Thailand shipbuilder launches 2 new T-997-class 41-meter coastal patrol boats

 

The T-997-class patrol boats built for the Royal Thai Navy. Photo c/o RTN.

Thai shipbuilder Marsun Public Company Ltd has formally launched two new Tor 997-class coastal patrol boats built for the Royal Thai Navy (RTN).

The ceremony was held on 21 June 2021 at Marsun Shipyard's facility in Mueng Samut Prakan, with RTN Commander in Chief Admiral Chatchai Sriworakhan leading the ceremonies, together with RTN Chairman of Project Management Admiral Wasinsan Chantawarin, and Marsun Public Company Ltd Chief Executive Officer Mr. Pattarawin Chongwisan.

The new boats, with hull numbers 997 and 998, are locally designed by Marsun Shipyards, and have an overall length of 41.44 meters, an overall beam of 7.2 meters, and displaces at around 223 tons at full load.

They are powered by two MTU 16 V4000 R41R diesel engines, allowing a maximum speed of around 28 knots.

The new boats will be armed with Russian-made weapons, which is a first for the RTN. Weapon systems include the AK-306 30mm naval gun gatling gun system directed by an Antares Mod 9 fire control system, and two .50-caliber heavy machine guns.

The weapon systems are expected to be delivered for installation by July 2021.

The new boats are expected to conduct maritime law enforcement missions, protection of fishing and commercial vessels, as well as maritime defense operations along coastal areas.

The boats are expected to be delivered to the RTN by end of 2021, with commissioning to proceed afterwards.

[1] AAG_Th Thai Defence Page
[2] Navy Recognition

South Korea commissions second Dokdo-class amphibious assault ship

 

The ROKS Marado during its launching in 2018. Photo c/o South Korean Military Channel.

The Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) has commissioned its second Dokdo-class landing platform helicopter during ceremonies held on  28 June 2021.

The ship, named the ROKS Marado (LPH-6112), was commissioned 14 years after its sistership, the lead ship of the class ROKS Dokdo (LPH-6111) which was brought into service in 2007.

It was built by Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction (HHIC) in Busan, with the keel laid on 28 April 2018 and launching held on 14 May 2018.

Compared to the original Dokdo-class amphibious assault ship, the new ROKS Manado features improvements including reinforced landing deck that could carry heavier aircraft like the V-22 Osprey, improved anti-air and flight systems.

This includes a new EL/M-2248 MF-STAR AESA multifunction surveillance radar from Elta Systems of Israel, replacing the Thales SMART-L multi-beam radar found on the ROKS Dokdo.

Flight control tower design was changed as well, with the location moved from the front on the island tower to the rear part.

It also has the Phalanx 20mm close-in weapon system instead of the Goalkeeper 30mm CIWS, with the location shifted as well. The Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) found on the original ship was also replaced by the Korean Vertical Launching System (K-VLS) with the Sea Bow K-SAAM missile which has a longer engagement range.

A new indigenous combat system using the LIGNex1's SPS-550K 3D air and surface surveillance radar, SAQ-600K optronic sights, among others.

The ROKN will bring the ship to a series of Initial Operation Capability (IOC) tests from July to December 2021, before increasing its operationalization.

Media reports also mentioned that the ROKN might consider using the ROKS Marado as a host ship to welcome the Royal Navy's aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth during its scheduled visit to ROKN Fleet Command in Busan in August-September 2021.




[1] Naval News
[2] Yonhap News

New Zealand becomes first international customer for new REMUS 300 unmanned underwater vehicles

 

The REMUS 300 small UUV, which was ordered by the Royal New Zealand Navy from American company Huntington Ingalls Industries. Photo c/o Naval Technology.

American shipbuilder Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) announced on 21 June 2021 that it has secured an order from the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) for four REMUS 300 unmanned underwater vehicles (UUV).

New Zealand is the first international export market for the REMUS 300 UUV, and will become its second user after the US Navy.

The new UUVs will be used by the RNZN for mine countermeasures and survey operations, and will complement the fleet's six REMUS 100 UUVs that have been in service for 14 years.

The RNZN has also used its older REMUS 100 UUVs for other purposes including search and recovery, as displayed during the locating of the wreck of the Princess Askiha ferry in 2009, and assisting with the White Island volcano search efforts in 2019.

HII President for Unmanned Systems Duane Fotheringham said they are pleased with New Zealand's decision to upgrade their UUV fleet with the new REMUS 300 UUV, as technology has progressed significantly over the past few years with the REMUS 300 representing these improvements.

The REMUS 300 UUV can be reconfigured with a range of payloads and sensors depending on mission requirements of the end user. 

As part of the acquisition of new UUVs, the RNZN has also ordered the acquisition of new high-definition camera modules and swappable battery modules.

HII is expected to delivery all four REMUS 300 UUVs by summer of 2022.




