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UNITED KINGDOM AND NATO
26 Oct 23. DASA-funded innovators take centre stage at DSEI.
Small companies, big stage: DASA’s commitment to support SMEs shines through at the world’s biggest defence expo. On a mission to find and fund innovation for a safer future, DASA works on behalf of Government defence and security organisations to strengthen links with innovators across the UK and overseas. Since 2016, we have funded over 1300 projects, investing £246m in innovation. 56% of that funding has been awarded to SMEs, to help them develop good ideas and get them closer to the hands of end users.
In addition to funding innovative ideas, DASA uses platforms such as DSEI to showcase cutting-edge projects to a global audience, including Governments, national armed forces and industry leaders. In 2021, SMEs Flare Bright and SimCentric joined us on our stand, gaining lot of interest from event attendees, including the previous Secretary of State for Defence. Since then, both companies have made significant strides and were present again at DSEI 2023 to exhibit their progress.
Flare Bright
DASA provided initial funding for Flare Bright’s autonomous nanodrone that captures aerial intelligence in the field. Afterward, Flare Bright shifted its focus to software development and has since established a thriving defence business.
SimCentric
DASA funding has helped SimCentric develop a virtual reality based-training system for military personnel. The innovation has since been licenced by the Australian Army.
2023 Highlights
This year, we welcomed IF Defence and VRAI to join us alongside Dstl and Ploughshare in the MOD Innovation Hub.
IF Defence
If Defence (formerly Novus) has demonstrated their high speed, low energy, mobile and vehicle-mounted water purifier capable of producing safe, medical grade drinking water. Learn more.
VRAI
VRAI’s data capture technology, funded through the DASA Open Call, has the ability to codify and predict airmanship performance. This technology can be used to accelerate training time for RAF recruits. Learn more.
We were also delighted to see many other DASA-funded organisations demonstrating their products at DSEI this year, including:
- Quickblock: DASA funding has helped QUICKBLOCK develop a lightweight, portable structure assembly system, comprised of flat-pack building blocks that can withstand ballistics and blast fragmentation.
- Cervus: DASA funding has helped Cervus develop XCALIBR, a marksmanship analytics and feedback tool to improve individual and collective training.
- Sentinel Photonics: DASA funding has helped Sentinel Photonics develop a cost effective novel camera based laser range finder and laser target designator detector. They have recently announced a new partnership with Edgar Brothers.
- Filtronic Broadband: Through the DTEP Programme, Filtronic Broadband is collaborating with a major aerospace company to manufacture and test plastic encapsulated Transmit Receive Modules (TRMs) for electronically scanned radar systems.
- Sheffield University: Funded through the Telexistence Themed Competition, The University of Sheffield’s MediTel (Medical Telexistence Platform) aims to deliver next generation medical telexistence technologies that integrate telepresence, robotics, and haptic technologies on one platform.
- Kinsetsu: Kinsetsu’s DASA funded personnel and accounting technology has been procured by the Royal Navy to improve personnel safety and security on both Queen Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carriers.
DASA is devoted to strengthening the UK’s defence and security supply chain by providing support to innovative SMEs. Diversity of thought is essential to identify and fund the most innovative Defence and Security projects, and DASA is committed to collaborating with all types of organisations . Our team looks forward to working with more SMEs and we encourage suppliers of all types to get in touch. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
EUROPE
26 Oct 23. Sweden will upgrade its helicopter fleet. Sweden is implementing new technologies on its armed forces fleets. The aim is to increase the operational defense capabilities of missions in the Baltic Sea, particularly in the area of anti-submarine warfare. In detail, Stockholm announced that it has successfully tested military helicopters capable of detecting submarines at night or in adverse weather conditions.
We are talking about European-made NHIndustries NH-90 helicopters. The Swedish Air Force fleet (Svenska flygvapnet), composed of approximately 45 rotary-wing aircraft, has nine of these NH-90 aircraft in ASW (Anti-Submarine Warfare) configuration in service. This is a version designed to operate on ships, with helicopters equipped with radar, sonar and sound buoys for detecting submarines, as well as torpedoes and anti-ship missiles.
The exercises were carried out during the month of October in the Stockholm archipelago and the island of Gotska, in the Baltic Sea. The use of these new technologies is functional to the defense of the north-eastern border of Europe by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), which aims to limit a possible Russian threat, after Moscow began massive investments in its submarine military capabilities. (Source: News Now/https://www.avionews.com/)
25 Oct 23. Contract Launches European Patrol Corvette Program. Signature of Modular and Multirole Patrol Corvette Contract. On 24 October 2023, with a ceremony held at OCCAR premises in Rome, OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation) signed with a consortium coordinated by Naviris and comprising Fincantieri (Italy), Naval Group (France), Navantia (Spain) and other participants from Greece, Denmark and Norway (*) all the Modular and Multirole Patrol Corvette (MMPC) contractual documents for the implementation of the first phase of the European Patrol Corvette (EPC) project.
The overall value of this first phase is 87 M€ and is strongly supported by the European Commission (EC) through the European Defence Fund (EDF). Indeed, 60 M€ will be funded by the EC in the form of “grants” while the remaining 27 M€ will be funded by the Member States (Italy, France, Spain, Denmark, Greece and Norway)
who decided to support the project. OCCAR will manage the full scope of the project, acting as Granting Authority, on mandate of the EC, and Contracting Authority, on mandate of the above-mentioned Member States.
On the same day, the Delegates of the companies signed a consortium agreement, whose objective is to rule the execution of the project, maximizing synergies and collaboration among European shipbuilding industries.
With a duration of 24 months, this MMPC first contract aims to provide the initial design of a next generation class of naval vessel, the European Patrol Corvette (EPC), launched in the context of a PESCO project (1).
The EPC will include at first two main versions: the Long-Range Multipurpose and the Full Combat Multipurpose, both maximizing innovations, synergies and cross-fertilization among three main European shipbuilding architects and manufacturers Naval Group, Fincantieri, Navantia, linked with the operational needs of the different Navies.
The EPC programme represents a step forward in the European defence cooperation. It will strongly contribute to the European sovereignty in the second line vessels domain, by strengthening the European industry, increasing efficiency and lowering delays to go from the military need to the delivery to Navies. By developing together a new and disruptive class of corvettes, the four companies aim to ensure and foster a European sovereignty based on European “in-house” skills and know-how.
This contract signature highlights the capabilities of the nations, through the management by OCCAR, to work efficiently together and to pool the know-how of their prominent naval industries, for supporting the European navies. It also shows how important and effective can be the EDF, to support the European Member States in the development of defence capabilities made in Europe.
Based on innovative and disruptive technologies, the new class will illustrate a group of smart, innovative, affordable, sustainable, interoperable and flexible vessels designed to meet a wide range of missions in a continuously evolving context. Depending on the requirements specified by each Navy, the ships will be able to carry out a wide range of missions in operational contexts as diverse as surveillance on the high seas with a high degree of autonomy, or law enforcement and sovereignty affirmation missions closer to the coast, adapted to the different Navies needs.
(1) The European Patrol Corvette (EPC) is a program of future innovative naval vessels which is developed in a collaborative way by several Navies and members of the European Union, under the banner of the PESCO* project (PESCO approval in 2019). Five Navies have officially joined the project (Italy, France, Spain Greece and Norway while Romania, Ireland and Portugal are observers) to define jointly the requirements for a 2nd rank surface combatant of about 110 meters long and 3000 tons able to replace in the near future several series of ships.
The EPC project is strongly supported by European Commission and participating Member States. The European Commission opened a call named MMPC – Modular and Multirole Patrol Corvette – for which Naviris coordinated the elaboration of a proposal by pooling together the expertise of a European consortium (40 companies in 12 countries) which was submitted in December 2021. This proposal was selected in July 2022 with a grant of EDF and national co-funding of the Member States for a two-year initial phase of design, the development of technological bricks and the definition of common working methodologies, rules and standards.
With its ambition of excellence, the programme intends to grow with the expertise of various specialized European companies, in line with the European Commission strategy and national participating Member States defence strategies and Navies needs. (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ Naviris Consortium)
24 Oct 23. Indra Launches “The FCAS Challenge” to Involve Spanish Startups and SMEs in the Development of Disruptive Technologies within the Framework of the Future European Air Combat System. In its aim to drive and boost the innovative capacity of the entire Spanish industrial ecosystem to the full, Indra has launched ‘The FCAS Challenge’, a call for Spanish technological startups and SMEs to contribute to the challenge of developing emerging and disruptive technologies within the framework of the FCAS, the program developing the future European air combat system for which Indra is the national industrial coordinator.
