LOCATIONS
LAND
21 Feb 19. Boeing offers India futuristic Super Hornet factory. Boeing has promoted its industrial capabilities in India, as it eyes potential deals to sell the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet to the nation’s air force and navy. Speaking at the Aero India show near Bengaluru on 21 February, company officials said it would build a “factory of the future” in India to produce the Super Hornet. New Delhi has two separate requirements for combat aircraft: 110 for the air force and 57 for the navy. Boeing also announced that it has held discussions with partners Hindustan Aeronautics and Mahindra Defence Systems at the show.
“The partners are developing comprehensive plans to set up a new ‘factory of the future’ to manufacture Super Hornet locally,” says Boeing. “The programme is expected to work with several Indian suppliers to grow a thriving defence aerospace base, which could accelerate other programmes. The facility will create a world-class, highly-trained aerospace workforce.”
Boeing vice-president Thomas Breckenridge claims that the F/A-18E/F is the stealthiest fighter on the table for both Indian requirements, and offers the lowest per-flight hour cost in the US inventory. For the opportunities with New Delhi, the company would pitch the Super Hornet’s new Block III variant, which features updated avionics and sensors, and has an increased range through the use of conformal fuel tanks. Boeing’s promotion of the industrial offering involved with the Super Hornet came a day after rival Lockheed Martin rechristened the F-16V Block 70 as the ‘F-21’ for India. It too stressed its desire to build the aircraft in India – an F-21 video showed a futuristic factory – in conjunction with partner Tata Advanced Systems. For the 110-unit air force competition, other contenders include the Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, RAC MiG-35, Saab Gripen E and Sukhoi Su-35. The Rafale and Super Hornet are regarded as the main contenders for the Indian navy requirement. (Source: Google/https://www.flightglobal.com)
21 Feb 19. Leonardo and ADSB to create CMS naval integration laboratory. Leonardo has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) to jointly work on the development of a Combat Management System (CMS) naval integration laboratory. The MoU was signed at the IDEX International Defence Exhibition in Abu Dhabi. The CMS naval integration laboratory is expected to enhance the collaboration between Leonardo and ADSB in the naval sector.
The proposed CMS laboratory will be able to test, maintain and evolve the software of Leonardo’s CMS system, operational on more than 20 of the UAE Navy’s ships. Furthermore, the partners will explore the development of a joint logistic support solution for preventive and corrective maintenance and a local spare parts inventory for Leonardo naval systems. Through the partnership, Leonardo aims to improve lead-time, repairs turnaround time and overall systems sustainment.In a statement, Leonardo said: “Leonardo is excited about this new development in its long-standing partnership with ADSB, which has the potential to involve more UAE industries.
“Focusing on advanced services, enhanced logistics and local partnerships in Leonardo’s key markets is in line with the path to achieve sustainable business growth outlined in the company’s Industrial Plan.”
The company noted that the collaboration areas will result in increased technology and knowledge transfer to the benefit of UAE industries. (Source: naval-technology.com)
19 Feb 19. Raytheon Emirates Opens New Headquarters in Abu Dhabi. Raytheon Emirates, a wholly owned subsidiary of Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN), today opened its headquarters in Al Maqam Tower at Abu Dhabi Global Market Square. The new facility will help Raytheon Emirates develop human capital, industrial partnerships and new technology in the United Arab Emirates in the areas of missile defense, cybersecurity, effectors, and other enabling technologies.
Dr. Taylor W. Lawrence, chairman, Raytheon Emirates Board and president, Raytheon Missile Systems said, “The new headquarters brings us closer to our customers and business partners in the UAE. This will help us fast-track industrial partnerships and indigenous technology development, as well as develop Emirati professional talent.”
Matar Al Romaithi, Chief Economic Development Officer at Tawazun Economic Council, said, “Today’s ceremony is a testament to the possibility of creating mutually rewarding initiatives under the Tawazun Economic Program. We are delighted to be working closely with industry leaders such as Raytheon to enhance the investment environment and accelerate the transfer of advanced technology and technical know-how to the local market.”
“By building a base in Abu Dhabi, Raytheon will benefit from the emirate’s competitive advantages including: economic and political stability; robust infrastructure; and facilitated procedures and processes, reaffirming Abu Dhabi’s position as a preferred investment destination in the region for the largest international companies,” added Al Romaithi.
“Raytheon’s more than 31-year relationship with the UAE and the opening of Raytheon Emirates’ new head office enables us to accelerate our plans to develop local industrial capabilities that will help diversify the UAE economy,” said Alan Davis, chief executive of Raytheon Emirates, which is entering its second year of operation.
Raytheon Emirates, which was launched under the Tawazun Economic Program, announced in June last year the signing of a long-term lease with Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala) for its new UAE headquarters in Al Maqam Tower to include options for additional space as the business grows. (Source: ASD Network)
19 Feb 19. Magellan Aerospace Opens New Manufacturing and Assembly Plant in India. Magellan Aerospace Corporation (“Magellan”) announced today, the opening of the company’s manufacturing and assembly facility in India. The new 100,000 square foot Magellan Aerospace (India) Pvt. Ltd. facility, constructed on seven acres in Hitech Defence and Aerospace Park (Aerospace SEZ Sector) in Devanahalli, near the Bangalore International Airport, was completed at the end of 2018 and the process of installing and commissioning the high speed machining centres is underway. Magellan Aerospace (India) Pvt. Ltd. is a newly constructed, 100,000 sqft machining and assembly facility, recently opened in Hitech Defence and Aerospace Park in Devanahalli, Bangalore (CNW Group/Magellan Aerospace Corporation)
Magellan’s new cellular machining and assembly plant will specialize in high speed milling and turning of aerostructure and aeroengine components produced from both aluminium and hard metal materials. Combined with comprehensive processing and hard metal machining capabilities from Magellan’s two longstanding joint ventures in India, API Surface Treatments and Triveni Aeronautics Pvt. Ltd., Magellan is one of the largest suppliers of ‘Make in India’ manufactured commercial aircraft components today.
