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UNITED KINGDOM AND NATO
07 Jul 22. PSNI Pangolins to be replaced. Sources close to BATTLESPACE suggest that the PSNI in Northern Ireland is about to issue a Requirement for 250 vehicles to replace part of its fleet of 400 protected Land Rovers. The process has already commenced to replace the Ovik and Penman Pangolins with a new fleet. Suppliers expected to bid include Mercedes with ‘G’ Wagen, INEOS with the Grenadier via an armour specialist, Jankel, Ford with F350, Ricardo, Guardian from Bulgaria and SandCat. The vehicle will be required to provide protection levels above the current protection levels provided by the Pangolin vehicles.
EUROPE
04 Jul 22. France, Germany, Sweden launch future transport aircraft. France, Germany, and Sweden have agreed development of a new fixed-wing medium-lift transport aircraft, it was announced on 30 June.
The French Ministère des Armées reported the agreement, saying that the three countries launched the Future Mid-Size Tactical Cargo (FMTC) programme during the Armée de l’Air et de l’Espace (AAE)-hosted French Presidency of the Council of the European Union (PFUE) European Wings event.
“It was during this event on 23 June that an agreement was signed for the Future Mid-Size Tactical Cargo (FMTC), a tactical transport aircraft project replacing, by 2040, the [Lockheed Martin] C-130 Hercules and Casa [Airbus Defence and Space (DS)] CN235 fleets. Supported by the European Defence Agency (EDA), this agreement allows the definition of the aircraft intended to operate in addition to the [Airbus DS] A400M fleet from 2040,” the AAE said. (Source: Janes)
05 Jul 22. STM signs goodwill protocol with NATO’s MARSEC COE. STM and MARSEC COE will work together on various projects related to maritime security. Nato MARSEC COE and STM have signed a Goodwill Protocol for future collaborations in maritime security. Credit: © STM Savunma Teknolojileri ve Mühendislik A.Ş. Turkey-based defence technology company STM Savunma Teknolojileri ve Mühendislik has signed a goodwill protocol with Nato Maritime Security Centre of Excellence (MARSEC COE).
The protocol was signed between MARSEC COE director Navy captain Sümer Kayser and STM general manager Özgür Güleryüz at the company’s headquarters on 29 June.
Under this protocol, Nato’s MARSEC COE and STM will work together on a wide range of projects in the maritime security domain.
Additionally, the framework will include participation of technology-based think tank, STM ThinkTech.
It will provide innovative solutions to Nato MARSEC COE using various simulation, modelling and decision support systems.
Özgür Güleryüz said: “Since 2019, STM ThinkTech, as Nato’s solution partner, has been providing state of the art strategic level decision support systems for Nato’s resilience domain.
“We are excited to be entering into this new cooperation with the Nato MARSEC COE, as well.
“We will continue to provide our genuine engineering solutions to distinguished institutions such as Nato.” (Source: naval-technology.c
04 Jul 22. Latvia and Estonia to jointly procure air defence systems.
The joint effort will promote stability and security in the region.
Latvia has signed a letter of intent (LoI) with Estonia for the joint procurement of medium-range air defence systems.
The LoI was signed between Estonian Defence Minister Kalle Laanet and Latvian Defence Minister Artis Pabriks on 30 June.
It was signed during Nato’s meeting of heads of the state and government in Madrid, Spain.
The effort will also promote stability and security in the region.
Pabriks said: “Russian invasion of Ukraine has clearly shown that we need to secure air defence systems.
“Latvia is happy to cooperate with Estonia on this procurement – such joint projects make regional cooperation and collective defence only stronger.”
This procurement project, launched by Latvia and Estonia in later stages, can also be joined by other allied nations.
capabilities of Latvia’s military to take down missiles that are being used for attacking Ukrainian cities.
Laanet said: “The Nato Summit has given a clear signal that those who are ready to contribute to the defence themselves will be helped.”
According to Laanet, it is important that Estonia, in addition to the support offered by its Allies, is ready to contribute to air defence.
On 26 June, Latvia deployed the Spanish-supplied Norwegian advanced surface-to-air missile system (NASAMS) at Lielvārde Air Base.
It will provide air defence capabilities to the Latvian Armed Forces prior to the completion of the latest procurement.
Latvia is expected to gradually increase its defence investments to 2.5% of the Gross Domestic Product by 2025. The latest procurement comes under additionally allocated funding. (Source: airforce-technology.com)
01 Jul 22. Naval Group signs key contracts for Hellenic Navy’s FDI programme. The company has awarded contracts to four Hellenic companies as part of its Industrial Participation plan.
