November 2010 ~ ASIAN DEFENCE

Sunday, November 14, 2010

China Rolls out ZDK03 AEW&C Aircrafts for Pakistan Air Force

2:41 AM ASIAN DEFENCE 5 comments

First of four Pak-Chinese ZDK-03 Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&C)) for the Pakistan Air Force was displayed in a rollout ceremony was held at Hanzhong in China. Pakistan Air Force’s chief Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman was the guest of honor for this ceremony at this ceremony. It was also attended by the Commander of the PLA Air Force and other military and civil officials from the China.

Pakistan Air Force signed an agreement for the joint development of four ZDK-03 AEW&C aircraft which were to be configured to meet Pakistan's specifications in 2008 with China Electronics Technology Group Corporation.

IAI to adapt G550 for maritime surveillance role

2:19 AM ASIAN DEFENCE 4 comments

Israel Aerospace Industries is offering a modified version of its Gulfstream G550-based conformal airborne early warning (CAEW) aircraft that has the capability to detect targets at sea and near shores.Currently used by the air forces of Israel and Singapore, the AEW-adapted G550 business jet carries a conformal dual-band active electronically scanned array radar. It also features an identification friend or foe system, electronic support measures and an integrated self-protection system, plus communications equipment designed to support network-centric operations.

Pakistan Navy gets third F-22P frigate PNS Saif

2:05 AM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

The third F-22P Frigate PNS Saif constructed at Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai, China was inducted in the fleet of Pakistan Navy in a ceremony held at the PN Dockyard here .Commander Pakistan Fleet Vice Admiral Tanveer Faiz was the chief guest on the occasion. Senior naval officers and distinguished guests from Chinese Shipbuilding and Trading Corporation (CSTC) also attended the ceremony. Addressing the ceremony, Commander Pakistan Fleet said: “We are continuously monitoring the developments taking place in the maritime sector of littoral countries of the region.Although cognisant of the expansion beyond the defence needs taking place in neighbours, we do not want to engage in arms race with any country.” “Our developmental plans are purely aimed at meeting minimum credible defence,” said the PN fleet commander.

Japan To Send Troops To Remote Yonaguni Island 60 miles east of Taiwan

2:50 AM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Tokyo will send around 100 soldiers to a remote Japanese island in the East China Sea, a report said Thursday, amid growing anxiety over China's naval activities.The ground troops will be deployed on Yonaguni island, Japan's westernmost point, to carry out coastal patrols and surveillance of Chinese naval vessels, Jiji news agency quoted defense officials as saying.Tokyo eventually plans to double the number of troops stationed on Yonaguni, which is roughly 60 miles east of Taiwan, the report said.The area is a frequent flashpoint for troubles between Japan and China.

Chinese General Aviation Aircraft to Debut at Airshow China 2010

2:05 AM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

China's aircraft-making giant, Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), said Friday it would showcase two types of China-made aircraft -- Seagull 300 and Little Eagle-500 -- at the upcoming Airshow China 2010 in Zhuhai city, Guangdong province, next month.

China Aviation Industry General Aircraft Co., Ltd. (AVICGA), an AVIC subsidiary company headquartered in Zhuhai, will also make its debut at the eighth China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition (Airshow China 2010), according to AVIC.

Seagull 300 is the first indigenous amphibious plane developed by China. After successfully conducting its first test flight this month, the company is expected to begin mass production next year, according to Meng Xiangkai, general manager of AVICGA, the plane manufacturer.

Meng said China has a huge potential for development in general aviation, given its rapidly growing economy.

According to Meng, China currently has only 900 general aviation planes, compared with 220,000 in the United States and 430,000 globally.

To facilitate the growth of general aviation in China, AVICGA said it would launch a nationwide experimental flight promotion campaign and select 10 people to co-fly the four- or five-seat business jet Little Eagle-500 with the help of senior pilots and after necessary training.

Other than military planes, scheduled airlines and cargo planes, general aviation refers to all private and commercial flight activities, such as private flying, flight training, air ambulance, police aircraft, aerial firefighting, air charter, bush flying, gliding and skydiving.

Airshow China is the only international aerospace trade show endorsed by the Chinese central government. Since 1996, the show has been successfully held in Zhuhai every two years.

Airshow China 2010 will be held from Nov.16-21, 2010, in Zhuhai. It will feature actual aircraft, trade talks, technological exchanges and air shows.

Xinhua

Russia Completes Deliveries of 20,000 Kalashnikov Rifles to Afghanistan

2:00 AM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Russia has completed deliveries of small arms and ammunition to Afghanistan under a military assistance program.Russia has delivered a total of 20,000 Kalashnikov assault rifles and over 2.5 million rounds for these rifles. The weaponry will be distributed among police units in and around the capital, Kabul.Other Russian contributions to the fight against the Taliban in Afghanistan include the supply of Mi-17 helicopters and crews to train Afghan pilots, possible Russian assistance in training Afghan national security forces, increased cooperation on counter-narcotics and border security, and improved transit and supply routes for NATO forces.