[1] Huntington Ingalls Industries
[2] Naval Technology

Malaysia starts tender for 18 new Light Combat Aircraft/Fighter Lead-in Trainer

 

The FA-50 Fighting Eagle light combat aircraft from South Korea's KAI, which is the most advanced version of the T-50 Golden Eagle family of FLIT/LCA aircraft. Photo c/o Yonhap News Agency.

The Malaysian Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) has opened the international tender for the supply of new Light Combat Aircraft / Fighter Lead-in Trainer (LCA/FLIT) for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) on 22 June 2021.

According to the MINDEF's tender announcement, bidders can start procuring the tender documents starting 29 June 2021, with a tender clarification scheduled on 28 July 2021, and the bid submission on or before 22 September 2021.

This new requirement for new LCA/FLIT aircraft are meant to replace ageing assets of the RMAF including 7 Aermacchi MB-339C and 10 BAE Systems Hawk Mk 108 FLIT aircraft.

British defense media outlet Jane's mentioned in their report that the RMAF may be looking for 8 of the new aircraft to be configured as Fighter Lead-in Trainers to replace the MB-339C, while the other 10 aircraft would be configured as Light Combat Aircraft.

The RMAF has a requirement for 36 new LCA/FLIT aircraft under its "Capability 55" programme, to be procured in 2 batches of 18 aircraft each to equip 1 FLIT and 2 LCA squadrons.

Among those expected to submit their bids are Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), with the T-50 Golden Eagle family of LCA/FLIT aircraft, Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) with their Pakistani-Chinese JF-16 Thunder LCA, India's Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) with their Tejas LCA, Boeing-Saab's T-7 Red Hawk, Leonardo M-346 Master, and the Yakolev Yak-130 from Russia.

Malaysian defense sources mentioned that the KAI T-50 Golden Eagle and the PAC JF-17 Thunder are expected to be favourites, although the project being procured through public tender may be dependent on pricing and commercial factors rather than overall capability.




[1] Jane's
[2] Defense News
[3] Malaysia Defence

Philippines receives approval for potential sale of F-16 Block 70/72 Viper, Sidewinder and Harpoon missiles

 

The F-16C Block 70/72 Viper, which was approved for sale to the Philippines by the US State Department. Photo c/o Lockheed Martin.

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has confirmed on 24 June 2021 that the US State Department has approved the potential sale of 12 F-16C/D Block 70/72 Viper fighter aircraft to the Philippines, in a package potentially worth US$2.43 billion. 

Among those included in the package are 10 F-16C Block 70/72 Viper single-seat fighters and 2 F-16D Block 70/72 Viper twin-seat fighters, Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-22EEP or General Electric F110-GE-129D turbofan engines, AN/APG-83 AESA Scalable Agile Beam Radars (SABR), Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System II (JHMCS II) or Scorpion Hybrid Optical-Based Inertial Tracker (HObIT), and several other avionics, communications, computers, spare parts, services, training, and logistics support.

Also included are 24 AIM-120C AMRAAM medium-range air-to-air missiles, 6 Litening or Sniper Advanced Targeting Pods (ATP), Mk 82 bombs, LJDAM kits, M61A1 Vulcan 20mm aircraft cannons, and several other equipment and munitions.

Separate approvals were also made by the US State Department on the sale of AIM-9X Sidewinder short-range air-to-air missiles worth  US$42.4 million, and AGM-84L-1 Harpoon air-launched anti-ship missiles worth US$120 million.

24 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II tactical missiles, 24 AIM-9X Block II Captive Air Training Missiles (CATM), 12 AGM-84L-1 Harpoon Block II missiles, and 2 AGM-94L-1 Harpoon Block II Exercise Missiles, plus spare parts, associated equipment, logistics support, and training are among those included in the approval for the Philippines.

Lockheed Martin will be the primary contractor for the F-16 Viper fighters, Boeing for the Harpoon missiles, and Raytheon for the Sidewinder missiles.

The sale of the fighter aircraft and missiles are expected to improve the defense capabilities and interoperability of the Philippines with the United States, considered as a strategic partner and an important force for political stability, peace and economic progress in Southeast Asia.

The F-16 fighters are being eyed by the Philippine Air Force (PAF) as one of the possible options for their Multi-Role Fighter Acquisition Project, competing against Saab's JAS-39C/D Gripen fighter.

The PAF is also looking at acquiring associated munitions including short and medium range air-to-air missiles, anti-ship and air-to-ground missiles, and smart bomb kits for the new fighters, under a separate acquisition project.

Filipino defense page MaxDefense Philippines reported that Saab's JAS-39C/D Gripen, upgraded to MS20 standards, is currently leading due to its affordability and better delivery commitments to the PAF.

But the chances of the F-16 would be dependent on the US Government's ability to assist the Philippines in procurement through US Foreign Military Financing (US FMF) grants, and commitment to assist the Philippines in sustaining its new fighter fleet.

Philippine press outlet Inquirer.net reported that the Philippines' Department of National Defense (DND) is expected to make an announcement on the fighter selection soon, as confirmed Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, after mentioning to local press that the F-16 Viper is "pricey", and that they are hoping for a contract with a fighter aircraft supplier to be signed before Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte steps down from office in 2022.