Magellan established a presence in India’s aerospace sector more than a decade ago and has continued to invest and grow their footprint. The plant will create up to 120 high technology and support positions, and will be equipped with a comprehensive range of high speed 4/5-axis machining centres, selected to optimise manufacturing, competitiveness and efficiency. The completion of Magellan Aerospace (India) in 2018 marked the close of phase one of a two-phase construction plan that will see the facility grow to 140,000 square feet in the future.
Mr. Haydn Martin, Vice President, Business Development, Marketing and Contracts, Magellan Aerospace said, “Magellan is excited to officially launch this important new venture in India at the Aero India 2019 show”. “This new facility, coupled with Magellan’s extensive machining operations in Europe and North America offer an exceptional and full range of solutions for our customers in meeting their operational and value requirements.” (Source: Google/CNW)
MARITIME
19 Feb 19. Survitec has introduced a new GPM range of military inflatable boats capable of adaptable single point inflation and a range of innovative solutions. Launched today in Abu Dhabi, at IDEX/NAVDEX defence trade fair, the new GPM is a rugged, robust and lightweight inflatable boat constructed of high spec Hypalon material to provide increased abrasion and UV resistance. Developed by Survitec in response to customer and user feedback from ex-Marine boat specialists and other specialist military units, the new range is designed for all insertion and extraction scenarios. The boat features a single point of inflation which can be configured to suit the requirements of the customer making inflation during subsurface operations, paradrops and helocasts more user friendly. Additional features include extra wear patches on the tubes, extra rubbing strake on the keel and a double skin reinforcement on the bow area to protect the boat from damage during beach operations.
Scott Tonks, boats subject matter expert, Survitec, said: “Being able to tailor the inflation method to the scenario makes the boats even more versatile. For example, in a subsurface scenario, the tightly-packed buoyancy-neutral boat would be brought to the surface by a diver. The inflation dial could be packed within the boat making it difficult to access. A cable with a remote activation dial can be attached to the boat’s air cylinders so that he/she can easily inflate the boat when required at the surface.”
Inflatable boats are often used for a range of tasks varying from logistical to Special Forces/reconnaissance missions which are frequently carried out in harsh environments. Survitec has therefore added armour protection to certain points of the GPM range to offer reinforcements against punctures and tears.
Tonks said: “All sorts of units from army regiments to special forces will use this boat. If troops are required to land a boat it is rarely on sand. It will more likely be on difficult terrain where you are less likely to be over watched, so it’s important that these inflatable boats won’t be torn apart during these activities.”
The GPM range also comes equipped with a rapid deploy tow that allows a stricken boat to be attached to a tow whilst the boat carrying out the rescue keeps moving.
Devised and built by Survitec, the rapid deploy tow is located at the back of boat in a built-in parcel and ready to deploy. It can be solely operated by the coxswain who pulls on the toggle and clips the tow to the stricken boat as he drives past before removing it from danger.
Tonks said: “The rapid deploy tow can be easily reset for repeat use. It is ideal for use in tactical scenarios and for extracting a disabled boat out of the killing area”.
The boats come in five sizes ranging from 3.8m to 5.8m. The single point inflation feature can be used with one or two air cylinders and the 5.3m boat can be inflated in one minute.
The new GPM range was presented in live, in-action demonstrations at the NAVDEX marina, which runs alongside the IDEX event.
19 Feb 19. Iran commissions Fateh submarine. The Islamic Republic of Iran Navy (IRIN) officially commissioned its first indigenously developed Fateh-class submarine on 17 February. The ceremony was held at the Bandar Abbas naval base and was attended by President Hassan Rouhani. Defence Minister Amir Hatami was quoted as saying that the submarine weighs 600 tonnes and is capable of launching torpedoes and anti-ship missiles. The Iranian media also reported that it can dive to 200m and has an endurance of five weeks.
Photographs and television footage released for the event showed the boat out of the water at the Bostanu shipyard to the west of Bandar Abbas. It has four 533mm torpedo tubes in its bow, but its propulsion system was covered up.
Photographs were also released showing the boat’s retractable sensors, including an electro-optical mast and what appeared to be an optical periscope. Others may include a radar and electronic intelligence sensors for target-acquisition purposes.
The existence of the Fateh-class programme was announced in September 2011, although this may have been a new name for the Qaem project announced in 2008.
Commercial satellite imagery of the Bostanu shipyard in October 2013 confirmed that a new submarine with a length of more than 40 m had been launched. The boat was seen being launched in an Iranian television montage of military achievements broadcast in February 2014. In this footage it was seen with foreplanes mounted on its hull that were not present in the more recently released photographs. (Source: IHS Jane’s)
18 Feb 19. Singapore Navy’s First Invincible-Class Submarine Launched. Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen officiated at the launch ceremony of the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN)’s first Invincible-class submarine, Invincible, at the ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems Shipyard in Kiel, Germany, on 18 Feb 2019. The submarine was launched by Mrs Ng, wife of Dr Ng., Chief of German Navy Vice-Admiral Andreas Krause, Republic of Singapore Navy’s Chief of Navy Rear-Admiral Lew Chuen Hong and senior defence officials from both countries attended the launch ceremony.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Ng highlighted that, “The RSN plays a key role in keeping [the] Sea Lines of Communications (SLOCs) open, not only for Singapore, but indeed, for the world. And the maritime environment around Singapore also faces security challenges… In this context, the acquisition of the new Type 218SG submarines is timely.”
