging projects and development of an advanced e-Gov- under the command of the Atlantic trailblazing architectures that are sub- ernment platform in Tunja, as well as its Alliance (NATO). The quality and high sequently exported to the rest of Latin involvement in organising the country’s capabilities of its radars have also led America. In addition, the company has recent presidential elections, among Indra to become the main provider of a CyberSecurity Operations Center (i- others. radars to the NATO. Its systems protect CSOC) in Bogota. Reference Text/Photo: the sky in countries across the five Furthermore, Indra is involved in some www.indracompany.com continents. of the key innovative projects that are www.codaltec.com 22 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports Smart Manufacturing at Dubai Airshow 2019 The Dubai Airshow 2019 is all set to manufacturing technologies to enable additive manufacturing, while Emirates feature the inaugural exhibition pavilion flexibility in physical processes, in order Airline is using selective laser sintering and a knowledge sharing conference on to address a dynamic and global mar- (SLS) to make cabin parts for its aircraft, ‘Smart Manufacturing’. The dedicated ket. The aerospace industry is an early including video monitor shrouds and conference and pavilion will highlight adopter of Smart Manufacturing as the cabin air vent grills. some of this upcoming industry’s fu- transition to what has become known Furthermore, Stratasys has launched a ture benefits such as greater affordabil- as Industry 4.0, or the “fourth industrial new material, a PEKK (Polyetherketonek- ity, quality, customisation and speed- revolution”. etone) based high-performance ther- to-market innovation, as predicted by Adoption of additive manufacturing, moplastic called Antero 800NA, which industry insiders. Plus, the conference also known as 3D printing, technology is specifically used for 3D printing high- and pavilion will bring together key alone is already very high among aero- temperature, chemical-exposed parts, stakeholders to discuss additive manu- space firms, with major players already such as those in aerospace. The potential facturing, big data processing capa- benefitting from its advantages. Earlier benefits will impact aircraft manufactur- bilities, industrial connectivity and ad- this year, Boeing signed a five-year col- ers and operators carrying out retrofits, vanced robotics. laboration agreement with engineering as well as others who need to respond to Smart Manufacturing aims to take ad- group Oerlikon to develop standard demands for customisation, low volumes vantage of advanced information and materials and processes for metal-based and quick turnarounds. Dubai has a dedicated 3D Printing Strat- egy, with the goal of having 25 per cent of Dubai’s buildings 3D printed by 2030, making the Dubai Airshow the ideal platform to bring these two industries together. Michele van Akelijen, managing director of show organisers Tarsus F&E LLC Middle East, said: “Smart Manufacturing technology is having a game-changing effect on the aerospace industry, with its impact ranging from OEMs to airlines and many more. Dubai Airshow has always been the place to discover the latest industry innovations, and the addition of Smart Manufacturing ensures attendees will continue to benefit from cutting-edge expertise.” Smart Manufacturing will be one of many features at the Airshow, which will also include the Space Conference and Pavilion, Cargo Connect, Airport Solu- tions Dubai and Global Air Traffic Man- agement (GATM). HELD UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT ABDEL FATTAH EL-SISI THE PRESIDENT OF THE ARAB REPUBLIC OF EGYPT, THE SUPREME COMMANDER OF THE EGYPTIAN ARMED FORCES

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Ministry of Egyptian Ministry of Military Defence Armed Forces Production 24 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports Raytheon Inventions to Fulfil the “Omniscient Foot Soldier” Vision Modern missions now take place in complex and uncertain battlefield conditions where attacks come simultaneously from multiple directions in both the electromagnetic spectrum and cyber domains. Military units must have a robust, multi-faceted picture of their operational environments, accounting for the activity of both allied forces and threats.

Although rich, real-time situational programme to design, develop and val- (SXCT) programme features novel tech- awareness is increasingly available to air- idate system prototypes for combined- nologies to extend dismounted squad borne and vehicle-assigned forces, dis- arms squads, ensuring U.S. squad domi- awareness and engagement capabili- mounted infantry squads are unable to nance over future decades through the ties without imposing physical or cog- take full advantage of these highly effec- following technologies and capabilities: nitive burdens. SXCT will explore four tive capabilities. They have the capac- t*NQSPWJOHTIBSFEQIZTJDBM FMFDUSPNBH- key technical areas: ity to deploy precision armaments more netic and cyber understanding of multi- Precision Engagement: Engage safely, quickly and effectively but the domain operational environments threats with infantry weapon systems current technologies are too heavy and t0QUJNJTJOHUIFUJNFBOETQBDFXIFSF but without weight burdens affecting cumbersome for individual units to carry squads can manoeuvre by using physi- mission effectiveness, thanks to distrib- or use in demanding field conditions. cal, cognitive and material resources uted, non-line-of-sight targeting, and Experimental SXCT Programme t4IBQJOHBOEEPNJOBUJOHUIFCBUUMFT- guided munitions. The Defense Advanced Research pace through all three domains ensur- Non-Kinetic Engagement: Disrupt Projects Agency (DARPA) has thus ing fire synchronisation enemy command-and-control, com- launched the Squad X Experimentation DARPA’s Squad X Core Technologies munications and unmanned assets at

DARPA’s vision for Squad X where soldiers carrying tablet A laser pinpoints a target as a foot computers share screens for unmatched situational awareness soldier calls in air support 25

squad-operational walking pace with occasional speed bursts, disaggregated electronic surveillance and distributed platform effects. Squad Sensing: Detect potential threats through multi-source data fusion and autonomous detection. Squad Autonomy: Heighten soldiers’ real-time locational knowledge in GPS-denied environments via robust collaboration between humans and embedded unmanned air and ground systems. Creating the Omniscient Foot Soldier The fighter of the future will be connected to squad mates, support personnel and robots that can fly around corners or crawl through debris to spot hidden threats. It's a vision that Raythe- on is working hard to fulfil. The inventions emerging from the Ray- theon's laboratories and test ranges will help fulfil the U.S. military's Third SquadX Concept Offset Strategy, which calls for develop- robot, shame on us.” machine collaboration and combat ing new technologies to create over- From hand-held computers that com- teaming,” said Dave Bossert, a senior whelming advantages. mand those robots to apps that guide engineering fellow at Raytheon’s Mis- “We believe we are at an inflection paratroopers to the ground, Raytheon sile Systems business. “The soldier’s point on artificial intelligence and au- is developing new battlefield technolo- human-machine interface, his eyes into tonomy," said U.S. Deputy Defense Sec- gies, under DARPA's SXCT and other the system, is a tablet computer.” retary Bob Work. "Ten years from now, if programmes. Support System the first person through a breach isn't a “It’s really about improved man- For decades, calling in air support

SXCT Marines 26 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports

meant a soldier with a radio. But today, gramme it runs. Raytheon BBN Technol- a direction finder to navigate, and a Raytheon’s Persistent Close Air Support ogies, one of the company’s research jammer. (PCAS) systems connect soldiers on centres, helped develop the Android “We have a chipset inside the radio with foot, joint terminal attack controllers, or Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK) programme. a very flexible front end, so we can run JTACs, on the ground and pilots in the ATAK allows soldiers to chat, share any frequency and any wave form with- air to share detailed information in real video, map points of interest and plan in reasonable limits,” said Steven Weeks, time. A PCAS-enabled soldier can call routes, sharing information in real time. the Hydra Swarm programme manager. in air support, piloted or unmanned, in And it runs on off-the-shelf Android Designers consulted with former sol- less than six minutes instead of nearly tablets and smartphones. diers to be sure that Hydra Swarm was an hour, and for multiple targets. “It started out as a dynamic, moving not only versatile, but also practical. The PCAS network shares the screens map, but now ATAK has become a full One result: the unit is really rugged. used by the pilot, the JTAC and a sol- situational awareness app with a lot of “Drop it in the water,” said Weeks. “You dier with an Android tablet computer. features built in for specific users,” said can do that.” Algorithms help to pinpoint targets, Joe Loyall, a principal scientist at Ray- Sit Down to Recharge map attack routes and deploy just the theon BBN. These electronics need batteries, which right weapon. The app can be customised. Jump Mas- have to be charged, something that’s “It is providing all the information on ter, for example, is a version for para- not always convenient in the field. Enter the target that the airplane has, pass- troopers, delivering detailed data on Raytheon’s iConnect tactical power vest. ing it all down to the JTAC,” said Bossert. wind direction, target zones and even Now being designed for the U.S. Army “The JTAC can add his perspective, digi- their progress on the way down. Ray- at the Natick Soldier Research, Develop- tally sending it to the aircraft.” theon, one of a handful of core organi- ment and Engineering Center in Massa- DARPA proved the concept with tests sations behind ATAK, is continuing its chusetts, the vest cuts the size, weight, conducted near Nellis Air Force Base in development. cost and cabling soldiers will carry. Nevada. A JTAC on the ground called “We are working to develop a de- “What the army is focused on is a sin- in an A-10 attack aircraft with as few as centralised version of ATAK and ATAK gle, central battery that will connect to three clicks on a tablet computer. servers together, so users will be able the other batteries and trickle-charge Saving Lives With an App to reach back to other organisations, them,” said Jeff Mazurek, iConnect pro- A tablet is only as effective as the pro- other databases, to get information,” gramme manager. Loyall said. The vest is built with strips of conductive Ultimately, ATAK may be able to fly a material that match up to similar strips A PCAS-enabled vehicle carrying a sensor to a specific built into the seats of Humvees or other soldier can call in air support, piloted or location to collect information. military vehicles. To charge the central unmanned, in less Lightweight and Rugged battery, the soldier simply sits down. than six minutes Separate devices for radio receiving, “When a soldier leaves the vehicle, the radio transmitting and geo-location main battery is completely topped off mean a lot for a soldier to carry. Add for as much mission endurance as pos- a jammer, used to foil adversaries try- sible,” said Mazurek. ing to detonate roadside bombs, and The vest will be constructed from con- you've got quite a load. Hydra Swarm ductive textiles, which eliminates wires replaces that load with a single, multi- and connectors, and will allow soldiers ple-radio-frequency package. to better distribute electronic devices. “The original vision of Hydra was to try “Our system allows for the soldier to and shed between 50 and 80 pounds of place devices anywhere on his vest, and gear off the soldier and combine it in the system figures out the right kind of one, lightweight device,” said Jeff Fein- power to send to that device,” added berg, a programme manager at Ray- Mazurek. theon BBN. Reference Text/Photo: That device is a radio to communicate, www.raytheon.com, www.darpa.mil 27

Elettronica Group Displays Advanced Solutions

At the recently concluded Farnborough International Airshow, Elettronica Group was present with its three industrial assets – Elettronica SpA (Electronic Warfare), Elettronica GMBH (Homelend Security and EW), and CY4GATE (Cyberwarfare), an European leader in defence and security.

Elettronica’s systems are in service in more than 30 countries and deployed with their Armed Forces and Security Agencies performing a variety of operational missions, from Strategic Sur- veillance, to Self Protection, Sigint, Elec- tronic Attack and Operational Support for airborne, naval and ground applications. The Group holds a strong record of successful domestic and international collaborations with key modern military platforms such as the Italian PPA, the fighter Eurofighter Typhoon, the NFH-90 helicopter, the Italian and French ship class Horizon and FREMM, flict scenarios representing an inter- a high level of electronic and mechani- along with projects in the Gulf, Middle national threat and a global concern. cal innovation. An autonomous pod East and Asia. In addition to MANPADS, new mili- configuration designed to increase the At Farnborough, the spotlight was on tary and security challenges are aris- survivability and success of attacking the strategic collaboration with Indra, ing globally in the form of new lethal airborne forces with unique perfor- another European defence leader, for threats, and one of them is the massive mances and installation capabilities, the first next- generation, fully Europe- growth in the use of drones. Anti-Drone EDGE’s functions are designed to cre- an self-protection infrared solution, to Interception Acquisition and Neu- ate a safe corridor for multiple mission defend any type of airborne platforms, tralization (ADRIAN) is an anti-drone aircraft. Its embedded ELINT features from helicopters to transport/tanker to system dedicated to the protection of and networking capabilities enhance jets, from heat-guided missiles (MAN- critical infrastructures and public areas situational awareness, intelligence col- PAD). The solution, named EuroDIRQM during public events and civil airspace lection and advanced jamming coun- (Direct Infrared Countermeasure) re- from hostile mini and micro drones termeasure against new 3-digit radars. flects its European roots and the use threats. The company is already work- Visitors also had the opportunity to see of a new technology, the Quantum ing with the Italian Air and Land Forces the Training and Education activities of- Cascade Laser (QCL), the latest devel- for the supply of our anti drone system fered by the Group with its EW Acad- opment in laser technology that repre- and with a country in the Middle East. emy, a modern and advanced centre sents a step forward from conventional The Airshow also offered Elettronica with dedicated infrastructures, assets, semiconductor lasers. Group the opportunity to showcase processes, scenario simulations and ex- MANPADS are today some of the main EDGE, the new escort jamming solu- perts covering every aspect the evolv- causes for military aircraft losses in con- tion for airborne applications based on ing Electronic Warfare domain. 28 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports

Team Tempest to Scale Heights

The UK unveiled a model of its before. Keeping this in mind, Future technologies that the UK and its part- planned future fighter jet armed with Combat Air Systems (FCAS) will need ners are developing and investing in laser weapons, at the recently con- to operate effectively in the most con- so that world-leading capabilities can cluded Farnborough International tested, congested and complex en- be delivered for the future. Airshow. The proposed aircraft will vironments, where speed and agility A FCAS must be able to survive the be built by Team Tempest, a consor- are essential. The FCAS will need to be most challenging combat environ- tium including BAE Systems, Rolls- highly capable, flexible, upgradeable, ments meaning that payload-range, Royce, Leonardo and MBDA. connected and affordable, ensuring it speed and manoeuvrability will be key. UK Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson can meet the uncertainties faced by air Team Tempest is to equip the future unveiled the Tempest concept at the forces for decades to come. fighter with a range of sensors includ- show that would include autonomous Investment in Eurofighter Typhoon’s ing radio frequency, active and passive capabilities allowing it to be flown on-going enhancement programme electro-optical sensors and advanced without a pilot on board. Over £2 billion includes the development of the latest electronic support measures to detect will be invested in the project. combat air technologies on Typhoon. and intercept threats. BAE Systems is working alongside the These technologies will ultimately be The system is likely to operate with UK Government, the Ministry of De- incorporated onto a FCAS, ensuring kinetic and non-kinetic weapons. The fence, the Royal Air Force and industry Typhoon remains at the forefront of integration of Laser Directed Energy partners MBDA, Rolls-Royce and Leon- technology and will operate seam- Weapons for self-defence and use ardo to develop technologies to sup- lessly alongside future platforms. within visual range combat is also port the UK’s world-leading combat air At the Airshow, a next generation highly likely. The ability to deploy and capability today and into the future. fighter concept model was revealed manage air launched ‘swarming’ UAVs Route to the Future showcasing key technologies that will through a flexible payload bay allows Today, the world has become more be important in the future. The con- the system to address dangerous Anti- complex and uncertain than ever cept gives an indication of the types of Access Area Denial environments. 29

