Indonesia to receive ScanEagle drones, helicopter upgrades from US grant

An Insitu Scan Eagle 2 UAV in a mobile launching unit,

The Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) is expected to receive up to 14 Insitu ScanEagle small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and upgrades for 3 Bell 412 helicopters from the US government.

 The Indonesian government has approved the acceptance of the grant, which is part of the US government's Southeast Asia Maritime Security Initiative (MSI) which provides assistance to Southeast Asian country partners in improving their capabilities to secure their maritime borders.

The deal, worth a total of around US$34.6 million, was first offered by the US government in 2014, and will provide the TNI-AL with improved surveillance capabilities. The equipment will require further integration to existing systems and data security worth US$720,000 and will be done by state-owned electronics company PT LEN Industi.

The Insitu ScanEagle UAV are small and launched by mobile launching units or from ships, and has an endurance of at least 24 hours. Meanwhile, there are not much details on the upgrade for the Bell 412 helicopters but it is most likely to include installation of onboard surveillance equipment like electro-optical sensors.

Aside from Indonesia, other countries that accepted grant from the US government through the MSI program includes the Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam.


[1] The Jakarta Post
[2] Jane's Navy International
[3] Defense World

Pakistan eyes Chinese attack helicopters if deliveries of US and Turkish orders fail

The CAIC Z-10 attack helicopter. Photo c/ Goodfon.com.

The Pakistan Army (PA) confirmed that it is seriously considering Chinese attack helicopters, specifically the CAIC Z-10 attack helicoipter, as an alternative to American and Turkish models as replacement to ageing fleet of Bell AH-1F Cobra helicopters.

The Pakistan Ministry of Defence (MOD) ordered twelve (12) Bell AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters in 2015 under a US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, with deliveries expected to start in 2017. But deliveries were blocked by the US government under the administration of Pres. Donald Trump’s decision to cut security funding to Pakistan as the helicopters were partially funded by US military aid.

In addition, the MOD also ordered thirty (30) T129 ATAK attack helicopter from Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) in 2018. But export sanctions against both Pakistan and Turkey on the supply of LHTEC T800 engines by the US government has affected the ability of TAI to deliver the helicopters to the PA.

While TAI is developing an indigenous turbine engine as an alternative to the LHTEC T800, this is still an ongoing development and is not expected to be available anytime soon. Pakistan has set a deadline by July 2020 if it will cancel its previous orders and go for an alternative source, including China’s Z-10ME.

The PA Aviation Corps has 48 Bell AH-1F Cobra attack helicopters, although it is believed that only around 32 are in service. The helicopters are not able to operate beyond at high altitudes of beyond 8,000 feet, where conflicts with militants from Afghanistan and a possible conflict with India would likely take place.

Pakistan is also seeking parity against India, as the Indian Air Force (IAF) has started fielding the Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters, while the Indian Army (IA) has started ordering its own AH-64E attack helicopters in support of ground operations. 

In the meantime, the PA is using four (4) Russian-made Mil Mi-35 gunships it acquired a few years ago for high altitude operations.


[1] Flight Global


[2] Jane’s Defence Weekly

Indonesia offered additional SIGMA frigates, OMEGA destroyers by Damen

The Omega large frigate design from Damen. Photo c/o Damen.

Dutch shipbuilder Damen confirmed that they have asked the Indonesian Ministry of Defence (MOD) to consider their naval vessels as it continues the upgrading of the Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) from 2020 to 2024, and increased spending for defense for 2020.

Among those being offered to the MOD are for the construction of two more Martadinata-class light frigates, which are  based on Damen’s SIGMA 10514 design, as well as the selection of Damen’s OMEGA destroyer design.

Damen was successful in delivering the first two Martadinata-class frigates to the TNI-AL under the Perusak Kawal Rudal (PKR) project, in cooperation with state-owned shipbuilder PT PAL, as well as several other Indonesian companies including PT Len Industri, PT Dharma Satya Nusantara, and PT Krakatau Steel.

