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IEE Exhibiting Lineup of Rugged Displays at AUSA Annual Meeting and Expo 2023. High-Resolution Displays for Counter UAS and Enhanced Situational Awareness. Industrial Electronic Engineers, IEE, manufacturer of field-proven military displays will be exhibiting their product line at the 2023 AUSA Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C., October 9th-11th. IEE is answering the need for high-resolution displays that can serve as a key component in a Counter-UAS security strategy of detection, identification, tracking, and defeat. Advanced sensors, radars and other detection technologies enable the early warning and accurate identification of potential drone threats.
“High-resolution displays in conjunction with AI algorithms can be used to analyze data from sensors, cameras and other sources to accurately differentiate between an actual threat and other flying objects,” commented Steve Motter, V.P. of Business Development for IEE. “This allows the operator to quickly and more accurately detect the presence of an actual threat and act accordingly.”
IEE features a selection of operator console displays with resolutions of Full-HD, Ultra-HD and 4K that match the latest high-resolution sensors and cameras, while still being able to operate in harsh outdoor fielded environments. These include the 13.3-inch FHD, the 10.1-inch MFD and a soon to be released 11.6-inch MFD.
13.3-inch FHD Operator Display Panel
Developed for use in both airborne and military ground vehicle operations, this 13.3-inch monitor features full-HD resolution that is able to directly render the latest camera and sensor data. Its narrow bezel is optimized for side-by-side mounting of multiple displays, creating a panoramic operator workstation. Touch screen options available.
- Enhanced, High-Bright 13.3” LCD Display
- Full-HD (1920×1080) LCD bonded with high-strength cover glass including EMI shield, heater and anti-reflective/glare treatments
- LED backlight with high-bright day (sunlight readable) and night (NVIS compatible) modes
- 8 backlit soft key bezel layout
- 2x Composite NTSC/PAL; 1x 3G-SDI
- Serial communication bus
10.1-inch WUXGA Multi-Function Display (MFD)
The 10.1″ MFD utilizes a high performance, heavy-duty, full color, very high-bright WUXGA AMLCD. Designed for fixed and rotary wing airborne applications, this very wide viewing angle display features a selectable dual-mode LED backlight for sunlight readable daytime operation and NVIS-compatible operation for night. A programmable 8-way joystick and encoder knobs complement the bezel keys to provide a full-featured operator interface supporting the control of a wide range of applications.
Product Features:
- 10.1″ WUXGA, (1920×1200) color TFT LCD display
- Brightness: 1,100 cd/m2 typical
- Contrast Ratio: 800:1
- Video Interface: 2 x DVI-D, 2 x HD-SDI (loop-through)
- Communication Interface: RS-422
- 13 programmable bezel push-buttons, with tactile feedback and NVIS filtered backlight
- Replaceable Bezel
- On-screen display (OSD) functions controlled using Bezel Keys
- 3-way rotary switch for OFF/NIGHT/DAY, one brightness encoder, two programmable dual-concentric encoders and one 8-way joystick
IEE is exhibiting in booth #1167 at the AUSA Annual Meeting and Exposition, October 9th-11th. Stop by or make an appointment with Steve Motter by calling 1-800-422-0867, ext. 327, or .
About IEE:
For over 75 years, IEE has been a trusted provider of enhanced displays for military and industrial applications. From rapid prototyping of custom designs to full-scale production runs, IEE’s factory in Van Nuys, CA produces innovative displays with advanced features like low-latency video processing, high-bright and NVIS backlighting, and lightweight, ruggedized enclosures. IEE’s direct control of critical process steps reduces costs, decreases production lead times and improves lifecycle management. IEE display products are distributed worldwide. IEE is ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certified. For more information: visit ieeinc.com
Get our updates: http://www.linkedin.com/company/industrial-electronic-engineers
Follow us at: http://twitter.com/IEEdisplays
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UNITED KINGDOM AND NATO
28 Sep 23. The UK Space Agency has announced up to £65m of funding for ground-breaking innovations that could boost UK leadership in space technologies and applications. The National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP) will support high-risk, high-reward projects designed by British organisations with the potential to accelerate the development of new space technologies, satellite applications, and services.
The programme provides an opportunity for the UK space sector to develop novel and valuable commercial innovations that could tackle challenges such as the use of satellite data to combat climate change or providing services to make in-orbit applications more sustainable.
The first tranche of up to £34m funding is open to proposals that will drive innovation, accelerate the route to market, and catalyse investment into the UK space sector. The remaining funding will be split across further calls in 2024 and 2025 with projects running until March 2027.
George Freeman MP, Minister for Space at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, said: “Our space sector is constantly advancing thanks to pioneering new ideas from our world-class scientists and technologists that push the potential of British innovation at its best. Investing in these projects not only bolsters the UK’s seat at the table of the global space community, but it unlocks future business and job opportunities that will accelerate the growth of our nation’s £17.5bn space sector.”
Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, said: “In today’s interconnected world, space technologies have become critical to almost every aspect of our daily lives.”
The National Space Innovation Programme will support the UK’s most ambitious space technology projects and their potential to address real-world challenges, to catalyse investment, deliver new missions and capabilities, and harness the power of space to improve lives.
Since its pilot launch in 2020, NSIP has provided UK organisations with over £25m in funding, including SatVu which used the support to develop the first Middle Wavelength Infra-Red (MWIR) satellite, launched in June 2023. The satellite uses Earth observation data to gain insights into building emissions that can improve customer energy use and reduce emissions.