Flexible and Connected information advantage and mission Air forces of the future will require a effectiveness, the FCAS will act as a Key Contributions: fighter system that is highly flexible ‘force multiplier’, interoperating with a and can be applied to a wide variety wide range of other civil and military t BAE Systems – combat air of military operations. Operators will platforms and services across air, land, systems and integration have the ability to rapidly adapt the sea, space and cyber domains, as well t-FPOBSEPoTFOTPST system to perform new functions or to as unmanned systems. electronics and avionics change its performance. Command and control of other sys- t.#%"oXFBQPOTTZTUFNT Depending on the mission, ‘role fit’ ad- tems, such as UAVs, will be enabled t3PMMT3PZDFoQPXFSBOE ditions such as low observable confor- from a fully customisable virtual cock- propulsion systems mal fuel tanks, weapons dispensers, air pit, with advanced human machine launched UAV dispensers, large mod- interfaces including eye tracking and technology, ‘geometric locking’, and low ular sensors, long range oblique pho- gesture based controls, offering intui- observable materials. tography systems for reconnaissance tive and sophisticated mission man- Advanced manufacturing techniques and Laser Directed Energy Weapons agement. Using a similar virtual ap- will play a significant role in reduc- could be available. proach, both mission planning on the ing the unit production cost of the Adaptability will be built into the sys- ground, and the remote command of system, and will be a key enabler of tem design, with systems architec- unmanned aircraft can be enhanced, flexibility and upgradeability. For ex- tures, which support a ‘plug and play’ ensuring a rapid and effective under- ample, in-service support costs can approach, easily integrating new al- standing of the battlespace. be reduced by using robotics adapted gorithms and hardware. The system Upgradeable and Cost-effective from manufacturing to re-fuel, re-arm, will also support ‘scalable autonomy’ The FCAS will be quickly and affordably role-fit, and repair. 1434615563896 to provide a number of modes of un- upgradable, maintaining operational Exoskeletons, wearable displays and manned operation and a range of pi- advantage and freedom of action in computing to provide hands-free lot decision aids when manned flight a rapidly evolving threat environ- instructions, guidance and technical is being conducted. These features are ment. Physical interfaces must there- publications could further reduce in- dynamically reconfigurable and serve fore be strong, lightweight, numerous, service support costs by helping to to enhance survivability, availability, and affordably produced. This will be improve resource flexibility, improve cyber resilience, and tactical options. achieved through expertise in additive the quality of work, and the speed at Furthermore, to deliver significant layer manufacture, joining and fastener which tasks are performed. The use of artificial intelligence and data ana- lytics in vehicle health and mission related data would improve aircraft availability as well as increase the mission success probability. Training costs could be significantly reduced using the virtual cockpit and virtual mission planning system as a result of their low cost, flexibility, and extreme portability. To facilitate this, the UK Government launched its Combat Air Strategy at Farnborough, with the aim of delivering the next generation of combat air capability by 2035. Reference Text/Photo: Team Tempest is to equip the future fighter with a range of sensors and www.baesystems.com advanced electronic support measures to detect and intercept threats www.leonardocompany.com 30 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports

BOEING

“The Future is Built Here”

At the recently concluded Farn- mercial and defence products and its of the proposed partnership, which borough International Airshow, broader services business. includes ventures in commercial air- Boeing announced a total of $100 At the show, Boeing and Embraer planes and lifecycle services, as well as billion in sales, including $2.1 bil- held a conference, announcing plans defence. This announcement coincided lion in services. for a strategic partnership. Boeing’s with the launch of Boeing NeXt, an in- The company unveiled a number of its Chairman, president and CEO Den- cubator organisation for future com- innovations that have the potential to nis Muilenburg, Boeing chief financial mercial mobility solutions. revolutionise travel around the world officer and executive vice president “Boeing led the way at Farnborough, as well as into space, right from hyper- for enterprise performance & strat- demonstrating value for our customers, sonic travel to the future of autono- egy, Greg Smith, and Embraer chief ex- capturing important new business in mous flight and manned space flight. ecutive officer and president, Paulo Ce- products and services, and announcing It also highlighted its portfolio of com- sar de Souza e Silva, presented details the unique strength of our strategic part- 31

Boeing announced $100 billion in sales, including $2.1 billion in services

Aviation Capital Group ordered 20 737 MAX 8s

der activity for the 737 MAX and 787 passenger airplanes. Boeing secured 48 orders and commitments Advanced F-15 provides superior performance for the 777F, five for the 747-8F, reflecting continued strengthening in the cargo market globally. BA will take the 777s on an operating A strong preference for Boeing’s pas- lease with a leasing company. senger airplane portfolio was also vis- Dreamliners in Demand ible, with 52 orders for the 787 and 564 Boeing and two undisclosed airlines for single-aisle 737 MAX, and strong reached agreements to buy a total of demand for the 737 MAX 10, with 110 15 787-9 Dreamliners valued at $4.2 orders and commitments. billion. One of the airlines would be- nership with Embraer. We also invested Some of the inked deals include: come a new 787 customer. The second in our European communities, and Dubai-based Aircraft Lessor and BA airline is adding more 787s to their launched our new Boeing NeXt organi- Opt for 777-300ERs Dreamliner fleet. sation — proving the future is built here, Boeing and Dubai-based aircraft lessor, Plus, Boeing and Hawaiian Airlines an- at Boeing,” said Muilenburg. Novus Aviation Capital, announced its nounced that the companies finalised Key Contracts first direct agreement with Boeing for an order for 10 787-9 Dreamliners, val- Boeing marked an exceptional week up to four 777-300ERs, at the show. ued at $2.82 billion at list prices. The for order capture in commercial avia- The commitment carries a list-price deal also includes purchase rights for tion, with customers announcing 673 value of $1.44 billion. 10 additional 787s. orders and commitments in total, Furthermore, Boeing and British Air- Plus, Boeing and Vistara, the joint ven- reflecting a continued resurgence in ways (BA) also announced a commit- ture between Singapore Airlines and demand for freighters and strong or- ment for three 777-300ER airplanes. Tata Group, agreed to order six 787-9 32 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports

Dreamliners, with options for four more ment with Aviall, a Boeing subsidiary, Block II engineering and manufac- jets at. The agreement, valued at $2.8 including an intent to support the turing development (EMD) helicop- billion at current list prices, will enable production of their newest aircraft pro- ter is now loaded in final assembly. Vistara to become the first operator of gramme, the AN-1X8. Aviall will man- The Block II programme incorporates the 787-9 in India. age supply chain procurement for AN- several upgrades to increase lift ca- The MAX Factor TONOV production, including logistics pability. Those upgrades include Ad- At the show, the company and an uni- and forward stocking concepts. vanced Chinook Rotor Blades, an up- dentified customer reached an agree- Also, Canada-based International graded fuselage, a new fuel system ment for an additional 100 737 MAX WaterGuard (IWG) signed a 10-year and a new drivetrain. Overall, the airplanes. The commitment carries a exclusive distribution agreement aircraft will increase its payload ca- list-price value of $11.7 billion. with Aviall for lavatory water heaters, pacity by more than 4,000lbs while Furthermore, Boeing and four custom- which fit Boeing 737, 747, 767 and also performing in higher and hotter ers also signed commitments for a total 777 fleets. conditions. of 93 737 MAX airplanes, including a Wide Portfolio F-15E Strike Eagle: The Advanced carrier that has committed to 40 of the The U.S. Department of Defense dis- F-15 being provided to international high-capacity version of the MAX 8 air- played several Boeing platforms, in- customers provides superior per- plane. The commitments are valued at cluding the AH-64 Apache attack heli- formance in terms of service ceiling, nearly $11 billion. copter, the CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift speed, range, endurance and pay- Also, Boeing and the Vietnamese low- helicopter, the F-15E Strike Eagle and load capacity while retaining growth cost carrier, VietJet, signed a MoU for the C-17 Globemaster military trans- potential to ensure the customer can an additional 100 737 MAX airplanes. port aircraft. perform missions effectively now and The agreement is valued at more than AH-64 Apache: This multirole combat in the future. $12.7 billion at current list prices. helicopter features fully integrated C-17 Globemaster III: It is an advanced Boeing and the Indian carrier Jet Air- avionics and weapons, plus state-of- airlifter, designed for long-range trans- ways also confirmed an order for an the-art digital communications capa- port of equipment, supplies and mili- additional 75 737 MAX 8 airplanes bilities that enable real-time, secure tary troops and is used extensively to during a signing ceremony. The order transfer of battlefield information to support combat operations, disaster is valued at $8.8 billion at current list air and ground forces. Apaches are in response, humanitarian relief and aero- prices. service with the U.S. Army and inter- medical evacuation missions. Boeing New Supply Chain Management national defence forces around the has delivered C-17s to the U.S. Air Force, Capability world. Australia, Canada, UAE, India, UK and Ukraine’s ANTONOV signed an agree- CH-47 Chinook: The first Chinook the 12-member Strategic Airlift Capa-

Boeing, VietJet Sign Agreement for 100 737 MAX Airplanes 33

737 MAX 7, which is scheduled to enter service in 2019, made its airshow debut with flying displays RNLAF signed a service contract with Boeing for Apache and Chinook bility initiative of NATO and Partnership Breakthrough Capabilities flying more than 250 million people for Peace nations. On the airfield, the 737 MAX 7, which while saving an estimated 25 billion Combined Helicopter Support is scheduled to enter service in 2019, pounds of fuel. Boeing and the Royal Netherlands made its airshow debut with flying dis- The company also participated in the Air Force (RNLAF) signed a Combined plays. Technology advancements allow Cargo Village section to showcase Helicopter Support services agree- the MAX 7 to fly 1,000 nautical miles far- its family of freighters and lifecycle ment that will provide maintenance, ther and carry more passengers than its commitment, along with services of- services and spare parts to the RN- predecessor, the 737-700, while having fered. Other commercial airplanes on LAF’s fleet of AH-64 Apache and CH- 18 per cent lower fuel costs per seat. display were an Air Italy 737 MAX 8, 47 Chinook helicopters. Boeing’s flying display also included a 777-300ER, 747-8 Freighters, and a The performance based logistics a Biman Bangladesh 787-8 featuring Royal Air Maroc 767 Boeing Convert- contract, called COHESU, is designed capabilities that have made the 787 ed Freighter, which were seen at the to drive flexibility, affordability and popular with operators and passen- Cargo Village. availability to the RNLAF of its fleet of gers. Since 2011, almost 700 Dreamlin- Reference Text/Photo: Chinooks and Apaches. ers have been delivered to operators, www.boeing.com

MH-47G Chinook helicopters, the special operations variant 34 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports MQ-25

The Smarter Wayay ForFor Tactical Aviationn FuellingF uelling

Given the challenges facing tactical aviation, smarter fuelling solutions are required. Thus, with the MQ-25, the U.S. Navy is taking the bold step of bringing a new and exciting unmanned element to carrier aviation.

Airborne refuelling between F/A-18 is consumed by the tanking mission. return six U.S. strike-fighters to the car- almost the highest cost service avail- Therefore, January 2018 saw the U.S. rier strike group, while providing more able today, while the U.S. Navy is also Navy begin examining proposals to efficient tanking aircraft overhead or at wearing out its premier fighters by field an unmanned tanking and Intelli- range. configuring at least six of their 44 car- gence, Surveillance and Reconnaisance New Design Concept rier air wings as heavy tankers. It should (ISR) system for operational deploy- The U.S. Navy anticipates a design that be remembered that about 20 per cent ment on aircraft carriers. The addition can encompass 15,000 pounds of fuel of a Super Hornet’s fatigue life is being of a carrier-based unmanned tanker will at 500 NM from the carrier with sig- 35

MQ-25 will be able to ‘talk back’ to the controller and other flight deck personnel

demonstrated aircraft carrier deck handling to include taxi capability and transition to the launch-and-recovery phases. As part of the proposed MQ- 25 solution, GA-ASI has thus demonstrated that the new carrier-based unmanned tanker can integrate the complexities of existing flight deck operations. GA-ASI uses an integrated fuel tank structure to maximise fuel offload for the proposed MQ-25 MQ-25 deck operations will now use specially designed director wands that are the same size, shape and weight as nificantly more fuel offload. Industry Alexander, president, Aircraft Systems, those used today. Directors fully con- experts view such designs as offering GA-ASI. “Specifically, through extensive trol aircraft taxi operations on deck to much more fuel while providing more validation of fuel containment sealing lower/raise the launch bar, spread/fold than 12 hours of un-refuelled endur- methods, advanced non-linear buckling the wings and raise the arresting hook. ance when configuring for ISR. F/A-18’s finite element analysis models and thick GA-ASI also employs unique gesture and F-35’s thus operate at range on en- composite laminate construction, we recognition algorithms in the wands emy targets far from the aircraft carrier have accelerated engineering design con- that recognise standard Naval Air as well as facilitating “bridge the night” sideration prior to the detail design phase Training and Operating Procedures operations. and production.” (NATOPS) flight deck director hand In turn, GA-ASI now uses an integrated A full-scale, inner-wing skin demon- gestures. They then translate and send fuel tank structure to maximise fuel stration article was built in March at those commands to the MQ-25 air vehi- offload for the proposed MQ-25 un- GA-ASI’s Spanish Fork, Utah, facility cle, which receives and converts them manned aerial refueling aircraft for the to verify the tooling and lamination into the appropriate aircraft actions. U.S. Navy. GA-ASI has applied its knowl- concepts for the MQ-25. The team has MQ-25 will hence be able to ‘talk back’ edge of advanced composite aircraft validated the outer mould line tooling to the controller and other flight deck structures to develop integrated fuel approach for the build process, which personnel using a small series of LEDs tanks in a large-scale wing box test ar- has enabled accelerated engineering that change colours and/or flash to ticle and a full-scale wing skin pre-pro- and tooling fabrication for the MQ-25 show that they have received a com- duction validation article. programme. mand while indicating the aircraft’s “The integral fuel tank wing box test ar- Unmanned Deck Handling condition or operating state. In addi- ticle will reduce technical and schedule Using a Predator C Avenger jet aircraft tion, a safety observer on deck can stop risk for the programme,” said David R. as a surrogate, GA-ASI has successfully the aircraft instantly whenever an un- 36 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports

In contested environments, the side that knows where the enemy is (or is not) will have the advantage. Hence aircraft operating at a distance from the carrier will also play a counter-ISR role, helping the aircraft carrier to stay con- cealed until a time and place of their choosing. Some have argued that longer endurance aircraft will have less fuel capacity, propulsion require- with naval observer Jerry Hendrix argu- ments. They also provide ing that “Designing an aircraft to fly 12 unmanned aircraft experience hours unrefueled negatively impacts from the X-47B programme its ability to carry large fuel (or other) (F100 engine). payloads over long distances.” In real- GA-ASI MQ-25 engine is designed to be UTC Aerospace Systems will design/ ity, relatively long (12 hours or more) the easiest to maintain and most acces- build the landing gear and L3 Technol- endurance and air refueling offload are sible in its thrust class ogies will provide the communications not mutually exclusive, meaning that systems. BAE Systems will supply a va- both are necessary to meet the U.S. safe situation is identified. riety of software capabilities, including Navy’s critical operational needs. Long-Endurance Fuel Offloading mission planning, cybersecurity and As a stealth fighter, the F/A-18 is not The MQ-25 has been designed to com- navigation, while Rockwell Collins of- optimised for fuel give or ISR, but the bine a large fuel offload with a long- fers a new generation of the TruNet MQ-25 has no need for fast manoeu- endurance capability in an aircraft that ARC-210 networked communications vres at heavy g-loads. Hence, aircraft can deliver 15,000 pounds of fuel at 500 airborne radio and a comprehensive designers understand that utilising NM. It can thus enable two F-35’s to op- simulation framework. high-bypass engine technology cre- erate at 1000 NM from the carrier. GKN Aerospace’s Fokker business ates aircraft with significant endurance Currently, 69 different MQ-9 Predator continues to provide GA-ASI with and fuel offload. are in continual orbit around the world. landing gear technologies for MQ-9 Time for Unmanned Tankers Ground commanders find that a per- and proven carrier tail hook technol- Well-designed tanker/ISR platforms sistent ISR leads to a more effective, ki- ogies for the MQ-25 arresting hook. are destined to change sea combat, netic utilisation of their manned assets. After testing its EMALS and AAG sys- as enabling next-generation aircraft Best-in-industry Partnerships tems, General Atomics Electromag- to operate forward will return the To offer MQ-25 to the U.S. Navy, Boe- netic Systems, can now provide up- deep-strike mission to carrier aviation. ing Autonomous Systems will support front carrier integration experience Persistent, networked ISR enables the GA-ASIȿ with aviation and autonomous and risk reduction, while General CSG to enjoy a range of capabilities experience, with the Pratt & Whitney Atomics Systems Integration sup- while allowing it to dominate in con- (P&W) PW815 engine powering the plies U.S. Navy landing gear integra- tested environments. MQ-25. tion expertise. Studies, evaluation and analysis have The GA-ASI/P&W team completed its Optimising Strike-Group Safety concluded that both range and long- first powered PW815 run on 5th April It is easy to envision the MQ-25 launch- endurance ISR are compatible in the this year with GA-ASI MQ-25A inlet ing at the end of a typical carrier fly- same air vehicle design for signifi- and exhaust configuration. The PW815 day, then recovering for first launch the cantly large tanker fuelling. It is now commercial engine is designed to be following day. Meanwhile, MQ-25 op- time for Super Hornets to leave the the easiest to maintain and most acces- erators perform all the tasks required tanking business and for the U.S. sible engine in its thrust class. to keep the strike group safe and op- Navy to replace them with the MQ-25 Pratt & Whitney’s EA-6B (J52 engine) erationally informed, whether at sea or programme. and F-35 (F135 engine) now meet Navy ashore. Reference Text/Photo: 37

Strategic Perspectives Implementing Strategy: Cross-cutting National Efforts

communications is to engage key ing international support for the war audiences to create, strengthen, combatting the Houthi opposition or preserve conditions to advance in Yemen, and for demonstrating national interests through informa- patriotic commitment to national tion and supporting defense actions objectives. Thus, strategic defence synchronised with other elements communications have applications of national power. The United States in peacetime, crisis and in war. believes that strategic defense com- Each of those activities can influence munications have been critical in or persuade selected audiences in countering the radical ideologies significant ways, but they are much of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the more powerful when used in coordi- Muslim Brotherhood, al-Qaeda and nation with diplomatic efforts. Many other extremist organisations in government organisations can and By: Dr. John R.Ballard the 21st century. Strategic defence do support strategic communica- Former Dean of the National Defense communication efforts can include tions, under the overall responsibil- College both high-level dialogue among ity of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, [email protected] defence leaders (such as the Chief but defence officials have particu- of Staff traveling to meet with other larly useful expertise to contribute national leaders), sometimes known in this area, potentially expanding as defence diplomacy, and a range the breadth and impact of a national Focusing national power is a com- of other coordinated actions, mes- influence campaign. The key task is plex task, particularly when the sages, and forms of military engage- to ensure all government efforts are objective is designed to influence ment used to inform, influence, or coherent and mutually reinforcing. another nation or its leadership. persuade other states in support of The world order is complex now and Cross-cutting national capabilities national objectives. Such strategic growing even more dynamic over can often be powerfully effective in defence communications may in- time; managing multiple potential such complex work. For example, us- clude public or civil affairs, informa- threats will test even the best stra- ing force can be powerful but comes tion operations, defence support to tegic leaders as they seek to influ- with great potential cost; fortunate- public diplomacy (often conducted ence with so much activity around ly, defense capabilities can also be by defence attaches overseas), and the region. Global power struggles used to augment diplomacy and in- diplomacy itself (for example when will continue, but the UAE’s ability fluence other states without the use defence officials contribute exper- to employ strategic defence commu- of lethal force. Today we face unrest tise to treaty and peace discussions). nications in concert with traditional in many parts of the region; solu- When well aligned to UAE policy and diplomacy will continue to help it tions to these challenges will require our regional context, strategic de- succeed, particularly because UAE the employment of cross-cutting na- fence communications have proven leaders act in concert with national tional tools such as strategic defense very useful in countering Iranian values, with deeds not just words, communications to reassure friends influence in the region, for enhanc- thus reinforcing the integrity of UAE and dissuade opponents. ing regional understanding of the strategic actions with a range of ef- The objective of strategic defense current issues with Qatar, for build- fective communications. 38 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports Australia Seals MQ-4C Triton Deal

The Australian Department of Defence recently announced its plan to purchase Northrop Grumman Corporation’s Triton aircraft system. According to Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, Australia will buy six MQ-4C Triton remotely piloted aircraft to add to its maritime patrols, with the sify and identify ocean vessels. The air- initial investment of AUD1.4 billion ($1 billion) for the first drone. The total craft also incorporates improvements cost for the six drones, including facilities upgrades and support, will for the maritime sensor suite, gust reportedly be AUD6.9 billion. With this investment Australia has become the loads, hail and bird strikes, lightning first export customer for Triton and will also enter into a $200 million protection and engine inlet anti-icing. cooperative programme with the U.S. Navy for the development, production These features allow the aircraft to de- and sustainment of the MQ-4C Triton. scend and ascend through harsh maritime weather environments to gain a An unmanned aircraft system (UAS) high-resolution imagery and near real- closer view of ships and other targets with an autonomous capability built for time video. Pilots and sensor opera- at sea when needed. maritime intelligence, surveillance and tors fly the Triton from ground stations, Triton builds on Northrop Grumman’s reconnaissance (ISR), Triton is the first which can command flights all over the legacy of success in autonomous sys- Northrop Grumman-built aircraft sys- world. tems. The U.S. Navy recently acquired tem Australia has purchased. The Royal “Triton provides unprecedented endur- two operational Triton aircraft and is Australian Air Force (RAAF) will operate ance and 360-degree coverage through under contract for six more. the system. its unique sensor suite,” said Doug Shaffer, The system will deploy in operational or- “Northrop Grumman looks forward vice president of Triton programmes, bits, with one aircraft on station, another to bringing the Triton UAS with its au- Northrop Grumman. “Australia has one flying home, a third en route and a fourth tonomous capability to Australia,” said of the largest sea zones in the world over getting prepped. These orbits can cover Ian Irving, chief executive officer, which it has rights to use marine resourc- 3.6 million nautical square miles in one Northrop Grumman Australia. “Work- es, also known as an Economic Exclusion day. The Early Operational Capability ing with RAAF and the U.S. Navy, we are Zone. As a flexible platform, Triton can (EOC) MQ-4C Tritons delivered to Point confident that we can provide the best serve in missions as varied as maritime Mugu, California, are just the beginning. capability to fulfil Australia’s maritime domain awareness, target acquisition, The later versions also will be equipped mission.” fisheries protection, oil field monitoring with Multi-INT technology, further ex- Triton can reportedly fly at altitudes of and humanitarian relief.” panding Triton’s ISR mission. 55,000 feet for 24 hours at a time and The Triton has a sensor package de- Strong Partnership is equipped with sensors that provide signed specifically to detect, track, clas- Northrop Grumman has been building 39

“Australia and the U.S. are celebrating 100 years of Mateship this year, marking an alliance that goes back to the trench- es of WWI. Northrop Grumman is proud to partner with such a loyal friend and provide this unprecedented capability to the RAAF,” said Irving. “We consider Triton and its autonomous technology to be the future of the next centennial of aviation, and we are honoured to be part of this century-long partnership.” The Australian government said the new aircraft will complement its new P-8A Poseidon aircraft by helping undertake ISR missions; aiding in anti- submarine warfare and maritime strike Left to Right: Northrop Grumman Chairman and CEO, Wes Bush, Prime Minister of capabilities; and adding to search and Australia, Malcolm Turnbull, Minister for Defence, Marise Payne, Minister for Defence rescue capabilities. Industry, Christopher Pyne, and Chief of Air Force Air Marshal, Leo Davies AO, CSC The first Triton is expected to be introduced into service in mid-2023, while its presence in Australia for many years. liver quality composite parts for the all six aircraft are planned to be deliv- The global aerospace and technol- F-35’s centre fuselage. At a new facility ered and in operation by late 2025. ogy company will be the anchor ten- opened in Bankstown, Sydney, in 2012, They will be based at RAAF Base Edin- ant of an AUD $50 million Electronic Quickstep is expected to manufacture burgh in South Australia. Sustainment Centre of Excellence, to over 36,000 parts for the F-35. Northrop Grumman delivered the first be established at the Badgerys Creek Northrop Grumman also works with operational MQ-4C Triton aircraft to the Airport precinct in western Sydney. CEA Technologies, one of Australia's U.S. Navy facility in 2017, providing the The new centre will support advanced leading military electronica systems service with unparalleled endurance and electronics such as communications and radar companies, and Electro Op- 360-degree coverage that allows for a and electronic warfare equipment, tics Systems, which develops products vastly expanded maritime ISR mission. and targeting pods. The company will incorporating advanced electro-optic Reference Text/Photo: bring together highly skilled techni- technologies for the global aerospace www.northropgrumman.com, www. Reu- cians, engineers and other profes- market. ters.com sionals whose work will be further supported by its high-end technology and software expertise. Through a Global Supply Chain Deed signed with the Australian Department of Defence in 2011 and renewed in 2017, Northrop Grumman is identifying opportunities for Australian industry to be part of the company's global supply chain. For example, Northrop Grum- man’s largest Australian F-35 Lightning II joint strike fighter supplier, Quickstep Technologies, demonstrated that its new production facility is equipped Northrop Grumman delivered the first operational and qualified to manufacture and de- MQ-4C Triton aircraft to the U.S. Navy facility in 2017 40 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports Gripen-E: Boasting Undeniable Edge

Saab’s Gripen E’s test aircraft is taking is unmatched in this industry. We have noeuvres at supersonic speed. This advantage of the unrivalled flexibility the double advantage of being both paves the way for future trials involving of the aircraft’s design and the next two the newest aircraft and able to effort- carriage and release of missiles, drop Gripen E aircraft for the flight test pro- lessly leap ahead as processing power tanks and other external stores. gramme are benefiting from key design advances. The pilot flying Gripen E will International Programme decisions. therefore have an undeniable edge.” Gripen E is an international programme Explaining the progress being made The two aircraft (known as 39-9 and and there has been progress with the on the test aircraft, Jonas Hjelm, sen- 39-10) benefited by having new and design of Gripen F, the two seat version. ior vice president and head of Saab upgraded computers rapidly added to This is being designed with Embraer business area Aeronautics, said at the them, further improving the capabilities in Brazil and can be used for training, recent 2018 Farnborough International from the first aircraft, 39-8. A critical fac- Combat Readiness training, Combat Airshow: “Today’s threats are not to- tor was that this could be done without Missions and Electronic Warfare Officer, morrow’s and modern fighters could affecting the flight critical systems and Mission Commander and Weapon Sys- be viewed as a network of flying super- so was completed in days and weeks, tem Officer in the rear seat. Additional computers seeking to outperform their rather than in months and years as is typ- highlights have been further deliveries opponents. ical in fighters. It means Gripen E can be around key hardware such as the Wide “So we designed Gripen’s smart archi- at the forefront of air combat for decades Area Display being led by the Brazilian tecture to ensure that we can introduce as new features or technologies demand company AEL Aeker. Gripen E is being the latest powerful computers and oth- every greater processing power. developed for the Swedish Air Force er hardware swiftly and simply which The flight included several test ma- whilst the Brazilian Air Force will receive 41

both Gripen E and F. The pylons, which were part of the external stores carried by Gripen aircraft with designation 39-8 in test flights were from the Swiss company RUAG Aerostructures. Gripen E’s pylons are installations by which additional tanks for fuel, surveillance systems or guided weapons can be attached under the aircraft. Eight pylons are supplied per aircraft. These The flight tests included several test manoeuvres at supersonic speed technologically sophisticated components include both electronic as well as mechanical systems and must meet The first flights with external stores the highest demands regarding aero- were conducted over the Baltic Sea at dynamics and load capacity. Gripen’s smart the beginning of July. Besides two of Since the first flight with the Gripen E the IRIS-T air-to-air missile, the aircraft test aircraft (39-8) last year, an intensive architecture carried five pylons. Dirk Prehn, CEO of flight trials period has been success- ensures that the RUAG Aerostructures said: “As a major fully conducted. The aircraft has shown supplier in the Gripen programme, throughout the expansion of the en- latest powerful responsible for the design and manu- velope expected performance and be- facture of the pylons and other com- haviour, with high availability and reli- computers ponents, we contribute to the superior ability. Gripen has now taken another performance of the fighter, in terms of big step towards customer delivery and other safety, performance, life cycle cost and next year by flying with external stores. quality”. “Gripen flew as expected and we are hardware can Meanwhile, Saab has also made a new very pleased with the flight test results. significant addition to its extensive rep- During the flight, the aircraft carried be introduced ertoire of electronic warfare (EW) self- out a number of actions to verify the swiftly and protection systems with a product fam- flying and handling qualities of the air- ily called Arexis. One version of Arexis craft with this extended configuration”, simply is the on-board EW suite in the new said Hjelm. version of the Gripen fighter, Gripen E/F. It will be one of the most advanced EW systems ever installed in a fighter aircraft. Saab is expanding the Arexis product family by presenting the Arexis advanced electronic attack jammer pod. The Arexis jammer pod has the capability to screen and so protect the approach and departure of entire strike formations against low frequency radars by the smart utilisation of Digi- tal Radio Frequency Memory (DRFM) based jamming techniques. Reference Text/Photo: Arexis jammer pod has the capability to screen and protect against low frequency radars www.saabgroup.com 42 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports Supacat’s Formidable HMT Range of Vehicles

Supacat’s High Mobility Transporter (HMT) range of vehicles, which were first developed in the 1990s, built on the success of Supacat’s original All Terrain Mobility Platform (ATMP) as a superior cross country workhorse. Since then HMTs have earned a reputation as formidable off-road vehicles and are in use with British Armed Forces and Special Forces worldwide.