Naval Group has signed contracts and teaming agreements with its Hellenic industrial partners for the Hellenic Navy’s (HN) defence and intervention frigates (FDIs) programme. The contracts and agreements were signed at the French Embassy in Greece on 30 June.
The latest signing is part of Naval Group’s Hellenic Industrial Participation plan, which aims to develop new capabilities in Hellenic industry and support the construction of HN’s frigates.
The plan will also generate and sustain job opportunities and long-term economic benefits in Greece.
In order to support the FDI programme, Naval Group awarded contracts to four companies, namely EMMIS, Mevaco, Stelma and Viking Norsafe Hellas.
Mevaco will supply its mechanical equipment, EMMIS will provide electrical transformers, Viking Norsafe Hellas will deliver rigid hull inflatable boats and Stelma will carry out the paint application work.
Naval Group also entered an exclusive competitive dialogues and teaming agreements with Prisma, Scytalys, Miltech Hellas, Akmon and Intracom.
Naval Group Operation and Performance executive vice-president David Quancard added: “At Naval Group, we are convinced that partnership is a key and strategic driver for success of complex programmes that we conduct.
“As the procurement for the frigates is on track, we know that this program will be the first of many we will work on together.”
Apart from the frigate programme, Naval Group aims to build long-term partnership to develop naval warfare capabilities of the Hellenic Industry and support HN. The group has begun to engage with more than 50 prequalified Hellenic companies and has identified over 80 projects.
(Source: naval-technology.com)
USA
06 Jul 22. Defense Department Announces Fiscal Year 2022 Research Equipment Awards to Minority-Serving Institutions. Today, the Department of Defense (DoD) announced awards to 60 minority-serving institutions totaling $28.5 m as part of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 DoD Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority-Serving Institutions (HBCU/MSI) Research and Education Program. Awards ranging up to $600,000 will support the acquisition of research and scientific equipment at 17 HBCUs, 41 MSIs, and two tribal colleges. The award recipients represent 43 institutions across 20 states and the District of Columbia.
“These awards are crucial to increasing universities’ foundational research in support of the Department’s science and technology priorities and expanding university education programs,” noted Mrs. Evelyn Kent, Director of the DoD HBCU/MSI Program and Outreach. “The acquisition of state-of-the-art scientific and research equipment enables universities to advance current research capabilities and develop new competencies aligned with defense priorities, all while training the next generation of diverse STEM talent and guiding them toward research careers.”
The awards are the result of a merit competition administered by the Army Research Office under policy and guidance from the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research & Engineering, with participation from the Office of Naval Research and the Air Force Office of Scientific Research. The FY 2022 funding opportunity announcement received 151 proposals requesting $69 m in total funding. Proposals were evaluated by the three Military Service research offices, and the most meritorious were selected for awards. Selections made by the Service research offices are subject to successful completion of negotiations with the academic institutions. The list of awardees is available here.
DoD has a longstanding relationship with HBCUs/MSIs. Their contributions to the defense research enterprise help strengthen the Department’s fundamental advancements in priority scientific areas. The acquisition of scientific and research equipment enhances the institutions’ ability to conduct research and strengthens their infrastructure in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs. This year’s awards continue to support transformative research of critical importance to the DoD, spanning the biosciences, hypersonics, quantum sciences, autonomy, and robotics.
About USD(R&E)
The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (USD(R&E) is the Chief Technology Officer of the Department of Defense. The USD(R&E) champions research, science, technology, engineering, and innovation to maintain the United States military’s technological advantage. Learn more at www.cto.mil, follow us on Twitter @DoDCTO, or visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/ousdre. (Source: US DoD)
05 Jul 22. AT&T, 26 other companies join USAF’s $950m JADC2 effort. More than two dozen companies including a division of AT&T Inc. are entering the competition to make real the Pentagon’s vision of seamless communications as part of a deal worth up to $950 m.
The U.S. Air Force on July 1 selected an additional 27 vendors, both large and small, to compete for work tied to Joint All-Domain Command and Control, or JADC2, which aims to better connect sensors and shooters and enable rapid responses on the battlefield.
C4ISRNET in November 2020 reported the Air Force made similar awards to 93 total companies.
While the Department of Defense on Friday did not specify what the contractors would produce, a related contract announcement said they would be tasked with the “maturation, demonstration and proliferation of capability across platforms and domains, leveraging open systems design, modern software and algorithm development.”
The indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity, multiple-award contract was done through Air Force Life Cycle Management in Ohio. IDIQ contracts provide for a number of products or services over the course of a predetermined timeframe. They are frequently used by the federal government and are thought to streamline the procurement process.