[1] US Defense Security Cooperation Agency
[2] MaxDefense Philippines
[3] Flight Global
[4] Inquirer.net

Philippines to receive new Dry Support Bridges from UK' WFEL by 2023

 

A WFEL Dry Support Birdge system using a Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles 10 x 10 platform. Photo c/o Australian Defence Magazine.

The Philippine Army (PA) has procured a number of Dry Support Bridges (DSBs) from British military bridging systems manufacturer WFEL.

This was confirmed by WFEL in a press release in June 2021, which also mentioned that the military bridges were acquired under the Horizon 2 phase of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program.

The new DSBs can be deployed within 90 minutes to provide temporary bridging infrastructure in support of military operations, and can also be used for disaster relief operations.

It also has a 120 tons Military Load Classification, which would allow supporting heavy military and civilian vehicles including main battle tanks and engineering equipment.

The Philippine Army chose the Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) 45m 10 x 10 system, as the DSB system can be mounted on a choice of select military heavy vehicles.

The new DSBs will be manufactured at WFEL's production facility in Stockport, UK, and would be delivered by 2023. These would  be equipping the Philippine Army's Combat Engineering units.

According to Filipino defense page MaxDefense Philippines in its report on February 2021, the DSBs were acquired through Government-to-Government (G2G) arrangement with the British Ministry of Defence (MOD), with the project awarded to WFEL on January 2021.

MaxDefense Philippines also confirmed that the decision to acquire these bridges were in anticipation of the Philippine Army acquiring heavier military equipment in the near future, and was made a priority after the Battle of Marawi City against ISIS-inspired terrorists where the lack of mobile bridges made it more difficult for the Philippine security forces to liberate the city.

WFEL's Managing Director Mr. Ian Anderton said "We warmly welcome the Philippine Army into our ever-growing user base of DSB Military Bridging Systems. We are proud of the fact that the Dry Support Bridge is the world's most technically advanced, rapidly deployable military bridge of its type and has proven its worth in both Combat and Disaster Relief situations time after time.

"By adopting the Dry Support Bridge, the Philippine Army is ensuring it has the future capability to quickly manoeuvre across wet and dry gaps in complex, physical terrain, including man-made gaps, ravines and rivers, as efficiently as possible and under the widest possible operational scenarios."

 

[1] WFEL
[2] MaxDefense Philippines
[3] Philippine Defense Resource

Indonesia receives ScanEagle 2 UAVs as part of US Government grant

One of the ScanEagle 2 UAV received by the Indonesian Navy from the US Government. Photo c/o JJM TV Indonesia.

The Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) has received an unidentified number of Boeing Insitu ScanEagle 2 small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). During ceremonies held Surabaya on 21 June 2021, the TN-AL presented some of the ScanEagle 2 UAVs to senior leaders. The US Government offered to provide the ScanEagle UAVs to the Indonesian Government in 2014, although it was only in 2020 when the Indonesian Government agreed to receive the grant. 14 ScanEagle UAVs, together with associated systems were among those scheduled for transfer by the US Government as a grant to the Indonesian Government under the US Foreign Military Financing (FMF) scheme. The package was estimated to cost around US$28.3 million, and is part of a greater capacity-building program of the US Government to select Southeast Asian countries, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam under the Indo-Pacific Maritime Security Initiative Program. The grant of surveillance UAVs comes as countries in the region faces encroachment of their exclusive economic zones by Chinese government ships, maritime militia and fishing fleets. The ScanEagle 2 UAV has a maximum payload of 5 kilograms consisting of camera and sensors, has a cruising speed of 60 knots, and flight ceiling of 20,000 feet. It can be launched and recovered from land or from naval vessels using a specialized launching equipment. [1] Jalasveva Jayamahe TV [2] The Jakarta Post [3] Asia Pacific Defense Journal

Bangladesh starts operating new Turkish T-300 Tiger multiple rocket launchers

One of the T-300 rocket launchers during the induction ceremony with the Bangladesh Army. Photo c/o Shakir Imroz.

The Bangladesh Army (BA) has brought into service several new T-300 Tiger multiple rocket launchers acquired from Turkey. According to the Bangladesh Armed Forces’ media services Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the new rocket launchers were turned over to the Bangladesh Army during ceremonies held at the Corps of Military Police Centre & School (CMPC&S) near Dhaka on 20 June 2021. The rocket launchers are expected to introduce “a new dimension to the capabilities of the Bangladesh Army”, according to the country’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who attended the event through video conference. Bangladesh signed a contract with Turkey’s ROKETSAN to supply a regiment of medium-range rocket launchers and guided rockets for the Bangladesh Army on March 2019. The T-300 rocket launcher system was made by ROKETSAN of Turkey, and was said to be based from China’s WS-1B rocket launcher system. Each of the T-300 mobile rocket launcher carries four launch tubes, with each launch tube capable of firing ROKETSAN’s 300mm TR-300-series munitions, which includes the TR-300E unguided rocket with a range between 40 to 100 kilometers, and the TRG-300 Tiger guided rocket. The TRG-300 Tiger guided rocket has 2 versions, the Block I which has a range between 30 to 120 kilometers, and the Block II Enhanced Warhead Dynamic Effectiveness variant with a range between 20 to 90 kilometers. Both are guided using GPS, with aid by an inertial navigation system. The Bangladesh Army’s examples uses Russian-made Kamaz 65224 6x6 trucks as its mobile platform. [1] Jane’s [2] Eastern Times [3] Shephard Media