Northumbria University, meanwhile, used NSIP funding to design, test and build a new miniaturised laser optical communications terminal that will deliver a step-change in inter-satellite data sharing that could support future satellite constellations and space science missions.
NSIP funding will be split between major projects and kick starter funding. NSIP Kick Starter will provide targeted support to early-stage and disruptive innovation, such as its previous funding of Cardiff-based Space Forge’s development of retractable solar panels that could provide reusable satellites with a compact and affordable energy solution, and Imperial College London’s research into metal additive manufacturing for application in space that could allow for replacement parts to be printed as required in orbit.
Rob Desborough, Managing Partner at investment company Seraphim Space, said: “The UK has a thriving SpaceTech ecosystem, over $47bn of private capital has been invested across the global space sector since 2015. The UK accounted 17% of this, making it the second most attractive destination – only behind the US. Mechanisms like this are critical for the UK to maintain its prominence in what is now a globally competitive market worth in excess of $1trn by 2030.”
John Hanley, Chair of the trade association UKspace, said: “The UK space sector is one of the most research-intensive parts of our economy – with almost £800 m reported spend on R&D in the last Size & Health study. The UK Space Agency’s National Space Innovation Programme is hugely important as a catalyst for further industry investment to develop new and improved commercial products and services – driving growth across the whole of the country. Support from the NSIP fund is key to addressing project barriers in research and development, bringing high value space technologies to market that can create jobs and benefit people, businesses and communities for generations to come.”
The announcement comes ahead of the UK Space Conference which runs from 21- 23 November, at ICC Belfast, a global platform for government, industry and academic space innovators to gather and collaboratively shape the future of space. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
26 Sep 23. MoD confirm plans for 19 frigates and destroyers. In a recent exchange in Parliament, concerns regarding the size of the Royal Navy’s future escort fleet arose.
Yet, an omission in this dialogue has brought forward more questions than answers.
Lord West of Spithead, representing Labour, sought clarity on the government’s assessment regarding the maintenance of a fleet with a minimum of 19 operational Destroyers and Frigates. He questioned, “…whether maintaining a fleet of a minimum of 19 operational Destroyers and Frigates is still realistic and sufficient; and, if not, what the new minimum will be.”
Baroness Goldie, the Minister of State for the Ministry of Defence, responded confidently, “The government is committed to modernising the Royal Navy’s escort fleet through the transition of the existing Type 23 frigate force to the Type 26 and Type 31 classes. This will bring the number of destroyers and frigates to 19.” She continued to emphasize the feasibility of this number for the Navy to meet its operational commitments.
However, what became notably absent in Baroness Goldie’s response was any mention of the planned Type 32 frigates, which had been previously highlighted by the Ministry of Defence.
Earlier this month, the Ministry confirmed the Type 32 frigates’ intended service entry in the 2030s. This announcement, combined with the recent exchange in Parliament, raises questions about the Type 32’s future role in the Royal Navy’s fleet.
James Cartlidge, the Minister of State for the Ministry of Defence, had previously stated: “The Type 32 programme has not yet reached the level of maturity to publish specific In-Service dates… On current plans the Type 32s are due to enter service in the 2030s.” Amidst speculations, the UK Government had stressed the Type 32 Frigate programme as a crucial part of the future fleet.
The Royal Navy’s ambition to incorporate the Type 32 and potentially boost the fleet number to 24 ships makes the omission in the recent commitment to a 19-ship goal both puzzling and concerning. (Source: News Now/UKDJ)
EUROPE
28 Sep 23. New US Senate foreign relations chair will look at Turkish F-16 deal. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s new chairman on Thursday said he would look at Turkey’s $20 billion Lockheed Martin (LMT.N) F-16 fighter jet deal and that more issues than Sweden’s ascension to NATO would affect the decision on lifting his predecessor’s longstanding hold.
“I need to talk to the administration on a lot of these issues, because it’s beyond just one issue involved, and I need to understand that,” Senator Ben Cardin, a Democrat, told reporters, one day after he took over leadership of the influential panel.
Cardin said he had discussed Sweden’s NATO accession with Turkish officials at a NATO ambassador’s meeting on Wednesday.
“They claim that will be done in the first part of next month,” he said. “If that is in fact true, then at least we have the NATO issue resolved, but there are other issues in addition to just NATO accession that need to be part of our discussions as we move forward.”
The previous chairman, Senator Bob Menendez, had blocked the sale for months, over Turkey’s objections to Sweden joining NATO but also over President Tayyip Erdogan’s human rights record and overflights of the airspace of neighboring Greece.
Senate rules forced Menendez to step down as leader of the committee after prosecutors announced he and his wife, Nadine Menendez, faced felony bribery charges.
Leaders of the U.S. Senate and House foreign affairs panels review every major foreign arms sale. They regularly ask questions or raise concerns over human rights or diplomatic issues that can delay or stop such deals.
Ankara has held out on the ratification of Sweden’s NATO membership for months, accusing Stockholm of doing too little against people Turkey sees as terrorists, mainly Kurdish members of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK).
Erdogan said in July he would forward the ratification to parliament when it reopens in October, frustrating some members of Congress who said he could have called it back into session to move Sweden’s NATO membership.