He added that that the new submarines were designed based on experience and expertise garnered through more than two decades of operating submarines, and the launch of the Invincible marked a significant milestone in the RSN’s submarine capability.
Invincible is the first of four customised submarines designed for operations in Singapore’s shallow and busy tropical waters. Custom-built to Singapore’s needs, the new submarines will possess longer endurance and higher payloads. Following the launch, Invincible will undergo a series of sea trials before delivery to Singapore in 2021. The remaining three submarines are under construction. Dr Ng also announced the names of the remaining three submarines – Impeccable, Illustrious, and Inimitable.
The launch of Invincible is testament to the warm and growing defence ties between Singapore and Germany. Bilateral defence relations have strengthened with the signing of the enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement (eDCA) in 2018. The eDCA paves the way forward for cooperation in areas of mutual interest, such as in submarine training, defence technology and cyber defence.
Both countries also cooperate and interact widely through high-level visits and dialogues, military exchanges, cross-attendance of professional courses and technology collaboration.
Dr Ng was in Germany to attend the Munich Security Conference from 15 to 17 Feb 2019, where he spoke at the conference and had bilateral meetings with his foreign counterparts. (Source: (Source: defense-aerospace.com/Singapore Government)
19 Feb 19. Singapore discloses further details of Invincible-class submarines. Key Points:
- Singapore has given further details on the capabilities of its new Type 218SG submarines
- The vessels will be equipped with indigenously developed data analytics as well as sense-making systems
Singapore’s Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) has disclosed further details of its new Type 218SG air-independent propulsion (AIP)-equipped submarines, which have been customised specifically for operations in shallow and congested waters. The details were revealed in conjunction with the launch ceremony of the first-of-class, which will be known as RSS Invincible once commissioned, on 18 February. Invincibleis one of four Type 218SG boats acquired under two separate contracts signed between ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and the Singapore government in 2013 and 2017. According to information released by MINDEF, the vessel will have maximum speeds in excess of 15 kt when submerged and 10 kt when dived. The submarine will also displace 2,200 tonnes when submerged and 2,000 tonnes when surfaced. Each boat is armed with eight tubes. Although not disclosed, these tubes will likely deploy 533 mm torpedoes and other munitions via water-ram discharge devices such as those found on the German Navy’s Type 212A boats, which have been used as a reference for the Type 218SGs. The vessel will also be able to stay submerged about 50% longer than the Archer (Västergötland) and Challenger (Sjöormen) classes of boat that it will eventually replace, and can “carry a wider range of mission payloads”, said MINDEF.Given that the Archer and Challenger classes have submerged endurances of between 14 and 21 days respectively, this puts the Independence class’s endurance at about 28–42 days without snorkelling. In addition, the submarines will be equipped with sense-making and “accelerated decision-making support systems”, which include data analytics and decision support engines that have been developed in-country by Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA).
AIR
21 Feb 19. HAL unveils rotary-wing unmanned aerial vehicle. Indian aerospace and defence company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) unveiled a full-scale prototype of a locally designed rotary-wing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at the Aero India 2019 defence exhibition being held in Bangalore on 20-24 February.
Specifically designed to perform intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations, the UAV was developed by HAL in co-operation with the country’s Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kanpur, to meet specific requirements of the Indian Army and Indian Navy.
The 200 kg UAV, which is equipped with a twin-blade main rotor and a locally developed petrol engine, is stated to have a range of 200 km, endurance of six hours, and a service ceiling of 6,000 m. The platform, the fuselage of which is 4.2 m long and 1.28 m wide, is reportedly capable of flying at a top speed of 200 km/h and can carry a 40 kg payload.
The preliminary design of the platform was completed in January, with clearance for the preliminary design review (PDR) now pending.
The UAV, which features a full‐authority digital engine control (FADEC) and SLR-DC datalink, can fly in fully autonomous mode, including auto take-off and landing with a return-to-home recovery option, according to HAL. It uses GPS for interactive command and control with completely programmable mission management computers. Real-time data and video links are available for line-of-sight operations.
The UAV can be used for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions, coastal surveillance, radar and missile decoy operations, detecting improvised explosive devices and landmines, and tracking and designating targets. (Source: IHS Jane’s)
21 Feb 19. Airbus has successfully completed the certification flight tests for the A400M Cargo Hold Tanks (CHT) refueling unit, taking a new step towards the full certification of the aircraft for air-to-air refueling operations as a tanker. The campaign, performed together with the Spanish Air Force Test Centre (CLAEX), featured a total of nine flights where 90 tonnes of fuel were dispensed to Spanish Air Force F-18 receivers and to another A400M prototype as a representative heavy aircraft receiver. The test campaign included the development and certification of the Cargo Hold Tanks with the latest Fuel Quantity Management System software, to be certified during 2019, enhancement of the night refueling vision system and preliminary testing of helicopter air-to-air refueling capabilities.
21 Feb 19. ADA unveils Tejas AF Mk 2 Medium Weight Fighter. India’s Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) revealed a model of the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Tejas AF Mk 2 Medium Weight Fighter (MWF) at Aero India 2019.
The Tejas AF Mk 2 MWF, which was displayed on 20 February, is being pitched to the Indian Air Force (IAF) to fit into its medium multirole fighter requirement and as a potential replacement of the Dassault Mirage 2000 fleet.