The purpose of The FCAS Challenge is to attract small and medium-sized enterprises with cutting-edge technologies and highly innovative projects in order to collaborate in the development, promotion and maturation of their technological proposals, based on the following topics:
- Mission Sensors. Technology for the sensorization of the future combat air systems (radar, electronic warfare, electro-optics, digital and software-defined sensors, etc.)
- Signal Intelligence. Signal processing to convert information into knowledge (RF signals, optical signals, images, sensor fusion, etc.)
- Smart Communications. Smart and secure communication systems for the new generation of airborne platforms
- Combat Cloud. Distributed services for combat air systems with a collaborative approach
Artificial iIntelligence, data management in distributed clouds, technologies for low-observability sensors, simulation and representation of information, optical technologies, radio frequency (RF) and microwaves are just some of the most attractive technologies for the initiative.
“Indra, as the program’s national coordinator, is taking on the challenge of structuring a new collaboration model and creating a highly innovative national defence ecosystem, one that also attracts small and medium-sized enterprises, universities, spin-offs and research organizations, bodies that have not always been part of the industry. Our goal is to maximize innovation and the development of currently unimaginable disruptive technologies which, in many cases, will have a dual military and civilian application”, emphasized Daniel de Lorenzo, Business Director of Indra’s FCAS program.
The FCAS program is the largest collaborative defence program in Europe and involves Germany, France and Spain. It’s a system of systems consisting of a new-generation fighter teamed up with a series of remote operators, all of them connected and working as a single entity thanks to the combat cloud, which interconnects the ensemble and other air, ground, naval and satellite platforms in real time. The result will be a paradigm shift in the sector with a major technological and industrial impact.
The FCAS Challenge intends to hold an event in January, during which a jury of experts will announce the selected proposals that will be able to undertake collaboration with Indra within the framework of the program.
Indra is one of the leading global technology and consulting companies and the technological partner for core business operations of its customers worldwide. In the 2022 fiscal year, Indra achieved revenue totaling €3.851 bn, with almost 57,000 employees, a local presence in 46 countries and business operations in over 140 countries. (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/Indra)
23 Oct 23. France to boost Armenia’s air defences with radars, missiles – minister. France is helping Armenia to improve its air defence capacity with the sale of three radars and an agreement on the future delivery of Mistral anti-air missiles, Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said on Monday. The move comes weeks after Armenia’s arch regional foe Azerbaijan retook the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh in a lightning offensive, prompting the exodus of most of the territory’s 120,000 ethnic Armenian residents.
Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev said this month that France’s decision to send military aid to Armenia could trigger a new conflict in the South Caucasus.
“The protection of the sky is something that’s absolutely key,” Lecornu said during a joint news conference with Armenia’s Defence Minister Suren Papikyan in Paris.
The two ministers signed off on the sale of three Thales-made GM 200 radars, which France has also provided to Ukraine, and signed a memorandum of understanding on the future delivery of France’s Mistral short-range air defence system.
France will also help Armenia train ground defence forces and support the country’s efforts to reform and modernise its military, Lecornu said.
It was Papikyan’s second visit to France since Azerbaijani forces on Sept. 20 captured Nagorno-Karabakh, which is internationally viewed as part of Azerbaijan but had been run by ethnic Armenians since the collapse of the Soviet Union.
France hosts one of the world’s largest Armenian diasporas and seeks to present itself as an ally and diplomatic backer, especially as Yerevan’s relations with its traditional ally Russia have soured in recent months.
“We stand by our defence relationship (with Armenia), even though we’re not part of the same military and political alliances. It is based on the simple principle that you need to be able to defend yourself,” Lecornu said.
Papkiyan’s visit to Paris coincided with talks in Tehran between the foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan, aimed at making progress towards a peace agreement between them. The foreign ministers of Iran, Russia and Baku’s ally Turkey also attended the talks. (Source: Reuters)
23 Oct 23. Commission Supports the Ramp-Up of European Ammunition and Missiles Production with First Calls for Proposals. Today, the Commission intensifies its support to the European defence industry with the adoption of the Work Programme foreseen in the Regulation on supporting Ammunition Production (ASAP) for 2023-2025.
ASAP will allocate €500 m to the support of investment projects worth up to €1.4 bn, thereby incentivising the ramp-up of ammunition and missiles production in the European Union.
For the first time ever, the Commission is publishing calls for proposals to select and fund projects improving European production capacities of defence products and supporting the resilience of the related supply chains.
ASAP will address bottlenecks throughout the supply chains of ammunition and missiles in the EU and Norway, by supporting industry to rapidly adjust to new market trends and reduce dependencies.
Incentivising investments to address supply chains needs
The ASAP Work Programme targets key bottlenecks identified in the ammunition supply chains: explosives, propelling powder, and shells, and supports the missiles production ramp-up. It also addresses the obsolescence, testing, or reconditioning certification of relevant defence products.
Accordingly, the ASAP Work Programme is structured along 5 calls for proposals with the following indicatives budgets:
— Explosives, with a budget of €190m;
— Powder, with a budget of €144m;
— Shells, with a budget of €90m;
— Missiles with a budget of €40m;
— Testing and Reconditioning certification, with a budget of €4.35m.
The ASAP Work Programme will support projects aimed at improving the production capacities under different calls, through the implementation of various types of actions. For instance, ASAP will support extension or modernisation of existing lines, creation of new lines, plans to repurpose old ammunition, securing value chains, and addressing skills gaps.
Different topics under specific calls, such as on Explosives and Powder, will address different but complementary needs of the European ammunition supply chain. The objective is twofold: on the one hand incentivising investment in rapid adjustments, in order to increase the responsiveness of the supply chains, and on the other increasing the resilience and robustness of the supply chains, notably through cross-border cooperation.
To encourage quick and decisive investments in response to the Russian aggression of Ukraine, ASAP foresees a retroactive clause. The ASAP Work Programme therefore allows co-financing of industrial production ramp-up projects that started after 20 March 2023 (i.e. date of the Council agreement on the so-called ‘three-track approach’).
The ASAP Work Programme also foresees the creation of a ‘Ramp-Up Fund’, to facilitate the access to finance of defence manufacturers in the fields of ammunition and missiles, with a budget of €30 m. Its implementation will make it easier for companies across these value chain to access both public and private financing and speed up investments needed to increase manufacturing capacities.
The calls are available from today, with a deadline for submission on 13 December 2023 17:00 CET, at the following links:
— Explosives: ASAP-2023-LS-XPL
— Powder: ASAP-2023-LS-POW
— Shells: ASAP-2023-LS-SHL
— Missiles: ASAP-2023-LS-MIS
— Testing & Reconditioning certification: ASAP-2023-LS-TRC
Background
ASAP is a direct response to the Council’s call to urgently deliver ammunition, and missiles if requested, to Ukraine and to help Member States refill their stocks by introducing targeted measures.
Aimed at enabling ramp-up of ammunition production capacity across Europe, ASAP constitutes the track 3 (industrial part) of the so-called three-track approach of the ammunition plan agreed by the Council.
The three tracks are closely interlinked. In order for Member States to be able to use their ammunition in stock to support Ukraine (track 1) and subsequently replenish them with new orders (track 2), there needs to be enough confidence that the EU artillery ammunition and missiles producers can timely match the demand (track 3).
The structure of the ASAP Work Programme has been informed by the results of a mapping exercise of the European industrial production of artillery ammunition. Information was gathered through:
— Research and analysis within the Defence Joint Procurement Task Force;
— Information collected during Commissioner Breton’s visits to key manufacturers in EU Member States;
— Bilateral exchanges with industrial stakeholders.
In response to the Council’s call, the Commission proposed ASAP to European Parliament and the Council on 3 May 2023. The legislators adopted the Regulation in a record time on 20 July 2023. To keep the momentum and urgently deliver the expected impacts, the Commission set an ambitious timeline also for the adoption of the ASAP work programme and could meet it thanks to Member States support.