After Menendez’s indictment was unsealed, Erdogan said Turkey should turn the senator’s legal troubles into an opportunity to purchase the fighter jets. “Menendez being out of the picture is an advantage,” Erdogan was quoted as telling reporters by Turkish media.
Sweden and Finland applied last year to enter NATO after Russia invaded Ukraine. While Finnish membership was sealed in April, Sweden’s bid remains held up by Turkey and Hungary.
Turkey has said Ankara and Budapest are working in close coordination on the issue.
The top Republican on the Senate panel, Senator Jim Risch, has put a hold on arms sales to Hungary over the issue. (Source: Reuters)
26 Sep 23. Brazil to negotiate sale of Embraer C-390 aircraft to Sweden. Brazilian Defense Minister Jose Mucio said on Tuesday he will travel to Sweden next month to negotiate a potential sale of Embraer’s (EMBR3.SA) C-390 Millennium military cargo aircraft to the country.
Mucio told reporters in Rio de Janeiro that Brazil was eyeing the sale of three or four C-390 aircraft to Sweden, and that the Nordic nation wants to sell more Saab (SAABb.ST) Gripen fighter jets to Brazil.
The move comes after Austria this month selected Brazilian planemaker Embraer’s C-390 to replace its fleet of Lockheed Martin (LMT.N) Hercules C-130s.
Brazil, Portugal and Hungary have previously ordered C-390s, also known as the KC-390. The Netherlands has also announced it intends to buy the freighter.
In April, Embraer and Sweden’s Saab signed a memorandum of understanding to deepen their collaboration, including working to position the C-390 as “the preferred solution to meet the Swedish Air Force tactical air transport requirements.”
The companies have a joint production line for Gripen fighter jets in Brazil, where 15 of the South American country’s current 36-aircraft order will be produced. Expanding its presence abroad with more sales of the C-390 is a key goal of Embraer’s defense unit. (Source: Reuters)
26 Sep 23. US to Loan Poland $2bn to Help Finance Defense Modernization. New U.S.-Poland Foreign Military Financing Direct Loan Agreement Showcases Strong Security Partnership. Today, the United States is proud to announce the signing of a milestone $2bn Foreign Military Financing (FMF) direct loan agreement to support Poland’s defense modernization.
Poland is a stalwart U.S. Ally, and Poland’s security is vital to the collective defense of NATO’s Eastern Flank. In addition to its central support role in facilitating international assistance to neighboring Ukraine, Poland has demonstrated its ironclad commitment to strengthening regional security through its robust investments in defense spending. Poland continues to demonstrate leadership in NATO on meeting the 2014 Wales Summit Defense Investment Pledge.
Poland plans to significantly expand the Polish Armed Forces; has divested its legacy Russian origin military equipment in favor of an ambitious multi-year, multi-bn-dollar defense modernization program; has concluded an Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States; hosts Allied and U.S. forces, including the U.S.-led NATO Battlegroup and U.S. V Corps Headquarters (Forward); and actively participates in NATO missions across the region.
The U.S. government is providing up to $60m in FMF for the cost of this loan, which will help accelerate Poland’s defense modernization by supporting urgent procurements of defense articles and services from the United States.
FMF direct loans are a security cooperation tool reserved for some of our most important security cooperation partners. Loan proceeds will further advance Poland’s military modernization effort across a wide range of capabilities, substantially contributing to strengthening the defense and deterrence of NATO’s Eastern Flank. (Source: Defense-Aerospace.com/ US State Department)
26 Sep 23. Poland Signs Initial Offset Agreement for AH-64E Apache Helicopter Purchase. The First Offset Agreement for Apache Attack Helicopters. On September 25, the Polish Minister of National Defense, Mr. Mariusz Błaszczak, approved the offset agreement for the Apache attack helicopter, allowing maintenance and repair facilities for major elements of the Apache attack helicopter to be established in Poland.
The subject of the offset agreement is, among others: acquiring capabilities to support, repair and maintain key helicopter components used in combat and reconnaissance, including guidance and target designation systems. Thanks to this agreement, the Polish defense industry will also establish capabilities in diagnosing and verifying possible malfunctions and partial servicing of Longbow fire control radars.
These capabilities should ensure maintaining a high level of operational availability of Apache helicopters during their operation in the Polish Armed Forces.
The offset agreement covers a total of two liabilities with a total value of approximately PLN 300 m, which will be completed within 5 years. This is the first of several contracts that the State Treasury intends to conclude as part of the acquisition of AH-64E attack helicopters.
In September 2022, Poland submitted a Letter of Request to the United States of America regarding the acquisition of 96 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters in the latest Guardian version for the needs of the Army Aviation.
On August 21 of this year, the United States Department of State has agreed to sell 96 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters in the latest Guardian version to Poland.
The acquisition of new AH-64E Apache attack helicopters involves the use of offset mechanisms, thanks to which the production, service and maintenance capabilities of the Polish defense industry will be increased.
The most important industrial capabilities expected include the acquisition of service competences in the field of the AH-64E Apache platform itself, as well as the entire family of engines that will be used by several state-of-the-art platforms that have entered or will soon become part of the equipment of the Polish Armed Forces.
The detailed delivery schedule will be specified in the delivery agreement (LOA) and will depend on the production capabilities of American industrial entities. However, the Polish side, striving to achieve the required operational capabilities in the area of anti-tank warfare and air support provided by attack helicopters to the Land Forces units as quickly as possible, also initiated talks on the use of bridging solutions, which include the possibility of using helicopters belonging to the United States Army in the initial period.