The July 1 awardees include:
- ADDX of Virginia
- Capella Space of California
- AT&T Corp. of Virginia, a unit of AT&T Inc.
- Applied Information Sciences of Virginia
- Atmospheric & Space Technology Research Associates of Colorado
- Credence Management Solutions of Virginia
- Edge Technologies of Virginia
- EOS Defense Systems USA of Alabama
- Exfo America of Texas
- Hermeus of Georgia
- Ierus Technologies of Alabama
- Cyberspace Solutions of Virginia
- Labelbox of California
- Nalej of New York
- OST of Virginia
- Praeses of Louisiana
- Real-time Innovations of California
- Riverside Research Institute of New York
- Saber Astronautics of Colorado
- Shared Spectrum Company of Virginia
- Shield AI of California
- Skylight of Florida
- Sparkcognition Government Systems of Texas
- Tenet 3 of Ohio
- Trace Systems of Virginia
- Ultra Electronics Advanced Tactical Systems of Texas
- BrainGu of Michigan
Work is expected to wrap by the end of May 2025. Exactly where the work will be conducted depends on the orders and winners.
An inquiry made July 5 to the Air Force was not immediately answered.
JADC2 is meant to give the U.S. an advantage over large, technologically advanced opponents by speeding the collection and distribution of information and allowing the best-positioned or most-qualified force to confront a threat. The effort relies on heaps of technology — artificial intelligence, cloud environments, 5G — and requires linking once-incompatible systems across land, air, sea, space and cyber.
The services have their own contributions to JADC2: The Army has Project Convergence, the Navy has Project Overmatch and the Air Force has the Advanced Battle Management System, or ABMS.
Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall considers the buildout of ABMS, a next-generation command and control system, an imperative. In recent months, he has called for more tangible, operational results and less arcane experimentation.
Members of Congress in June sought clarity on the price and progress of JADC2 and included an audit of the endeavor in a version of the annual defense bill. House staffers at the time said the review would help gauge “the state of play” and inform future decisions. The evaluation, they added, is not meant to be punitive. Some $231 m for ABMS was requested in fiscal 2023. (Source: Defense News)
30 June 22. US DoD will equip Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All-Terrain Vehicles with C-UAS capability. The US Department of Defense has asked US industry for proposals to mount its Mobile, Low, Slow, Unmanned Aircraft Integrated Defense System (M-LIDS) onto a single combat vehicle. The DoD wants to equip vehicles with a M-LIDS Counter UAS (C-UAS) capability to provides soldiers with an ability to detect, identify, track and defeat Group 1, 2 and 3 UAS with kinetic and non-kinetic defeat technologies.
“M-LIDS is a two-vehicle solution utilizing Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All-Terrain Vehicles (M-ATV) and hosts numerous Government and industry-provided technologies. M-LIDS Inc. 2 includes a remotely operated turret with multiple kinetic effectors for vehicle protection and C-UAS kinetic defeat, a high-quality Electro-Optical/Infra-Red (EO/IR) sensor to identify and track threat UAS, Electronic Warfare (EW) for Counter Improvised Explosive Device (CIED) and C-UAS protection, a masted on-board radar for long-range detection and tracking, data transfer radios, operator workstations and a Mission Data Recorder (MDR). The two-vehicle capability is fully integrated with the Forward Area Air Defense Command and Control (FAAD C2) network.”
“The Government intends to transition M-LIDS while retaining mission effectiveness and enhancing system ease of use and reliability. Therefore, Offerors must be able to perform all tasks expected of a Lead Systems Integrator (LSI) and provide a fully integrated C-UAS Mission Equipment Package (MEP) onto a single-vehicle. In addition, an LSI should have demonstrated successful results of collaborating with Government Program Offices and industry partners to integrate MEP technologies. Offerors shall have recent and relevant integration experience. Recent is defined as within the past five years. Relevant is defined as delivering fully integrated C-UAS technologies on an Army platform, including, but not limited to, the Stryker Infantry Carrier Double V Hull (ICVV), M-ATV or similar prime mover vehicle. The Government is not requesting responses for individual technologies.”
For more information https://sam.gov/opp/6ad64d65ae944217816a7ce7621361fa/view
(Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
REST OF THE WORLD
07 Jul 22. India’s Tejas is out as PAF shortlists F-16 and Gripen in fighter jet tender. The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has shortlisted the Lockheed Martin F-16 and the Saab JAS-39 Gripen in its multi-role fighter jet (MRF) tender.