HMT’s are now produced configured in ist roles to meet each customer’s mis- Extenda uses the HMT variable height 4×4 as HMT 400, 6×6 as HMT 600 and sion requirements. There are now close air suspension system which allows it to in the convertible 4x4 to 6x6 variant, to 1,000 in service worldwide. match the capabilities of the HMT 400 HMT Extenda. HMT400 is best known HMT Extenda has been specifically de- and HMT 600 series sister platforms. as `Jackal` and HMT600 as `Coyote` in signed for, and is used by, the world’s Open Architecture the Tactical Support Vehicle (Light) role elite Special Forces. It has been bat- Like the other HMT series variants, HMT in service within the UK Ministry of De- tle proven over the last 15 years. It is Extenda’s open architecture provides fence’s core fleet. unique in being convertible to either for various levels of protection and The HMT 400, HMT 600 and HMT Ex- a 4×4 or 6×6 configuration by fitting great variety in the roles and missions tenda platforms provide the base vehi- or removing a modular, self-contained for which it can be configured. The cle on which a range of mission or role third axle unit. This `plug and play` sys- hamper is designed as a modular sys- requirements can be integrated. Since tem allows the conversion to be com- tem to enable rapid conversion for a its introduction into service in 2003, the pleted within hours to offer users the variety of missions. The vehicle can be HMT base vehicle has been adapted in flexibility to adjust payload or range supplied with an optional mine blast various configurations for many special- for different operational requirements. and ballistic protection kit and can be 43

is committed to supporting the region, and in the event that HMT 400 Desert is selected by the UAE Presidential Guard, a large element of the production and sub- sequent support programmes will be conducted in UAE”. High Performance Solutions The flexibility of the HMT series has been recently demonstrated by Su- pacat in developing additional variants and conversions to meet wider and emerging requirements. These include HMT in the Recovery, Logistic Support and Gun Towing roles. At Lon- don’s DSEi 2017 Supacat unveiled the 10.5 tonne HMT Light Weight Recov- HMT Extenda is used by the world’s elite Special Forces ery (HMT LWR) as the global defence industry’s most versatile LWR vehicle. fitted with different communications, started delivery of the contract, which Supacat has developed HMT LWR to ISTAR and force protection equipment includes a comprehensive through-life fill a capability gap to recover vehicles to suit a wide range of operational roles. support package, with the first produc- operating in hard to access urban and The latest Mk2 version of HMT Extenda tion vehicle officially handed over in rural locations, a requirement of the has recently entered service with two May this year. UK MoD’s Light Weight (Air Portable) global Special Forces customers and a HMT 400 Desert Recovery Capability (LW(AP)RC) pro- third customer is at the start of its deliv- A year ago at IDEX 2017, Supacat un- gramme. HMT LWR is 6x6 and offers ery programme. veiled HMT 400 Desert, a new HMT vari- high levels of agility, off-road perfor- “Securing these three latest prestigious ant adapted to enhance performance mance and protection in common with customers for the HMT Extenda under- in the desert’s harsh environment and the HMT family and utilises many HMT lines its position as the vehicle of choice climatic conditions. It has a lighter gross design features such as the variable for the modern fighting forces and rein- vehicle mass which improves the pow- height air suspension system, engine forces our world lead in this niche cor- er-to-weight ratio and increases mobil- and drive line. ner of the defence industry,” said Nick ity over deep desert sand. Further de- Supacat is an innovative engineering Ames, Chief Executive of Supacat par- sert features include cooling, a central and design company providing global, ent, SC Group. tyre inflation system and lightweight defence focussed products and services HMT Extenda Mk2 has recently entered bead locks to enable the vehicle to be with facilities in the UK and Australia. Its service in Australia under the Defence operated at the lowest tyre pressures. agility and speed enables the company Material Organisation (DMO)’s JP2097 The vehicle is configured to fully com- to provide and fully support high per- Ph 1B (REDFIN) Programme for 89 Spe- ply with the UAE Presidential Guard’s formance solutions in short timescales. cial Operations Vehicles – Commando requirements for a new special opera- Supacat is part of SC Group, a holding (SOV-Cdo). The New Zealand Defence tions vehicle, including tactical CH-47 company for a number of international Force subsequently became a new cus- internal loading, and underwent suc- businesses providing global, cross-sec- tomer for Supacat, and this year accept- cessful tactical trials and testing by UAE tor products and services. It is one of the ed into service a new fleet of Special forces during last summer. world’s leading Groups of companies Operations Vehicles – Mobility Heavy “We have been engaged with the UAE for specialising in the design and develop- (SOV-MH) based on Extenda Mk 2. The a number of years and seek to provide ment of equipment operating in harsh Mk2 was also selected to provide a new their Special Forces with the global Spe- environments, from defence to marine, fleet of High Mobility Vehicles for the cial Forces vehicle of choice”, said Phil oil & gas, renewable energy, nuclear Norwegian Armed Forces. Supacat has Applegarth, Head of Supacat. “Supacat power and mineral exploration. 44 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports LAV 700 to Pack Lethal Punch

General Dynamics Land Systems tures state-of-the-art digital command fights and was inspired by the Stryker (GDLS) – Canada’s latest 8x8 Light Ar- and control architecture, including experiments in Afghanistan and Iraq. moured Vehicle (LAV) 700, is now in health and usage monitoring systems. This Middle East customer has contract- production for a Middle East country. The self-sealing fuel tanks, energy ated a large number of different types of The new vehicle leverages on tech- tenuating seats, add-on armour and these armoured vehicles in a deal that nology from the 8x8 Stryker infantry scalable ballistic protection add to the exceeded $14 billion. carrier vehicles (ICVs), and its variants increased survivability of the GDLS dou- All these features are integrated with built for the U.S. Army as well as the ble-V hull, which can protect against attention to detail, in a high-capacity latest LAV 6.0 currently in production land mines and improvised explosive chassis rated for more than 32,000 kg. for Canada. devices. The result is a technologically advanced GDLS’s LAV 700 provides a next-genera- The LAV 700 is developed on the basis LAV, with speeds exceeding 110km/h tion wheeled combat capability, based of instructions received from the cus- and a range in excess of 1,000km. on combat-proven technology. It fea- tomer based on the experiences of their Trench crossing capability is greater 45

than 2.2m and its payload is 11,000kg. clearance, which can be raised to the Cutting-edge Systems highest level when it is crossing ar- Like all other LAVs, the LAV 700 is avail- LAV 700 can eas where mine threat is high. Crew able in a full range of mission configu- and dismounts are seated on energy rations, including: personnel carrier; be fitted with absorbing seats. command and control; direct and indi- various turrets Currently, the LAV 700 is one of the rect fire support incorporating 30mm most protected armoured personnel and 40mm weapon systems as well as or remotely carriers in the world. Once fitted with turreted mortars and assault guns; anti- a powerful armament, it can even be tank; security, reconnaissance and sur- controlled considered as a wheeled infantry-fight- veillance; ambulance; and repair and ing vehicle. recovery. weapon stations The LAV 700 can be fitted with various The vehicle can be fitted with a wide turrets or remotely controlled weapon range of weapon systems, from small- stations. A baseline version is fitted with calibre Remote Weapon Systems, tection is scalable, depending on a 12.7 mm machine gun. This vehicle is through medium calibre turrets, plus the threat. It is estimated that maxi- proposed with 30- or 40 mm turrets. The direct and indirect support for over- mum level of all-round protection armoured personnel carrier accommo- matching lethality. Leading-edge is against 14.5mm armour-piercing dates around 6-8 dismounts. Troops en- systems and sensors coupled to a so- rounds. The front arc can withstand ter and leave the vehicle via a rear pow- phisticated open-architecture C4 suite hits from 30mm cannons. Cage ar- er-operated ramp. Also, there are roof ensure full mission flexibility. mour can be installed for protection hatches for firing or emergency exit. The LAV 700 can be fitted with ce- against anti-tank rockets. Plus, the Upgrades and Variants ramic add-on armour kit for a higher vehicle is fitted with automatic fire The powerpack comprises a Caterpillar level of protection. So ballistic pro- suppression and optional NBC de- C13 turbocharged diesel engine detection systems. Also, there is a laser veloping 711hp coupled to an Allison warning system and shot detection 4800 SP automatic transmission with system, and it can be fitted with ac- seven forward and one reverse gears tive protection system. Furthermore, and a single-speed transfer case. It is this vehicle has adjustable ground one of the major improvements over 450hp engine of the LAV 6.0. For a higher level of cross-country mobility, hydropneumatic independent suspension with ride height control is fitted. This is augmented with a central tyre inflation system (CTIS) as well as run-flat tyres. Ground clearance of the vehicle can be selected from the driver's position. On hard surface roads it uses 8x4 configura- LAV 700 can be fitted with ceramic tion for maximum range, while 8x8 add-on armour kit configuration is engaged over diffi- cult terrain and off-road. Its two front axles are steerable. The LAV 700 armoured vehicle can be airlifted by a C17 Globemaster III or Air- bus A400M military transports. Reference Text/Photo: www.gdels.com 46 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports TEXTRON’s Impressive Show at FARNBOROUGH

Bell Helicopter, Textron Aviation Inc., Textron Aviation Defense LLC, Tex- tron Systems, and Textron Airborne So- lutions and TRU Simulation + Training: With all this extensive product portfolio and more, Textron truly impressed at the Farnborough International Airshow. “We had a great range of products at Farnborough, reflecting our strong commitment to product development over the past several years,” said Scott Don- nelly, Textron’s Chairman and CEO. “Among the highlights were our latest offerings of commercial and military aircraft, unmanned aircraft and simulation and training solutions. The show is always a special opportunity to meet with established and potentially new custom- drive to revolutionise ers from around the world.” vertical takeoff and lift. Bell Boeing is soon to begin U.S. navy The Next-Generation Aircraft on CMV-22B production work under $4 Static Display were: billion contract. This contract provides The Bell 505 Jet Ranger X light single for the manufacture and delivery of engine helicopter is the ideal military Vigilant were featured in the new Live 39 CMV-22B aircraft for the Navy; 14 trainer and offers incredible value un- Product Demo Area. The Bell V-280’s MV-22B aircraft for the Marine Corps; like any other helicopter in its class. new tiltrotor technology is Bell’s an- one CV-22B for the Air Force; and four With more than 100 delivered around swer to the U.S. Army’s Future Vertical MV-22B aircraft for the government of the world, it is designed to be easier Lift programme; it has been designed Japan. and safer to fly thanks to its superior to revolutionise military capabilities Bell Helicopter: Product of Innovation standard equipment and state-of-the- with unmatched speed, range, payload, For decades, Bell has been known for art Garmin 1000H TM glass cockpit. agility, survivability and endurance. The building aircraft that enable life-saving The Bell 429 is designed with the future Bell V-247 tiltrotor is designed to ad- missions and support militaries around in mind, enhancing occupant safety, dress the evolving military and trans- the world. Textron’s aircraft are able to with the adaptability to remain at the portation demands for a shipborne Un- rapidly deliver and retrieve warfighters forefront as mission requirements manned Aerial Systems platform. in extreme, challenging environments evolve. The Bell 429 is chosen by police For more than 80 years, Textron had and for fast transport. When it comes forces, air medical teams and militar- been reimagining the experience of to developing tiltrotor technology, or ies around the world for time-sensitive flight—and where it can take us. producing life-saving aircraft, Bell has missions. Textron Aviation the innovative minds and the relentless The Bell V-280 Valor and Bell V-247 Textron Aviation and Textron Aviation 47

Bell 505 Jet Ranger X light single engine helicopter

Beechcraft T-6 Texan II military flight trainer

Defense highlighted their defence and Air 350i and Cessna Grand Caravan predecessor’s high-calibre performance special mission capabilities, including EX, each featuring flexible interiors de- with more payload capability and a static display of the world’s premier signed for a broad spectrum of special range, a quieter interior with standard military flight trainer—the Beechcraft mission applications. Wi-Fi, and Pro Line Fusion avionics with T-6 Texan II—and special mission- The Citation CJ4 jet redefines versatil- full touch-screen simplicity. The King Air equipped Cessna Citation CJ4, Beech- ity for a light jet. The CJ4 has added is the world’s best-selling business tur- craft King Air 350i and Cessna Grand speed, range and cabin size over its boprop family. Caravan EX aircraft. predecessor without incurring midsize The Cessna® Grand Caravan EX is known Since the Beechcraft® T-6 Texan II turbojet operating costs. The Collins Pro Line for its dependable and efficient perfor- prop’s entry-into-service in 1994, nearly 21 avionics suite streamlines the ease mance by regional airlines, charter op- 1,000 aircraft have amassed more than of operation of the CJ4. Features such erators and cargo carriers worldwide. The 3.2 million hours across worldwide as single point refuelling, an externally Grand Caravan EX was engineered for military flight training operations by 10 serviceable lavatory and excellent range challenging missions, high payloads and nations spanning the Americas, the UK, deliver what crew and cabin passengers short, rough runways while delivering Asia and the Middle East. appreciate. single-engine economy and simplicity. Textron Aviation Defense also dis- True to its legacy of innovation, the Textron Systems played the Cessna Citation CJ4, King Beechcraft King Air 350i surpasses its Textron Systems showcased the NIGHT- 48 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports

maximise lethality against a wide range of targets. TRU Simulation + Training TRU Simulation + Training delivers innovative, total aviation training solutions to the commercial and military markets while providing superior technical support and customer service. TRU continues to build its presence as a leading provider to aircraft OEMs, including as an approved supplier to Boe- ing for the 737 MAX and 777X training programmes. TRU successfully qualified Fury precision guided weapon system on Shadow and delivered the world’s first-ever 737 MAX Full Flight Simulators (FFS) to Boe- ing’s Training Campuses in Miami, Sin- gapore, Gatwick and Shanghai as Boe- ing continues to expand its 737 MAX FFS order. TRU continues to expand its footprint in Asia through several new Airbus full flight simulators for the A320 and A350 aircraft platforms—provided to Airbus’ growing base of global training centres in Beijing, Singapore and beyond. NightWarden is a new Group 3 tactical unmanned aircraft system Airborne Tactical Advantage Com- pany (ATAC) WARDEN Tactical Unmanned Aircraft a multi-rotor platform with the proven ATAC, a part of Textron Airborne Solu- System (TUAS), Aerosonde HQ, as well as efficiency, range and speed of the Aero- tions, is an industry-leading provider the Fury and G-CLAW precision weapon sonde Small Unmanned Aircraft System of tactical flight training and adversary systems. The NIGHT WARDEN TUAS, (SUAS) fixed-wing aircraft. This HQ capa- services which was acquired by Textron which debuted at the 2017 Paris Air- bility can be integrated into an existing in 2016. ATAC provides allied partners show, made its first presence at Farn- or new Aerosonde system in less than and the U.S. Departments of the Navy borough Airshow. Its multiple payload five minutes, yielding a very diverse mis- and Air Force with realistic fighter ad- locations, open architecture and soft- sion set with an extremely small, and versary flight operations involving nu- ware automation, coupled with its sat- highly mobile, operational footprint. merous tactical aircraft, highly skilled ellite communications capability, gave Also on show was Textron Systems’s G- former military fighter pilots, and an NIGHTWARDEN advanced flexibility and CLAW and Fury precision guided weap- impressive maintenance and logistics power for tackling various simultaneous on systems. Fury was displayed on the program. In addition to preserving mission requirements. The platform also NIGHTWARDEN TUAS and Textron Avia- flight hours on front-line active military offers up to 18 hours of endurance and a tion’s AT-6, while G-CLAW was on Textron aircraft, ATAC also enables the Depart- range of up to 1,000 kilometres. Textron Aviation’s Cessna Caravan. The systems ment of Defense to focus on "blue air" Systems’ family of TUAS offers proven utilise global positioning system (GPS) combat flight training, ensuring U.S. and reliable experience with more than /inertial navigation system (INS) and a military pilots have every possible tac- one million flight hours from operations Semi-Active Laser Seeker, to provide high tical advantage, while saving the U.S. around the world. levels of accuracy for weapon guidance DOD significant costs. The Aerosonde HQ combines the verti- and target engagement. Their advanced Reference Text/Photo: cal takeoff and landing capabilities of warhead designs and tri-mode fuzes www.textron.com 49