The TNI-AL is aiming to acquire additional frigates as it plans to retire its ageing fleet of Ahmad Yani-class frigates, which were formerly the Van Speijk-class frigates of the Royal Netherlands Navy that were built in the 1960s.

The TNI-AL is also looking at other destroyer designs at it expands its fleet, with a derivative of the Royal Danish Navy’s Iver Huitfeldt-class large frigates offered by Denmark’s Odense Maritime Technology said to be leading the selection.


[1] Bisnis Indonesia
[2] Jane’s Navy International

India signs deal with US to procure MH-60R Seahawk, AH-64E Apache helicopters

The Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk Romeo ASW helicopters.

India has officially signed a deal with the US to acquire advanced naval anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopters and attack helicopters, under a deal worth around US$3.4 billion. 

As part of his two-day visit to India, US President Donald Trump announced that he signed an agreement with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to supply 24 units of Sikorsky MH-60R Romeo Seahawk for the Indian Navy (IN) worth US$2.6 billion, and 6 Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters for the Indian Army (IA) worth around US$800 million.

The MH-60R helicopters will be acquired under the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, while the AH-64E helicopters would be a combination of US FMS and Direct Commercial Sales (DCS) with the US government.

The delivery of the MH-60R helicopters will give the Indian Navy enhanced capabilities especially in its expanding role in the Indian Ocean, as it replaces ageing Sea King naval helicopters in its arsenal. The Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk is considered as the most advanced ASW helicopter in the world.

It is expected that the first batch of MH-60R helicopters would be delivered to the IN in 2 years time.

Meanwhile the AH-64E Apache Guardian will provide the IA Army Air Corps with improve combat capabilities, including ground support and anti-tank roles. 

They would be the second branch service to operate the Apache Guardian attack helicopters, after the Indian Air Force (IAF) ordered 22 units and has started receiving the initial units starting 2019.


[1] News 18 India
[2] Business Today India
[3] Jane’s Defence Weekly

Philippines receives more RPG-7s ordered from Russia

An RPG-7V. Photo c/o Wikimedia Commons  

The Philippine Army (PA) has received another batch of RPG-7V rocket propelled grenade launchers and ammunition from Russia last December 2019.

As reported by Philippine defense page MaxDefense Philippines, an undisclosed number of RPG-7Vs made by Russia’s NPO Bazalt were delivered from Rosoboronexport as part of an order totalling more than 700 launchers and thousands of assorted ammunition worth PHP408 million (US$8 million) under the Rocket Launcher Light Phase 2 project.

The PA has introduced several variants of the RPG-7, including derivatives made in Bulgaria and China, to replace old model 90mm recoilless rifle in their inventory. Bulgaria’s  Arsenal JS Co. delivered more than 200 units of their ATGL-L under the Rocket Launcher Light Phase 1 project, while the Chinese government donated several dozen Norinco Type 79 RPGs as a goodwill gesture.

The decision to acquire the RPG-7 series was said to be due to its lighter weight compared to comparable rocket launchers and recoilless rifles, which is more suitable for smaller physical attributes of Filipino soldiers.


[1]  MaxDefense Philippines
[2] Philippine Defense Resource
[3] Army Recognition

Thailand announces medium to long term aircraft acquisitions and retirements

A Saab JAS-39D Gripen of the RTAF. Photo c/o Flyone404 @ Youtube.

In a new white paper released by the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF), it outlined plans on new aircraft acquisitions as well as retirement plans for existing aircraft.

The RTAF White Paper 2020 released on 20 February 2020, outlined key programmes to be undertaken in the near to long term, including acquisition of new combat, trainer, transport, VVIP, and unmanned aircraft, and also new helicopters.

The RTAF intends to acquire an additional Saab JAS-39C Gripen fighter aircraft between 2023 to 2025 to replace a unit that was lost in crash in 2017, and return the fleet back to 12 aircraft. The RTAF also plans to acquire a squadron of 12 new multirole fighter aircraft between 2028 to 2033 as part of plan to replace early model Lockheed Martin F-16A/B Fighting Falcon fighter aircraft.