The total cost of acquiring helicopters along with ammunition supplies and training and logistics packages, as well as the detailed scope of technologies acquired under offset mechanisms, will be specified in the contracts concluded with the American side.
The AH-64E Apache helicopters in the latest Guardian version are aircraft that not only fully meet the requirements of the Polish Armed Forces, but have also found recognition among a wide range of recipients outside the United States.
The users of AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters include Great Britain, South Korea and Taiwan, i.e. countries that take into account the need to obtain the highest possible level of interoperability with the United States Army, which is the largest user of these helicopters.
AH-64E Apaches are also used by India, Indonesia, Egypt, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, and recently they have also found acceptance in Australia, which has previously used Eurocopter Tiger helicopters. Qatar has also ordered the latest version of the helicopter, and older versions are also used by Greece, the Netherlands, Japan, Israel, Kuwait and Singapore.
AH-64E Apache helicopters are the only Western-made machines currently available equipped with the advanced AN/APG-78 Longbow fire control radar. It is also a structure with great modernization potential, which will remain the dominant platform in the armed forces with the highest potential for decades to come.
An example of the effective development of the helicopter is not only the increase in its functionality compared to the AH-64D Apache Longbow version, including the ability to control a swarm of drones by the crew and cooperation with larger unmanned aerial systems, but also by reducing operating costs by 25%.
AH-64E Apache helicopters also have a higher lifting capacity and integrated on-board weapons with greater destructive power (in the form of a single-barrel 30 mm cannon) than most competing solutions of this type. The helicopters will cooperate with the latest version of Abrams tanks and will be integrated into the entire combat system of the Polish Armed Forces. The helicopters also have a wide range of integrated weapons ensuring high capabilities in striking ground targets, including armored ones, but also the ability to combat air platforms, such as unmanned aerial systems. (Unofficial translation by Defense-Aerospace.com) (Source: Defense-Aerospace.com/ Polish Armament Agency)
26 Sep 23. Romania Plans to Buy 32 F-35 Aircraft in $6.5bn Deal: Ministry. Romania plans to buy 32 latest-generation F-35 fighter planes from U.S. manufacturer Lockheed Martin for $6.5bn, Reuters reported on Tuesday citing the country’s defense ministry.
The defense ministry today requested Parliament to approve the deal, which was approved by Romania’s supreme defence council (CSAT) in April, and authorize the purchasing process to begin this year.
The outline deal includes logistics and training services, flight simulators and ammunition along with the jets, as well as a option for Romania to buy another 16 similar aircraft later.
Final contracts are not likely to be signed before next year, Reuters reported, and Defence Minister Angel Tilvar said this year the first planes would not be delivered before 2030. (Source: Defense-Aerospace.com/)
22 Sep 23. Bundestag Approves €291m for Reconnaissance Drones, €198m for Eurofighter E-Scan Radar Reconnaissance Drone: Bundestag Approves 13 New LUNA Air-Based, Unmanned Close-In Reconnaissance Systems. At its meeting on September 20, the Budget Committee of the German Bundestag approved the fourth amendment contract for the procurement of twelve series systems HUSAR (Highly Efficient Unmanned System for Medium-Range Imaging Reconnaissance) and a 13th system for training. HUSAR is also referred to in the industry as LUNA (Airborne Unmanned Close Reconnaissance Equipment Next Generation/Bundeswehr).
The Budget Committee also approved an amendment agreement for the timely development of new Eurofighter radars.
The Bundeswehr will receive a total of 13 new HUSAR drone systems for medium-range imaging reconnaissance. They will replace the so-called small aircraft target location (KZO). Twelve series systems and a training system will be purchased and are scheduled to be delivered to the troops from 2025. The fourth amendment agreement specifies the measures that resulted from RTP taking over the procurement contract after the original system manufacturer went bankrupt.
The Budget Committee of the German Bundestag had to approve the amendment agreement, especially because it would result in additional costs compared to the old agreements. In principle, all procurements over 25m euros must be approved by the Budget Committee of the Bundestag. The total contract value is around 290.9m euros. Due to the payments that have already been made to the original contractor, around 238.6m euros of this still have to be financed through the defense budget.
Timely development of new Eurofighter radars
With the adjustment of a contract concluded in 2020 for the German-Spanish development of a new radar for the Eurofighter, the planned equipment of the entire fleet from 2028 is to be secured. All Air Force Eurofighters will be equipped with a modern E-Scan radar. This allows pilots to better discover and track air-to-air and air-to-ground targets. This should also be possible for several goals at the same time and independently of each other. The new electronic beam sweeping radar will also be harder to jam.
Newly ordered fighter jets will be delivered directly with the E-Scan radar, as 38 Eurofighters will arrive in the force from 2025. They replace the jets purchased between 2003 and 2008, whose overhaul can no longer be technically guaranteed. The remaining machines will have their radars retrofitted in the following years.
The 197.7 m euros required for the contract change will be financed from the regular defense budget. (Source: defense-aerospace.com/ German Ministry of Defense)(Unofficial translation by Defense-Aerospace.com)
USA
26 Sep 23. Griffon, Textron advance in Army’s Future Tactical UAS competition. The U.S. Army picked two companies out of a group of four to move on in the Army’s competition to procure a Future Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System, or FTUAS. Griffon Aerospace and Textron Systems were awarded a second agreement to provide prototypes to the Army following the first development phase which began in February, the service confirmed to Defense News.