Strategic Capstone on Combined Perspectives Effects Thinking

psychological and physical. Such conflict in which Vietnamese forces a holistic approach influences the were defeated. The combined effect enemy’s will and capability in ways was one of induced coercion, and it that hierarchical organisations, and worked to China’s advantage. either cooperation or confrontation, Another Chinese example of inducing do not. The next article described a dilemma is the ongoing strategy in North Korean plans to win with supe- which China persuades Taiwan to uni- rior combined effects, and attendant fy with China, while at the same time campaigns designed to set condi- deters Taiwan from declaring inde- tions to achieve those effects. Last pendence. This persuasive–deterrent month’s article detailed the language combination presents a dilemma for and logic of how to craft diplomatic, Taiwan because it polarises a key po- informational, military, economic and litical issue in democratic Taiwan. That By: Dr. Thomas A. Drohan social (DIMES) lines of effect. is whether to unify with, or declare Dean of the National Defense College This article caps all of the preceding independence from, China. Trust of [email protected] by highlighting an historically use- China’s intent to preserve Taiwan’s de ful combined effect — inducing a facto sovereignty is a central concern. dilemma. Let’s consider two of many China induces this domestic dilemma This article completes the series on Chinese examples. for Taiwan from time to time with combined effects strategy. First, the In the Spratly Islands during the demonstrations of force: missile firings foundation. My first two articles of 1980s, China used diplomatic and in 1995-1996 that landed just north 2018 related the legacy of Dr. John economic inducement, and military of Taiwan; routine military exercises Ballard’s thought as National Defense coercion, to impose a dilemma on that simulate invasions of Taiwan; and College Dean in terms of four core Vietnam that strengthened China’s other live-fire exercises and military competencies for the security strate- sovereignty over claimed territory. movements around Taiwan. The com- gist. In the next article, I emphasised How? First, China used internation- bined effect is one of induced persua- the need to blend theory with prac- ally contracted drilling companies to sion and deterrence. tice to inspire action with vision, and conduct surveys in Vietnam-claimed Combined effects strategy is about to question assumptions, logic, and maritime territory. These opera- how to create superior combinations evidence. The fourth article also dis- tions induced Vietnam to conduct of effects. Enlightened leadership at cussed fundamentals of out-thinking counter-surveys in the area. The di- multiple levels is needed to orches- one’s competitors. This can be done lemma for Vietnam was, watch China trate the dynamic coordination of all through flexible strategies that re- manipulate a proxy to occupy dis- relevant instruments of power. Best- arrange ends, ways and means rather puted territory, or confront peaceful practices education is key. At the Na- than replicate them. maritime operations protected by tional Defense College, a curriculum On the basis of understanding strat- Chinese naval forces. Vietnam chose of continuous improvement is key to egy as a creative process, the fifth arti- to conduct counter-surveys as a way unleashing the human spirit of critical cle explained how using confrontation to avoid the extremes of either do- thinking and empowered decision- and cooperation at the same time can ing nothing or confronting directly. making required to prevail against create powerful effects. The effects Vietnam’s decision effectively took such distributed threats, opportunities may be causative and preventive, and China’s bait, which led to a military and challenges. 50 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports

ST Engineering Aerospace to Service Japan’s Solaseed Air

Solaseed Air 737-800

ST Engineering Aerospace, part of ised MBHTM programmes, airlines can ST Engineering, recently secured a select a range of support services and multi-year component Maintenance- MBHTM pay a corresponding flight hour rate. By-the-Hour (MBH) contract from This way, operators are able to keep Japan’s Solaseed Air. The agreement programmes operating costs low and also minimise will see ST Engineering Aerospace fixed asset inventory holdings in terms continuing its support in component allow operators of spares or maintenance equipment. maintenance for the airline. As part Today, ST Engineering Aerospace pro- of the contract, the company will to keep operating vides integrated component support expand its scope of component sup- costs low for a fleet of more than 600 aircraft on port services for Solaseed Air’s fleet of the MBH basis, servicing over 20 aircraft Boeing 737-800s. operators in Asia Pacific, Europe and Takeo Kikuchi, Executive Vice Presi- the Middle East. In Asia alone, over 10 dent of Maintenance & Engineering, their component maintenance needs, airlines have selected the company as Solaseed Air, said: “We are very happy which have changed through their their preferred component solutions to extend our agreement with ST Engi- fleet growth and maintenance plan- service provider. neering Aerospace for component sup- ning. Such long-term partnerships ST Engineering is a global technology, port. The excellent service support and enable us to fulfil our proposition in defence and engineering group spe- strong relationships between our staff providing a flexible and customised cialising in the aerospace, electronics, proves decisive to select ST Engineer- MBH programme to meet the evolv- land systems and marine sectors. Head- ing Aerospace as our partner while we ing needs of customers, while they can quartered in Singapore, the Group has expand our fleet. We expect that our also continue to expect the same, if not been serving customers in the defence, close working relationship will contin- greater, level of care and dedication government and commercial segments ue to improve.” from us.” in more than 100 countries. With more While Lim Serh Ghee, President of ST A global network of distribution cen- than 500 smart city projects across 70 Engineering’s Aerospace sector, added: tres, satellite stores, and repair shops, cities, it continues to help transform cit- “We are happy that Solaseed Air has both in-house and external, support ST ies through its suite of Smart Mobility, chosen to continue the partnership Engineering Aerospace’s trademarked Smart Security and Smart Environment with ST Engineering Aerospace for MBH programme. Through custom- solutions. 51 Compass Call Moves to a Modern Platform BAE Systems has started preparations attack capabilities and their ability to area denial and irregular warfare envi- to transition its advanced Compass Call protect critical missions,” said Pamela ronments. By integrating mature elec- electronic warfare (EW) system from Potter, director of Electronic Attack So- tronics onto a state-of-the-art aircraft, the aging EC-130H aircraft to a more lutions at BAE Systems. “The cross-deck- the total weapon system will provide pi- contemporary platform that will con- ing programme enables the Air Force to lots and operators greater confidence. siderably improve mission effective- maintain existing, unmatched EW mis- When the EC-37B enters service as a ness. Commonly known as the ‘Cross sion capabilities in an economical busi- 21st century electronic attack platform, Deck’ initiative, it will enable the U.S. ness jet that can fly faster, higher, and the combination of technology matu- Air Force to continue disrupting enemy farther than its predecessor, improving ration and a new aircraft is projected command and control capabilities well mission effectiveness and survivability.” to provide: A 50 per cent reduction in into the future. Improving Mission Effectiveness weight and in operating costs, the abil- As the mission system integrator for Compass Call is an airborne tactical ity to operate at higher altitude, execu- the programme, BAE Systems is work- weapon system that has provided tion at longer ranges, along with perfor- ing with L3 Technologies to transition protection and supported special mis- mance at faster speeds. the Compass Call capabilities onto an sions on the EC-130H since 1981. BAE In 2017, BAE Systems and its partners EC-37B aircraft, a special-mission Gulf- Systems serves as the platform’s sys- completed the initial design review stream G550 that meets the U.S. Air tems engineering, integration, and test- of the Compass Call weapon system, Force requirements. This new platform ing lead as well as the mission system and the final design review is planned will provide combatant command- prime contractor. for this fall. Initial modifications of the ers with improved standoff jamming To meet new mission requirements first G550 are underway, with the first capability and flexibility to counter so- and combat advanced threats, BAE Sys- two aircraft fielded in 2023. A total of phisticated communications and radar tems will re-host the EC-130H’s mission 10 new aircraft are planned. However, threats. equipment onto the higher performing the company will continue to sustain “The Compass Call mission electronics EC-37B aircraft. The new platform will the electronics for the fleet of EC-130H are world-class EW systems that are in support Compass Call capabilities that Compass Call aircraft while it develops, high demand from operational com- are required in multiple mission plans procures, manufactures, and integrates manders because of their electronic to support operation in anti-access/ electronics for the new fleet.

BAE Systems is working with L3 Technologies to transition the Compass Call capabilities onto an EC-37B aircraft 52 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports

MBDA’s Superior Air Defence Systems and Anti-Ship Missiles

Marte ER on NH90 helicopter Teseo MK2A firing from Destroyer

At the recently concluded SeaFuture mechanical, functional and electri- countries worldwide, with ships of dif- 2018 in La Spezia, Italy, MBDA show- cal helicopter interfaces; same logistic ferent class from hydrofoils up to de- cased its consolidated expertise in air support and no platform hardware stroyers and aircraft carriers. MBDA and defence systems and anti-air/anti-ship changes required. It can be launched the Italian Navy are currently evaluating missiles. La Spezia is one of the three by helicopters, ships, coastal batteries, a new evolution to the Teseo missile. It Italian sites of MBDA, and is the focus and maritime patrol aircraft and fast weighs 780kg, its length is less than 6m point for MBDA’s Italian anti-ship sys- jets. The missile weighs 315kg, while its and has high subsonic speed. tems, where the Marte and Teseo mis- length is 3.60m, and max body diam- Flexible and Agile Solutions sile families were conceived and are eter is 316mm. Its range is well beyond At the show, MBDA demonstrated its produced. 100km, while its speed is high subsonic. expertise in air defence with the En- The company is renowned for design- Teseo MK2A: It provides improved per- hanced Modular Air Defence Solution ing and producing missiles and missile formance in terms of over the horizon (EMADS) system operating the brand systems to meet the whole range of targeting and operations in complex new CAMM-ER missile for short to me- current and future operational require- naval scenarios. It is capable of ranges dium range air defence domain and the ments for armed forces around the in excess of 180km. Target data is de- Aster family for long range air and mis- world. Some of the products and sys- rived from the ship’s command system sile defence. tems displayed included: or taken directly from the ship’s surface CAMM ER: The Common Anti-air Mod- Marte ER: It represents the third gen- search radar. Mission planning allows ular Missile Extended Range (CAMM ER) eration within the Marte family of mis- the selection of different firing modes is from the CAMM family of next gener- sile systems and is derived from Marte (such as fire-and-forget or midcourse ation air defence missiles, designed for MK2/S. The main difference between guided) and of specific trajectories and both the land and sea environments. the two is the introduction of a turbo- evasive manoeuvres. Mid course re- Incorporating advanced technologies, fan engine in place of the rocket motor. vectoring from a co-operating ship or CAMM-ER provides protection against Marte ER’s design takes into account helicopter is also possible. all known and projected air targets in- that Marte MK2/S is already qualified The excellent capabilities of the missile cluding fighter aircraft, high-speed mis- and installed on naval versions of Eu- allow the system to operate effectively siles and precision munitions. ropean AW101 and NH90 helicopters, in both littoral and blue water environ- CAMM-ER has an active RF seeker that offering advantages such as same ments. The system is in service in 12 provides true all-weather performance 53

with great clutter rejection capabilities. The lightweight missile is highly agile with a high-lethality warhead and advanced fuzing package, giving a high probability of kill against a wide threat set. It weighs 160kg, while its length is 4.2m and diameter is 190mm. The range is in excess of 40km and its speed is supersonic. Aster: These missiles form the corner- stone of Europe’s naval as well as land based air defence programmes. The As- ter missile family comprises Aster 15 for short to medium range and Aster 30 for short to long-range air defence. Aster is a lightweight, highly manoeuvring and agile missile equipped with a high- performance active RF seeker. Thanks to the unique combination of aerodynamic control and direct thrust vector control (PIF-PAF), the missile is capable of very high-G manoeuvres. CAMM-ER has an active RF seeker that provides true all-weather performance Together, these features give Aster an unmatched hit-to-kill capability. Aster billion euros with an order book of 16.8 in India’ policy. missiles provide ships with an all-round billion euros. Domestically the year was marked in anti-missile and anti-air capability to MBDA CEO Antoine Bouvier said: “The France by the first deliveries of naval ensure self-defence, consort protection group continues to move forward on cruise missiles (MdCN) and medium- and long-range interception capabil- each of its three strategic pillars: to range missiles (MMP) for land combat; in ity for area defence, and anti-ballistic give its domestic countries guaranteed the UK, by the order for additional Mete- missile protection. Aster missiles are access to missile technological sover- or missiles to continue with integration in service on the latest vessels brought eignty, to pursue European consolida- on F-35 Lightning II; in Germany, by the into service by three of Europe’s major tion, to develop international activities; formal kick-off of negotiations with the navies and with several other navies these three actions jointly contribute to authorities on the TLVS air defence and around the world. the critical mass of MBDA, that is its abil- anti-missile programme; and in Italy, by The Aster 15 weighs 310kg, while its ity to achieve long-term development the choice of the CAMM ER missile with- length is 4.2m and diameter is 180mm. faced with its global competitors. We in the framework of the replacement of Its maximum speed is Mach 3, its range continue to view the future with opti- the Aspide air defence missile system. is in excess of 30km and it can reach an mism, targeting, as we expected, €4 bil- Co-operation in Europe on missile tech- altitude of 13 km. On the other hand, lion in revenue by 2020. To support this nologies also made significant progress the Aster 30 weighs 450kg, its length growth, the group plans to hire nearly in 2017, which will deliver future econo- is 4.9km and diameter is 180mm. Its 1,200 people this year, after recruiting mies of scale and enhanced competi- maximum speed is Mach 4.5, its range 1,000 in 2016 and as many in 2017.” tiveness in the coming years. is in excess of 120km, and it can reach On the international front, 2017 saw With more than 90 armed forces cus- an altitude of 20km. the creation in India of a joint venture tomers in the world, MBDA offers a Strategic Growth between MBDA and its Indian partner range of 45 missile systems and coun- With a significant presence in five Eu- Larsen & Toubro to meet the Indian termeasures products already in opera- ropean countries and within the U.S., in Armed Forces’ future requirements un- tional service and more than 15 others 2017 MBDA achieved a turnover of 3.1 der the New Delhi government’s ‘Make currently in development. 54 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports The ‘Sea at 360 Degrees’: The Undisputed Protagonist of Seafuture

Organised by Italian Blue Growth (IBG) - promoting company together with the Italian Industries Federation for Aerospace, Defence and Security (AIAD), the Region of Liguria and Blue Hub in cooperation with the Italian Navy - the Seafuture 2018 edition took place from 19 to 23 June in the La Spezia Navy Base, Italy. Seafuture is dedicated to naval vessel upgrading and life-cycle management based on the latest sophisticated technologies.