The RTAF also plans to gradually replace the Lockheed Martin C-130H Hercules starting 2022 with a new aircraft, which may also cover the replacement of the Basler BT-67 and Saab 340B in the transport fleet.

A new VVIP aircraft is also planned to replace the existing Airbus ACJ319 aircraft, while additional Diamond DA-40 trainer aircraft are planned to replace the PAC CT-4B Airtrainers by 2026, while planning for the acquisition of 24 more trainer aircraft between 2026 to 2029 to replace the PAC CT-4E by 2031, and a more new advanced trainer to replace the Pilatus PC-9.

A new indigenous reconnaissance and combat-capable unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is also planned to replace the existing RV Connex RTAF U1, with the development planned between 2023 to 2027. and a new helicopter model to replace the Bell 412.

Also planned is for the acquisition of  a new helicopter model to replace the Bell 412, and the development and launching of a military satellite


[1] Jane’s Defence Weekly
[2] Shephard Media
[3] Defense World

Indonesia’s first locally-upgraded F-16A conducts first test flight

First F-16A of the TNI-AU to undergo Falcon STAR upgrade with PTDI. Photo c/o TNI-AU.

The first Lockheed Martin F-16A Fighting Falcon fighter aircraft of the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) to be locally upgraded, successfully conducted its first test flight on 18 February 2020.

The aircraft with serial number TS-1610, took off from the TNI-AU’s Iswahyudi Air Base in East Java.

This is the first time Indonesia conducted a fighter upgrade program on its own, with this aircraft becoming the first F-16 of the TNI-AU to receive the Falcon STAR (Structural Augmentation Roadmap) program, which allows for mid-life upgrades and structural life extension to around 8,000 flying hours. 

Additional improvements on avionics and weapon systems were made, allowing it to gain additional capabilities that were previously not found on the older F-16A/B fleet.

The Indonesian Falcon STAR program is being conducted by state-owned aviation company PT Dirgantara Indonesia with supervision and assistance of technical experts from American aviation giant Lockheed Martin.

The TNI-AU has 8 more F-16A/B Fighting Falcons to undergo the Falcon STAR upgrade.


[1] Jane’s Defence Weekly
[2] TNI Ankatan Udara (Indonesian Air Force)

India finalizes plan to purchase 83 new indigenous Tejas Mk. 1A light fighters

The Tejas Mk 1A fron HAL. Photo c/o Air Force Technology.

The Indian Ministry of Defence (MOD) has finalized negotiations to purchase up to 83 units of the locally-developed Tejas Mk.1A light combat aircraft from state-owned aerospace company Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), to equip the Indian Air Force (IAF).

According to IHS Jane’s, the deal is expected to reach a value of up to INR390 billion (US$5.45 billion), and is expected to reach contract signing before the end of 2020, should the Cabinet Committee on Security led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approves the project.

The Tejas Mk.1A is an improvement over the Tejas Mk.1, with improvements over the original model including the use of a new AESA radar, use of long range beyond visual range air-to-air missiles (BVRAAM), improved avionics and aerodynamics, electronic warfare capability, having air-to-air refuelling capability and other improvements in the overall design.

It would still be using the same General Electric F404-GE-IN20 turbofan engine as the Tejas Mk.1.

According to IHS Jane’s sources, deliveries could proceed within 36 months from contract signing, which is around late 2023 or early 2024. The aircraft will replace the IAF’s fleet of ageing MiG-21 Bison fighters, which are upgraded versions of Soviet Cold War-era MiG-21 Fishbed.


[1] Jane’s Defence Weekly
[2] Business Today India
[3] Air Force Technology

Malaysian F/A-18D Hornet fleet to undergo depot maintenance and upgrade in Australia

RMAF F/A-18D Hornet. Photo c/o Boeing 

The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) fleet of eight (8) Boeing F/A-18D Hornet multirole fighters will be undergoing depot-level maintenance work in Australia, Jane’s reported on 18 February 2020.