Indonesia to seek foreign loan to procure two new aerial tankers

The Airbus A330 MRTT, one of those being considered by the TNI-AU for its aerial tanker requirements. Photo c/o Airbus.

The Indonesian Government has approved the planned acquisition of two aerial refuelling tankers for the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU), which would be procured via foreign loan financing.

The project is expected to cost around US$700 million.

The Indonesian Ministry of Finance (MOF) has released on 26 April 2021, a list of 31 projects from the Ministry of Defence (MOD), which includes the aerial refuelling tankers, that were approved for financing through foreign loans.

The TNI-AU has previously made its own study, looking at the Boeing KC-46A Pegasus, Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), and the Ilyushin Il-78 aerial tanker.

According to British defense media outlet Jane’s, the TNI-AU has appointed GMF AeroAsia, a subsidiary of Indonesian national airline Garuda Indonesia, to provide an in-depth study on the aerial refuelling requirements for the air arm.

Among those included in the study were the aerial refuelling tanker’s life cycle costs, local capability to maintain the aircraft, refuelling methods based on the TNI-AU’s current and future fleet of aircraft, and interoperability within the TNI-AU.

The study was completed in 2019, with the findings recommending  for the procurement of an aerial refuelling tanker with both the flying boom and probe-and-drogue method.

It also recommended that the new aerial tankers would be powered by jet engines.

The TNI-AU currently operate 1 Lockheed KC-130B Hercules aerial refuelling tankers using the  probe-and-drogue aerial refuelling method, and the airframes may need replacement due to age, as the C-130B aircraft platform were acquired in 1961 and converted to aerial refuelling tankers in the mid 1980s. Another KC-130B was lost in an accident in 2015.

[1] Jane’s

[2] Scramble Magazine

[3] Asia Pacific Defense Journal

Kiribati receives new Guardian-class patrol boat from Australia

 

The RKS Teanoai II (301), Guardian-class patrol boat for the Kiribati Police Maritime. Photo c/o Wikimedia Commons.

Australian shipbuilder Austal Limited has announced that it has delivered the eleventh Guardian-class patrol boat to the Australian Department of Defence, which was handed over to the Government of the Republic of Kiribati.

The new patrol boat, named the RKS Teanoai II (301), was received during the certificate signing ceremony held at Austal Limited’s Henderson shipyard in Western Australia.

Attending the ceremony were Honorary Consul-General of Kiribati Mr. Paul Wenham, Member for Stirling Mr. Vince Connelly MP, Head of Maritime Systems for DOD Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group Rear Admiral Wendy Malcolm, Senior ADF Officer in WA Air Commodore Fiona Dowse, and Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary for New Zealand, Polynesia and Micronesia Ms. Fleur Davies. 

The RKS Teanoai II will be the first and only Guardian-class patrol boat assigned for the Republic of Kiribati as part of the SEA 3036-1 Pacific Patrol Boat Replacement Project, part of the Australian Government’s Pacific Maritime Security Program.

It was originally scheduled for delivery in mid-2020, but was delayed due to COVID-19 pandemic concerns.

The new boat will replace the RKS Teanoai, a Pacific-class patrol boat delivered in 1994 also as a donation by the Australian Government.

[1] Austal Ltd

[2] Naval News

Taiwan formalizes order for Harpoon Coastal Defense System, HIMARS rocket system

M142 HIMARS rocket launchers. Photo c/o Army Recognition.

The Republic of China (Taiwan) Ministry of National Defense (MND) has announced that it signed two contracts worth a total of US$1.75 billion with American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), for the acquisition Boeing’s Harpoon Coastal Defense System (HCDS) and Lockheed Martin M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS).

The announcement, made on 17 June 2021, did not specifically mentioned the products being acquired, and only mentioned that a deal worth US$346.3 million was signed for “long range precision strike system” for the Republic of China Army (ROCA) in Taoyuan.

Also announced was another deal worth US$1.406 million for “batch of missiles” for the Republic of China Navy (ROCN) based in Kaohsiung. 

Media reports believe that the systems being acquired were the Boeing HCDS and Lockheed Martin HIMARS, respectively.

The HIMARS are expected to be delivered in full by 2027, while the HCDS are expected to be delivered completely by 2028.