The Tejas AF Mk 2 MWF is an enhanced version of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), with modifications comprising a slightly longer length of 14.6 m and wingspan of 8.5 m (compared with 13 m and 8.2 m respectively for the LCA) to enhance its payload-carrying capabilities. The Tejas AF Mk 2 MWF also has a compound delta wing with close-coupled canards to help reduce drag in almost all angles of attack.
The maximum weight of the aircraft is 17.5 tonnes, which enhances its weapons carrying capacity to up to 6.5 tonnes, and it is equipped with a higher thrust General Electric GE-F414-INS6 engine that features a Full Authority Digital Electronics Control (FADEC) system. Additional features of the Tejas AF Mk 2 MWF include an infrared search-and-track (IRST) sensor, a missile approach warning system (MAWS), and an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar. (Source: IHS Jane’s)
20 Feb 19. Switzerland receives Pilatus PC-24 business jet for VIP transport. The Switzerland Government has received the Pilatus PC-24 business jet designed to transport government officials during a handover ceremony held in the capital Berne. Manufactured by Pilatus Aircraft, the PC-24 jet will replace the government’s existing Cessna Citation XLS. Switzerland placed the order for the aircraft in 2014. To be operated by the Swiss Air Force for the government, the PC-24 ‘Super Versatile’ Jet features a modern, white-grey livery with a Swiss cross on the tail fin. The new government jet will operate with serial number 121 and registration T-786. Primarily meant for travel within Europe, PC-24 has a range of 2,000nm and can reach speeds of 440k.
Pilatus chairman Oscar Schwenk said: “I’m delighted the Swiss government opted for a Swiss product, and will travel aboard the PC-24, the new ‘Swiss Air Force One’, in the future.
“This choice sends a very important signal for our brand-new business jet. I’m confident that other governments will adopt the PC-24 once they see the unrivalled opportunities and flexibility which it offers.”
The PC-24 aircraft can accommodate eight passengers in addition to crew and luggage.
Swiss Federal Councillors can save time travelling as the aircraft comes with a cargo door fitted as standard and has the ability to use very short runways with a take-off distance of 2,930ft. Furthermore, the jet is designed to operate on unpaved runways. With a maximum payload of 2,500lb, it can reach an altitude of 45,000ft. (Source: airforce-technology.com)
19 Feb 19. Leonardo delivers first M-346 aircraft for Italian Air Force’s IFTS. Leonardo has delivered the first two M-346 aircraft for the Italian Air Force’s International Flight Training School (IFTS) project. IFTS was formed under an agreement signed between Leonardo and the Italian Air Force in July to improve training services delivered by the airforce’s 61st Wing. The M-346 aircraft arrived at 61st Wing’s base in Galatina in southern Italy, where they joined the Italian Air Force’s 18 other M-346s.
The aircraft have been procured to meet the growing demand for training services at the IFTS project.
In a statement, Leonardo said: “The Leonardo-Italian Air Force IFTS Agreement was inspired by the common decision of these two preeminent national entities to foster synergies to the benefit of the country: combining the capabilities of the largest Italian industrial player in the aerospace, defence and security sectors with the airforce’s expertise in the military flight training domain.”
A new integrated training system is set to arrive at Galatina next year as part of plans to reinforce the 61st Wing for improved operational capability. The reinforcement is seen as key to the establishment of the IFTS. The system is based on the M-345 high-efficiency trainer (HET) aircraft developed by Leonardo’s Aircraft Division.
Powered by a Williams FJ44-4M-34 turbofan, the M-345 is expected to replace the T-339A used for the second phase of training and the T-339C used for the third phase.
Phase IV, Lead In to Fighter Training (LIFT) of the IFTS project will allow it to meet the demand for pilot training from foreign airforces. The training project has future expansion plans with another base in Italy. Operational training at the 61st Wing Air Base involves preparing pilots to transition to the latest-generation combat aircraft, including the Eurofighter and the F-35 Lighting II joint strike fighter.(Source: airforce-technology.com)
18 Feb 19. Canada takes delivery of first two RAAF Classic Hornets. Defence Minister Christopher Pyne has confirmed the delivery of the first two former RAAF F/A-18A/B Hornet aircraft to the Royal Canadian Air Force following their successful participation in Exercise Red Flag 2019. The RCAF has officially taken delivery of the first of 25 F/A-18 Classic Hornet aircraft as part of a $500m overall sale commitment confirmed by the governments of Australia and Canada earlier this year. Under a deal between the governments, the two Hornets are the first of up to 25 aircraft that will be sold to Canada along with spares and support equipment. Minister Pyne highlighted the mutual benefits of this sale to both Australia and Canada.
“Australia and Canada have a longstanding defence relationship and this sale is an excellent example of our mutual commitment towards supporting our respective defence capabilities,” he said.
The deal covers $90m for the purchase of the aircraft themselves, with an extra $410m to be used to cover additional spare parts, outfitting of the jets with specific Canadian equipment, contingency funds, salaries for personnel involved with the project, upgrades to communications equipment, as well as new infrastructure to accommodate the aircraft.
Minister for Defence Industry Steven Ciobo thanked members of Australia’s defence industry for their significant involvement in the planning and preparation of the transfer of these aircraft.
“This deal is an example of the great strides the government is taking to create an Australian defence industry which is globally competitive, innovative and export focused. The government is working with industry to maximise opportunities for Australian companies both here and abroad to build a stronger defence industry,” Minister Ciobo added.
Canadian Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan said at the time of the agreement that the extra jets are needed to deal with a “capability gap”, arguing that the country does not have enough fighters to handle its commitments to NATO as well as protecting North America.
The sale is due to Canada cancelling plans to purchase 18 new Super Hornets from the US, after Quebec-based company Bombardier was hit with an enormous tariff to sell its aircraft in the US.