“The very swift adoption of the Work Programme on the Act in Support of Ammunition Production demonstrates the EU ability to act fast and united. This reaffirms the EU commitment to deliver on its promise to support Ukraine and its people, as well as protect our citizens. Through this Work Programme we will ramp up European ammunition production, contributing to matching Ukraine’s immediate needs as well as improving the European defence readiness.,” said Vice-President Věra Jourová.
“In the new geopolitical realities, Europe must enhance its defence readiness. With ASAP, we support European defence industry to produce more and faster the ammunition we need for Ukraine and for Member States’ security. I call on the European industries to answer the calls we are launching today to support industrial projects and ramping up efforts,” said Thierry Breton, Commissioner for Internal Market. (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/EU)
23 Oct 23. Spanish Defense Ministry Details Modernization Programs. The Council of Ministers on September 12 agreed to modify the spending ceiling for different modernization programs of the Armed Forces that will be carried out between 2023 and 2035 for a value of 6,270m euros.
The largest allocation goes to the Halcón program, whose total budget is 4,593.6m euros, and which involves the acquisition of 25 Eurofighter combat aircraft to begin the replacement of the F-18s of Ala 12 and Ala 15 at the end of this decade.
The Government has also authorized the Ministry of Defense to acquire spending commitments for the second phase of the Spike missile, the Silam mobile rocket launcher and the upgrade of the Nasams batteries, whose combined cost amounts to 1,675.4m euros.
The approval of these new investments guarantees the financial viability and the schedule for the payment of the annuities.
The Ministry of Defense will still have to submit the contracts to the approval of the Council of Ministers. For example, the same meeting of the Cabinet gave final authorization to award the contract for the acquisition of 16 C-295W maritime patrol and surveillance aircraft at a cost of 2,034m euros.
In addition, Defense was given the green light to make other purchases of material for more than 400 m. This includes the acquisition of two logistics vessels (one for the Army and one for the Navy), the purchase of laser designator pods for systems of air combat, of all-terrain trucks, of fuzes for 155mm ammunition, of maintenance of Leopard tanks and spare parts for the F-5 fighters used for advanced pilot training.
Subsequently, in the Council of Ministers on Sept. 25, the purchase of 522 Mistral III missiles and associated equipment for 324.6 m was also authorized.
Halcon program
The Halcón II project, with a budget of 4,000m, includes 25 new Eurofighters, with engines and mission support systems, to begin the process of replacing the veteran F-18s at the Torrejón and Zaragoza bases, whose operational life ends. towards the end of the decade.
Added to this is an initial logistics package and ML2 maintenance level and two high-fidelity simulation systems along with their infrastructure.
On the other hand, the Halcón I program is expanded with 593 m to cover the needs of the first phase, signed in June 2022, in which 20 aircraft of the same model have already been purchased for Wing 46, in the Canary Islands.
An additional 1.4m euros will also be used to modernize some capabilities of the Eurofighters currently in service.
NASAMS anti-air system
The objective is to update to version 2+ of this medium-low level anti-aircraft system in service for 20 years in the Army and of which batteries are currently deployed in Estonia and Latvia.
In addition, the Air and Space Force will be provided with a battery to relieve the short-range Spada 2000 system, which is assigned to the Air Deployment Support Squadron (EADA).
The NASAMS system was acquired in 2003. After ten years in service, problems began to be detected in certain components and difficulties in acquiring them. Additionally, Spain is the only country in the Nasams community that has not yet modernized its batteries.
The total budget of the program is 673.4m euros, broken down between 2023 and 2027.
SILAM rocket launcher
The program will provide Artillery units with a mobile rocket launcher system capable of providing fire support with great precision and at a distance greater than that allowed by cannon systems, a capacity offered by the Teruel rocket launchers, which have been out of service for more than a year. decade.
The objective is for production to be national. Expal and Escribano have presented a proposal to develop a new multiple launcher in our country based on the Puls, from the Israeli Elbit Systems. The total budget of the program is 714.5m euros broken down over five years, between 2023 and 2027.
Spike LR2 missile
With a budget of 287.5m, the Spike II 2nd phase program contemplates the acquisition of 1,680 missiles and 168 firing points of the most advanced version of this system — Spike LR2 — to modernize the anti-tank defense of the Army and the Marine Infantry.
The objective is, says the Executive, to produce this missile in Spain, enhancing “the Strategic Industrial Capabilities of Defense involved through a technology transfer plan.”
The group of companies that will be in charge of its production is made up of Pap Tecnos, Escribano, Expal, FMG and Tecnobit, to which is added the Israeli Rafael. (Unofficial translation by Defense-Aerospace.com) (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ Spanish Ministry of Defense; issued Oct. 20, 2023)
20 Oct 23. Slovak Defence Firms Can Now Apply for EU Ammunition and Missile Production Ramp-Up Funding. The European Commission (EC) has today published calls for proposals to award grants for projects under the Act in Support of Ammunition Production (ASAP). Thanks to this instrument, defence manufacturers in the EU and Norway will be able to get funding as the EU incentivises the ramp-up of the European defence industry’s artillery ammunition and missile production. Towards this end, ASAP has allocated €470m for projects by European defence manufacturers.
In a statement, Defence Minister Martin Sklenár said: “This initiative is the third pillar of our joint efforts on the basis of which our European partners and we want to quickly deliver one m pieces of ammunition to Ukraine. With the allocated funds, the Union will specifically support the production of artillery ammunition, missiles and their components. Companies from all EU member countries – including those from Slovakia – will be given the chance to receive funds. I am convinced that our domestic defence industry has not only the professional but also production potential for this.”
According to Mr Sklenár, Slovak arms manufactures have the opportunity to receive significant support from the EU to ramp up their manufacturing capacity, both for the replenishment of domestic stocks and for the needs of Ukraine. These investments will be made to match increased demand for defence industry products in the years ahead. If SVK defence firms are selected under ASAP, this will lead to Slovakia’s economic growth and employment opportunities.
Defence companies will now have from 18 October 2023 to 13 December 2023 to answer the calls for proposals. The projects and beneficiaries of the funds will be selected by the end of February and the grant agreements are expected to be signed in April 2024. (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/Slovak Republic Ministry of Defence;)
20 Oct 23. Aero Vodochody Expands Role in Embraer KC-390 Transport Aircraft. Aero is Embraer’s Main Partner in Czech Republic on the C-390 Aircraft for the Czech Air Force. Aero and Embraer have signed an addendum to deepen and refine the areas of cooperation based on the Memorandum of Understanding concluded in June 2022. The addendum includes, among other things, a potential increase in Aero’s production share in the C-390 programme, increasing the value of the existing cooperation with Embraer and cooperation in fulfilling specific requirements of the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic for the procurement of C-390 aircraft for the Czech Army.
Embraer forecasts strong worldwide demand for the C-390 aircraft, which will have a significant number of parts being produced by the Czech aerospace industry.
The Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic has announced the selection of the C-390 for the Medium Transport Aircraft programme and the start of contract negotiations with Embraer. The industrial cooperation with Czech industry is a very important part in implementation of this upcoming project.
Aero has been cooperating with the Brazilian renowned manufacturer Embraer since 2011. It produces significant parts of the C-390 aircraft, including the complete wing leading edge, doors, cargo ramp and the second part of the C-390 rear fuselage. The Czech aerospace industry is a strong beneficiary of the commercial success of this aircraft, which has been selected by Portugal, Hungary, Netherlands, Austria and now the Czech Republic, in addition to Brazil. Any C-390 sold worldwide will increase the Czech industry exports and potentially create new jobs in Czech Republic.
“We developed and certified the C-390 transport aircraft parts at Aero. We are pleased that Embraer is deepening its cooperation with us today and we will continue to be one of its most important suppliers. Moreover, the value of this cooperation will most likely significantly exceed the total value of the C-390 contract for our military, which is good news not only for Aero, but also for the entire aerospace industry in the Czech Republic,” said Viktor Sotona, CEO and President of Aero, after signing the amendment.
“We are very pleased about extending our cooperation with Aero since they have been a key partner in the overall development and current production of the C-390 aircraft, as well as a major industrial partner in the Czech Republic and the entire Central European region. We believe that this partnership will add even more value to the Czech aeronautical industry,” said Bosco da Costa Junior, CEO and President of Embraer Defense & Security.