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) previously made public two separate notifications published on October 2020 of US State Department approval for the potential Foreign Military Sales (FMS) of 11 M142 HIMARS launchers, munitions and related equipment with an estimated value worth US$436.1 million, and 100 HCDS, RGM-84L-4 Harpoon Block II anti-ship missiles and related equipment with an estimated value worth US$2.37 billion.

The HIMARS is a mobile artillery rocket system, each launcher capable of firing six M26, M30 or M31 rockets, or a single MGM-140 ATACMS missile.

Meanwhile, the Harpoon Coastal Defense System is a land-based mobile anti-ship missile system, with each launcher capable of firing a number of RHM-84L-4 Harpoon Block II anti-ship cruise missiles.

Both systems are considered asymmetrical warfare assets that would allow Taiwan to conduct Anti-Access/Area Denial (A2/AD) operations against aggressors Taiwan has previously mentioned its desire to defend itself against an increasingly aggressive China.

[1] Jane’s

[2] Taiwan News

[3] Focus Taiwan

Australia to undertake service life extension upgrades for Collins-class submarines

 

Four of the Royal Australian Navy's six Collins-class submarines. Photo c/o RAN.

Australia will be conducting major life-of-type extensions (LOTE) on its entire fleet of 6 Collins-class diesel-electric attack submarines of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), as it anticipate delays in the construction and commissioning of the initial Attack-class submarines to the mid-2030s.

Australia’s Defence Minister Peter Dutton confirmed that an investment of approximately A$6 billion (US$4.6 billion) would be spent to extend the service life and improve the capabilities of its entire Collins-class submarines for the class to remain suitable for combat operations in the future.

Originally the new Attack-class submarines, design and built by France’s Naval Group, will be coming online starting the early 2030s, but this has been pushed back due to several issues encountered during the pre-construction phase.

It is now expected that all 12 Attack-class submarines will reach final operational capability in 2054.

Defence Minister Dutton said “We need to be realistic about what lies ahead by way of threat in our own region and the submarine capacity is a significant part of how we mitigate that risk and it’s important we get the program right. There is no doubt in my mind that we need to pursue a life-of-type extension and we are working on that program now. All six would be on the schedule.”

The LOTE program involves the rebuilding of each of the Collins-class submarines once they reach 30 years of service, with each submarine undergoing upgrades that will take around 2 years.

The program would be undertaken by ASC in Adelaide, South Australia, supported by the Collins-class’ original prime contractor Saab. The first submarine is expected to start its LOTE works by 2026.

The Attack-class submarines are being procured under the Australian Department of Defence (DOD) under the SEA 1000 program for the Royal Australian Navy. France’s Naval Group (previously DCNS) won the contract in 2016 to build 12 diesel-electric submarines based on the Shortfin Barracuda Block 1A design, which was derived from the French Navy’s Barracuda-class nuclear attack submarine.

The Australian DOD has encountered several setbacks in its deal with Naval Group, including the increase of the projected cost of the program from A$40 billion (US$30.7 billion) to A$69 billion (US$53 billion), on work and technology sharing agreements, and share of involvement of the Australian shipbuilding and defense industry.

[1] Defence Connect

[2] Jane’s

[3] The Drive

South Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries unveils competing light aircraft carrier design

 

The CVX design from HHI. Photo c/o 유용원TV.

South Korean naval shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) released a new light aircraft carrier design which would be competing for the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) Light Aircraft Carrier Program (CVX) aimed at supplying the ROKN with a new aircraft carrier in the 2030s.

The new design will have a length of 270 meters, and a width of 60 meters. It will have a flight deck with a length of 260 meters.

HHI's new design was a departure from its previous submission to the ROKN, and now features a ski-jump ramp but with a longer and wider flight deck design to still allow accommodation of 16 to 20 STOVL fighters plus helicopters.

Talking to French defense news outlet Naval News, HHI representatives explained that the ski-jump capability allows the fighters to take-off easily with full-load, allowing for higher sortie rates. HHI reprentatives also confirmed that the aircraft carrier design's flight deck could also be converted to allow short take-off but arrested recovery (STOBAR).

This can be done by modifying the flight deck with an angled flight deck and arresting wire capability.

The ski-jump capability can be removed from the design should the ROKN decide to not include the capability in their final design decision.

It has an empty displacement of 30,000 tons, with HHI confirming that displacement was kept low by redesigning the ship's hull with a thinner hull design than before.

Like DSME's CVX design, It also features a two-island superstrucutre design similar to the Royal Navy's Queen Elizabeth-class, with the first island to be used for overall operations, while the second island will be for flight control duties.

Both islands have redundancy to allow taking-over bridge operations should one of the islands are compromised.

The islands also feature X-shaped design to provide a significant degree of stealth with reduced radar cross section, while allowing the installation of AESA radar at a lower portion of the island.

The X-shape design also allows for better visibility of the flight deck, which is advantageous for flight control operators.

The ship also features facilities for unmanned aircraft operations, with a small deck at the ship's stern designed to allow vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to operate from.