The F/A-18A (single seat) and F/A-18B (twin seat) Hornets are multi-role fighter aircraft, capable of air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The Hornet was originally developed for the US Navy and Marine Corps, and has been a very successful aircraft. It is also used by Canada, Finland, Kuwait, Malaysia, Spain and Switzerland.
The F/A-18A and F/A-18B Hornets can undertake:
- Air interception;
- Air combat;
- Close air support of ground troops; and
- Interception of enemy supply lines, including shipping.
Australia’s fleet of Classic Hornet aircraft has undergone a major electronic upgrade to ensure effective operations for the next 10 years. The Air Force’s 71 F/A-18A/B Hornets will be replaced with 72 advanced F-35A Lightning II aircraft from 2018. (Source: Defence Connect)
PLANT CLOSURES, JOB LOSSES AND STRIKES
19 Feb 19. FLIR Systems Announces Departure of General Counsel. FLIR Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLIR) today announced that Todd DuChene, Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Secretary, and Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer, has elected to resign effective the end of March to pursue an opportunity with another company. Under Todd’s leadership, FLIR has significantly expanded its legal capabilities and developed a framework for compliance that will benefit the company moving forward.
“Todd’s leadership and expertise have been critical to FLIR’s success over the past four years,” said Jim Cannon, President and CEO at FLIR. “I’d like to thank Todd for his dedication and contributions to the company and we wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
An external search is underway for Todd’s replacement.
19 Feb 19. Senator raises renewed concerns about SA sub maintenance jobs. South Australian senator Rex Patrick has used Senate estimates to put forward concerns over South Australia-based submarine maintenance and sustainment jobs to support the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins Class submarines. Defence officials at ongoing Senate estimates hearings have apparently confirmed that plans were underway to shift up to 500 submarine deep level maintenance and sustainment jobs to support the Collins Class submarines from the ASC shipyards at Osborne, SA to Western Australia.
Centre Alliance senator Rex Patrick said, “We are talking about 500 highly skilled South Australian jobs, we are talking hundreds of millions of dollars of economic activity, not to mention the adverse national security effects of disrupting submarine sustainment.”
ASC and the then Defence Material Organisation (DMO), now CASG, signed a multi-billion through-life support agreement covering ongoing design enhancements, maintenance and support for the Royal Australian Navy’s fleet of six Collins Class submarines until the end of their projected operational life. This was reinforced in 2012 when ASC signed a new in service support contract (ISSC), a replacement contract for the Collins Class submarine through-life support agreement.
“Defence have been playing the long game on this. Minister Pyne needs to step up and stop this reckless proposal. Collins sustainment should stay in SA and the minister needs to appreciate that the Future Submarines’ sustainment should also be based in Adelaide, half way between the planned west and east coast basing locations,” Senator Patrick added.
Senator Patrick has raised concerns in the past regarding the full-cycle docking of the submarine fleet. Any planned relocation would see the majority of these jobs relocated to the West Australian ASC facility, which already carries out half-cycle docking. It is believed that transitioning the project to WA would be welcomed by the state government, which has been in favour of the move for some time.
Freedom of information (FOI) documents have been powerful tools in Senator Patrick’s arsenal regarding the future of both the Collins class support and sustainment contracts and the $50bn SEA 1000 submarine construction contracts, with the Senator raising concerns about the level of Australian industry content (AIC), capability concerns and delivery timeline, among others.
“ASC’s South Australian workers have spent many years developing an exemplary submarine sustainment capability. Not only would such a move cause job losses in SA, it would also jeopardise the success of extending the life of the Collins Class fleet which need to be in service until at least the late 2040s,” Senator Patrick said, stressing his concerns about the stresses of relocating sustainment and maintenance support for the Collins Class.
A spokesperson for Minister Pyne responded to the claims raised by Senator Patrick, saying, “The government has not made a decision to move full cycle docking to Henderson from Osborne. ANI has been working with Naval Group on plans for the submarine construction yard at the Osborne Naval Shipyard because that’s where it is being built.
“Defence is creating options because they always prepare for contingencies but it’s the NSC that decides these matters not the department.”
The majority of submarine maintenance work is undertaken at ASC North in Osborne, SA, by way of full cycle dockings (major refits). Other shorter term submarine maintenance activities are carried out at ASC West in Henderson, WA, where the submarines are based. (Source: Defence Connect)
MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT
PERSONNEL
21 Feb 19. Many congratulations to Adam Thomas, Press Officer for the Department of International Trade who has been awarded an MBE. At a time of turbulence and tricky trade deals with an equally tricky and high maintenance boss, Adam has travelled the world since Brexit smoothing the way for British Industry to thrive in troubled waters! He was the only member of DIT to receive an award.
21 Feb 19. Russian Airborne Troops to form helicopter brigade. Russia’s Airborne Troops (VDV) will form a helicopter brigade by 2020 or 2021, Izvestiareported on 19 February. The newspaper quoted Ministry of Defence (MoD) sources as saying the decision to give the VDV control of some aviation assets has been “essentially adopted”.
The new helicopter brigade will be directly subordinated to the VDV, comprising one combat, two medium-assault, and one heavy-assault helicopter squadron totalling 48–50 aircraft. Ryazan, Voronezh, and Orenburg are under consideration as bases for the brigade.