At the start of the first phase, the Army had originally also included Northrop Grumman, Sierra Nevada Corp. and Aerovironment. It chose to eliminate Aerovironment, the supplier of an interim FTUAS product, in May.
The second agreement period, beginning Sept. 26, will cover the Army’s continued evaluation of the companies’ weapon system designs leading to a Critical Design Review, establishing a final design and initial product baseline.
In the first phase, the Army evaluated submissions against requirements including performance, cost, schedule, risk and whether it had a compliant Modular Open Systems Approach, or MOSA. The phase ended with a preliminary design review.
The Army has long been working to select a FTUAS, meant to replace its Shadow UAS fleet. In 2022, after a roughly four-year competition, the service awarded AeroVironment an $8m contract to provide its Jump 20 system as an interim FTUAS capability for a single brigade. AeroVironment purchased Jump 20′s developer Arcturus in 2021. An undisclosed number of Jump 20s have been provided through U.S. security assistance to Ukraine.
The service wants its FTUAS to be a vertical take-off and landing aircraft, so it can runway independent. Additionally, the Army wants the system to offer improved maneuverability and the capability to be controlled on the move. Other planned attributes include a reduced transportation and logistics footprint and a quieter system than is offered today to avoid enemy detection.
After completing the CDR, the remaining companies will participate in flight demonstrations and MOSA third-party verification as part of a third phase of competition, the Army said.
Then in later phases, those companies will deliver production representative FTUAS and support equipment for developmental testing and operational demonstrations involving soldiers directly. The systems will go through environmental, electromagnetic environmental effects, transportation and flight testing as well as MOSA and Technical Manual verification, according to the service.
The system the Army ultimately chooses is scheduled to enter full-rate production in the second quarter of FY26, according to plans laid out by the service earlier this year. (Source: Defense News)
22 Sep 23. The Pentagon’s costly fleet of F-35 fighter jets can only fly a little over half the time, as maintenance issues keep the aircraft on the ground despite the growing reliance on the planes by the US and its allies. The fleet’s mission-capable rate — or the percentage of time a plane can perform one of its assigned missions — was 55 per cent as of March 2023, far below the Pentagon’s goal of 85 per cent to 90 per cent, the Government Accountability Office said on Thursday. The report from the GAO, an independent congressional watchdog, was published just days after a Marine Corps F-35 crashed in South Carolina, prompting a search for the plane and raising questions over how it could have gone missing for a day before its debris was located. The F-35’s share of the US’s overall tactical aviation fleet is expected to keep growing, providing a boon to its manufacturer Lockheed Martin. Each of the fighter jets costs the government about $160mn. The US military has 450 F-35s — variants are used by the air force, navy and Marine Corps — and the Pentagon plans to buy roughly 2,000 more by the mid-2040s, costing $1.7tn over the programme’s life cycle, including $1.3tn for maintaining the aircraft. It is the world’s costliest defence procurement project, replacing the main fighter for those three branches of the US military, meaning they are “flying an increasing amount of operational missions”, according to the GAO report. US allies in Nato and Asia, as well as Israel, have also added F-35s to their air forces. The UK defence ministry is one of the largest customers for the aircraft. “Maintenance challenges negatively affect F-35 aircraft readiness”, with the poor level “due in part to challenges with depot and organisational maintenance”, the GAO said. The Pentagon is years behind in establishing enough maintenance depot capacity, resulting in repair delays and a 10 per cent reduction in the jet’s mission-capable rate. Part of the challenges stem from a heavy reliance on contractors for maintenance that limits the Pentagon’s ability to control depot maintenance decisions. Delays also arise from spare parts shortages, inadequate maintenance training, insufficient support equipment, and a lack of technical data needed to make repairs. The Pentagon will take over managing the F-35’s sustainment by October 2027, making this a critical time for it to reassess the jets’ underlying sustainment strategy, the GAO said. “We stand ready to partner with the government as plans are created for the future of F-35 sustainment ensuring mission readiness and enabling deterrence,” Lockheed said in a statement. (Source: FT.com)
REST OF THE WORLD
28 Sep 23. Brazil sets up fund for Army’s armored vehicle, missile capabilities. The Brazilian government has launched fund to dedicated to Army capabilities, including the acquisition and development of armored vehicles from the Italian manufacturer Iveco Defence, Astros missile system from Avibras and more.
The plan is part of the Growth Acceleration Program, or PAC, announced by the government in August. The effort is set to spend about 53bn reals (U.S. $11bn) on defense. Some of that money will go toward an armored forces strategic program, the Army told Defense News.
“This program has a profound impact not only on the modernization of military capabilities but also on the development of critical technologies,” the Army told Defense News in a Sept. 20 statement.
The focus on armored vehicles will see various types manufactured by the Iveco, which opened a local factory 10 years ago as part of its work with the Army, the service explained. Types include six-wheel drive Guarani armored vehicles, four-wheel drive multitask Guaicuru armored vehicles, eight-wheel drive Centauro combat vehicles, six-wheel drive Cascavel medium reconnaissance vehicles, and modernized Leopard 1 tanks made by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann.
The tank modernization effort was previously postponed “due to high demand for armored vehicle parts in the international market,” the military reported Sept. 17.