A mini well-deck is also present on the ship, which can be used for unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) and unmanned surface vehicle (USV) operations.

Beside the UAV deck are a 16-cell Korean Vertical Launching System (KLVS) cells for air defense requirements.

The HHI light aircraft carrier design is competing with another design from Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME), which Asia Pacific Defense Journal reported on separately.




[1] Naval News
[2] Defense News
[3] Jane's
 

South Korea's Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering shows light aircraft carrier design

 

The CVX design from DSME. Photo c/o Jane's.

South Korean shipbuilders Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (DSME) displayed their improved light aircraft carrier concept design for the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) Light Aircraft Carrier Program (CVX) as part of the International Maritime Defense Industry Exhibition (MADEX) 2021 in Busan, South Korea.

Speaking to French defense media outlet Naval News, DSME's CVX design reflects practicality based on the ROKN's maritime strategic needs and requirements.

DSME's CVX design will have an overall length of 263 meters, a width of 46.6 meters, a displacement of 45,000 tons, and a crew complement of 1,400 sailors. It also will allow a maximum speed of 27 knots. 

It design features a flat deck without ski-jump ramp to maximize space, allowing the accommodation of 12 helicopters and 16 short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) fighter aircraft in the deck and hangar. 

A ski-jump was not included in the design as DSME believes it congests the flight deck, and that the ROKN has not considered it in their requirements.

It also features helicopter spots on the flight deck for simultaneous operations of up to 9 helicopters.

It also features a two-island superstrucutre design similar to the Royal Navy's Queen Elizabeth-class, with the first island to be used for overall operations, while the second island will be for flight control duties.

Both islands have redundancy to allow taking-over bridge operations should one of the islands are compromised.

While the ROKN has not determined the final aircraft deployment plan for the new light aircraft carriers, DSME's design has allowed for deployment of existing helicopters of the ROKN including the AgustaWestland AW-159 Wildcat, Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk, KAI MUH-1 Marineone, and others, plus the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) Joint Strike Fighter.

It will be fitted with 2 close-in weapon systems (CIWS), plus an anti-aircraft Korean Vertical Launching System (KLVS) for defensive purposes against aircraft, helicopters, UAVs and anti-ship missiles.

The design also allows for anti-drone defense system, which is said to be missing on its competitor's CVX design from Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI).

DSME is expected to be working with British company Babcock, and Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, with the later signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with DSME to support the Conceptual Design of DSME's CVX design as part of MADEX 2021.

The DSME light aircraft carrier design is competing with another design from Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), which Asia Pacific Defense Journal will be reporting separately. 




[1] Naval News
[2] Defense News
[3] Jane's

Indonesia signs contract with Italy's Fincantieri for 6 new FREMM frigates, 2 refurbished Maestrale-class frigates

 

A Bergamini-class (Italian FREMM) frigate and a Maestrale-class frigate. Photo c/o Giorgio Parodi / Forum Difesa.

Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri announced that the company has signed a contract with the Indonesian Ministry of Defence (MOD) for the supply of 6 new FREMM frigates, the modernization and sale of 2 Maestrale-class frigates, and related logistics support.

The deal was announced by Fincantieri on 10 June 2021, and was touted as a massive success by the company and by the Italian defense and shipbuilding industry.

It also is expected to boost the defense relations and collaboration between Indonesia and Italy in the Pacific region.

Fincantieri will be working with Indonesian state-owned shipbuilder PT PAL, which will be involved in the construction of the new FREMM frigates for the Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL).

Not much information has been released on the project cost, sharing in construction and supply of materials and equipment, subsystems to be used, and other major details.

The financial scheme of the project has not been finalized as well.

The FREMM design was a joint collaboration of Italy's Fincantieri and France's Naval Group, with the design in service with both countries with difference in subsystems used.

The FREMM was also ordered by the Egyptian Navy and Royal Moroccan Navy, while also used as basis for the Constellation-class guided missile frigates to be constructed for the United States Navy.

In addition, Fincantieri will acquire 2 Maestrale-class frigates from the Italian Navy once they are decommissioned from service, and will modernize them in Italy before delivery to the TNI-AL.

The Maestrale-class frigates are the frontline frigates of the Italian Navy from the early 1980s until they were succeeded by the Italian Navy's version of the FREMM frigate, the Bergamini-class starting in 2013.

Four ships remain in service with the Italian Navy, and are scheduled for retirement in the next few years.




[1] Fincantieri
[2] Naval News

Vietnam gets US Government approval for transfer of Beechcraft T-6 Texan II trainer aircraft

The T-6 Texan II trainer aircraft. Photo c/o USAF.

The US Government has approved the supply of Beechcraft T-6 Texan II trainer aircraft for the Vietnam People’s Air Force (VPAF), according to US Pacific Air Forces Commander General Kenneth Wilsbach.

During a teleconference hosted by the US State Department’s Asia-Pacific Media Hub on 04 June 2021, Gen. Wilsbach mentioned that the US is committed to help in the delivery and operationalizing of the T-6 Texan II trainer aircraft to improve the VPAF’s pilot training.