The Seafuture sought to analyse at Navale Vittoria, Effebi, Ferretti Security upgrade project, to be managed by the length all aspects of the maritime do- and Defence (FSD), Baglietto Navy, No- national shipbuilding industry. main to provide a business model that vamarine, Stem Marine, CABI Cattaneo ITS Virginio Fasan and ITS Luigi Rizzo – combines industry, science, technology and Zodiac, along with the combat respectively ASW and ASuW – config- and environmental awareness, which system and naval equipment suppliers ured multipurpose frigates developed epitomise the goal of Seafuture. including Leonardo, MBDA, Elettronica, and built under the joint French-Italian During a press conference, Cristiana Calzoni, GEM Elettronica, Gay Marine, Ci- programme managed by European Pagni, president of IBG as well as creator vitanavi Systems, Ingegneria Dei Sistemi OCCAR agency – and the Amerigo Ves- and promotor of the event, provided (IDS), Martec, RINA, Seastema, Sitep, pucci training vessel were at the show. facts and figures for the Seafuture sixth Insis, Elsel, Nuova Connavi, Drass, Euro- Besides, foreign delegations had the edition: 9,000 square meters of exhibi- control, Fiocchi Munizioni, MTU, Volvo opportunity to experience at sea dem- tion space between the historic build- Pent, Thales Alenia Space Italia, the onstrations, among others, on-board ings of the Navy Base, over 40 foreign French shipbuilding giant Naval Group Ferretti Security and Defense (FSD) delegations, 1,500 bilateral meetings and Thales, NATO’s Centre for Maritime 20-metres FSD195 fast patrol vessel in between companies and delegations Research and Experimentation (CMRE) a new variant, Baglietto Navy’s 15-me- and between companies themselves, 28 and the Ligurian Cluster of Marine Tech- tres FFC-15 fast multipurpose transport conferences, seminars and workshops nologies (DLTM). landing troop vessel and Stem Marine regarding both technical and strategic Foreign delegations and operators got 7.5-metres STEM 750 Jet rescue boat. policy issues. the opportunity to visit and experience Visitors also got to see the 12-metres Around 180 major companies and at sea demonstrations not only on-board SWAD (Sea Watch Dog) unmanned/ small-to-medium enterprises, together the latest generation warships such as optionally piloted surface vehicle (USV/ with other maritime cluster organisa- the Italian Navy multi-purpose FREMM OPV) developed by DLTM-lead group of tions and sector associations including frigates in both anti-submarine (ASW) 8-companies under government fund- State institutions and Government and and general purpose or anti-surface ing and L3 Calzoni’s Lyra remotely oper- non-governmental organisations, main- warfare (ASuW) configurations but also ated vehicle (ROV) in action. Leonardo ly from Italy, but also from all over the on-board the newest smaller vessels and Ingegneria Dei Sistemi (IDS) exhibit- world participated in the Seafuture 2018 and boats produced by the Italian ship- ed respectively the AWHero short-range edition. The Italian shipbuilding sector building sector, in addition to the Italian tactical rotary-wing and the IA-17 small was represented by Fincantieri, Orizzon- Navy’s older vessels which could find fixed-wing UAVs. te Sistemi Navali, Intermarine, Cantiere new life through a proper refitting and Foreign delegations had the opportuni- 55

Seafuture 2018 edition took place from 19 to 23 June in the La Spezia Navy Base, Italy

Leonardo and IDS exhibited respectively the AWHero short- range tactical rotary-wing and Around 180 major companies participated the IA-17 small ty to experience at-sea demonstrations matters which were dealt with, ranged on-board ITS Euro (Maestrale-class frig- from maritime security, to shipbuilding, fixed-wing UAVs ate), ITS Aviere (Soldati-class fleet-patrol refitting, combat system, propulsion ship), Driade (Minerva-class corvette), and research and development – in- and discover how these vessels could cluding the following topics: main theme of the opening forum on find a new life and missions, under ad- A Comprehensive Approach to Mari- the first day of Seafuture 2018, titled ‘A vice from the Italian Navy and naval time Security Comprehensive approach to maritime shipbuilding industry. The defence of national economic in- security’, which was introduced by the Besides the exhibition in itself, the Sea- terests at sea and the security of mari- Chief of the Italian Navy, admiral Val- future is well-known for its conferences, time traffic in a geostrategic context ter Girardelli. The forum analysed the seminars and workshops agenda. The characterised by new threats, was the modern threats in the maritime domain 56 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Reports

associated with national economic in- Group and Italian Shipowners associa- terests and worldwide traffics security tion representatives. and stability in worldwide traffics. A Excellences in the National Naval In- think-tank grouping the main actors of dustry and Global Challenges MBDA and the Italian maritime cluster considered “Facing global challenges through the traditional and modern point of views technological innovation, towards SHIP Elettronica (POVs), also studied the increasing con- 4.0”, was the main theme of the indus- were part of nections between maritime and cyber try forum on the second day. The forum domain. provided the stage not only for national Seafuture 2018 On the first day of Seafuture , the Ital- giants such as Fincantieri shipbuilding ian Navy Logistic Command also pre- group and Leonardo defence and secu- sented its know-how and solutions rity group but also for major industrial through the Orizzonte Sistemi Na- players such as MBDA and Elettronica, and renovation projects of previously- vali’s (OSN) Total Global Support (TGS) respectively leaders in the missiles and operated Italian Navy’s vessels for the FREMM programme and latest OCCAR electronic warfare sectors as well as for Bangladesh Coast Guard and Peruvian and nationally-managed programmes smaller to medium companies. Navy were the case studies for the re- with OSN, Italian MoD and Systecon Exploitation of the successful refitting fitting and renovation forum held on the second day of Seafuture with the participation of Fincantieri, small and medium industries, Italian and Peruvian navies and Italian MoD defence industries agency (AID). European and National Excellences in Defence Procurement The naval focus on the third day was on the European and national excellences in defence procurement and programme management. The Director of OCCAR (Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d'Armement / Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation) procurement agency and the Director of Italian MoD’s Naval Armaments Director- ate (Direzione degli Armamenti Navali - NAVARM) presented their respective organisation, mission and vision and reciprocal relationships, with a focus on programmes with the participation or leading position of Italy. The same day, the IT MoD presented the results of the European Strategic technology forecasting survey (Pythia project) with Engineering Ingegneria Infor- matica and Zanasi & partners, alongside the ‘Haruspex suite’ innovative technology to counter cyber-attacks and the ‘Cy- ber crisis management’ role play game to stimulate attention on cyber security. 57

Italian MoD’s Naval Armaments Directorate In addition to naval platforms, the Italian MoD’s Naval Armaments Di- rectorate (NAVARM) is involved in the development, design, testing, validation and procurement of on- board systems, sensors and weapon systems. During the forum, NAVARM highlighted the implementation of Human Centre Design with the use of virtual reality into the design process developed for the new Italian Navy’s platforms. The Directorate and Martec Company presented a number of activities to improve on-board safety such as passive and active protection, damage control and redundant systems, optimisation of human machine interface and new hardware for command and control stations. Under the ‘Far Seas’ research project on Lithium Ion Batteries and Battery management system, Italian Navy together with Fincantieri, FAAM and La Sapienza University presented a national propulsion solution for future U212A submarine application. The Naval Arsenal of La Spezia, where Seafuture was held, together with Dragonfly company presented the 3D printing technology project for rapid production of spare parts (MARAMASP remotely controlled vehicles exploit- The International Navy Safety Asso- programme). ing the latest technologies including ciation (INSA), a team of international Addressing the use of Unmanned artificial intelligence are foreseen to navies and classification societies, has Systems in Underwater Warfare be used in countering underwater been developed on NATO request and A shared innovative vision between unmanned and manned submarines, has now published a safety code for the Italian Navy, national industry mines and hybrid threats in addition warships, known as the Naval Ship and the Italian research domain in the to conduct intelligence, surveillance Code and published as ANEP 77. Ita- development, procurement and em- and reconnaissance operations. ly’s RINA classification society and an ployment of autonomous underwa- Developments in R&D and Applied Italian Navy representative discussed ter and remotely controlled vehicles Programmes in the Naval Domain the code’s development, its use on a was at the heart of a two-day work- ATENA (Associazione di Tecnica Na- number of recent warship projects, shop with the participation of NATO vale) and Pisa University presented analysing both technical and practical Science & Technology Organization the activities in the electromagnetic applications, and the future plans for (STO) Centre for Maritime Research spectrum control and management, the code. and Experimentation (CMRE). including electronic warfare and sig- Reference Text/Photo: The autonomous underwater and nature control. www.seafuture.it 58 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Issue Fileile UAE and China: Strong Anchors An inspiring cultural model for developmental cooperation

The official reception ceremony for the Chinese President Xi Jinping on his important historic visit to the UAE in July 2018 reflects the deep relations between the two friendly countries, which are expanding and growing in a deliberate manner. This embodies the will of the two leaderships and their desire to expand cooperation and benefit from the great potential and capabilities of the two economies, and to promote all of this by building a comprehensive system of strategic partnership based on cooperation in all fields. In this issue, Nation Shield sheds light on the reality of the UAE-China relations, the basis of these relations and the prospects for their development. 59 for Strategic Partnership tion for the benefit of nations and peoples

The UAE will celebrate UAE-China Week annually, coinciding with Chi- nese New Year celebrations. "We welcome Chinese President Xi Jin- ping on this historic visit," said HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. "We are happy to celebrate on an annual basis a culture of thousands of years and strategic relations that realise the visions of both countries and peoples." His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Com- mander of the UAE Armed Forces, said the UAE and China play a pivotal role in the stability of the region and its economic future. “Over 28 years ago, the late Sheikh Za- yed bin Sultan Al Nahyan visited China, founded the strategic relationship between the two countries that has yielded fruitful trade and investment as well as cultural relations for more than three decades,” Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed added. “China is an international commercial giant with a global political weight play- ing an active role in stabilising the global economy and attaining peace and security,” Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed said. On his first overseas tour after being re- er of the UAE Armed Forces. Just before The Underlying Principles of UAE- elected as president of China in March the visit, they issued an official welcom- China Cooperation 2018, the Chinese President Xi Jinping ing statement in which they described The UAE-China relations are based on paid an official visit to the United Arab the visit as historic. The UAE launched a set of strategic foundations and prin- Emirates on July 19, 2018, for three days. the UAE-China Week, running from ciples that have been the driving force During the visit, he met with His High- July 17 to 24, which coincided with of these relations since their inception ness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al the Chinese President’s visit and was in the mid-1980s. These elements and Maktoum, the Vice-President and Prime aimed at placing a spotlight on the principles are as follows: Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, relations between the two nations, t)JTUPSJDBM#BDLHSPVOE5IFMBUF4IFJLI and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin and the enhancement of commercial Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu cooperation, cultural exchange and rest his soul, laid the foundation for rela- Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Command- friendship between the two peoples. tions between the two countries since 60 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Issue Fileile

the founding of the United Arab Emir- phase of relations was the visit of the terests of the two friendly peoples. Be- ates in 1971. On December 3, 1971, the founding leader, in 1990 - which was the fore his visit to China in December 2015, founding leader sent a telegram to the first visit of one of the leaders of the GCC His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Za- Chinese Premier Shaun Enlai informing countries - to China. The visit launched a yed Al Nahyan had described the UAE's him of the establishment of the UAE. new phase in the cooperation between relations between the two countries as The former Chinese leader responded the two friendly countries, and laid the ‘strategic partnership’. with a congratulatory telegram to the foundation for cultural relations be- t"'JSN'PVOEBUJPOPG$PNNPO*OUFS- late Sheikh Zayed, declaring China's of- tween the two countries. ests: The UAE regards China as one of ficial recognition of the United Arab t5IF$POTFOTVTPOUIF%FWFMPQNFOUPG the most important international pow- Emirates. The bilateral diplomatic rela- Bilateral Relations: An analysis of all the ers that guarantee global security and tions between the United Arab Emirates statements of leaders and officials in the stability and is a key element in the and the People's Republic of China were United Arab Emirates and the People's security and stability equations in the launched on November 1, 1984, and Republic of China indicates a strong po- Middle East due to its growing position the UAE Embassy was opened in Beijing litical will of the leaderships of the two in the existing world order. in March 1987. The second qualitative countries to develop relations in the in- t5IFDPOWFSHFODFPGWJFXTPOSFHJPOBM and international issues and files: The positions of the two countries reveal the convergence of viewpoints and positions on most regional and international issues. t.VUVBMWJTJUTBOEDPOUJOVPVTEJBMPHVF The visits of the leaders of the two countries are a turning point in the bilateral relations. Mutual official visits began with an official visit by the former Chinese President Yang Chang-kun to the UAE in 1989. The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan visited China in May 1990. Areas and Prospects of Joint Cooperation The UAE-China relations are exemplary 61

in their development and growth in partnership between the UAE and Chi- the University of Foreign Studies in Bei- various fields and sectors. These areas na is one of the fastest growing partner- jing in 1984, a centre that plays a vital include the following: ships between the developed countries, role in supporting cultural relations and t5IF1PMJUJDBM-FWFM3FMBUJPOTCFUXFFO due to the fact that both countries have communication. the UAE and the People's Republic of opportunities and prospects for eco- t5IF5PVSJTN4FDUPSJTPOFPGUIFNPTU China have been developing continu- nomic expansion and development. promising sectors in terms of economic ously since they were officially launched t 5IF $VMUVSBM BOE &EVDBUJPOBM -FWFM cooperation between the two coun- in November 1984. The UAE's leadership There are strong cultural and educa- tries. The UAE aims to boost its share of has been keen on developing relations tional links between the two countries, the Chinese tourism market, which is with China in view of China's growing which is one of the most important pil- estimated at 100 million Chinese tour- position in international decision-mak- lars of bilateral relations between the ists annually. ing as one of the five permanent mem- two countries. The UAE established the The Aspects of the Growing Strategic bers of the Security Council. Sheikh Zayed Center for the Study of Partnership Between the UAE and China t 5IF &DPOPNJD -FWFM 5IF FDPOPNJD Arabic Language and Islamic Studies at The mutual visits between the leaders of the UAE and China in recent years confirm that the strategic partnership is proceeding on its way. This bears in- dications of the vitality and dynamism of the UAE foreign policy, the promo- tion of opportunities to achieve the UAE development objectives, and the openness to other civilisations and cul- tures. It is worth mentioning here the international recognition of the efforts of the UAE aimed at strengthening the foundations of security and stability in the region. The UAE is also keen to develop relations with regional and international forces and benefit from their balanced views in dealing with the issues and crises of the region. 62 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Issue Fileile

China's Perspective of Its Gulf and Arab Relations China's strategic perspective of the Gulf region in particular, and the Arab region in general, is an integral part of China's overall strategic vision, which is based on the use of China's soft power resources and mechanisms to achieve the country's strategic objectives and the acquisition of the power to influence in international decision-making through soft power as represented by economy, investments, technology, trade, transfer of knowledge and exchange of experiences. China always seeks to invest its huge financial capacity to win over new friends though the gateway of foreign investment and export to various countries and re- gions of the world. The "Belt and Road" initiative is the latest model of China's strategy. "Belt and Road" and UAE-China Relations The "Belt and Road" initiative was launched for the first time in 2013 by Chinese President Xi Jinping, who was elected President of the country for life. He launched it under the name of "One Belt and One Way". The name changed to "Belt and Road" after the initiative became more complex and had many tracks that differ from the old historical path of the Silk Road. More than 100 countries participated in the 2017 "Belt and Road" forum. The UAE is already an important economic partner of China and is one of the most important trading partners of Beijing internationally. The UAE and Chinese diplomacies share common features in their adoption of soft power and attractive development model to expand globally and gain confidence and influence. Therefore, it is necessary for the UAE to strengthen its relations with the world's second largest economy. 63