The Astros missile system is part of an overall effort to “contribute to the organization of missile and rocket artillery,” enabling long-range and high-precision strategic fire support, the Army said.
Earlier this year, Avibras unveiled new variants of the weapon: the Astros II MK6 and the Astros III. The former has a maximum range of 300 kilometers (186 miles). The latter, which has greater firepower, is designed to operate from an eight-wheel drive vehicle and can launch ballistic rockets, guided rockets, ballistic missiles and tactical cruise missiles, according to the company.
Another part of the investments is directed toward the Army’s aircraft and drones. The military reported aircraft acquisition efforts include “maneuver helicopters” used to transport troops and equipment. According to the armed forces, these helicopters would weigh more than 7.5 tons and could contribute to civilian missions, such as national emergencies.
According to the government, the PAC investment effort is funding the modernization of six HM-1A Pantera helicopters, manufactured by Brazilian firm Helibras, a subsidiary of the French company Airbus Helicopters. The company this year delivered the first modernized unit.
The plan also includes “the acquisition of ten general-purpose helicopters,” the military announced, without providing further details. However, the force has an aviation battalion composed of Helibras-made Caracal helicopters, which are known as HM-4 Jaguars within the Army. They were made under Brazil’s H-XBR project, which involves all three armed forces and continues to provide aircraft for the military.
Another part of the project involves the purchase of nine drones. According to the Army, which did not identify the manufacturers involved, these unmanned aircraft will belong to categories 0 through 2, which vary in terms of operating altitude and range. Category 0 corresponds to drones weighing up to 2 kilograms (4 pounds). Category 1 ranges from 2 kilograms to 150 kilograms, and the third category ranges from 150 kilograms to 600 kilograms. (Source: Defense News)
28 Sep 23. New Zealand requests proposals for Bushmaster digital and communications system. Bidders will provide New Zealand’s personnel with situational awareness and the ability to communicate in the field.
New Zealand’s (NZ) Ministry of Defence (MoD) has requested proposals for the design, construction and installation of communications and digital systems that will connect the force’s 43-strong Bushmaster infantry vehicle fleet.
“The new… systems will ensure NZ Army personnel can work anytime and anywhere, on domestic exercises as well as on multinational deployments with international partners,” stated Huntley Wright, Assistant Secretary for Capability Delivery at the MoD.
Currently, some NZ Bushmasters uses radios to communicate, these are in use at the Waiouru Military Camp for driver and commander training.
However, Wright specifies additional technologies within these advanced systems, including “real-time digital maps, secure radios and instant messaging.
“They will advance a soldier’s situational awareness, support their decision making, enable information collection and improve secure communication between people and other vehicles.”
The MoD is taking a phased approach to integrate the fleet by 2026.
Balancing cost and capability in NZ’s digital and communications system
GlobalData says that official documents have forecast budget estimates until 2025. An exponential decline can be observed in these estimates, with a negative compound annual growth rate of 4.8% in 2027.
After the Covid-19 pandemic, NZ’s budget fell from $4.3bn (NZ$7.2bn) in 2019 to $2.5bn in 2020, but GlobalData estimates that this will rebound to $3bn in 2027.
NZ’s defence budget reveals its task of balancing cost with capability – which includes being able to integrate with fleets in partner nations.
The country’s main focus is on patrolling its coastlines and keeping its sea lanes open. This has proven more difficult in its region, where China’s growing military posture threatens what many observers of the current geopolitical environment have dubbed a “free and open Indo-Pacific.”
In fact, NZ’s call for a new Bushmaster digital and communications system comes just after the MoD awarded the UK supplier, Systems Engineering and Assessments (SEA) company, a $32.9m contract to install a modern communications system onboard the South Pacific nation’s two Anzac class frigates.
The two vessels are currently undergoing the second of two phases to install SEA’s system, which will be operational in 2024.
Given that the British system is a modular one and reduces through-life costs – which is a big deal considering the country’s rebounding budget – SEA may be in the running to apply its expertise to NZ’s land vehicles too. (Source: army-technology.com)
27 Sep 23. Argentina enhances naval surveillance and Airforce capacity with new aircraft. Minister of Defense Jorge Taiana advances key acquisitions during official visits.
Argentina is gearing up to bolster its maritime and aerial capabilities with acquisitions and upgrades.
During his official visit to Italy, Minister of Defense Jorge Taiana made strides in enhancing the country’s military capabilities, signing an agreement for advanced helicopters and overseeing the delivery of transport aircraft for the Argentine Air Force.
Argentina’s Minister Taiana inked a letter of intent to acquire eight AW 109 helicopters at the Leonardo aerospace factory in Italy. These helicopters will play a role in strengthening the Argentine Navy’s surveillance and control efforts in the South Atlantic, particularly within the Exclusive Economic Zone.
The AW109 multipurpose helicopters are versatile and capable of fulfilling various roles, including surveillance, emergency medical services, and search and rescue missions. These helicopters are equipped with side winches for air evacuations, accommodating one pilot, one co-pilot, and six crew members. With a range of approximately 574km, they can operate for up to three hours.
Argentina has also signed a letter of intention to foster cooperation and acquire light and medium utility helicopters from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). In other Argentinian helicopter developments from this year, the acquisition of six Bell 407GXi helicopters was made in June to help perform critical search and rescue missions efficiently and effectively.
This acquisition is expected to expand Argentina’s control and surveillance capabilities in maritime spaces under national jurisdiction, particularly when incorporated into ocean patrol vessels.