The works will be undertaken by Boeing Australia, which has facilities in Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Williamstown airbase , which is also in charge of maintaining the RAAF’s fleet of F/A-18E/F Super Hornets.

Aside from the maintenance work, it is believed that upgrade works will be undertaken including improvements in the cockpit displays, installing a new tactical data link, and improvements on its existing hardware.

The works would be undertaken in batches of 2 aircraft, and will start this year and complete the works on all 8 aircraft by 2024. Upon completion, the RMAF F/A-18Ds are expected to be operational until 2035.

Malaysia ordered the F/A-18Ds in 1993, and were all delivered by 1997. They are currently operated by the RMAF’s 18 Squadron based in RMAF Butterworth Air Force Base in Penang.


[1] Jane’s Defence Weekly

Indonesia receives 5th C-130H Hercules transport aircraft purchased from Australia

The newly turned-over C-130H Hercules transport aircraft, now with the TNI-AU. Phot c/o Indomiliter Forums.

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) received the 5th and final Lockheed C-130H Hercules transport aircraft purchased from Australia, with the aircraft formally inducted into service during ceremonies held on 15 February 2020 at the Abdul Rachman Saleh Air Base in East Java.

The aircraft, with tail number A-1338, was formerly with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), and was among those sold to the TNI-AU in 2013 as part of a greater agreement that included the sale of C-130H Simulator System and spare parts.

This deal is also separate to another between the Indonesian and Australian governments, which resulted to the donation and transfer of 4 ex-RAAF C-130H Hercules aircraft to the TNI-AL.

The recently turned-over C-130H will be assigned with the TNI-AU’s Skadron Udara 32 based in East Java.


[1] Jane’s Defence Weekly
[2] Australian Defence Magazine

Pakistan commissions first Damen-built Yarmook-class multirole corvette

The PNS Yarmook during trials. Photo c/o Damen.

The Pakistan Navy (PN) commissioned the first of two multirole corvettes recently delivered by Dutch shipbuilder Damen during ceremonies held on 13 February 2020 in Constanta Port, Romania.

The ship, called the PNS Yarmook (F-271) will be the first of its class, and is based on Damen’s Offshore Patrol Vessel OPV 1900 design. The ship was built in Damen’s shipyard in Galati, Romania.

The Yarmook-class displaces at around 2,300 tons and were described as multirole platforms capable of performing a variety of maritime operations. They were ordered in June 2017 after Damen won a tender.

It has a helicopter deck capable of supporting light and medium naval helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles, has two high speed RHIBs for shipboarding and support, and spaces of two Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEU) mission modules.

The second vessel of the class, the future PNS Tabuk, was launched on 3 September 2019, and is expected to be commissioned with the PN by May 2020.

[1] The Nation
[2] Jane’s Defence Weekly

Singapore interested in upgrading existing AH-64D Apaches to latest Guardian variant

RSAF AH-64D Apache Longbow attack helicopters. Photo c/o Singapore MINDEF.

American aviation giant Boeing has confirmed during the sidelines of the Singapore Airshow 2020 that the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has expressed its interest to rebuild 12 of its 20 existing AH-64D Apache Longbow attack helicopters to the latest AH-64E Apache Guardian variant, according to a report by IHS Jane’s.

The RSAF currently has 12 AH-64D Apache Longbows based in Singapore as part of the 120 Squadron, while 8 aircraft are based in Silverbell Army Heliport in Marana, Arizona and used for training as part of the Peace Vanguard detachment.

Boeing also confirmed that they are expecting new and follow-on orders for the Apache attack helicopter in the Asia-Pacific region, benefiting from the latest technology integrated to the platform. This allows Boeing’s AH-64E Apache Guardian to be more competitive against other similar platforms.

Aside from Singapore, other countries in the region that operate the Apache family are India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. Boeing has also confirmed last January that other countries have expressed interest in the Apache, including Australia, Bangladesh, the Philippines, and Thailand.