Izvestia ’s sources indicated the Mi-35M will be the VDV’s combat helicopter because, unlike the Mi-28N or Ka-52, it can deliver a squad of troops. (Source: IHS Jane’s)
14 Feb 19. Counter-Daesh medallic recognition. The Times picks up on the Defence Secretary’s announcement that drone operators will be eligible for a medal for the first time. The paper states that the technological advances mean that vital contributions to the fight against Daesh have been made from outside the operational areas of Syria and Iraq. Reaper drone pilots currently operate out of RAF Waddington, in Lincolnshire, and Creech Air Force Base in Nevada, USA. The Times’ report mentions that the Defence Secretary is today attending a meeting in Munich with defence ministers involved in the global coalition against Isis. Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said: Our Armed Forces can be extremely proud of the campaign against Daesh. The expanded medal criteria means that those personnel who have played a vital role in defeating Daesh but have been based outside the conventional area of operations will receive the recognition they deserve. This new medal reflects the changing character of warfare. I am very pleased that personnel who previously would not have received an operational medal, will now do so. (Source: U.K. MoD)
EUROPE APPOINTMENTS
20 Feb 19. RAF Engineer becomes first ever UK female military three-star Commander. Sue Gray, a Royal Air Force engineer, has been promoted to the rank of Air Marshal, making her the most senior female military officer in the British Armed Forces. The RAF has today announced that it has appointed its first ever female three-star officer. Sue Gray, a Royal Air Force engineer, has been promoted to the rank of Air Marshal, making her the most senior female military officer in the British Armed Forces, and once more proving that gender is no obstacle for a career in the military. Air Marshal Gray will shortly take up the role of Director General of the Defence Safety Authority. Here she will lead the way in overseeing the independent organisation, empowered by charter from the Defence Secretary, to undertake the roles of regulator, accident investigation and Defence Authority for safety. 56-year old Air Marshal Gray joined the Royal Air Force in August 1985 and has worked in a variety of roles within the RAF including: engineering on VC10 Transport aircraft, an extensive period with the Joint Helicopter Force during which time she deployed on both Gulf Wars, tours within the Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) organisation, leading the Combat Clothing Project Team and more recently leading the department delivering engineering and logistics support for fighter, training and Remotely Piloted aircraft for all of the Armed Services. In June 2016, she was appointed Air Officer Commanding Number 38 Group with responsibility for circa 3,000 personnel, across multiple disciplines (including Engineering, Logistics, Aviation Medicine & Catering). Air Marshal Gray takes up her new appointment in March. (Source: U.K. MoD)
U.S. APPOINTMENTS
19 Feb 19. MG William K. Gayler, commanding general, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker, Fort Rucker, Alabama, to director, J-3 Operations/Cyber, U.S. Africa Command, Germany.
19 Feb 19. MG David P. Glaser, provost marshal general/commanding general, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, Washington, District of Columbia, to deputy commanding general, U.S. Army North, Joint Base San Antonio, Texas.
19 Feb 19. MG Sean M. Jenkins, chief, Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq, Iraq, to commander, Joint Enabling Capabilities Command, U.S. Transportation Command, Suffolk, Virginia.
19 Feb 19. MG Richard G. Kaiser, commanding general, Mississippi Valley Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg, Mississippi, to deputy chief of engineers/deputy commanding general, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Washington, District of Columbia.
19 Feb 19. MG Erik C. Peterson, commanding general, First Army Division West, Fort Hood, Texas, to director, Force Development, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-8, U.S. Army, Washington, District of Columbia.
19 Feb 19. MG John P. Sullivan, assistant deputy chief of staff, G-4, U.S. Army, Washington, District of Columbia, to commanding general, 1st Sustainment Command (Theater), Fort Knox, Kentucky.
19 Feb 19. MG Frank W. Tate, senior advisor to the Ministry of Defense, U.S. Forces-Afghanistan, Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, Afghanistan, to commanding general, First Army Division West, Fort Hood, Texas.
19 Feb 19. MG Richard M. Toy, commanding general, Great Lakes and Ohio River Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Cincinnati, Ohio, to commanding general, Mississippi Valley Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg, Mississippi.
19 Feb 19. MG Daniel R. Walrath, deputy chief of staff, Operations, Resolute Support Mission, North Atlantic Treaty Organization/U.S. Forces-Afghanistan, Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, Afghanistan, to commanding general, U.S. Army South, Joint Base San Antonio, Texas.
19 Feb 19. MG Michael C. Wehr, deputy chief of engineers/deputy commanding general, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Washington, District of Columbia, to director, Strategy, Capabilities, Policy, Programs, and Logistics, U.S. Transportation Command, Scott Air Force Base, Illinois.
19 Feb 19. BG (Promotable) Karl H. Gingrich, director, Capability and Resource Integration, J-8, U.S. Cyber Command, Fort Meade, Maryland, to director, Program Analysis and Evaluation, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-8, U.S. Army, Washington, District of Columbia.
19 Feb 19. BG William M. Boruff, commanding general, Mission and Installation Contracting Command, Joint Base San Antonio, Texas, to deputy commanding general, U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama.
19 Feb 19. BG Michael R. Eastman, deputy director for Operations, National Joint Operations Intelligence Center, Operations Team Four, J-3, Joint Staff, Washington, District of Columbia, to deputy director for Future Joint Force Development, J-7, Joint Staff, Washington, District of Columbia.
19 Feb 19. BG David J. Francis, director, Army Aviation, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-3/5/7, U.S. Army, Washington, District of Columbia, to commanding general, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker, Fort Rucker, Alabama.
19 Feb 19. BG Paul H. Fredenburgh III, director of Command, Control, Communications and Cyber, J-6, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Camp Smith, Hawaii, to deputy commander, Joint Force Headquarters–Department of Defense Information Networks, Defense Information Systems Agency, Fort Meade, Maryland.
19 Feb 19. BG Brett T. Funck, deputy chief of staff, G-3/5/7, U.S. Army Reserve Command, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, to deputy commanding general, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Fort Drum, New York.