Cooperation between Argentina and Italy in defence matters has a long history, dating back to 1992 when the Defense Cooperation Agreement was signed in Rome. This partnership focuses on cooperation in the production sector and acquiring defence equipment capabilities.
In a parallel development, Minister Taiana led the delivery of the B-200 “Hurón” aircraft in the Río Cuarto Material Area in the province of Córdoba. This addition is part of a broader initiative to restore the transport aircraft capabilities of the Argentine Armed Forces. The “Hurón” is the fifth to join the Argentine Air Force, with more planned for the future.
The B-200 “Hurón” aircraft is a training platform for new aviators and supports passenger and cargo transportation as the State requires. It has 850 horsepower engines, a maximum fuel capacity of 3,690 pounds, and a top operating speed of 245 knots. The aircraft can carry up to eight passengers.
During his visit to the Río Cuarto Material Area, Minister Taiana inspected various units and projects within the Air Force. These included the modernisation of weapons systems, inspections of aircraft, and the development of aeronautical components. The area’s maintenance shops ensure the Air Force’s capabilities remain at their peak.
As Argentina continues to invest in its defence capabilities, these acquisitions and upgrades are poised to strengthen its position in the South Atlantic and beyond, safeguarding its territorial integrity and enhancing its ability to respond to various challenges effectively. (Source: airforce-technology.com)
27 Sep 23. Indian Navy formally announces desire for third aircraft carrier. According to information published by the Times of India on September 27, 2023, the Indian Navy has formally proposed the construction of a second indigenous aircraft carrier to the government. This vessel, estimated to cost over Rs 40,000 crore, is set to be built at Cochin Shipyard (CSL).
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Aircraft carriers, being sophisticated naval assets, demand regular maintenance and refits, often rendering them non-operational for extended periods. Having only two carriers means that when one undergoes maintenance, the operational strain on the other increases, potentially diminishing its lifecycle and combat efficiency. A third carrier would effectively distribute this operational load, ensuring that the Navy always has substantial aerial and maritime coverage.
Moreover, with the growing significance of the Indo-Pacific region and increasing naval activities, the ability to project air power with multiple carriers allows for greater tactical flexibility. More carriers mean more aircraft, translating to a wider range of air missions, from combat sorties to reconnaissance.
A third carrier would also provide the Indian Navy with additional deck space, enhancing its capacity to accommodate future advancements in aviation technology and potentially more significant aircraft.
In terms of fleet operations, a third carrier offers a tactical advantage by enabling the Navy to engage in simultaneous multi-theatre operations. This not only extends its blue-water naval capabilities but also ensures quicker response times to emerging threats or challenges across its vast maritime domain.
Furthermore, aircraft carriers play a crucial role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations due to their ability to carry helicopters and necessary equipment. Having three carriers ensures that the Navy can maintain its defense commitments while also addressing regional humanitarian crises.
From an economic perspective, the maritime routes in the Indian Ocean are crucial global trade arteries. Their safety and security have broad economic implications.
A third aircraft carrier would amplify the Navy’s patrolling capacity, offering enhanced protection to commercial vessels, deterring piracy, and ensuring the unobstructed flow of trade. (Source: News Now/https://www.navyrecognition.com/)
26 Sep 23. Sunak urges Scholz to back £5bn sale of jets to Saudi Arabia. Britain needs Germany to sign off on BAE Systems Typhoons deal, but Berlin is said to be concerned about human rights issues. Rishi Sunak is pushing Berlin to approve the sale of Typhoon jets to Saudi Arabia ahead of a visit to Britain by Mohammed bin Salman.
The Prime Minister has personally urged Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, to give the green light to the defence deal, which is worth at least £5bn.
Typhoon jets are designed, manufactured and maintained by BAE Systems, which employs 5,000 people on the programme in Lancashire.
However, defence sources told The Telegraph it was possible Germany could “scupper” the inter-government deal agreed in March 2018 to sell 48 of the multi-role jets to the Middle Eastern country, which accounts for 12pc of BAE revenues.
The Eurofighter Typhoon was developed by a consortium of British, German, Italian and Spanish companies under Nato’s watch in the 1980s. As a result, the consent of all four nations involved is required to export the planes.
Germany imposed a ban on exporting weapons to the Middle Eastern country after Saudi agents killed Jamal Khashoggi, a journalist and critic of Crown Prince Mohammed.
Mr Sunak has become heavily involved in talks over how to rescue the agreement, which is threatened by splits within the German coalition.
The Crown Prince is expected to visit the UK this autumn after he and the Prime Minister pledged to boost Anglo-Saudi defence ties.
Mr Scholz, from the Social Democrat party, is said to be in favour of approving the supersonic fighter jets deal and is sympathetic to Britain’s economic arguments.
However some senior members of the Greens, with whom his party are in a coalition, oppose it because of Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.
Downing Street is said to have explored launching legal action to bypass Berlin, according to initial reports by the Times, but such a move would sour relations with a key European ally.
As well as securing jobs at BAE, other major defence companies with UK operations are set to benefit from an agreement with the Saudis.
Rolls-Royce is part of the consortium that builds the EJ200 engines that power the Typhoon, while Leonardo, the Italian defence group, builds the jet’s advanced radar at its Edinburgh base, along with avionics systems at its Luton plant.