Conclusion balanced relations with various powers t$IJOBIBTFTUBCMJTIFEUIF"TJBO*OGSB- The UAE is one of the most secure, and international actors in the east and structure Investment Bank as a multilat- stable and open countries in the west, within the framework of mutual eral institution to finance infrastructure world. It already hosts the headquar- respect and common interests. The fre- projects in emerging Asian countries, ters of international companies, as quent mutual visits and the growing and the UAE is a founding member of well as more than the 4,000 Chinese common strategic interests herald a the Bank. companies operating in the UAE, promising quantum leap in mutual re- t5IF6"&BOEUIF1FPQMFhT3FQVCMJDPG which is therefore a major focus of the lations between the two countries. Ac- China are working closely to improve "Belt and Road" initiative, which is in cording to HH Sheikh Mohammad bin international trade routes. Examples line with an initiative launched by His Rashid Al Maktoum, the visit "ushers in a include the agreement signed by Abu Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed new phase of fruitful cooperation and a Dhabi Ports with China's Cusco Ship- Al Nahyan, in 2015 to revive the an- promising future." ping Company to double the capacity cient Silk Road. Important indicators of container handling at Khalifa Port. The visit of the Chinese President to t5IFNVUVBMSFMBUJPOTCFUXFFOUIF6"& t/POPJMUSBEFCFUXFFOUIFUXPDPVO- the UAE will certainly contribute to a and the People's Republic of China have tries reached AED 195.8 billion in 2017, qualitative leap in the relations between witnessed a significant growth, follow- compared to AED 169 billion at the end the two countries, especially in the eco- ing the historic visit of HH Sheikh Mo- of 2016, an increase of 15.1 per cent. nomic fields. The joint efforts focus on hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to China in t5IF6"&hTGPSFJHOUSBEFXJUI$IJOBBD- developing cooperation in specific vital December 2015. counted for 14.7 per cent of the coun- sectors, including trade and economic t 5IF UPUBM $IJOFTF DPNNVOJUZ JO UIF try's total foreign trade for 2017. cooperation, investment, industry, ener- UAE reached 200,000 by the end of t5IF6"&SBOLFEUIJSEPOUIFHMPCBMJO- gy and renewable energy, SMEs, innova- 2016, and more than 4,000 Chinese dex of countries that make the most of tive industries, health, education, tour- companies are operating in various sec- the "Belt and Road" initiative. ism, infrastructure, financial services, tors, mainly oil, renewal energy, tourism t 1SPKFDUJPOT QPJOU UP B DPOUJOVFE inspection and quarantine, standards and industry. growth in trade between the two and specifications, aerospace and local t5PUBMXFFLMZ øJHIUT CFUXFFO UIF UXP countries during this year 2018 and cooperation. sides exceed 100 flights for the UAE and the coming years, in light of the policy The UAE-China relations are an impor- Chinese airlines. of openness and building fruitful trade tant model that embodies the prin- t $IJOBhT UPQ OBUJPOBM DPNNFSDJBM partnerships adopted by the UAE with ciples of the UAE's foreign policy, based banks have opened seven branches in different countries of the world, espe- on diversity and openness and building the UAE. cially China. 64 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Research Ambitious Visions for UK Air Combat

As the Royal Air Force (RAF) enters its second century, it is important to recall the importance of the UK, a pioneer in air power. Britain’s national prowess in air invention and innovation resulted in the first purpose-built air-to-air combat aircraft, the first ground-based integrated radar defence system, the turbojet engine and the first vertical take-off and landing aircraft. As Secretary of State for Defence Gavin Williamson launches a new capability acquisition programme to replace Typhoon, we will mark this announcement of an exciting first step into a new century with an examination of the UK’s combat air strategy and capabilities. Combat Air Strength The demands placed on combat air nev- er cease to evolve and with the adversar- ial counters of both state and non-state actors becoming ever more complex, Hawk is a jet-powered advanced trainer aircraft high capability threat systems continue to proliferate widely, as they have done ies whose highly capable systems can tion advantage. over the last 20 years. Upgrades to lega- achieve and maintain air control. With the UK’s long and proud history of cy systems and the increasing availabil- In 2017, the Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) working with international partners to ity of off-the-shelf options means that Development, Concepts and Doctrine deliver world-class combat-air systems, potential adversaries are more versatile, Centre produced a Future Force Con- combat air strategy is a crucial pillar of affordable, and adaptable in exploiting cept report, concluding that future air the government’s ‘Modernising Defence’ software-enabled systems. domains will continue to feature highly- Programme. The ability to deter and de- The 2018 National Security Capability capable integrated air-defence systems feat potential combat air adversaries at a Review has highlighted how the world and an increasingly complex electro- time and place of choosing are prerequi- has become more uncertain and volatile magnetic environment. Moreover, com- sites to the UK’s delivery of its defence, since 2015. For two decades now, the bat-air systems will need to be agile and foreign policy, and economic objectives, UK and allies have focused attention on adaptable to address and harness tech- ensuring that successful air control and counter-insurgency operations due to nological change in the space and cyber attack functions enable Britain to act the technological advantage of Western domains as they become increasingly free from intervention by other states or air forces being reduced by adversar- important to armies seeking an informa- entities. 65

F-35: Stealth Fighter

The UK is the only Tier 1 partner on the F-35 programme. The experience and Intellectual Property from programmes including Harrier, Tornado and Typhoon meant that the UK could bring world- leading technology to this U.S.-led programme. As a result, UK companies deliver around 15 per cent of every aircraft in the biggest defence programme in history. This supports a supply chain in the UK of over 500 companies. Decades of research and development on Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft propulsion systems, from the ‘flying bedstead’ to the Pegasus engine on Harrier, helped secure the UK’s status as a Tier 1 partner in the F-35 programme. Rolls-Royce is developing the LiftSystem for the F-35B Lightning II, the F35 Lightning has advanced sensors and stealth technology world’s first STOVL-capable supersonic The UK government’s Future Combat Air For a decade, the UK has enjoyed signifi- aircraft. System Technology Initiative involves cant success exporting combat air capa- an investment of nearly £2bn over ten bilities, including platforms, sub-systems, enhancements providing enough reve- years to develop the technologies of training and support solutions for Tor- nue to sustain Typhoon manufacturing the future, while upgrading existing nado, Typhoon, Hawk and F-35 and ac- into the 2020s, the lack of clear future capabilities such as Typhoon and F-35 counting for over 80 per cent of the UK’s UK requirements has not stimulated the to keep them cutting-edge. Following annual defence export orders of around R&D investment necessary to refresh the retirement of Tornado in 2019, the £6bn, with Typhoon exports being par- national IP and placed key engineering UK is committed to ensuring Typhoon’s ticularly important in reducing MoD costs skills at significant risk. operational effectiveness, enabling the for key weapons capabilities. Meanwhile, In response, £2bn of joint government aircraft to operate with the RAF until at UK intellectual property (IP) has been and industry investment has sought least 2040. critical in securing the UK’s enhanced in- to sustain and enhance key skills and World-class Industrial Base dustrial position in the F-35 programme, capacity into the 2020s, providing in- As the increasing technological com- where early design and development vestment in key UK design engineering plexity of combat air systems drives up phases have allowed the UK to compete skills as a means of generating UK IP costs, to counter threats effectively gov- successfully for key elements of the F-35 and ensuring a major role for UK indus- ernments are forced to trade between Global Support Solution. try in delivering the systems that suc- capability and platform numbers, driving UK-wide industrial challenge ceed Typhoon. existing platforms to remain in service The 2015 Strategic Defence and Secu- New Partnership Opportunities longer. Longer service life and greater rity Review sought to upgrade the Ty- Having worked alongside the U.S. to time between project initiation and de- phoon’s sensors and weapons, extend- deliver the world-class F-35, the UK con- livery creates a greater risk of early obso- ing its service to remain operationally tinues to enjoy highly successful part- lescence, underlining both the challenge effective and commercially competitive nerships across Europe, building on suc- of maintaining world-leading industrial for decades, but risking a widened gap cessful relationships with international skills to field systems, which remain rel- between major air system design phas- partners in the export market and now evant in rapidly evolving environments. es. Despite Typhoon exports and F-35 diversifying to provide technical consul- 66 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Research

Dual-mode Brimstone Responds to Urgent Needs

In 2007, the Royal Air Force identified the need for a low collateral damage precision strike capability for Iraq and Afghanistan. An innovative Ministry of Defence-industry partnership delivered in just 18 months. MBDA developed a new, dual-mode seeker by converting existing single-mode, ‘fire-and-forget’ Brimstone missiles, significantly reducing the timescale to deliver the required capability. The resulting weapon, continuously updated, remains the bedrock of the Royal Air Force’s precision strike capability. The UK government’s Future Combat Air System Technology Initiative involves an investment of nearly £2bn over ten years tancy for key partner nations. Hence, when the fourth-generation is retired from service in the late 2030s, Typhoon platform and system upgrades will ensure it remains operationally competitive well beyond this point, while providing a significant market for a successor to these capabilities over the period 2040-2060. Delivering future capability Tornado Weapons include Successive combat-air systems cost two Paveway IVs, a single more and take longer to develop, but Brimstone and ASRAAM technological and process developments from the wider industry offers and weapons, the other essential skills industry needs to respond imaginatively the opportunity for change with some required are common to a range of wid- and inclusively to this opportunity. approaches already successfully imple- er industry, high technology, manufac- Meeting Future Requirements mented to drive down the significant turing and aerospace sectors, entailing UK companies need to be able to work systems support costs. Nonetheless, that the MoD can work with the Depart- together to deliver affordable next gen- the UK industry will need to deliver ment for Business, Energy and Industrial eration technology that meets national ever-increasing levels of productivity, ef- Strategy to develop the means to incen- objectives. To become sustainable, UK ficiency, and sustainability throughout tivise greater involvement of the wider industry must focus on delivering suc- the supply chain, requiring greater inno- UK skills base. Combat air will increas- cess in an increasingly competitive glob- vation and diversification at the prime ingly be defined by the battle to collect, al market and secure its world-leading contractor level to reduce reliance on process, share, exploit and protect data, position in this field through profitable platform-driven acquisitions. but the wider UK industrial base has the international partnerships. While bespoke investment is needed for potential to provide full integration of The UK government is hence looking to systems integration, propulsion, sensors industrial solutions and the air combat the industry to embrace this challenge 67

Royal Air Force Typhoons with paveway Meteor: Successful Multinational Collaboration ing new technologies, techniques and approach to combat air will enable the processes (such as synthetic design, government, the supply chain, potential Meteor is a beyond-visual range model-based engineering and rapid partners and respective industries to air-to-air missile. It was developed prototyping). make informed decisions through new, through a highly successful, six-nation The UK government is also looking to collaborative ways of working which programme, which is currently deliv- build on the expertise derived from align incentives, minimise transactional ering game-changing air-to-air com- Typhoon and F-35 support solutions costs and ensure all sides are held to ac- bat capability. A robust governance to develop innovative plans for driv- count for performance. model was adopted at the outset. A ing down the through-life costs of pro- Team Tempest’s Future UK-led Joint Project Office is empow- grammes. A culture must be fostered Team Tempest is a pilot project to de- ered to drive the programme to cost of continuous improvement and effi- liver the MoD’s Future Combat Air Sys- and time, with a single contracting ciency to ensure the costs of develop- tem Technology Initiative by 2020. The authority and single industrial leader- ment and manufacturing reduce over strategy identifies and sets a frame- ship. Workshare is allocated with strict the course of the future acquisition work and roadmap for future deci- commercial targets and a single pro- programme. sions, challenging government and duction line avoids duplication and The overall objective is to deliver as- industry to cooperate in adapting the inefficiency. sured capability by leveraging the best UK approach to the sector and driving processes and technologies throughout pace and affordability. the global supply chain within the con- Team Tempest is thus intended to give by increasing self-funded investment straints of operational advantage and international partners a clear signal in research and development, including freedom of action. This strategy includes of UK’s intent in proposing rapid and technology demonstrations, de-risking the exploitation of UK high-value manu- evolved engagement. The MoD’s role key technologies prior to full acquisition facturing catapults, small and medium- is to develop a detailed implementa- programmes and seizing the opportuni- sized enterprises, international partners’ tion plan with partners to deliver key ty to fail fast and learn from the experi- capabilities, and civil sector investment strategic objectives and prepare the ence. It will also be necessary to address to maximise value for money. groundwork for the UK’s future acquisi- the trend of evermore expensive and Finally, the UK government would like tion decisions. complex combat-air systems and the the industry to develop a transparent associated time needed to bring them methodology that links requirements Reference Text: into service by developing and exploit- to cost, risk, and time to deliver. Such an www. Defenceiq.com, www.gov.uk 68 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Strategic Arabian Peninsula History The Dhofar War in Oman, 1965-1975: A Historical Perspective

By:y: Stephen James Quick Acadamic Staff, UAE NDC

In 1975, a coalition headed by the Sultan’s Armed Forces (SAF) finally defeated the decade-long insurgency in Oman’s Dhofar province in a Counter- insurgency (COIN) campaign described as “...model in every way” (Beckett, 2001:230). Importantly, under the Sul- tan, both ‘state-building’ and military tools were utilised to bring about the eventual victory in what was one of the region’s most strategically significant confrontations of the 1960s and 1970s where “…its outcome had significant implications for the Arabian Gulf’s sub- 69

sequent history” (Hughes, 2015:424). an isolated country, both geographi- being discovered in northern Oman, The SAF’s eventual victory prevented cally and politically with Britain being the country’s survival was in real dan- the collapse of Oman to a Marxist insur- the country’s primary strategic part- ger and the son of Sultan Said, Crown gency and buffered the spread of Com- ner. Formal treaty relations had been Prince Qaboos took power in 1970, exil- munist great power proxy influence in place between Britain and the ruling ing his father. In less than two years, the in the Arabian Gulf during the height Sultan since 1798 (Hawley, 1995: 59-60) tide of war was turning to the govern- of the Cold War, and safeguarded the and the incumbent ruler (Sultan Said ment side, with social and economic crucial flow of Gulf oil for the world bin Taimur) had delegated conduct of development being prioritised, as economy. Oman’s foreign affairs to Britain since well as large uplift in military spend- Background 1932 when he assumed power. With ing. Also, through Britain’s intensive Up to the mid- 20th Century Oman was towering mountain/jebel ranges, an lobbying (plus assistance via the U.S. unusual monsoon season (Khareef) and and Saudi Arabia) Oman was accepted an ethnically distinct population, Dho- as a member of both the Arab League far was unique in the Arabian peninsula. and United Nations in 1971; a crucial Alongside the extremely conservative step to bolstering Oman’s image/per- and frugal regime of the Sultan these ception as an independent country were significant factors in the develop- fighting a legitimate conflict within its ment and longevity of the insurgency borders. Along with the establishment that followed. Omanis were denied the of the first ever Embassies in Muscat, trappings of modern life e.g. radios or this provided a powerful regional and eye glasses and even when oil revenue international voice for Oman in dealing came on stream in 1967, only very limit- with the insurgency and diplomatically ed funds were directed to development isolating the key backer of the rebels; in infrastructure, health and education the People’s Democratic Republic of (being worst in Dhofar, with but a single Yemen (PDRY) (including ‘outmaneu- primary school, no medical facilities at vering’ protests about Omani retalia- all and no electricity or running water tory airstrikes in PDRY territory). These in 1965) (White, 2008:3). What started state-building efforts all helped lay the as a small-scale nationalist rebellion in foundation for later military victory. 1965 via the Dhofar Liberation Front Military COIN Solution (DLF) was not successfully contained. Delivery of vital helicopters and artillery Fanned by sometimes repressive SAF were prioritised and SAF was tripled in practices such as crop burning/well- size from only 3,000 to over 10,000 men capping and the UK’s withdrawal from in just two years by 1972 (Ladwig, 2008: Aden in 1967 (and resultant communist 72). In addition, alongside Royal Engi- bloc-sponsored People’s Democratic neer, Royal Air Force units and specialist Republic of Yemen-PDRY), allowing military training teams, Britain covertly establishment of a rebel ‘safe haven’ seconded up to c.250 of its elite Special across the border; the now Marxist- Air Service (SAS) regiment to Dhofar to dominated insurgency spread rapidly. train/lead local tribesmen/Surrendered With popular support from the Dhofari Enemy Personnel (SEP) as Firqat militia population (either genuine support or units to undertake combat missions. through widespread indoctrination The SAS also implemented a classic and/or intimidation by the fanatical ‘hearts and minds’ COIN strategy, pro- Marxist insurgents), by 1970 the war viding a range of services from intelli- was in danger of being lost. gence gathering to medical/veterinary State-building COIN Perspective care and assisting with civil aid pro- With insurgent activity alarmingly also grammes, plus dissemination of ‘white 70 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Strategic