19 Feb 19. BG Brian W. Gibson, commandant, U.S. Army Air Defense Artillery School, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence, Fort Sill, Oklahoma, to director, Air and Missile Defense Cross Functional Team, Fort Sill, Oklahoma.
19 Feb 19. BG Anthony R. Hale, deputy, Deputy Chief of Staff, Intelligence, Resolute Support Mission, North Atlantic Treaty Organization/Deputy Director, Operations and Support, J-2, U.S. Forces-Afghanistan, Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, Afghanistan, to director of Intelligence, J-2, U.S. Special Operations Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Florida.
19 Feb 19. BG Lonnie G. Hibbard, deputy chief of staff, G-3/5/7, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, to commanding general, U.S. Army Center for Initial Military Training, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.
19 Feb 19. BG Jonathan E. Howerton, deputy chief of staff, G-3/5/7, U.S. Army Pacific, Fort Shafter, Hawaii, to chief of staff, U.S. Army Pacific, Fort Shafter, Hawaii.
19 Feb 19. BG John D. Kline, deputy commanding general (Support), 7th Infantry Division, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, to deputy chief of staff, G-3/5/7, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.
19 Feb 19. BG Christopher C. LaNeve, commanding general, 7th Army Training Command, U.S. Army Europe, Germany, to director, Operations, Readiness and Mobilization, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-3/5/7, U.S. Army, Washington, District of Columbia.
19 Feb 19. BG Otto K. Liller, deputy commander, Special Operations Joint Task Force-Afghanistan, Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, Afghanistan, to commander, Special Operations Command-Korea, U.S. Special Operations Command, Republic of Korea.
19 Feb 19. BG Stephen J. Maranian, deputy commanding general (Maneuver), 2d Infantry Division (Combined), Eighth Army, Republic of Korea, to deputy commanding general, U.S. Army Combined Arms Center, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
19 Feb 19. BG Michael C. McCurry II, deputy commanding general (Support), 2d Infantry Division (Combined), Eighth Army, Republic of Korea, to director, Army Aviation, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-3/5/7, U.S. Army, Washington, District of Columbia.
19 Feb 19. BG James S. Moore Jr., commanding general, 593d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, to director of Readiness, Strategy, and Operations, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-4, U.S. Army, Washington, District of Columbia.
19 Feb 19. BG Scott M. Naumann, deputy commanding general (Support), 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas, to chief of ftaff, III Corps, Fort Hood, Texas.
19 Feb 19. BG Christopher R. Norrie, deputy commanding general (Maneuver), 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas, to commanding general, 7th Army Training Command, U.S. Army Europe, Germany.
19 Feb 19. BG John B. Richardson IV, director, Operations, Readiness and Mobilization, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-3/5/7, U.S. Army, Washington, District of Columbia, to deputy chief of staff, G-3/5/7, U.S. Army Forces Command, Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
19 Feb 19. BG Michel M. Russell Sr., commanding general, 19th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), Eighth Army, Republic of Korea, to assistant deputy chief of staff, G-4, U.S. Army, Washington, District Of Columbia.
19 Feb 19. BG Michelle A. Schmidt, director of Intelligence, J-2, U.S. Special Operations Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, to deputy commanding general, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Fort Drum, New York.
19 Feb 19. BG Mark T. Simerly, commander, Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Defense Logistics Agency, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to commanding general, 19th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), Eighth Army, Republic of Korea.
19 Feb 19. BG William D. Taylor, commanding general, U.S. Army Operational Test Command, Fort Hood, Texas, to senior advisor to the Ministry of Defense, U.S. Forces-Afghanistan, Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, Afghanistan.
19 Feb 19. BG William L. Thigpen, deputy commanding general, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colorado, to deputy director for Operations, National Joint Operations Intelligence Center, Operations Team Four, J-3, Joint Staff, Washington, District of Columbia.
19 Feb 19. BG John C. Ulrich, director, Force Development, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-8, U.S. Army, Washington, District of Columbia, to director, Capability and Resource Integration, J-8, U.S. Cyber Command, Fort Meade, Maryland.
19 Feb 19. BG Kevin Vereen, deputy commanding general, U.S. Army Recruiting Command, Fort Knox, Kentucky, to provost marshal general/commanding general, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, Washington, District of Columbia.
19 Feb 19. BG Robert F. Whittle Jr., commandant, U.S. Army Engineer School, U.S. Army Maneuver Support Center of Excellence, Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, to commanding general, Great Lakes and Ohio River Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Cincinnati, Ohio.
19 Feb 19. Col. (Promotable) Christine A. Beeler, deputy commander, U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, to commander, Mission and Installation Contracting Command, Joint Base San Antonio, Texas.
19 Feb 19. Col. (Promotable) Robert M. Collins, assistant program executive officer, Intelligence, Electronic Warfare and Sensors, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, to program executive officer, Intelligence, Electronic Warfare and Sensors, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland.
19 Feb 19. Col. (Promotable) Gavin A. Lawrence, director of Readiness, Strategy, and Operations, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-4, U.S. Army, Washington, District of Columbia, to commander, Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Defense Logistics Agency, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
19 Feb 19. Col. (Promotable) Kevin C. Leahy, deputy commander, Special Operations Command Central, U.S. Central Command, Tampa, Florida, to deputy commander, 7th Infantry Division, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington.