In 2007 BAE sold 72 Typhoons to the Saudi air force. A defence source told The Telegraph: “We have been trying to sell them more. If any of the nations that designed and produced that aircraft aren’t prepared to sell to Saudi that will scupper any deal.”
The source stressed that it was for the Government, and not the military, to engage with Germany over the potential sale. (Source: Daily Telegraph)
25 Sep 23. Babcock Canada and Hanwha Ocean join forces for submarine sustainment. The marine organisations will collaborate to enhance submarine support of Canada’s national defence assets.
Babcock Canada, a player in submarine support, and Hanwha Ocean, a provider of submarine maintenance and construction services, are teaming up for a series of international submarine in-service support symposiums. These collaborative efforts are to share best practices in submarine sustainment, ultimately bolstering the support of assets vital to Canada’s national defence.
Strengthening submarine sustainment
Babcock Canada, a Canadian submarine sustainment provider and a key member of Team Victoria-Class, has been entrusted with providing in-service support to the Royal Canadian Navy’s Victoria Class submarines since 2008.
Hanwha Ocean, formerly DSME, is a South Korean submarine industry player offering third-line maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for the Republic of Korea’s diesel-electric submarines. Their experience spans multiple third-line dockings at the Geoje Shipyard’s Naval Ship Area.
An international exchange of knowledge
The inaugural symposium, held in early September 2023, brought together a team of Babcock submarine sustainment specialists led by Keith Cunnane, VP of marine and mission systems. The gathering provided a platform for these marine organisations to exchange experiences and best practices in submarine sustainment.
“At Babcock, we are committed to delivering the best possible support to our customers. This commitment includes drawing upon international expertise and experience to improve the through-life support of critical assets that are vital to Canada’s sovereignty and national defence, noted Keith Cunnane, Babcock’s VP of marine and mission systems.
He continued, “The bilateral submarine sustainment symposiums we are conducting with Hanwha Ocean will promote the sharing of sustainment best practices between both organisations and further reinforce our commitment to supporting the Royal Canadian Navy’s current and future submarine programs.”
According to GlobalData’s “The Global Submarine Market 2023-2033” report, Canada currently has no ongoing submarine procurement programme but is likely to initiate the replacement of its Victoria-class submarines over the forecast period. The replacement is also expected to be a Diesel AIP Submarine (SSP).
Sungkyun Jeong, Hanwha Ocean’s SEVP of naval ship international business, expressed their dedication to the collaboration, stating, “Hanwha Ocean, as the absolute leading company in the South Korean submarine industry, will share with Babcock our experience, knowledge, infrastructure, and ecosystem in the submarine industry, not only in MRO but also in new building.
Building on a solid partnership
The symposiums build upon the long-standing relationship between Babcock and Hanwha Ocean, with both organisations recently signing a technical cooperation agreement.
Babcock has signed previous Canadian submarine programme agreements with South Korean industry. In June this year, Babcock Canada signed two technical cooperation agreements with South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries to collaborate on the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project.
The agreement follows an MoU signed between Babcock and Hanwha Ocean in 2022 to collaborate on systems integration programmes for future vessels.
Additional engagements to share best practices for submarine sustainment are on the horizon for the coming months. This collaborative effort strengthens submarine support capabilities and shows the value of international cooperation in maintaining and enhancing naval assets critical to national defence.
(Source: naval-technology.com)
22 Sep 23. Airservices Australia publishes tender for drone surveillance network covering 29 airports. Airservices Australia has published a request for information tender to industry for the supply of an uncrewed aircraft surveillance system covering 29 airports in Australia where the organisation provides services.
According to the text of the tender:
“This Request for Information (RFI) has been prepared and released by Airservices Australia (Airservices) for information gathering of market capabilities and insight for a subsequent procurement process. Work is currently underway at Airservices to prepare our skies for the safe integration of uncrewed aircraft. We are enhancing our existing drone surveillance capability to keep pace with technology to ensure we have a clear picture of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) operating around our airports and to safely manage airspace, through the delivery of an Airspace Surveillance Solution at our 29 controlled airports. The new system is targeted for operationalisation by the end of 2025.”
The latest Australian Aviation Network Overview reports a recent spike in activity of small drone operations in around the country’s major airports.
“There has been a net increase in drone detections within the No Fly Zones of major airports,” according to the overview. “The increase in micro drones may suggest that smaller drone technology is gaining market momentum, as their features and capability catch up to those found in larger products and their barriers to operate across metropolitan locations are lower. Government and industry cooperation is progressing trials and enhancing surveillance capability to ensure the safe integration of drone activities and protect the overall aviation network.”
Breakdown of drones detected within No-Fly Zones* at major Australian airports by size(July-August 2023)
Tender information
ATM ID:
ASAMASSRFI2023
Agency:
Airservices Australia
Category:
46171600 – Surveillance and detection equipment
Close Date & Time:
31-Oct-2023 5:00 pm (ACT Local Time)
Show close time for other time zones
Publish Date:
19-Sep-2023
Location:
ACT, NSW, VIC, SA, WA, QLD, NT, TAS
Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane, Darwin, Hobart
ATM Type:
Request for Information
https://www.tenders.gov.au/Atm/Show/d1d6eb27-e18e-445d-b5f6-f8ffbe8c559e
https://www.airservicesaustralia.com/wp-content/uploads/Aviation-Network-Overview-Report-July-August-2023.pdf (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
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