The C-390 Millennium and its mid-air refueling configuration, the KC-390, represent a new generation of multi-purpose military transport aircraft that already offer unmatched mobility and cargo capacity, rapid reconfiguration, high availability, enhanced comfort and flight safety, as well as low lifetime operating costs – all within a single platform. The aircraft can carry 26 tonnes of cargo (up to 7 standardised military pallets), placing it in the medium category. It is powered by two IAE V2500 jet engines. The aircraft can also be equipped with a firefighting module, which can significantly contribute to firefighting not only in the Czech Republic, but in the entire Central European region.
Embraer is a global aerospace company based in Brazil. It operates in commercial and private aviation, defence, security and agricultural aviation. The company designs, develops, manufactures and markets aircraft and systems. It provides after-sales services and service support to customers. Since its founding in 1969, Embraer has delivered more than 8,000 aircraft.
AERO Vodochody Aerospace focuses on the development, production, maintenance and improvement of civil and military aircraft and is the largest aircraft manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aircraft manufacturers in the world. With 11,000 aircraft produced in its 100 years of existence, hundreds of L-39 Albatros aircraft still in service with dozens of military operators and a number of demo teams, and especially with its new L-39NG aircraft, AERO has established itself as a leader in the global jet trainer market. (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ AERO Vodochody Aerospace)
20 Oct 23. Arrow Weapon System: Budget Committee Approves Procurement. The Budget Committee of the Bundestag has approved the purchase of the Arrow weapon system with Arrow 3 guided missiles. The committee also approved the procurement of new radio equipment, underwater reconnaissance drones and anti-tank mines. The committee must separately approve all procurement projects that exceed a financing volume of 25 m euros.
The Bundeswehr will purchase the Arrow weapon system from the Israeli government. The investment of around four bn euros will be financed from the special fund. In addition to the delivery of the weapon system and the Arrow 3 guided missile, the contract with the Israeli government also includes the first spare parts packages and training for the operating personnel. There are also further support services and construction measures in Germany.
The Arrow weapon system consists of command posts, sensors and guided missile launchers and forms the core of the new territorial missile defense capability.
Air defense for Germany and its allies
During the Israeli Defense Minister’s recent inaugural visit to Germany, both countries agreed to cooperate closely on the Arrow project. Arrow is produced and developed by Israel in collaboration with the United States. Since the weapon system is already available, the Bundeswehr is aiming for initial capability as early as 2025, which will be further expanded in the following years up to 2030.
With the Arrow 3, enemy guided missiles can be attacked outside the earth’s atmosphere with a direct hit (hit-to-kill) as they approach. In this way, the system will contribute to protecting Germany, the population and critical infrastructure from ballistic missiles in the upper interception layer. In the future, the aim is to integrate into the NATO alliance in close coordination with Israel and the USA.
“We invest in national and alliance defense capabilities. The current decisions of the Budget Committee will further strengthen the operational readiness of our armed forces. A clear sign of a changing era. This year we have already submitted a total of 40 “25m euro template” programs. This means we can conclude contracts with a total volume of over 26bn euros. I am pleased about the parliamentary support,” said Defense Minister Boris Pistorius.
Underwater drones for maritime reconnaissance
The Budget Committee has also given the green light to other procurement projects: four autonomous underwater vehicles will be purchased for 52.5 m euros using the regular defense budget. There is also the option to order a fifth Long-Range Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (LR-AUV).
The underwater drones are used for extensive sonar-based underwater reconnaissance at water depths of up to 300 meters, for sea mine defense, for the creation of underwater situation images and maps, and for data collection.
They are not armed and cannot clear detected mines themselves. They are used in conjunction with the Frankenthal class minehunters (MJ332). In addition, the underwater drones can be used to uncover spying attempts by other countries. The four systems will be delivered in 2024 and 2025.
Therefore, five minehunting boats will also be equipped to accommodate the drones. Furthermore, the control of the drones will be integrated into the existing command and weapon deployment system Integrated Mine Countermeasures System (IMCMS) of the mine-hunting boats. The Frankenthal-class boats neutralize mines by using surface or underwater drones and/or mine divers.
Reorder of anti-tank mines
The Budget Committee also approved the production and delivery of an initial 2,600 German Model 22 (PARM DM22) anti-tank directional mines. They are scheduled to be delivered from 2026. The approximately 68 m euros required for this come from Section 60 of the federal budget, i.e. the money for the federal government’s training initiative.
Background: The Bundeswehr has delivered anti-tank mines to Ukraine to support the country in its defense against Russian aggression. The replacement is now being financed from funds from the strengthening initiative, in which selected partner states are supported with military material, equipment and training. It is a budget title managed jointly by the Foreign Office and the Ministry of Defense.
The framework agreement with the manufacturer of the anti-tank directional mines provides for the possible ordering of a further 10,000 units. As the Bundeswehr has refocused on national and alliance defense, anti-tank mines have become more important again. With you the enemy’s advance is delayed. Anti-tank directional mines are mainly used to secure roads and paths against enemy vehicles.
Uniform communication equipment
Furthermore, the purchase of new radio equipment was approved. The Armed Forces’ joint interconnected radio equipment (SVFuA) is financed both through the regular defense budget and through the Bundeswehr’s special funds. Over 130 m euros are being invested in this.
The radios will be delivered to the Bundeswehr between 2023 and 2025 and are intended for four projects: the Puma infantry fighting vehicle, the army’s combat training center, the fire units of the IRIS-T SLM Air defense system and for the division’s command posts, the Bundeswehr will provide NATO from 2025 (Division 2025).
Along with the missiles, the troops will gradually receive uniform communication equipment for voice and data communication up to the classifications “Secret” and “NATO Secret”.
Encrypted Communication: New Cryptophones
The Bundeswehr’s communication systems must meet current and future security requirements. The Bundeswehr is therefore ordering the procurement of 1,350 multi-cryptophones in a robust version.
As part of the armed forces’ crypto modernization, the ISDN-based crypto devices currently in use will be replaced by IP-based multi-crypto phones. They allow encrypted communication over the Internet. Further developments for communication within the alliance up to the “NATO Secret” classification are also planned, which can be supplemented as software updates.
The devices are scheduled to be delivered to the Bundeswehr between 2024 and 2026. If all options for the devices are selected, the investment volume will be around 70 m euros. Procurement of a version of the cryptophones for indoor use takes place in a separate approval process. The equipment is financed by the Bundeswehr special fund.
Patriot: New Crypto and Radio Equipment
New cryptographic and radio equipment for the microwave radio systems of the Patriot weapon system will also be purchased from the special fund. The Budget Committee approved the order for around 40.5 m euros. The total of 51 devices will be delivered between 2025 and 2027 to further modernize the Patriot anti-aircraft missile system for ground-based air defense.
Receiver cards for reliable satellite navigation
Finally, a total of 9,058 GPS M-Code receiver cards will be purchased by the US government for around 51.5 m euros and financed from the special fund. The maps will be delivered between 2025 and 2028 and will be integrated into navigation devices on vehicles and naval units. This increases the Bundeswehr’s ability to navigate safely, reliably and more resiliently against attempted interference.
(Unofficial translation by Defense-Aerospace.com)
(Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ German Ministry of Defense; issued Oct 19, 2023)
USA
26 Oct 23. US Navy mulls timing of new double-carrier award amid Enterprise delay. The U.S. Navy intends to buy its next two aircraft carriers in a single contract, but factors including delays on carriers now under construction are influencing discussions about when to begin the process. The service bought aircraft carriers 80 and 81, the future Enterprise and Doris Miller, together in the first two-carrier contract since the Cold War. Leaders expected to see $4 billion in cost savings when the contract was signed in 2019.
Jay Stefany, the acting assistant secretary of the Navy for research, development and acquisition, told Defense News the existing two-carrier contract is achieving the cost savings expected, though Enterprise has taken a schedule hit due to the pandemic and labor and supply chain problems. That’s playing into the discussion about when to begin a contract for CVNs 82 and 83.
“It is our plan to buy [82 and 83] together — plan; again, not approved yet — but plan to do it together because that provides the most effective way to buy and to build two aircraft carriers. The question on the table and in the [fiscal 2025 budget] discussions is when to start the first one,” he said, noting that the second aircraft carrier would then follow four and a half years behind.
CVN 82 could begin in FY 28, 29 or 30. The decision will be known when the Navy releases its FY25 budget request in the spring.