[1] Jane’s Defence Weekly
[2] Australian Aviation
[3] Inquirer.net

Indonesia requests for 8 additional ASW and ASuW-capable naval helicopters

One of the TNI-AL's ASW-capable Airbus AS565MBe Panther helicopter. Photo c/o Tempo.

The Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) has submitted a request for funding from the Indonesian Ministry of Defence (MOD) to allow them to acquire a new batch of eight (8) new naval combat helicopters.

The helicopters shall be capable of anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASuW), which the TNI-AL has been trying to improve for the last few years.

According to British defense media outlet IHS Jane’s which disclosed the information at the sidelines of the ongoing Singapore Airshow 2020, the total sum of the acquisition project costs around IDR5,191 trillion (US$375 million), and will be sourced from defense budget allocated for the years 2020 to 2024. 

The TNI-AL is already an operator of the ASW-capable variant of the Airbus Helicopters AS565MBe Panther, and is in the process of updating some of its standard Panther helicopters to either ASW or ASuW capable combat helicopters. 

It is highly possible though that the new request will be for a helicopter which can conduct both ASW and ASuW, which is said to be missing with the AS565MBe Panther due to its size limitations.

[1] Jane’s Defence Weekly

Philippines to order Kunduz amphibious combat earthmover from Turkey

The FNSS Kunduz amphibious armored combat earthmover 

Turkish defense company FNSS confirmed that they are expecting an order from the Philippines for the supply of their Kunduz amphibious armored combat earthmover for the Philippine Army (PA).

This would be the first time the Kunduz will be exported, as it is currently in service only with the Turkish Armed Forces.

The PA is ordering combat earthmovers as part of its Combat Engineering Equipment project which aims to build up its combat engineering capabilities.

FNSS believes that a formal contract will be signed in 2 months time, with deliveries for the vehicles to happen by 2021.

Compared to other combat earthmovers  the Kunduz is amphibious which allows it to be used to prepare riverbanks and flooded areas.


[1] Anadolu Agency
[2] Philippine Defense Resource
[3] Jane's Defence Weekly

India receives offer for SMX 3.0 VLS-equipped attack submarine from France

• 

  A CGI of the Naval Group's SMX 3.0 submarine concept. Photo c/o The Defenstar.

• 
  
• French shipbuilder Naval Group (NG) confirmed that they have offered their new SMX 3.0 next generation diesel-electric attack submarine to the Indian Navy (IN) to meet requirements under its P-75I submarine project.
• 
  
• This offer was made to replace an earlier offer by NG based on an enlarged Scorpene-class design.
• 
  
• The new SMX 3.0 is a 3,000-ton diesel-electric submarine design that slots in between NG’s other submarine offerings, including the 4,000-ton Shortfin Barracuda, known as the Attack-class with the Royal Australian Navy, and the 1,800-ton Scorpene which is already in service with the IN as the Kalvari-class.
• 
  
• The SMX 3.0 incorporates the latest digital technologies for improved responsiveness and functionality resulting to operational efficiency and versatility. It has better power management with the use of the Air Independent Propulsion Fuel Cell Second Generation (AIP FC2G) anaerobic propulsion system. 
• 
  
• The submarine will also be equipped with a vertical launch system (VLS) allowing the launching of both drones and missiles, extending its scope of warfare capabilities. The IN is considering arming its future submarines with the submarine-launched BrahMos NG supersonic and Nirbhay subsonic anti-ship and land attack cruise missiles., as well as French missiles including the submarine-launched Exocet SM39 anti-ship and SCALP land attack cruise missiles.
• 
  
• It also has improved capabilities to counter cyber-threats, and improved acoustic discretion due to its hydrodynamic shape and masking coating.
• 
  
• Under the IN’s P-75I project, six (6) next generation submarines are to be procured by the IN, and will be constructed locally by state-owned Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and privately-owned Larsen & Toubro (L&T).
• 
  
• 
  
• [1] Naval Group
• [2] Indian Defence Research Wing
• [3] The Defenstar

Indonesia gets new batch of CAESAR SPH, M3 amphibious rig, Pandur armored vehicles

One of the Pandur 8x8 armored vehicle unloaded in Indonesia. Photo c/o Defense Stuides blogpage.