The sale of trainer aircraft is one of the major projects under renewed US-Vietnam cooperation, as Vietnam has not acquired any major defense equipment from the US since assistance provided to South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

Currently, the VPAF is using the Soviet-era Yak-52 propeller aircraft for primary flight training, and the Aero Vodochody L-39 Albatross jet trainer for advanced flight training. 

The transfer of 3 new US-made trainer aircraft would allow the entry of US-made systems into the VPAF, which currently uses mostly Soviet, Cold War-era Eastern-block, and Russian-made systems.

Vietnam is the second country expected to operate the T-6 Texan II trainer aircraft after Thailand confirmed its order for both the T-6C Texan II trainer and AT-6E Wolverine light attack aircraft for the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF).

One of the VPAF’s pilots, Senior Lieutenant Dang Duc Toai has recently completed training under the US Air Force’s Aviation Leadership Program, with 167 hours completed flying the T-6 Texan II trainer aircraft in the US mainland.

In addition, Gen. Wilsbach also confirmed that the VPAF’s chief will be attending the Pacific Air Chiefs Conference in Hawaii, as part of 22 nations who committed to send their air force leaders to attend.

[1] VN Express International

[2] Jane’s

Philippines receives delivery of 5 more Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk helicopters

 

5 new S-70i Black Hawk helicopters arrive at Clark Air Base in the Philippines on 07 June 2021. Photo c/o PAF.

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has received a second batch of five S-70i Black Hawk combat utility helicopters delivered by the Poland’s PZL Mielec.

The helicopters arrived at Clark Air Base, north of Manila on 07 June 2021 aboard a chartered Antonov An-124 Ruslan civilian cargo aircraft.

This delivery brings a total of 11 units delivered by PZL Mielec, out of the 16 units ordered by the PAF in 2019. 

The helicopters will undergo post-delivery checks and tests, before formally accepted into service with the PAF’s 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing.

5 more helicopters are expected to be delivered on or before September 2021, based on previous statements by the Philippines Department of Defense (DND).

According to the PAF, the new helicopters will boost the service’s airlift capability and provide the Philippine government with platforms to serve in more areas in less time.

The Philippines DND ordered 16 new S-70i Black Hawk helicopters as the PAF starts to replace its ageing Bell UH-1 Huey combat utility helicopters with new aircraft, with the DND previously confirming plans to purchase up to 32 more new combat utility helicopters to eventually phase out the Bell UH-1 from active service.

The first 6 units were delivered in November and December 2020, and has already been actively used by the PAF for utilitarian roles including combat support, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), and transport roles including bring COVID vaccines to remote areas of the country.




[1] ABS-CBN News
[2] MaxDefense Philippines
[3] Philippine Defense Resource

Philippines re-evaluates Multi-Role Fighter selection, proposes JAS-39C Gripen

 

The JAS-39C Gripen, these examples with the South African Air Force. Photo c/o Saab.

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) was reported to have made a re-evaluation of their fighter aircraft competition selection, with the Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen said to now edging  out its only competitor, the Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70 Viper.

According to Philippine defense page MaxDefense Philippines, the PAF has shifted its preference from the F-16 Viper to the JAS-39 Gripen due to procurement and sustainment cost. and delivery schedule considerations.

The offer from Lockheed Martin for 12 new F-16C/D Block 70 Viper fighter aircraft was said to be valued more than the PAF’s budget for the project, and was also higher than Saab’s offer for 12 new JAS-39C/D Gripen fighters.

Also, Lockheed Martin could only commit to deliver the first batch of 3 or 4 aircraft beyond 3 years, which is around 2025-2026, compared to Saab’s commitment to start delivery in less than 2 years from release of Notice to Proceed.

Both companies have made extra offers on top of the requirement for 12 new fighter aircraft.

MaxDefense Philippines believes that the PAF could be chasing the contract to be signed with the selected aircraft supplier before the end of 2021, as its chances of moving forward may be hampered by the country’s national elections in May 2022.

The PAF has officially raised a requirement for new fighter aircraft in 2018, but has been planning and evaluating offers from American, European, and Russian companies years before. Prior to this current fighter aircraft competition, the PAF has previous failed attempts to procure new fighters due to successive financial issues since the early 1990s.

The PAF only re-started conducting fighter and air defense operations in 2015 with the introduction of 12 new FA-50PH Fighting Eagle light combat aircraft from Korea Aerospace Industries, after losing fighter capability for 10 years starting in 2005 with the retirement of the last Northrop F-5A/B Freedom Fighter aircraft.

This fighter requirement is part of the PAF’s modernization program covering years 2018 to 2022, while additional fighter aircraft are planned for acquisition during the 2023 to 2028 phase of the program.