“(The) two last contenders, (for the PAF MRF project are the) F-16V Block 50/52 Variant and the JAS-39 Gripen C/D+ Version,” PAF spokesperson, Col. Maynard Mariano, is quoted as saying by the Philippine News Agency in a press release published on July 6, 2022.
This means that other candidates, including India’s HAL Tejas, have now been excluded from the tender.
However, the press release does not specify why the two entrants were chosen or if the country had received other offers besides the three from the US, Sweden and India.
In May 2022, India’s HAL and Philippine Aerospace Development Corporation (PADC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding the purchase of various Indian-made aircraft, including fighter jets and helicopters.
However, in June the PAF said it had received just two proposals – from the US and Sweden – but noted that there were “other nations interested to join” the tender.
It should be noted that the two remaining entrants, the F-16 Block 50/52 and the Gripen C/D, are not-up-to-date variants of the aircraft.
The latest F-16 Block 70/72, presented in 2012, offers an upgraded radar, avionics and airframe compared to the Block 50/52, which entered production in 1991. The Gripen E/F, which began deliveries in 2021, is presented as an all-round upgrade of the Gripen C/D, manufactured since 2002.
According to the manufacturers, both the F-16 Block 50/52 and the Gripen C/D can be upgraded to their latest configuration.
The Philippines’ decision to opt for an older variant could reflect issues within the country’s budget. The MRF program faced a delay in 2021 when funds intended to modernize the Philippine military were diverted to soften the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The government of the Philippines directly referred to the high cost of the latest F-16 variant as its main problem, stating that in this regard the Swedish offer is far more attractive. The choice to purchase older variants of the jets is likely to have been seen as an acceptable compromise.
The Philippines initiated the MRF tender in 2018 as a part of its Horizon Two of the Armed Forces modernization program. 12 “fourth generation or higher” multirole fighter jets are to be purchased and will become the PAF’s first true fighter jets since 2005 when its Northrop F-5 Tigers were retired.
The PAF currently operates a fleet of KAI FA-50, a combat version of Korean-made T-50 advanced jet trainers, as well as several models of turboprop light attack aircraft. (Source: News Now/https://www.aerotime.aero/)
07 Jul 22. Marles spruiks AIC for timely Aus nuclear subs delivery. Dependence on foreign suppliers would slow the delivery of Australia’s next-generation submarines, according to the Deputy Prime Minister.
Amid continued uncertainty over AIC targets for the Royal Australian Navy’s future SSN fleet promised under AUKUS, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles has touted the benefits of strengthening local shipbuilding capability.
During a visit to Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia, Minister Marles flagged the risks of dependence on overseas contractors for timely delivery, with the Nuclear Submarine Taskforce currently considering the US Virginia Class and UK Astute Class submarines.
“…If we want this capability to happen sooner rather than later, we have to build Australian capability right here,” he said.
“But if we are going to be solely reliant on a capability overseas, thenwecanexect those submarines are going to take a long time to be in our service and we need them as soon as possible
“So, building Australian industrial capability within Australia — and I mean right here at Osborne — is fundamentally important to making sure that we acquire this capability as soon as possible, and that is going to be front and centre in terms of the way in which we are analysing this issue.
His remarks come amid speculation over potential off-the-shelf orders, with former defence minister and leader of the federal opposition, Peter Dutton, recently backing two initial direct purchases of US-designed Virginia Class vessels by the end of the decade.
However, Minister Marles has rejected the idea, claiming delivery before 2030 is “extremely optimistic”.
The Minister is set to travel to the United States in the coming days to discuss the AUKUS agenda with counterparts.
“We want to look at how we can get [the submarines] here earlier,” he said.
“We want to obviously be looking at what option we ultimately run with, and we also need to be looking at plugging whatever capability gap arises and looking at the solutions to that.
“So, there is much to talk about with the United States and I’m very much looking forward to the opportunity of doing that.”
Following his tour of Osborne, the Deputy Prime Minister was also asked if the government would consider changes to the Hunter Class frigate program, given supposed issues relating to the design.
Minister Marles stressed the importance of the $45 bn project, describing the BAE Systems-built frigates as the future “centrepiece” of the Navy’s surface fleet.
“We will be working with BAE to make sure that this capability is delivered,” he said.
“It is critically important for the nation that that happens in a timely and effective way, and I do have confidence that that is what will occur.”
The Labor government has committed to launching a “posture review” in response to the changing geostrategic environment.
This would involve looking at the $270bn investment in new capability with “fresh eyes”.