The Navy is weighing three key factors: keeping a steady workload at shipbuilder HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding, such that no one is laid off but also there isn’t too much work; affordability in the Navy budget based on the timing of other acquisition needs; and the total inventory of aircraft carriers the Navy is trying to maintain.
On the workload issue, Stefany said Enterprise “is progressing well, but not necessarily as well as we planned.”
Due to delays getting lead-ship Gerald R. Ford out of the yard, the Covid-19 pandemic, overall labor and supply issues, and specific challenges Newport News has faced while also building Virginia- and Columbia-class submarines, Enterprise is about a year behind schedule, he explained.
To avoid Enterprise’s delays spilling over to Doris Miller — which is only a few months behind schedule — “we’re doing some unique things in the dry dock to allow us to start 81,” Stefany said. “Usually you would finish 80 in the dry dock, get her out, and then start 81 in the dry dock.”
Instead, he said, the Navy and Newport News Shipbuilding modified the plan to allow some Doris Miller work to begin in the dry dock, pause while Enterprise is eventually floated out, and then continue work in the dry dock.
Stefany said he didn’t think the issues that caused delays on Enterprise would be a threat to future CVNs 82 and 83 — it’s just a matter of clearing out the workload at the yard before adding new work in the new two-carrier contract.
He said he doesn’t expect the supplier problems that began during the pandemic to continue into the 82/83 contract. Similarly, a significant number of older, experienced workers retired at the start of the pandemic, leaving the yard to hire a lot of brand-new workers with little or no experience. While that’s slowed progress on Enterprise, Stefany said these workers would be proficient by the time they started on 82 and 83.
What could still be an issue, though, is balancing new aircraft carrier construction at Newport News Shipbuilding with aircraft carrier refueling, Columbia and Virginia construction and Virginia repair work, all of which compete for people and materials.
As for the size of the carrier fleet, Stefany said the Navy already decided to extend the service life of Nimitz for another deployment cycle, a change from previous plans to decommission the first-in-class carrier in 2025.
The Navy is now looking at the second ship of the class, the Dwight D. Eisenhower. If Eisenhower is extended, there’s less need to start 82 and 83 as early. Stefany said the Navy may not have a final decision on Eisenhower in time to inform the FY25 budget request and what it reveals about the 82/83 contract. (Source: Defense News)
23 Oct 23. USSOCOM RFI- Counter-Electronic Countermeasure Seeker. The USSOCOM Directorate of Science and Technology has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for the Next Generation Effects Capability Focus Area (NGECFA), specifically focusing on the Counter-Electronic Countermeasure Seeker (CECMS).
USSOCOM seeks to develop the ability to detect, identify, and target electronic warfare emitting systems that target GPS, command data link, communications frequencies, and counter-battery radars. Size, weight, power, data interface must make it suitable and effective when integrated on Class I & II UAS, as an additional sensor on larger ISR platforms, or the seeker on small, guided munitions.
Original Publish Date: October 19, 2023, 05:33 pm EDT
Original Reponse Date: November 20, 2023, 12:00 pm EST
For more information, please visit RFI- USSOCOM Directorate of Science and Technology RFI Next Generation Effects Capability Focus Area (NGECFA): Counter-Electronic Countermeasure Seeker (Source: C-UAS Hub)
23 Oct 23. Lockheed exits US Air Force tanker competition; lifting Boeing’s KC-46. Lockheed Martin Corp (LMT.N) has withdrawn from the U.S. Air Force’s competition to build at least 75 refueling tankers, the company said, giving Boeing’s (BA.N) KC-46 Pegasus a boost in the closely watched multi-bn dollar Air Force contract.
Airbus (AIR.PA) had teamed up with Lockheed in 2018 to offer its A330 multi-role tanker transport, but the French aerospace giant now must decide if it will pursue the competition without Lockheed.
“Airbus remains committed to providing the U.S. Air Force and our warfighters with the most modern and capable tanker on the market,” an Airbus spokesperson said.
The Air Force has sought to replace hundreds of Eisenhower-era KC-135 tankers in three lots. The first tranche was awarded to the Boeing-made KC-46 Pegasus, which has been plagued by performance challenges, including defects with an on-board video system and with the boom that connects the tanker to aircraft seeking refueling.
“Lockheed Martin has decided not to respond to the U.S. Air Force’s KC-135 fleet recapitalization Request for Information,” Lockheed spokesperson Stephanie Stinn said in a statement.
A Lockheed-Airbus victory would have landed Airbus its first aircraft contract with the U.S. Air Force after attempting to penetrate the U.S. defense market for two decades.
The Air Force kicked off a competition in 2022 for its second tranche of 140 to 160 jets which would follow the Boeing contract to produce 179 KC-46 Pegasus planes. However, earlier this year Air Force officials said it could reduce the second tranche buy to around 75 tankers, a move that would hurt Lockheed’s “business case” for its bid, executives have said.
Lockheed will shift the team and resources “to new opportunities and priority programs within Lockheed Martin, including development of aerial refueling solutions in support of the U.S. Air Force’s Next-Generation Air-Refueling System (NGAS) initiative.”
The third tranche, the NGAS or KC-Z tranche, is expected to be announced and competed in the 2030s.
The abrupt departure of the Lockheed bid, known as LMXT, surprised some Capitol Hill aides. Advocacy for the LMXT,which would be made in Alabama and Georgia, had been fierce with Lockheed spending political capital to assure that Boeing’s plane was not a shoo-in to win the second tranche of the three-tranche tanker recapitalization.
In 2011, Boeing won the first of the three-phase procurement to replace the Air Force’s aging tanker fleet, securing a contract for 179 KC-46s. The program has since incurred more than $7 bn in losses. (Source: Google/Reuters)
REST OF THE WORLD
26 Oct 23. Australian universities join global defence consortium supporting AUKUS. Australian Prime Minister the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, President of the United States Joe Biden and United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak during the announcement in San Diego for Australia to acquire a conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines through the Australia-United Kingdom- United States enhanced security partnership. Photo: Supplied.
The University of South Australia and University of Adelaide have joined a global defence consortium of United Kingdom and United States of America universities supporting the AUKUS alliance.
The Digital Disruption in Defence Research Consortium – comprising seven universities from the US, the UK, and Australia – will coordinate research and analyse and assess data in partnership with government and industry.
The consortium aims to understand the implications of digital disruption for defence, while helping to shape policies and strategies that benefit its member nations.
UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific Anne-Marie Trevelyan, who opened the inaugural Digital Disruption in Defence Research Consortium conference, welcomed the launch of the new group.
“The UK is committed to accelerating collaboration on advanced military technologies, including through our landmark AUKUS partnership with Australia and the US, aimed at supporting security and stability in the Indo-Pacific,” Minister Trevelyan said.
“Universities and industry play a critical role in defence R&D. We must join forces at every level across government, industry, and academia, with everyone playing their part to drive change at the pace required.
“This new consortium, spanning AUKUS nations, will support our joint efforts through world-class research capabilities.”
The consortium is led by representatives from the universities of Exeter, Liverpool, and Surrey (Defence Data Research Centre), University of Maryland College Park (Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Lincoln Laboratory), Carnegie Mellon University, University of Adelaide (Defence and Security Institute), Stanford University (Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation), Stanford University (Hoover Institution), and the University of South Australia. (Source: Defence Connect)
26 Oct 23. Australian Government Working with Industry to Assure Collins Class Submarine. The Australian Government is committed to a potent, enduring and agile submarine capability, and will use an independent assurance activity to inform the life-of-type extension of the Collins-class submarine fleet.
Australia’s transition to conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines is underpinned by the ongoing availability of the Collins-class submarine capability throughout this transition period. This will require the life of the Collins-class submarines to be extended.
This assurance activity will provide the Government with advice on Defence and industry’s current preparedness to deliver the Collins-class submarine life-of-type extension. This assurance activity will not delay any of the vital work that Defence and industry are continuing to deliver to sustain and extend the life of the Collins-class fleet.
The independent assurance activity is being led by Gloria Valdez, a member of the Naval Shipbuilding Expert Advisory Panel. A classified report will be delivered to the Australian Government in the second quarter of 2024.
Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy MP said: “The Collins-class submarines remain one of the most capable conventionally powered submarines in the world. The life-of-type extension of the Collins-class is essential to the maintenance of Australia’s submarine capability as we transition from conventional to nuclear-powered submarines.
“This independent assurance activity seeks to ensure the life-of-type extension is delivered in the most effective and efficient manner, guaranteeing Australia retains an enduring, potent and agile submarine capability.” (Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ Australian Department of Defence)
26 Oct 23. Armscor details SAAF C-130BZ Hercules upgrade progress.
Marshall Aerospace in the United Kingdom will complete upgrade work on the first South African Air Force (SAAF) C-130BZ Hercules transport at the end of next year as the SAAF tries to ensure the fleet remains serviceable.
National Treasury allocated R1 bn in the 2023/24 financial year for rejuvenating the SAAF’s medium airlift transport capability. Armscor, in a presentation to Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans (PCDMV) last month, said Marshall Aerospace received a R470m contract to install Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS B) transponders and replace the secondary flight display systems on C-130BZs 409 and 405 as well as complete major maintenance work.
Tail number 409 departed South Africa on 8 August and arrived in the United Kingdom on the 11th, with work to be completed in December 2024. Tail number 405 will be completed ten months after delivery to Marshall Aerospace. Following testing and verification of these modifications on the first aircraft, Marshall will supply Denel with service bulletin kits containing all parts, components and instructions needed to perform the same modifications on four additional C-130 aircraft in South Africa. Marshall will train Denel and SAAF technicians on the modification implementation processes.
Armscor revealed that the balance of the additional funding (R490 m) will be utilised for the servicing of at least eight engines for the C-130BZ fleet, while Armscor is also placing a contract worth R40 m for aircraft spares.
R75m of the SAAF budget for 2023/24 is being allocated to Denel Aeronautics for C-130BZ maintenance, with the contract valid from January 2023 to end December 2025. These funds will be used for the servicing of aircraft, procurement of spares, repair of components and calibration of Ground Support & Test Equipment (GS&TE). Armscor noted that “C-130BZ product supply support (PSS) contracted to Denel from January 2023 to December 2025 is worth R500 m, but only R177 m is funded.”
While Denel has had trouble fulfilling SAAF maintenance contracts, Armscor reported that the company’s liquidity challenges have been easing and Denel is paying its contractors without the assistance of Armscor.
However, the period to service aircraft at Denel’s maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility has been longer than expected due to their only being one MRO bay whereas two bays are required at minimum, and there is a shortage of serviceable engines. “High level meetings with the SAAF have been initiated to address these challenges.” It is planned for Denel to build a second Hercules servicing bay.
All told the SAAF plans to upgrade six long-serving Hercules transports, with each upgrade expected to take in the region of 18 months.
Marshall Aerospace in the early 2000s worked on the SAAF Hercules fleet under Project Ebb, among others fitting digital avionics, giving the aircraft so-called “glass cockpits”. Marshall Aerospace added a digital autopilot, flight displays, a navigation systems upgrade, communications and self-defence integration and enhancements to the electrical generation system. Three aircraft were upgraded in the UK and the remaining six in South Africa by Denel. Since the completion of these upgrades, in-country maintenance of the fleet has been performed by Denel.
Fully upgrading and maintaining all six remaining C-130s (the SAAF had nine serviceable examples but two have been written off in accidents and one has been cannibalised for spares) will cost just over R4 bn but it’s not clear how or if this will be funded.
(Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)
26 Oct 23. RoK seeks to arm Saudi Arabia amid bid to overtake China as fourth-largest defence exporter.
- The potential for weapon sales to Saudi Arabia is huge as it wants foreign help to boost its defence industry, analysts say
- South Korea sees Saudi Arabia’s weapons market as an engine for economic growth but faces stern competition from Chinese suppliers
South Korea aims to tap Saudi Arabia as a potential key buyer for its weapons, as part of an ambitious target to overtake China as the world’s fourth-largest defence exporter.
The Middle East country is an attractive market for weapons exporters as it is seeking foreign help to build its own defence industry, analysts said.
South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol met Saudi Arabia’s Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman Al Saud and Minister of National Guard Abdullah bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in Riyadh on Monday to discuss ways to strengthen defence ties, Yoon’s office said on Tuesday. Yoon was on a four-day state visit to Saudi Arabia until Tuesday.
Khalid said the two countries’ defence industry cooperation was “close to producing results” and would serve as a new milestone in their partnership, according to the Yonhap news agency.
Ongoing wars offer South Korea chance to be world’s fourth-largest arms exporter
He also expressed hope that such cooperation would advance to the next generation and proposed a comprehensive partnership that includes technological collaboration and joint production.
In response, Yoon said South Korea hoped to contribute to the success of Saudi Arabia’s defence reforms and called for the deepening of ties to include defence training, joint exercises, visits to military bases and people-to-people exchanges.
South Korea has ranked as the world’s ninth-largest defence exporter in recent years. Yoon’s government is aiming to propel the country past China to become one of the world’s top four defence exporters after the United States, Russia and France by the end of 2027.
The country is looking to sell more weapons to Saudi Arabia as part of the next stage of its “Blue Ocean” strategy in bilateral trade, said Kim Tae-hyo, Yoon’s top presidential security adviser, who accompanied the South Korean leader in Saudi Arabia. The involvement of Korean companies in Saudi Arabia’s construction boom in the 1970s and 1980s helped accelerate South Korea’s economic expansion over the period.
The strategy refers to efforts by a country or a company to capture an untapped market with few or no competitors.
“Large-scale defence industry cooperation discussions are in the final stage, in various areas such as anti-aircraft defence systems and firearms,” Kim was quoted as saying by Yonhap news agency on Sunday.
Both countries are discussing defence industry cooperation programmes with a long-term horizon, said Kim, hinting that their defence cooperation could include weapons supply, maintenance, and training.
“We intend to cooperate so that our weapons systems using our excellent defence industry technologies can help strengthen Saudi Arabia’s defence capabilities, and this will serve as a strong force for further expanding our achievements in defence exports,” he said.
Yoon’s officials are hopeful that Saudi Arabia would serve as a “springboard” for South Korea’s defence industry to expand its presence in the Middle East. South Korea has set a goal of US$20 bn in defence exports this year after it sold a record US$17.3 bn of arms last year, including the supply of tanks, howitzers, warplanes and rockets to Poland amid the ongoing war in neighbouring Ukraine.
Cheap, fast, good: South Korean weapons in high demand from Malaysia to Poland
“We will work together to ensure that our top-notch weapon systems help bolster Saudi Arabia’s defence capabilities, which will serve as a strong catalyst for expanding our defence exports,” Kim said.
The presidential office declined to comment on the types of weapons that could be exported to Saudi Arabia. “The Saudis are sensitive because if they mention specific weapon systems and quantities, neighbouring countries could guess,” said a senior official, who did not want to be named.
Besides buying weapons, Saudi Arabia also wants to spend its vast oil dollars on the transfer of defence technology from foreign partners in a bid to build its defence industry, analysts said.
This is an area where South Korea has an advantage over other weapon suppliers. “South Korea is one of the countries that are most open to defence technology cooperation with foreign partners,” Yang Uk, a senior researcher at Asan Institute for Policy Studies, told This Week in Asia.
Military vehicles carrying the Dong Feng 41 and DF-17 ballistic missiles at an exhibition in Beijing last year. China is the world’s fourth largest arms exporter. Photo: AP
One such technology that Saudi Arabia is keen on acquiring is the updated version of South Korea’s aerial and missile defence system known as Cheongung II, Yang said. The system could be useful for deployment by the kingdom against the threat of ballistic missiles and drone attacks by Houthi rebels in neighbouring Yemen, he added.
When Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman visited Seoul last year, he reportedly showed great interest in the system, dubbed as the Korean version of the American Patriot missiles. South Korea sealed a US$3.5 bn deal to export the system to the United Arab Emirates last year.
Saudi Arabia also needs to replace its ageing infantry-based weapons including tanks, armoured vehicles, self-propelled guns and artillery pieces, which can be supplied by South Korea, said Lee Il-woo, a senior researcher at the think tank Korea Defence Network.
But Lee warned that China’s defence industry is also eyeing the lucrative Saudi Arabian market.