Social media reports and photos from Indonesia confirmed the arrival of new shipments of armored vehicles,amphibious bridging vehicles and self propelled howitzers for the Indonesian Army (TNI-AD).

The first to arrive was a shipment of five (5) CAmion Équipé d'un Système d'ARtillerie (CAESAR) 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer systems from France’s Nexter Systems, of which Indonesia has an order for 18 units confirmed in 2017 as a follow-on from an earlier order.

A separate shipment arrived in Indonesia days later, comprising of four (4) M3 amphibious bridging vehicles, and an unspecified number of Pandur II 8x8 armored vehicles. 

Indonesia ordered 18 amphibious bridging vehicles in 2019,  from Excalibur Army, which works closely with General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS).

Indonesia also ordered 22 Pandur II wheeled armored vehicles from Excalibur Army, through Indonesian arms manufacturer PT Pindad which will do the integration works including the use of weapon systems from Brazilian-Israeli venture REMAX Land Systems,  and Belgium’s John Cockerill. 

PT Pindad already delivered some of the Pandur II vehicles, locally called the Cobra, with demonstrations made by equipping them with the REMAX Ares 12.7 remote controlled weapon system and the UT30 Mk. II 30mm unmanned turret system, and the Cockerill CMI-3105HP turret with 105mm gun.


[1] Defense Studies Blogpage
[2] Komunitas Pecinta Militer Indonesia
[3] Czech Trade Offices

Australia intends to acquire Rafael Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missile systems

The Spike LR2 as used by the German Army. 

The Australian Department of Defence (DOD) announced its intentions to acquire the Spike LR2 missile system from Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems for the Australian Army, and most likely to other branches of the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

The Spike LR2 missile would fulfil the requirements of the Australian Army under the LAND 159 Lethality Systems Project’s Long Range Direct Fire Support Weapon System requirement.

The Australian Army describes the Long Range Direct Fire Support Weapon System as an anti-armour guided missile system that will allow dismounted troops to engage and defeat armoured threats in complex, remote and hostile environments. 

This would work together with the Australian Army’s upcoming fleet of Boxer combat reconnaissance vehicles, which are also to be armed with the Spike LR2 missile.

In addition to the Spike LR2 missile, the Australian Army is also looking at other capabilities under the LAND 159 project, including Short and Medium Range Direct Fire Support Weapons, Lightweight Mortars, and Lightweight Automatic Grenade Launchers.

The Rafael Spike LR2 is a new generation system developed from the Spike LR (Long Range) and was made operational in 2018. It weighs 12.7 kilograms, has a range of 5.5 kilometers, an improved seeker which includes an IR sensor with smart target tracker and artificial intelligence features. 

It also has a counter-active protection system (CAPS) capability which includes the ability to hit targets at higher impact angles.


[1] Australian Defence Magazine
[2] Army Technology
[3] Jane’s Defence Weekly

Philippines plans to acquire two more Anti-Submarine Warfare-capable helicopters

Two AW159 Wildcat helicopters of the PN. Photo c/o Spotter Magazine.

The Philippine Navy (PN) has announced its intentions to acquire an additional two (2) units of Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) naval helicopters.

Prior to his retirement, PN’s then outgoing chief Vice Adm. Robert Empedrad confirmed to the local media that they intend to have the additional helicopters be embarked on the two future corvettes the PN is in the process of acquiring from South Korea.

The helicopters will provide extended capabilities and reach to the new warships, and will be capable for ASW missions, as well as Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) and utilitarian missions, and can be armed with assorted of weapons and munitions including torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, rockets and guns.

The PN already has an existing fleet of 2 AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat naval helicopters capable of ASW and ASuW, and it is expected that the same model could be considered due to practical reasons. 