In an address to the Lowy Institute prior to the federal election, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the review would include:
- considerations of whether Tomahawk missiles can be fitted to the Collins Class submarines;
- reviewing progress of the Future Frigates project;
- exploring potential upgrades to weapons on the Arafura Class offshore patrol vessels or through additional Hobart Class air warfare destroyers; and
- advancing Australia’s strike weapons procurement program.
During his visit to Adelaide, Minister Marles, joined by Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy, met with industry representatives for a roundtable discussion covering a range of local defence projects.
“Australia’s geo-strategic environment underscores the need for a robust, sovereign and internationally competitive defence industry base,” Deputy Prime Minister Marles said.
“That is why the Australian government is committed to building a genuine, long-term partnership with defence industry, large and small, both locally and internationally.”
Minister Conroy said the government’s focus on building sovereign capability would bolster local manufacturing, creating new work opportunities.
“The defence industry partnership is essential to developing the sovereign industrial base to provide the ADF the capabilities it needs, in the areas of greatest criticality, when it needs it,” Minister Conroy said.
“The Australian government seeks to maximise opportunities and remove barriers for Australian industry participation in Defence procurement.”
(Source: Defence Connect)
07 Jul 22. India outlines wheeled AFV acquisition. The Indian Army has detailed requirements supporting its acquisition of a wheeled armoured fighting vehicle (AFV), fitted with anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) capability.
In an ‘acceptance of necessity’ (AoN) document issued by the army on 6 July, the service confirmed that the AFVs would be procured from local industry.
The AoN also stated that field trials of wheeled AFVs would start 36 months following the issue of the request for proposal (RFP). It said trials would be undertaken on a ‘no cost, no commitment’ basis.
The document did not clarify when the RFP would be issued but said potential suppliers can express interest in obtaining the RFP from the army and government bodies including the Directorate General of Mechanised Infantry and the Department of Defence Production.
The AoN document was issued one month after the Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced that the procurement of “AFVs fitted with ATGMs” had been approved by its Defence Acquisition Council (DAC). (Source: Janes)
06 Jul 22. Australian Maritime Alliance’s “Oboe” LMV-M receives “structural approval in principle.” Australian Maritime Alliance, a joint venture between Serco Australia and Civmec, made the announcement regarding their LAND 8710 Phase 1A Littoral Manoeuvre Vessel – Medium solution.
The Australian Maritime Alliance has confirmed that the “Oboe”, the joint venture’s solution for the LAND 8710 Phase 1A Littoral Manoeuvre Vessel, has been granted “structural approval in principle” by the Class Certification Society DNV.
According to the joint venture, the solution provides enhanced load carrying capability over the legacy LCM-8 vessels to support the Australian Army and the nation’s allies, as well as an extended range and generous accommodation facilities to support long distance operations.
The vessels are reportedly able to operate “under all environmental conditions,” providing greater deployment flexibility for the Australian Army with greater load carry capacity, structural integrity and design flexibility.
The joint venture is expected to leverage Civmec’s production facilities in Henderson, Western Australia, which offers expansive shipbuilding capacity and a new ship assembly hall. Henderson is reportedly on of the largest fabrication workshops in Australia.
According to Clint Thomas, managing director of Serco Defence, the joint venture is bringing together the “best of breed” in defence industry.
“This design represents the next-generation in amphibious capability for Army, and with a stellar line up of the best Australian Industry has to offer, AMA is set to deliver just that,” he said. (Source: Defence Connect)
06 Jul 22. Indian MoD plans to purchase night sights for assault rifles. The ministry issued an RFP under the ‘Buy Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured’ category. The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has issued a request for proposal (RFP) to procure night sights (Image Intensifier) units for the Army’s assault rifles.
As per the RFP, the MoD plans to purchase 29,762 night sights (II) with Autogating facilities for 7.62x51mm assault rifles.
It also intends to acquire accessories including lens covers, eye guards, cleaning kits, and batteries.
The tender was issued under the ‘Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured (Buy Indian-IDDM)’ category.
As part of the ‘Make in India’ objective, the overall IC content requirement is a minimum of 50% for the Night Sight (II) Assault rifles and a minimum of 30% for the II tubes.
The government has invited bids from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and authorised vendors for this purpose.
The deadline to submit bids for the tender is 27 September this year.
According to production criteria, the night sights and related accessories should be manufactured after the date of contract.
In-service life of the Night Sight (II) should not be less than 10,000 hours of operation or ten years, whichever is earlier.
The tender also requires the deliverables to have a warranty for 24 months.
Under the finalised contract, the selected bidder will provide product support, including maintenance, for ten years.