“It’s hard to say Saudi Arabia is a Blue Ocean for weapons exports, as there are already tough competitors swarming there, including European and Chinese suppliers. It’s rather Red Ocean [competition] for South Korea,” Lee said. (Source: Google/https://www.scmp.com/week-asia)
25 Oct 23. Karlin Says U.S. Can Support AUKUS Submarine Builds. The trilateral defense agreement among Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States is historic and is part of generational change that is occurring in the Indo-Pacific, said Mara Karlin who is performing the duties of the deputy undersecretary of defense for policy.
Karlin testified before the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces today.
She said the AUKUS agreement is a priority for the region as nations look to strengthen deterrence in the face of Chinese efforts to undermine the rules-based international order that has done so much for peace in the Indo-Pacific.
“What is so historic and so generational about this AUKUS effort, is that we are bringing together a very close ally from the Indo-Pacific, a very close ally from Europe, we’re making sure all three have the most capable on undersea capabilities and are going to be able to operate together to help ensure a secure and safe Indo-Pacific,” she said.
China demonstrates often its desire to push the United States and other nations around in the region. Karlin noted the Chinese military often engages in unsafe and unprofessional air and sea intercepts of vessels and aircraft operating in international space. “That’s really problematic,” she said. “And knitting together these three countries to really show how much we care about security and stability in the region is crucial.”
The AUKUS agreement centers on nuclear-powered submarines, but it also includes other transformational technologies. Implementing the agreement is tough. “It requires a whole lot of effort by the executive branch and a whole lot of support by the Congress, but we can do big and bold things,” she said.
Karlin says the agreement is a direct outgrowth of the National Defense Strategy. AUKUS helps all nations build more robust defense industrial base “ecosystems.” That alone contributes to the concept of integrated deterrence, she said.
Spotlight: National Defense Strategy
Karlin also made the point that the U.S. submarine industrial base “can and will” support AUKUS.
This defense ecosystem includes the Department of Defense, the defense industrial base and the array of private sector and academic enterprises that spur innovation and support the systems on which the military depends.
“AUKUS provides an important means to build a more robust, resilient and dynamic defense industrial base that contributes to our nation’s integrated deterrence,” she said in written testimony to the subcommittee. “Directly supporting the National Defense Strategy, the AUKUS security partnership enshrines one of the key competitive advantages of the United States, the ability to build enduring partnerships. Deeper ties with the United Kingdom and Australia serve to expand collective defense production and bolster supply chain resilience, essential elements of integrated deterrence.”
“AUKUS is a call to action to strengthen our trilateral defense ecosystem,” she said. “What is needed now, more than ever before, is an approach that enhances our AUKUS partners’ conventional military capabilities, enables a more integrated defense industrial base, increases information sharing and implements cooperative policies that reflect the concepts laid out in the National Security Strategy.”
The United States, United Kingdom and Australia have committed to conduct naval nuclear propulsion cooperation, and Congress must approve legislation to transfer two Virginia-class submarines to the Royal Australian Navy.
The Optimal Pathway, announced in March, is a blueprint for how to achieve this effort. “Since the announcement, three Australian officers graduated from U.S. Nuclear Power School, eight Australian sailors started nuclear-power training,” Karlin said.
In addition, members of the newly formed Australian Submarine Agency have observed submarine maintenance operations at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, and trilateral working groups are actively collaborating on critical issues supporting industrial base readiness.
She said the USS North Carolina conducted the first Virginia-class submarine port visit to HMAS Stirling in Australia. “These milestones mark our commitment to this effort, but we know there is still much to be done and we look forward to collaborating with Congress to ensure we have the legislative authorities in place to execute this important work,” she said. (Source: U.S. DoD)
24 Oct 23. Australian regulator consults on BVLOS drone operations.
Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requests input on beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations from all participants. CASA invites drone operators to visit its Consultation Hub to contribute to the survey.
The objectives of this survey are to collect information to:
- provide a picture of the use of, or intended use of drones for BVLOS operations across Australia
- review demographic and geographic information of BVLOS activities in Australia
- identify key benefits from, and challenges to, increased BVLOS drone operations
- identify areas where regulatory improvements may be applied for lower-risk, low altitude BVLOS drone operations.
According to CASA:
“The survey will help us to build a snapshot of the current and future use of lower-risk beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone operations in Australia. This survey is for anyone that operates or intends to operate drones BVLOS.
“We especially want to hear from the agricultural sector who could benefit from the use of drones operated BVLOS in activities such as spray management, mustering, farm and land management, or related agricultural outcomes.
“BVLOS operations are when the drone pilot cannot see the drone with their own eyes and relies on cameras on board the drone or other location-based information directly from the drone to orient and fly.
“Extended visual line of sight operations (EVLOS) are when the drone pilot cannot see the drone with their own eyes and a trained observer (or observers) maintains awareness and visual line of sight of the drone. The observer may be in the same location as or away from the pilot, with communication between both roles occurring with or without the use of a radio or phone.
“In this survey, we are seeking information on how drones are used and the types of BVLOS operations you intend or currently undertake so that we can improve the regulatory framework and streamline operational approvals.” For more information visit: www.casa.gov.au (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
25 Oct 23. Raytheon Australia announces 6 new Capability Plus partners.
Defence prime Raytheon Australia has announced six new participants have been added to their 2023 annual Capability Plus roundtable event.
The new participants include South Australian engineering consultant Solinnov, indigenous and veteran-owned service provider JY, NSW electronic warfare testing and training provider Mellori, Australian-owned asset management company Capability Partners Asset Management, Adelaide software company Consunet, and ACT computer security service Penten.
The Capability Plus program is tailored to small-and-medium enterprises, with the focus on ensuring Australia’s local defence industry is ready to equip and sustain the Australian Defence Force. It provides training and mentoring across topics such as ASDEFCON, IP, and quality, delivered by experts across a wide-range of fields from engineering to program management.
“As a trusted capability partner to the Australian Defence Force, Capability Plus enables Raytheon Australia to partner meaningfully with SMEs as we strengthen our foundation of sovereign defence knowledge,” according to Raytheon Australia managing director Michael Ward.
“Today, we warmly welcome our six new participants to the Capability Plus program – Solinnov, JY, Mellori, Capability Partners Asset Management, Consunet, and Penten.
“They join our broader group of 12 organisations who are nurtured to grow, network, and maximise their competitiveness in support of our nation’s Defence objectives.
“Our focus is on collaborating to meet the unique needs of our Capability Plus partners through tailored experiences, mentoring, and training.
“This approach has generated meaningful and sustained work for our local defence industry, demonstrating the success of Capability Plus through tangible business benefits realised by our participants.”
Raytheon Australia has previously invested more than $6 m in contracts with engaged Capability Plus participants and a further $3m committed in work to be delivered. That funding has provided opportunities and growth for companies such as Capability Plus participant Willyama Services and PLEXSYS Australia.
“The Capability Plus program has been a true game changer for both me and our entire organisation,” said Willyama Services chief revenue officer Jose Santos.
“Thanks to its comprehensive training and mentorship, I’ve personally witnessed an incredible transformation in our emerging leaders and the overall structural strength of our business.
“As a result, we’ve not only expanded our market presence but have also unlocked countless new opportunities.
“In my eyes, this program has been the undeniable catalyst for our remarkable success.”
PLEXSYS Australia director Robert Miller said the company has seen great value out of the program.
“Capability Plus is more than just a program, it’s a growth catalyst. It’s equipped us with the skills and leadership insights that have propelled our business to new heights.”
Current Capability Plus participants include Solinnov, JY, Mellori, Capability Partners Asset Management, Consunet and Penten, Daronmont, Calytrix, archTIS, Coherics, AOS, Frontline Manufacturing, PLEXSYS, HEO Robotics, JEDS, Redarc, Silentium Defence, and Willyama. (Source: Defence Connect)
22 Oct 23. Berlin ‘sells’ over 50 French Dassault Rafale jets to Riyadh. It is reported that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is contemplating the purchase of 54 Rafale fighter jets from French aircraft manufacturer, Dassault Aviation. Intelligence Online initially reported this news, attributing the motivation to a stalemate in Saudi Arabia’s endeavors to acquire additional Eurofighter Typhoons for the Royal Saudi Air Force [RSAF].