However, Filipino defense page MaxDefense Philippines confirmed that there could be a possibility that other helicopter models could be considered, like the Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk helicopter from the US, which was already offered to the PN since 2019.


[1] Inquirer.net
[2] MaxDefense Philippines

Malaysia to convert two standard CN-235 airlifters to maritime patrol aircraft

A CN-235M-220 aircraft of the RMAF.

The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) confirmed to Jane’s that they intend to convert two (2) of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) CN-235 transport aircraft into Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA).

MAF chief Gen. Affendi Buang confirmed that the mission systems to be used for the conversion will come from the US government under the Southeast Asia Maritime Security Initiative Program.

The RMAF’s No 1 Squadron currently has seven (7) PTDI CN-235M-220 used for air transport roles, which has been in service since 1998.

It is understood that the RMAF has an impending program to conduct service-life extension program for the CN-235 fleet with PTDI starting late this year, and the upgrade of two units into MPAs will be included in the contract.

The US is expected to provide the Merlin maritime surveillance system from Integrated Surveillance and Defense Inc. This includes a surveillance radar, electro-optical sensors, and electronic support measures system.

It is possible for the RMAF to convert more of their CN-235 aircraft to Maritime Patrol Aircraft should funding becomes available.


[1] Jane’s Defence Weekly

Philippines awards 94-meter Offshore Patrol Vessels to Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

A Kunigami-class offshore patrol vessel of the Japan Coast Guard. The Philippine Coast Guard is planning to build 2 ships based on a modified version of the Kunigami-class. Photo c/o Hiveminer.

The Philippines' Department of Transportation (DOTr) has awarded the tender to design and build two (2) 94-meter Multi-Role Response Vessels (MRRV) to Japanese shipbuilder Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Shipbuilding Co. Ltd (MHI Shipbuilding) for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

The ships, which would be based on a modified version of the Japan Coast Guard's Kunigami-class offshore patrol vessels, will become the largest ships in the PCG inventory and will be tasked to patrol and conduct maritime law enforcement and safety missions within the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Both ships are funded under Japanese Official Development Assistance, and part of the deal is to have the ships contracted to Japanese shipbuilders only. Among those that competed aside from MHI Shipbuilding are Japan Marine United and Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding.

The ships are expected to be delivered to the PCG by 2022.

They would be 94 meters long, will have a maximum speed of at least 24 knots, an endurance of more than 4,000 nautical miles, a crew of 57 officers and sailors. It will be equipped with a helicopter landing deck with hangar for a medium-sized helicopter, and allocations for RHIBs.



[1] Philippine Defense Resource
[2] MaxDefense Philippines
[3] Asia Pacific Defense Journal

Singapore commissions final 3 Independence-class Littoral Mission Vessels

The 3 new LMVs together with the rest of the ships of the class during the commissioning ceremonies. Photo c/o RSN.

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) has commissioned and declare its final three (3) Independence-class Littoral Mission Vessels (LMV) as fully operational during ceremonies held on 31 January 2020 at Tuas Naval Base.

The final three ships, the RSS Fortitude (20), RSS Dauntless (21), and RSS Fearless (22) have joined five other ships of the class as it replaces several of the last Fearless-class patrol vessels still serving the RSN.

Singapore's Manpower Minister and Second Minister for Home Affairs Josephine Teo led the ceremonies, wherein she reminded of Singapore's testament to defend its interests despite disadvantages.

The Independence-class LMV are Singapore's latest surface assets, and were built for patrolling and defending trade lanes and other maritime interests. They displace at around 1,200 tons, are 80 meters long and has a maximum speed of 27 knots. It has a range of 3,000 nautical miles, and a crew of only 30 officers and sailors.

The ships are armed with an Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid gun, two Oto Melara Hitrole RCWS with 12.7mm machine guns, a Typhoon 25mm RCWS, and a 12-cell Vertical Launch System (VLS) with MBDA Mica short-range air defense missiles.

The ships also have a helicopter landing deck, spaces for containerized mission modules.

[1] Straits Times
[2] Defense-Aerospace