The equipment will be subjected to field evaluation and maintainability evaluation after delivery. Training will be provided to quality assurance personnel, operators, and maintenance personnel. The RFP will be followed by a pre-bid meeting on 16 August 2022. (Source: army-technology.com)
06 Jul 22. Minister Heappey: UK support for the Lebanese Army continues.
The UK and Lebanon are close friends and partners. The military cooperation between our two countries that has spanned more than a decade. The UK Minister for the Armed Forces, James Heappey MP, conducted a one-day visit to Lebanon yesterday. This was Minister Heappey’s first visit to Lebanon where he saw first-hand how UK projects support the Lebanese Armed Forces in their mission to maintain stability across Lebanon.
The British Ambassador to Lebanon, Dr. Ian Collard, and the British Embassy’s Defence Attaché, Lt. Col Lee Saunders, accompanied Minister Heappey.
The Minister met the caretaker Minister of Defence, Maurice Sleem, and the Lebanese Army Commander, General Joseph Aoun. They discussed military cooperation between the UK and Lebanon.
At the Third Land Border Regiment (LBR) on the border with Syria, Minister Heappey heard from senior Lebanese officers how the UK’s work to enhance the capabilities of the LBRs has improved efforts to counter cross-border smuggling and terrorist activity. This has made the area safer for local communities. UK support has enabled deployment of four Land Border Regiments (LBRs), the construction of over 78 border towers, provision of 350 Land Rovers, 100 armoured patrol vehicles, and training of over 20,000 Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) personnel.
At the end of his visit, Minister Heappey said: “The UK and Lebanon are close friends and partners. I was proud to see first-hand the positive impact of the military cooperation between our two countries that has spanned more than a decade. In times of need, the UK stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Lebanon and our partners around the world to tackle shared challenges. In the current context, it is more important than ever that we continue to work together to combat threats to global peace and security. I have greatly enjoyed my first visit to this beautiful country and hope to return.”
The British Ambassador to Lebanon, Dr. Ian Collard, said: “I am delighted to host the Minister for the Armed Forces, James Heappey, on his first visit to Lebanon. The Lebanese Armed Forces is crucial to ensuring Lebanon’s stability and safeguarding the Lebanese people during these challenging times. Since 2010, the UK has committed over £87 m to optimise the LAF’s capabilities which underlines the UK’s government commitment to a safe and stable Lebanon.” (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
06 Jul 22. South African Aerospace & Defence Masterplan implementation coordination tender issued. The implementation of South Africa’s Aerospace & Defence Masterplan is slowly moving forward, with the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) issuing a request for proposals (RFP) for monitoring and coordinating the implementation of the masterplan. The RFP, which had a closing date of 28 June, noted that the South African aerospace and defence economy has been identified by the Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP) now in the Reinvigorated Industrial Strategy (RIS) as one of the 151 priority South African economic sectors for support and development.
“As a result, a Masterplan for this sector is required to protect and create jobs; deepen sector capabilities; expand exports; and prepare for policy change and related impact,” the RFP sated. The Minister of Public Enterprises has been tasked by Cabinet to oversee the implementation of the Aerospace & Defence Masterplan, which has a vision to re-purpose and transform the aerospace and defence industry. Repurposing will be achieved by increasing market access; localisation; increasing industry competitiveness; and developing human capital.
Under the RFP, the Department of Public Enterprises requested bidders to submit proposals for the coordination and reporting on the implementation of the Aerospace & Defence Masterplan. The service provider will coordinate the activities of the workstreams of the Masterplan, generate reports and arrange meetings of the for the Steering Committee on a quarterly basis or on request, and prepare meetings of Executive Oversight Committee (EOC).
The appointed service provider will be expected to arrange workshop sessions with key defence and aerospace stakeholders; facilitate timely execution of allotted tasks to workstreams and the Masterplan Steering Committee; deliver progress reports; brief the Director General’s Office of Masterplan implementation and challenges; manage Masterplan delivery processes; secure the buy-in and active participation of stakeholders; and deliver quarterly reports.
Project duration is nine months and the service provider will be tasked with facilitating engagements, meetings and workshops with stakeholders with the DPE providing support.
Necessary skills include stakeholder relations management, project management, business and systems integration, knowledge of the defence sector etc.
The Aerospace and Defence Masterplan was adopted in October 2020. It has developed a number of clear goals and plans of action for the stabilisation and development of the sector. The first pillar of the Masterplan is increasing market access and this includes doubling South African defence exports by the end of 2025. The second pillar aims to further government-to-government marketing and help increase export earnings and position South Africa as the regional centre of excellence for maintenance, repair and overhaul and the supplier of choice for commercial unmanned aerial vehicle manufacturing and operations, and armoured vehicles.