- Up to 200 Rafales could replace aging Mideast F-15C/D Eagles
- MQ-9 and MQ-1C are looking for a new home on the African soil
- Ukraine asks France for Rafale or Mirage and radars for Su-27s
Saudi Arabia’s failure to secure the desired Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft is rooted in an imposed restriction by Germany a participating nation in the aircraft program. This ban not only leaves room for Berlin to potentially “sell” the competing Rafale jets to Saudi Arabia, but it also puts the future of the Eurofighter Typhoon program at risk. An overview of the unfolding scenario is as follows:
A detailed cost inquiry for the procurement of 54 Rafale fighter jets was submitted to French manufacturers by Saudi authorities, with a demand for a response by November 10, 2023, as reported by La Tribune from several sources.
The possibility of Saudi Arabia procuring 54 Rafale jets could bolster France’s position in the Middle Eastern defense market and strengthen Rafale’s standing as a highly desired combat aircraft in the region.
With its purchase in 2015 and subsequent acquisition in 2021, Egypt became the initial regional country to acquire a total of 54 Rafale jets. Qatar chose the Rafale in 2015 and later in 2017, procuring 36 of the French fighter jets in total. Reports suggest that the emirate is considering firming up options to acquire another lot of 36 jets.
In December 2021, Dassault Aviation scored its most significant single order to date, as the United Arab Emirates agreed to procure 80 Rafale jets. The acquisition would also pose a direct challenge to the Eurofighter Typhoon, a product of a collective of European companies, including BAE Systems, Airbus, and Italy’s Leonardo.
The first choice
In August 2006, Saudi Arabia agreed to buy 72 Typhoon fighter jets, which were delivered from 2008 to 2017. A memorandum of intent was signed in March 2018 to procure 48 more Typhoon aircraft.
However, a potential order facilitated by the United Kingdom was forestalled by Germany in July 2023. Following the 2018 assassination of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, German authorities ceased arms sales to Saudi Arabia.
The RSAF’s fighter fleet largely comprises over 200 US-made F-15C/D/SA Eagle fighters. The first F-15 delivered to Saudi Arabia took flight in 1978, which was only two years after its formal induction by the United States Air Force.
A German black hole
The anticipated discontinuation of the defense and aerospace industry’s Typhoon program is on the horizon due to Germany’s refusal to approve the sale of the UK’s Eurofighter Typhoon fighters to Saudi Arabia.
The precarious position of the Eurofighter program was recently highlighted by Airbus Defense and Space CEO, and current president of the German Aerospace Association [BDLI], Michael Schölhorn.
This warning appears to have been issued out of a desperate bid to safeguard the European warbird, particularly as it comes in the aftermath of an unsuccessful UK initiative aimed at convincing German regulators to approve a fresh sale to Saudi Arabia.
During a press briefing orchestrated by BDLI in Berlin on October 13, Schölhorn emphasized the critical need to launch a novel production series for the Eurofighter Typhoon [known as Tranche 5] by 2025, to prevent any stoppages in production.
According to current schedules, the German production of the Eurofighter is expected to reach completion in 2030 with the delivery of the final Tranche 4 aircraft [Quadriga contract, 38 fighters] to the Luftwaffe. This schedule suggests a decade-long hiatus in orders for the German military aviation industry, particularly considering that the earliest projected operational capabilities of the upcoming SCAF/FCAS fighters, developed collaboratively with France and Spain, are tentatively set for 2040.
Airbus fears the potentially devastating consequences of this projected decline in military fighter manufacturing in Germany, including significant employment losses and a steep downturn in the aviation sector as a whole. As a response, Airbus stresses the imperative and urgent need for a decision from the German Ministry of Defense regarding the Eurofighter, especially in terms of the issuance of a new order [Tranche 5].
What will the Saudis get?
The French Rafale fighter is a multi-role combat aircraft developed and manufactured by Dassault Aviation. It is designed to perform various missions, including air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance, and nuclear deterrence.
The Rafale is known for its advanced avionics, aerodynamic design, and high maneuverability, making it a formidable asset in modern aerial warfare.
The Rafale has a maximum takeoff weight of around 24,500 kilograms [54,000 pounds] and a length of approximately 15.3 meters [50 feet]. It has a wingspan of about 10.9 meters [36 feet] and a height of around 5.3 meters [17 feet].
The aircraft is powered by two Snecma M88-2 engines, which provide a combined thrust of around 150 kilonewtons [33,700 pounds-force]. The engines are known for their reliability, performance, and fuel efficiency.
The operational range of the Rafale depends on various factors such as the mission profile, payload, and fuel load. However, it is generally capable of flying up to 3,700 kilometers [2,300 miles] without aerial refueling.
The aircraft can reach a maximum speed of Mach 1.8 [2,222 kilometers per hour or 1,380 miles per hour] at high altitude and Mach 1.1 [1,390 kilometers per hour or 860 miles per hour] at low altitude.
The Rafale is equipped with a wide range of armament options to fulfill its different roles. It has 14 hardpoints, which can carry various air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, bombs, and precision-guided munitions.
The aircraft is capable of carrying advanced weapons such as the Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile, SCALP long-range cruise missile, and AASM modular air-to-ground weapon. It also has a 30mm internal cannon for close air support and self-defense purposes. (Source: Google/https://bulgarianmilitary.com/)
20 Oct 23. Offshore Patrol Vessels Listed as a Project of Concern. The Australian Government has listed the Arafura-class offshore patrol vessel (OPV) program as a Defence Project of Concern.
The project has experienced delays in delivery of both the vessels and the associated support system with schedule delays first emerging in 2021.
The vessels are being built for the Royal Australian Navy to replace and improve upon the capability delivered by the Armidale-class patrol boats.
The OPVs are under construction at Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia and the Henderson Maritime Precinct in Western Australia.
The primary role of the OPV will be to undertake constabulary missions and the vessels will perform maritime patrol and response duties for the Australian Defence Force.
Defence and Luerssen Australia will work together to develop a remediation plan to help address delays to the OPV schedule.
Defence and Luerssen Australia remain committed to providing the Royal Australian Navy with this capability.
The Projects of Concern process brings senior stakeholders from Government and industry together to set out an agreed pathway to remediate listed projects.
(Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/ Australian Department of Defence)
20 Oct 23. RoK to Review Options if Indonesia Doesn’t Pay KF-21 Program Arrears. South Korea may discontinue Indonesia’s participation in the development KF-21 Boramae supersonic fighter program over its unpaid financial contribution, Defense Acquisition Program Administration Director Eom Dong-hwan told the National Assembly National Defense Committee on October 16.
Indonesia currently has unpaid contributions of 991.1 bn won ($730 m), and South Korea is currently weighing whether it should review and overhaul the project in the short term.
Commissioner Eom attended the National Defense Commisttee audit held at the National Assembly in Yeouido on the 16th, and responded to Democratic Party lawmaker Ki Dong-min’s point that “fundamental measures must be taken” in relation to Indonesia’s non-payment of KF-21 project share, the Asia Time Korea reported Oct. 16.
“I visited Indonesia earlier this month,” Eom told the committee. “We met and discussed with key figures, including the Minister of Defense and the President’s Chief of Staff,” he said.
Commissioner Eom said he told the Indonesian side that, “In order to properly terminate the KF-21 project, the contribution must be paid. If (we) do not submit a credible and practically feasible plan for the three-year period from 2023 to 2025 by the end of October, Korea “will have no choice but to re-examine the entire business from the beginning,” Asia Time Korea reported.
According to the basic agreement signed in 2014, the KF-21 joint development project is structured so that the Korean government and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) will cover 60% and 20% of the development cost, respectively, with Indonesia covering the remaining 20%.
When it signed a contract with KAI in January 2016, the Indonesian side decided it would produce 48 KF-21 fighter jets in-country after obtaining one prototype and various technical data in exchange for paying a 20% share of the program’s cost.
However, due to the worsening economic situation in the country, as of February Indonesia only paid 278.3 bn won out of a total contribution of 1.2694 trillion won, with 991.1 bn won ($730 m) still unpaid to date.
For this reason, some in Korea argue that the KF-21 business contract with Indonesia should be terminated.
Korean officials are particularly incensed that Indonesia found the money to purchase 42 French Rafale fighter jets this year, and signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to purchase 24 American F-15EX fighter jets, while making no payments for its share of the KF-21 project. Some officials even say that there is no will in Indonesia to do so.
(Source: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/)
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