[1] MaxDefense Philippines

[2] Philippine Defense Resource

[3] Inquirer.net

South Korean missile development restrictions lifted by US

 

A Hyunmoo-2 ballistic missile mobile launcher of the Republic of Korea Army. Photo c/o AFP.

Leaders of South Korea and the United States have announced that the United States Government has lifted restrictions to South Korean missile development programs. 

The missile guidelines was signed in 1979, with the South Korean Government allowing restrictions to be implemented in their missile development in return for US allowing sale of missiles and missile technology to South Korea.

As part of his meeting with US President Joe Biden in Washington, South Korean President Moon Jae-in announced on 21 May 2021 that missile development guidelines has been ended.

He also mentioned that this is a symbolic and substantive measure to demonstrate solidity of US-Republic of Korea alliance.

The termination of the US-imposed guidelines will now allow South Korea to develop new generation of cruise and ballistic missiles with ranges beyond 800 kilometers, and maximum payload of 500 kilograms.

The guidelines on missile development has been revised four times in the past due to increasing threats from North Korea.

Revisions made in 1997 included allowing South Korea to develop ballistic missiles with a 500-kilogram warhead and maximum range of 300 kilometers, while another revision in 2012 increased allowable range to 800 kilometers with a 500-kilogram warhead.

Further revisions were made in 2017 that removed the 500-kilogram warhead limitation, while a changes made in 2020 gave South Korea the go-signal to develop solid-propellant space rockets.

Defense observers believe that South Korea may start development of intermediate-range ballistic missiles with maximum range between 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers, reaching targets beyond the Korean Peninsula.

It was already announced before that South Korea plans to develop longer-ranged submarine-launched ballistic missiles compared to those currently under development.




[1] Yonhap News Agency
[2] Nikkei Asia
[3] Defense News

Malaysia to procure Saab Carl Gustaf M4 84mm recoilless rifles

The Saab M4 Carl Gustaf 84mm recoilless rifle. Photo c/o Saab.

The Malaysian Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) has released a tender for the supply and delivery of new 84mm recoilless rifles for the Malaysian Army.

110 units, including associated munitions and accessories are being procured, and are expected to be delivered for the Malaysian Arm’s strategic units including the 10th Parachute Brigade and the 21st Special Operations Group.

The tender, which was opened to local importers, is scheduled to close of 17 June 2021.

According to the specifications mentioned on the tender, the new weapon is a light anti-tank weapon recoilless for anti-armour platoons to counter armoured threat in all phases of war including Operation in Build-Up Areas. 

The weapon should also be able to counter threats from enemy personnel, destroy bunkers and armoured vehicles, and capable of using High Explosive (HE), High Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT), Anti-Structure, Anti-Personnel, High Explosive Dual Purpose (HEDP), Guided Munition, Smoke, Illumination and Target Practice (TP).

The weapon will have a caliber of 84mm, a length not exceeding 1,000mm, will weigh not more than 7 kilograms without sighting system, or 9 kilograms with sighting system.

Based on these requirements, it is expected that the Saab M4 Carl Gustaf 84mm recoilless rifle, which meets the requirements mentioned.

The new M4 Carl Gustaf is an improvement over previous generation variants of the Carl Gustaf family of recoilless rifles from Sweden. The M4 is shorter and lighter, optimized for urban operations compared older variants.

The Malaysian Army currently uses the older M2 Carl Gustaf 84mm recoilless rifle, together with other light anti-tank / bunker attack weapons like the RPG-7, M72 LAW, Instalaza C90, and the new Saab NLAW.




[1] Shephard Media
[2] Malaysian Defence
[3] Malaysia Flying Herald

Taiwan’s Hai Chien II surface-to-air missile completes live fire trials

 

Mock-up scale of TC-2N Hai Chien II missile. Photo c/o James Tung.

The Republic of China Navy (ROCN) has confirmed that it has completed live fire trials and evaluation of the new TC-2N Hai Chien II (Sea Sword II) medium-range ship-launched surface-to-air missile.

The test was conducted aboard the Tuo Chiang-class corvette Ta Chiang (619), which is still undergoing final fit-out and testing before its expected commissioning with the ROCN on August 2021.

The new missile has been in development by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology since the 1990s based on the TC-2 Tien Chien II (Sky Sword II) medium-range air-to-air missile, and was designed to provide air defense cover for naval forces.

The TC-2N has a range of around 30 kilometers using an active radar guidance system, and will be slotted it between the Phalanx 20mm close-in weapon system (CIWS) and the SM-2  Standard-ER extended range medium-range air defense system.

It has all-weather capability, and is also equipped with thrust vectoring boosters for improved manoeuvrability.

The missile can intercept fast moving aircraft, helicopters and drones, and sea-skimming anti-ship missiles.

The TC-2N missile will be equipping the new Tuo Chiang-class fast missile corvettes, and will eventually be used with other ships of the ROCN, including the replacement of the Sea Chaparral air defense system aboard the Kang Ding-class frigates, and air defense system for the new Yushan-class landing platform dock.




[1] Jane’s
[2] Taiwan News