Other programmes include increasing the budget for the Special Defence Account, stabilising Denel, engaging National Treasury on the defence budget, establishing a maintenance, repair and overhaul Centre of Excellence in the OR Tambo special economic zone, replacing imports of selected products, implementing home build programmes and implementing catalytic space programmes. One of the biggest projects is the establishment of the Centurion Aerospace Village to increase the competitiveness of the local commercial aerospace manufacturing industry.
Amongst other Masterplan initiatives are enhancing funding and finance support mechanisms for the industry, developing human capital, commercialising South African intellectual property and developing a South African Advanced Research Projects Agency. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
05 Jul 22. RoK’s New F-35A Purchase May Kill CVX Program. Several local media outlets reported that the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) plan to acquire additional F-35As, which had been delayed due to the priority given to South Korea’s aircraft carrier program or CVX, has gained traction under the new administration.
The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) said on June 29th that it approved preliminary plans for the purchase on the 9th of the same month. Some are saying that the move raises doubts about the future of the CVX program.
If confirmed, the plan will see the ROKAF invest ₩ 3.9 trillion, or around $ 3 bn, to acquire 20 additional F-35As from 2023 to 2020. DAPA is expected to finalize the decision later this month. The new development comes four years after the ROKAF first proposed the plan in 2018. The plans were struck down at the time due to the focus given on purchasing F-35Bs for CVX.
“The decisions made at the subcommittee need to be given approval by the Defense Acquisition Program Promotion Committee. Therefore, we cannot confirm that the plan will proceed at this time.”
DAPA statement
Despite this, the decision is still a major blow to the CVX program given the history of competition between it and the F-35A program. Naval News reached out to the Ministry of National Defense (MND) for comment:
“We will follow the decisions made by the Defense Acquisition Program Promotion Committee in the future regarding the purchase of additional F-35s. While DAPA is re-examining the decisions made by the National Assembly last year, the CVX program is progressing as planned as of now.”
South Korea Defence Ministry response to Naval News
Several key members of the Yoon administration, including the Minister of National Defense, have expressed reservations about the aircraft carrier program. Experts say that the new administration’s emphasis on countering North Korea’s missile and nuclear capabilities contributed to the decision to approve the ROKAF plan.
South Korean military strategy calls for a preemptive strike against major nuclear and missile facilities if an attack by North Korea becomes apparent. Dubbed the Kill Chain doctrine, the success of this strategy depends on deploying advanced fighters.
Another factor is the ROKAF’s large fleet of obsolescent fighters. The force will be 30 to 70 airframes short of the required number of fighter aircraft, even if the KF-21 program proceeds as planned, as several F-4s and F-5s are retired in the 2025 to 2031 timeframe. (Source: News Now/Naval News)
04 Jul 22. South African companies urged to be more active in bidding for UN tenders. Officials from the United Nations Procurement Division have urged South African companies to register and bid for bns of dollars worth of tenders issued each year by the organisation, especially as South Africa is ideally located to be a supplier to UN missions on the continent.
Delivering the opening address at the UN Procurement Summit in Pretoria on 24 June, defence minister Thandi Modise urged the South African defence industry to come together and pursue the opportunities the UN is offering. She said the industry underrates itself, and reminded the sector that the Department of Defence depends on the industry. “You become important to us as the industry because without you we are unable to do our business as a country involved in contributing troops.”
Atul Khare, the UN’s Under Secretary General for Operational Support, said the close cooperation between South Africa and the United Nations “continues to be a priority for my department…the contribution of the Republic of South Africa, including its commercial entities, can be a critical enabler for the ultimate success of the UN mandate delivery.”
Khare, in South Africa for the 6th International United Nations Partnership for Technology in Peacekeeping Symposium (6PTPS) from 21-24 June, said global challenges to supply chain operations coupled with ever-diminishing resources have led to the UN seeking new technologies to create greater efficiency, and the UN wants to learn from suppliers about innovative solutions, particularly in responding to the challenges of maintaining peace and security and also achieving sustainable development goals.
Khare believes that more collaboration and cooperation with service providers in South Africa will improve peacekeeping operations. Some of the goods and services the UN is looking for include fixed and rotary wing airlift, telemedicine providers, information technology solutions, and peacekeeper protection technologies.