The counter- propaganda’ on behalf of the Sul- narrative strategy tanate authorities (to counter false propaganda broadcast from com- included broadcasts/ munist-controlled Radio Aden). leaflet drops which This counter-narrative strategy included broadcasts/leaflet drops reinforced the which reinforced the peaceful message of Islam which was diametrical- peaceful message of ly opposite to the violently-imposed atheist views of the Marxist insurgents. Islam Though improving, the military situation remained a virtual stalemate, and with Britain’s domestic economic issues, (resulting in the UK military 1975, Valeri, 2017:59) and vital extra Hornbeam Line, 1972) which cordoned withdrawal from east of Suez in 1971), helicopter lift capability from 1973. In the insurgents into ever smaller zones the Sultanate authorities were forced addition, an aggressive new strategy to be ‘mopped up’ by SAF and Firqat to look elsewhere for help. Alongside implemented by the seconded British units. Alongside such policies, and af- practical support from countries such Commander Sultan’s Armed Forces ter the remarkable defeat of a massed as the UAE/Saudi Arabia, large-scale (CSAF) divided up the jebel via rein- insurgent attack on the small SAS and effective assistance came initially from forced barriers to physically split the in- Askar/SAF garrison in the town of Mir- Jordan, which sent combat engineers surgent forces and ‘choke’ their supply bat in July 1972, the SAF were finally in and Special Forces, but also in the routes. No fewer than four huge wire, the ascendancy. This culminated in De- unlikely guise of a pre-revolutionary mine and sentry-fortified ‘lines’ were cember 1975 with SAF/allied units at- Iran which provided troops (c.5000 by constructed from 1971 to 1974 (e.g. tacking the main insurgent supply base 71

produce(s) a favourable environment for military success” (Perkins, 1979: 45). Despite not being a complete tactical success/’model’ campaign (SAF and allies suffered hundreds of casualties, thousands of Dhofari civilians were killed and the war absorbed up to 50 per cent of Oman’s annual GDP (Lad- wig, 2008: 72), from a wider strategic perspective, the Dhofar COIN campaign can, however, be considered an overriding success for Oman, the UK (and other military allies) as well as for ‘the West’ in the context of the Cold War. Importantly, victory was also a vital stabilising factor within the Middle East at a critical period in the region’s history. Despite its shortcomings, the Dhofar war’s eventual prosecution has, however, been described as “...probably the best conducted counterinsurgency campaign ever fought” (Ladwig, 2008: 63), and a key example of how to facilitate an ally’s victory via a process of ‘COIN by consultancy’.

Bibliography 1- Becket, Ian, Modern Insurgencies and Coun- ter-Insurgencies – Guerrillas and their Oppo- nents since 1756, (London: Routeledge, 2001) 2- Hawley, Donald, Oman & Its Renaissance (London: Stacey International, 1995) 3- Hughes, Geraint ‘Demythologising Dhofar: British Policy, Military Strategy and Counter- insurgency in Oman, 1963-1975’ Journal of Military History (2015) 4- Perkins, Ken ‘Oman 1975: The Year of Deci- at the Shirshitti caves in western Dhofar. aggressively prosecute the COIN cam- sion’, The RUSI Journal, 124:1 (1979) The surviving insurgent (and support- paign crucially by both ‘state-building’ 5- Ladwig, Walter ‘Supporting Allies in Coun- ing PDRY regular army) combatants and (not just) military means, it was terinsurgency: Britian and the Dhofar Rebel- were forced across the PDRY border, only a matter of time before victory lion’ Small Wars & Insurgencies, Vol. 19, No.1 ceasing to be a significant threat which was achieved. As Maj-Gen Ken Perkins (2008) allowed Sultan Qaboos to declare victo- (CSAF, 1975-77) stated: “...A counter- 6- Marc Valeri, Oman: Politics and Society ry after ten long and costly years of war. revolutionary war cannot be won in the Qaboos State (London: C. Hurst & Co., By 1970 the war was nearly lost to the by military means only. The military 2017) insurgent forces. Post-1970 with new create conditions in which political 7- Jim White, Oman 1965-1976: From Certain leadership and the will to engage dip- forces can operate, while politics, of- Defeat to Decisive Victory, Small Wars Journal, lomatically, increase expenditure and ten involving international opinion, (2008) 72 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Technology Russia’s New Multirole Fighter

The MiG-35 is a Russian multirole avionics and weapon systems and the – OptronicOpOOpt systems for attack missile fighter designed by the Mikoyan division optical locator system (OLS) makes thee andnd laserlal emission detection; of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC). aircraft less dependent on ground-con- – Decoy dispensersdispsp to counteract the Using the NATO reporting name Fulcrum- trolled interception (GCI) systems,ms,, enena- enemy in radar and infrared ranges. F, the "MiG" comes from the Joint-Stock bling the MiG-35 to conduct independ-indendependd- Moreover,oreover, the MiG-35M will be the first Company Russian Aircraft Corporation ent multirole missions. Moreover,oreover,oreover, as RussianR aircraftt to be fitted with a multi- (RAC) which made its first international the new export variant, it combinesmbinesbines thet rolee activea tiveive electronicallyeleel scanned array. presentation during Aero India 2007 as modern systems of the MiG-29M2 withwit AESA radar provides a clear advantage an export version of the MiG-29M OVT. an AESA radarr and withw its integratedtegraegegr overr competitorsc due to the factors: The RAC "MiG" line consists of up-to-date defensive systemsystems increasingiincrea ng combatcom t – exextendede operating frequency range; fighters, interceptors and multi-role com- survivability.y. – increased quantity of detected, bat aircraft, including newly developed Zhuk-MA’ AESA RaRadardarda tracked and attacked targets; fighters of the unified family of MiG-29K/ Thee MiG-35MiG 5 is compatible with RuRRussian – possibility of simultaneous air and KUB, MiG- 29М/М2 and advanced MiG- andaandwe weaponseaponapons applications of a fforeign ground-target attack; 35. The MiG-35 (single seat) and MiG-35DD originorigiriginrigi withwith a fullfulll trainingtraining sesetet using an – extended detection range; (double seat) are "4++" generation multi- interactiveinteractinteractivinteracti e compcompucomputer-based training – enhanced surface mapping resolution; role fighters, developed from hethee seriaseriser serial- system andand full-missionull-ll-missmissiomissi simulator with – high jamming protection and produced MiG-29K/KUB and MiG-29M/M2G-29M/M2M/M motion system.system MostMo of all, the MiG- survivability. aircraft. 35/MiG-35D is notablen for its next-gen Innovative OLS Imaging The fighter plane has the thrust vector-ctorcto - defence system:ssy The Phazotron Zhuk-MA antenna consists ing of the MiG-29OVT as an additionalal – Radio electronic reconnaissance and of 160 modules, each with four receive- option. This feature alongside improved electronicelect counter measures; and-transmit modules offering a 160km 73

(85nm) air target detection radius with new FADEC-type electronic control sys- equipment uses space technologies 300km for surface ships. The OLS allows tem. The RD-33MK has increased after- not previously applied in aviation. New the MiG-35 to detect targets and aim burner thrust to 9,000 kilograms-force features include increased range, de- weapon systems because, unlike a con- (88,000 N; 20,000 lbf) and a 1,145 kilo- tection, tracking, identification and air ventional radar, it has no emissions and grams (2,524 lb) dry weight thanks to lock-on; laser range-finder for ground/ cannot be detected. Trials taking place modern materials used on the cooled surface targets in day-and-night for- demonstrated the MiG-35’s ability to blades. ward and rear hemispheres; and for- detect, track and shoot at aerial targets, Although it retains the same length mation of target designation and laser where a development prototype de- and maximum diameter, the RD-33MK illumination of ground targets. stroyed an aerial drone with an air-to-air has incorporated infrared and optical The armament control system inte- missile launched by an Indian pilot. signature visibility-reduction systems, grates a new helmet-mounted target Thanks to engineers of the Russian fed- increasing service life to 4,000 hours. designation system. Equipped with a eral space agency choosing short-wave The RD-33MK thus ensures shipborne podded IRST system, these features en- bands to increase sensitivity and detec- fighters enjoy unassisted take-off ca- able the MiG-35/MiG-35D fighters to tion range, the OLS has powerful optics pability, retain performance in hot fulfil a wide range of missions: with IR vision which has increased sen- climates and profit from a significant – Air superiority gains against 4th/5th- sitivity of the complex several times and combat efficiency boost. generation fighters; has increased detection range. The OLS The MiG-35’s combination of thrust – Interception of existing and devel- of MiG-35 makes it impossible for planes vectoring control (TVC) and advanced oped air attack means; to hide, helping MiG-35 pilots to spot the missile-warning sensors ensures com- – Ground/surface target destruction USAF’s stealth planes. As the slightest bat superiority as the RD-33’s gas flow with all-weather high-precision weapon speck of dust can cause blurred vision, stability is exemplary against ambient use outside air defence zones; the OLS glass uses leuco-sapphire to ex- disturbances, greatly improving aircraft – Air reconnaissance using optical-elec- tend its lifetime while not corrupting the control and onboard weapon firing. Op- tronic and radio-technical equipment; signal. tional "all aspect" thrust-vectored RD- – Group actions including air control Dual-thrust Engine Power 33MK engines guarantees aircraft supe- over groups of fighters. The MiG-35 has two thrust-vectored riority in the manoeuvring dogfight. Next-Gen Refuelling Technology engines whose power plant includes a Applied Space Avionics A strap-on tank behind the cockpit per- two-engine RD-33MK with 7 per cent The MiG-35/MiG-35D’s airborne avion- mits the MiG-35 a higher 950 l internal higher thrust power, equipped with ics are centred upon an IRST system fuel capacity, while external fuel tank smokeless combustion chamber and a whose infra-red, TV and laser-sighting capacity has increased to 2,000 l sus- 74 ISSUE 559 AUG 2018 Technology

pended under the fuselage. With three external fuel tanks, the ferry range has also risen to 3,100 km, with a range of 5,400 km after single in-flight refuelling. The newly digitised fuel management system also includes a new digital fuel metering system. MiG-35 Weaponry The MiG-35/35D offers high combat effectiveness thanks to equipment with short- and medium-range air-to-air missiles, air-to-surface missiles, guided aerial bombs, unguided rockets and bombs, and an internal gun. In addition to the "A-A" and "A-S" class weapons applied to the MiG-29K/KUB and MiG-29M/M2, an open avionics architecture allows the MiG-35/MiG-35D aircraft to integrate long-range weapons capable of attack targets without approaching the air defence zone, including weapons of Russian and foreign origin. Both single and double seat versions of the MiG-35/35D have the same airborne equipment and weapons thanks to a high unification level of structure. The MiG-35 can climb at the rate of 330m/s Air-to-surface armament systems are driven by new generation optronic systems and can now be used against – Three-channel fly-by-wire control sys- The aircraft weighs around 11,000 kg at targets illuminated by its own laser or tem with quadruple redundancy. a service ceiling of 17,500 m and a maxi- against targets illuminated by external Operational improvement has been mum take-off weight of 29,700 kg. ground and air sources. key to the MiG-35’s development with Trials and Development The MiG-35/MiG-35D fighter structure greater reliability of aircraft, engines According Russian News Agency (TASS) is based upon the following innovative and avionics in addition to a lengthened reports, the Mikoyan corporation has features of the MiG-29K/KUB, MiG-29M/ lifetime, service life and mean time be- now completed MiG-35 factory trials, M2 aircraft: tween engine overhauls (MTBO). The paving the way for serial production to – Increased weapons load stored at MiG-35 aircraft flight hour cost is almost begin: “The factory trials of the MiG-35 nine external stations; 2.5 times lower than those of the MiG- multirole fighter jet produced in the – Increased fuel capacity, in-flight re- 29 fighter, while both MiG-35/MiG-35D interests of the Defense Ministry of the fuelling and possibility of using as a aircraft now provide for independent Russian Federation have been complet- tanker; operation. ed. The certificate of the trials comple- – Airframe and main systems anti- Optimal Performance Aircraft tion was signed in December 2017.” corrosion technology developed to The MiG-35 can climb at the rate of The trials began on 26th January 2017, simplify operation in tropical weather 330m/s with normal and ferry range of when the specialists checked the fight- conditions; the aircraft at 2,000 km and 3,100 km er’s onboard radio-electronic equip- – Significantly reduced radar signature; respectively. ment, the sight and navigation com- 75

MiG-35 can conduct independent multirole missions

General characteristics

Crew: 1 or 2 Length: 17.3 m (56 ft 9 in) Wingspan: 12 m (39 ft 4 in) Height: 4.73 m (15 ft 6 in) Wing area: 38 m² (409 ft²) Empty weight: 11,000 kg (24,250 lb) Max. takeoff weight: 29,700 kg (65,500 lb) Powerplant: 2 × Klimov RD-33MK af- terburning turbofans

working on MiG-35 delivery contracts with 29 countries currently operating The MiG-35/35D offers high combat effectiveness with its missiles, guided aerial bombs, unguided rockets, and an internal gun MiG-29 aircraft, including Kazakh- stan, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Peru and plex, radar, engines and other aircraft KUB airframes, excepting the brak- some other Latin American countries: systems. On 28th January 2017, MiG of- ing parachute installed in place of the “By its combat potential, the scope ficially demonstrated the new MiG-35 hook, present on the naval aircraft. The and the efficiency of its missions and to the Russian government, followed by MiG-35D "967" was equipped with a the price/quality ratio, the MiG-35 is demonstrations to export customers. similar AESA radar as fitted to the older today a perfect combat vehicle for This MiG-35 differed from the one first MiG-35 demonstrator "154", identifiable operation in high intensity armed unveiled in 2007 in lacking the AESA ra- by the dark-grey short-nose radome. conflicts. The aircraft makes it possi- dar, as well as thrust-vectoring control, Russia’s current state armament pro- ble to use the entire range of existing to keep procurement costs low for for- gramme aims at 2020, stipulating and up-and-coming Russian and foreign customers. the deliveries of MiG-35 fighter jets eign armament, including weapons Both the single-seat MiG-35 "961" and to Russia’s Aerospace Force. Hence, designed for heavy fighter jets.” the two-seat MiG-35D "967" have a very in 2017, MiG’s Director General Ilya Reference Text/Photo: high commonality with the MiG-29K/ Tarasenko claimed the corporation is www.migavia.ru