19 Feb 19. Col. (Promotable) Mark C. Quander, commander, Transatlantic Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Winchester, Virginia, to commandant, U.S. Army Engineer School, U.S. Army Maneuver Support Center of Excellence, Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
19 Feb 19. Col. (Promotable) Brett G. Sylvia, chief of staff, III Corps, Fort Hood, Texas, to deputy commander, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
INDUSTRY
INDUSTRY
INDUSTRY TEAMINGS
21 Feb 19. Calidus aims B-250 at Middle East, North African market. Calidus of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced a teaming agreement on 20 February with Saudi firm GDC Middle East to market the Calidus B-250 light attack aircraft to markets in the Middle East and North Africa. Under the agreement, the two companies are to work together on marketing the aircraft across the region, as well as developing in-house capabilities for the aircraft, which is to be built at Al Ain in the UAE.
Fawaz Alsharabi, the CEO of GDC Middle East, said, “This is a major step for GDC Middle East to be a partner with Calidus’s totally new developed aircraft. This is aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, and provides an ideal opportunity for Saudi industry to jointly develop the platform’s mission system and weapon integration through GDC ME, and for GDC ME and Calidus to co-own the intellectual property.”
Alsharabi added, “The programme will bring high-end technological capability and highly skilled jobs into the Kingdom [of Saudi Arabia], as well as representing a significant opportunity for the Saudi military industry to develop a systems integration capability.” The Calidus B-250 was first shown at the Dubai Air Show in 2017, following a two-year long development programme with Brazil’s Novaer. The aircraft, made primarily of carbon fibre, has a strengthened landing gear for rough field operations. According to Calidus, the aircraft can carry a maximum payload of 3,960 lb (1,796 kg) across seven hardpoints, with the centreline hardpoint being primarily used for sensor payloads or external fuel tanks. The aircraft has a range of 1,400-2,400 n miles and a maximum endurance of 12 hours. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-68 turboprop, the aircraft can reach a maximum of 301 kt, and can operate with one or two pilots. Calidus also claims that the aircraft can be disassembled in 12 hours and reassembled in 10, with one aircraft fitting inside the cargo area of a Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules, or four inside a Boeing C-17A Globemaster III. (Source: IHS Jane’s)
PERSONNEL
21 Feb 19. BAE Systems Australia has announced that Dr Ian Watt will retire as non-executive chairman at the end of February after holding the position since April 2016. Dr Watt said, “It has been a privilege to serve the company as its non-executive chairman, and I leave in the knowledge that BAE Systems has a strong order book and an experienced executive team that is well positioned to deliver its commitments to the Commonwealth government.”
“I have a passion for BAE Systems and its mission to deliver a growing capability to the Australian Defence Force. The importance of the role the company plays in helping protect the nation and grow the economy cannot be underestimated,” he added.
Dr Watt was appointed to the position in April 2016 and has made a very significant contribution to the company’s success during the term of his appointment. (Source: Defence Connect)
U.S. APPOINTMENTS
20 Feb 19. LSI, a global solution development firm serving government, commercial and nonprofit clients, today announced the appointment of Steven Myers as chair of its board of directors, effective immediately. Myers is the founder of SM&A, which became the largest proposal management and program support firm in the defense contracting industry during the 1990’s and 2000’s. He will be putting his extensive experience in the sector to work for LSI, leading strategy for corporate growth and delivery. Myers, a world-renowned business development and transformation leader, served as SM&A’s President & CEO for 16 years before taking the company public in 1998. When sold to private equity investors in 2008, the company was generating more than $100m in annual revenue and employed over 800 people. Over the past year, LSI has developed a $2bn pipeline – and is now focused on the leadership and expertise needed to continue its current growth trajectory, while increasing scalability of the business and innovating and evolving the services it delivers. Bringing the right expertise and experience to the table will enable LSI to continue to partner and support organizations as they tackle some of the greatest issues they’ve faced yet.
21 Feb 19. Naroh Arms, cutting edge manufacturer of firearms and firearm parts, announced the hiring of Bill Vitiello as Director of Sales and Marketing. Bill Vitiello is a lifelong shooting sports enthusiast and US Army Veteran with over a decade of professional firearms experience. His industry pedigree includes Knight’s Armament Company, where he worked as a Military and LE Sales Rep. He also spent time with Flint River Armory as the Florida State Sales Rep, and Rio Ammunition as a Business Development Executive and Marketing Advisor. His years of experience in the industry serving in diverse sales and marketing roles give Vitiello a unique perspective and valuable insight for his new position with Naroh Arms. As a Florida native based out of Dallas, TX, Vitiello is excited to join the Naroh Arms team, returning to his roots in the Sunshine State.
REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS
11 Feb 19. Collins Aerospace announces senior MEA appointment. Collins Aerospace, a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defence industry, has appointed Talel Kamel as its vice president customer and account management for the Middle East and Africa (MEA). (Source: Google/http://tradearabia.com)
18 Feb 19. Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has appointed Om Prakash, chief executive, Northrop Grumman Japan, as the company strengthens its partnership with Japan. Prakash will report to Dave Perry, corporate vice president and chief global business officer. As chief executive, Northrop Grumman Japan, Prakash will be responsible for ensuring effective performance on current programs, as well as developing in-country growth opportunities. Prior to this role, Prakash was the director of corporate strategy for Northrop Grumman, where he helped shape the business portfolio and established the company as a thought leader in several technology areas. He conducted analyses of business initiatives and oversaw multiple strategic planning processes. Previously at Northrop Grumman, Prakash managed international business development. Prior to joining Northrop Grumman, Prakash, who is a retired U.S. Air Force colonel, held leadership positions at various levels in operations, training and developmental flight test. He worked directly for the Secretary and Chief of Staff of the Air Force developing strategy and policy. He also served as the principal military advisor to the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manufacturing and Industrial Base Policy, covering matters related to mergers and acquisitions, and the preservation of essential industries and technologies. He was a fighter test pilot with over 3,000 hours in over 60 different aircraft.