Christian Saunders, Assistance Secretary-General for Supply Chain Management at the Department of Operational Support, pointed out that in 2021 the UN Secretariat spent $2.7bn on goods and services globally, out of which $41m was procured in South Africa. The aviation industry took most of that, with aviation services accounting for $38m, and professional services $1.2m, with pharmaceuticals and health, ICT, transport and storage amounting to half a m dollars.
“I believe South Africa and the business community has much much more to offer the UN,” Saunders told delegates. However, he cautioned that to work with the UN requires patience and persistence, as the Procurement Division is “a large bureau and are not as quick and agile as we would like, but we are striving to streamline and simplify. We are a good partner, an ethical partner, a long term partner, and most importantly, we pay our bills.” He urged suppliers not to be despondent if they don’t succeed at first, but to try again.
One area the UN is strongly encouraging South African suppliers to bid for is air transport – with Covid-19 supply chain disruptions and the war in Ukraine, the cost of transport has gone up dramatically and since the majority of UN missions are in Africa, the UN is pushing to buy more locally, Saunders said.
“There is huge opportunity for South African businesses, not just in the defence industry but across the board,” he explained, as the UN literally buys tens of thousands of different goods and services.
While the UN Secretariat spends nearly $3bn, procurement across all UN divisions amounts to $18bn a year. The different divisions, such as the Secretariat, UNHCR etc. are all active on the UN Global Marketplace – to do business with the United Nations, companies have to register there (ungm.org), where tender opportunities can also be viewed.
Greg Kuchler, Acting Chief of Service, UN Procurement Division, highlighted the fact that the majority of UN peacekeeping operations are in Africa, and South Africa’s proximity to these does help.
Giving a breakdown of UN spend, he said the biggest single Secretariat spend item in 2021 was ICT ($418m), followed closely by air transport ($394m), with building and construction coming in third at $331 m. Food and catering amounted to $288m while fuels, including aviation fuel, was number five at $234m.
Some of the solicitations to look out for in 2022/23 cover fuel, medicine, ICT, security and energy. Next year the UN will rebid its fuel requirements for UNMISS (South Sudan), UNISFA (Abyei), UNAMA (Afghanistan), UNIFIL (Lebanon) and UNMHA (Yemen). Medical requirements will cover oxygen generation, trauma bags, pharmaceuticals, and imaging equipment.
ICT solicitations are vast and range from servers to audio-visual equipment, computers and tablets, ICT security systems to VHF/UHF trunked radio systems. On the energy side, the UN will be looking for efficient generators and turnkey renewable energy supplies. Other requirements include prefabricated buildings, ISR data management, green power generation, camp/perimeter security, and counter-IED technology (security is a big focus, especially with the rise in attacks against peacekeepers). (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
04 Jul 22. Australian Defence Innovation Hub to focus on priority areas. Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) forms one of the three key priority areas for the Defence Innovation Hub. Photo: Defence
From 1 July 2022, the Defence Innovation Hub is seeking submissions for innovative technologies in key priority areas: Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD); Undersea Warfare (USW); and Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO). The Hub will invest up to $10 m per key focus area over three years in the best proposals received from industry.
The first round of proposals is due on 31 August.
Most of the current Defence Innovation Hub processes will remain in being. Initial proposals will be evaluated and then the most promising will result in Requests for Proposal, leading to a contract to develop the innovation up to an agreed Technology Readiness Level (TRL).
The three key focus areas are a high priority for investment, said the Hub in a briefing to industry on 28 June. They are designed to stimulate innovative ideas in areas of strategic importance to Defence. However, the Hub will continue to evaluate proposals addressing the existing six major domains – Land, Sea, Air, Cyber, Joint and Enterprise – but proposals addressing these priorities will not be eligible for the key focus area funding.
At present, despite the Ministerial announcements about the GWEO capability earlier this year, the GWEO is not yet live, the Hub says.
In a process similar to that which applicants already follow, submissions aligned with a key focus area can be made through the Defence Innovation Hub portal by responding to the Priority Innovation Notice (PIN), Call for Submission.
In a two-stage process, the first stage requires applicants to provide a high-level overview of their idea. Defence has prepared a detailed scope of work for each key focus area to guide the thinking of applicants.
If the initial submission is successful, applicants will progress to stage two and be issued with Request for Proposal. Key focus area proposals will be grouped together for evaluation. This means all IAMD proposals will be evaluated together and all USW proposals will be evaluated together.
Evaluation outcomes for key focus area proposals are expected from early 2023, though this may be subject to change depending on the volume of submissions received, the Hub warns.
Key focus area submission and evaluation overview – IAMD and USW only (Source: Rumour Control)
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