Russia Rebuild Its 4 Project 1144 Nuclear-Powered Cruisers

1:53 AM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

The Russian Defense Ministry plans to overhaul its four Project 1144 nuclear-powered cruisers. Notably, the Admiral Nakhimov heavy nuclear-powered missile cruiser will reenter service in 2012, after lengthy repairs (that will have lasted over a decade in total) are completed.The Project 1144 nuclear-powered missile cruisers were developed for attacking capital enemy warships. They were equipped with powerful air-defense systems and had substantial anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities. In addition to these auxiliary weapons, they had missile systems designed for highly specialized objectives.These battle-worthy cruisers could only be used to shadow U.S. Navy carrier task forces.

This narrow specialization predetermined their future. A cash-strapped Russia was unable to complete all four cruisers, only commissioning the Pyotr Veliky (Peter the Great) warship ahead of the Russian Navy's 300th anniversary in 1996. The other three warships remained moored alongside shipyard piers.Russia's warship fleet is gradually being transformed into a more sophisticated formation. Corvettes and frigates, now under construction, are to be supplemented with destroyers and amphibious assault ships in the upcoming decade. Weapons and equipment will be standardized across these ships. Interchangeable components allow greater flexibility in servicing and repairing ships of different classes. This will make it possible to establish inexpensive but hard-hitting task forces.

Russian Air Force to Receive 6 Sukhoi Su-34 by December 2010

1:35 AM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Sukhoi to the end of 2010 will deliver the Russian Air Force the second batch of the Su-34, reports RIA Novosti. It is about six such aircraft. Currently bombers undergoing flight tests at the flight-test station of the Novosibirsk Aviation Production Association named after Chkalov. Previously reported that in the first batch, to delivred to the air force in late 2009, there were two aircrafts.

Indonesian Military Studying US Offer of 24 F-16 A/B Fighter Jets

1:34 AM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Indonesian Military chief Adm. Agus Suhartono said he has been studying an offer of two squadrons of F-16 A/B Fighting Falcon fighter jets from the US.He said although it was a grant, he had to calculate the cost of maintaining the 24 aircraft. Indonesia-US ties were also a consideration, he said as quoted by Antara news agency.Budget concerns forced Indonesia to refuse an earlier US government offer of a newer model of Fighting Falcon, the F-16 C/D.

Iran to test-fire domestically manufactured S-300 missiles

12:04 AM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Iran will soon test-fire its new domestically manufactured long-range anti-aircraft missiles, including a system similar to the Russian S-300 missile system, Brigadier General Mohammad Hassan Mansourian said on Wednesday.

“In order to meet some of the country’s security needs, (Iran) planned to purchase the S-300 from Russia, but due to pressure by the United States and the Zionist regime, that country used (UN) Resolution 1929 as an excuse not to deliver the defensive weapon to our country,” Mansourian told the IRNA news agency. The S-300 system, which can track targets and fire at aircraft 120 kilometers (75 miles) away, features high jamming immunity and is able to simultaneously engage up to 100 targets.

Two Pilots Die in South Korean Air Force RF-4C Reconnaissance Aircraft Crash

12:03 AM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Two pilots died after their surveillance plane crashed into a mountain in the southwest of the country during a routine training mission, the Air Force said Friday.The RF-4C reconnaissance plane went down during a "low-altitude" training flight at around 12:30 p.m. near the rural town of Imsil, North Jeolla Province, Air Force officials said. The town is located some 260 kilometers southwest of Seoul.Two airmen were aboard the plane, and rescuers found the remains of their bodies and uniforms at the crash site, an official said.Friday's accident was the second such case involving the RF-4C plane in recent years. In 2008, one of the aircraft crashed, but the two pilots aboard ejected safely.

North Korea is Exporting Nuclear and Missile Technology to Iran, Syria and Myanmar: UN

12:01 AM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

A report by U.N. experts saying North Korea is exporting banned nuclear and missile technology to Iran, Syria and Myanmar has been sent to the Security Council after China dropped its objections, U.N. diplomats said.The findings by the seven-member panel monitoring the implementation of sanctions against North Korea were first reported by The Associated Press in May.The experts said North Korea is exporting nuclear and ballistic missile technology and using multiple intermediaries, shell companies and overseas criminal networks to circumvent U.N. sanctions. It called for further study of these suspected activities and urged all countries to try to prevent them.

Eurofighter Consortium Offering to Turkey to Jointly Develop Eurofighter Typhoon 2020

11:58 PM ASIAN DEFENCE 1 comment

A consortium based in Italy, from where Turkey already receives attack helicopters and military surveillance, wants to further boost its role in the Turkish defense market. Italy and Turkey should carry their commercial relations to the strategic level, says Italy's deputy defense minister.Eurofighter, a consortium of European aircraft makers, wants to sell 40 Eurofighter Typhoon 2020 jets to the Turkish Air Force, senior company officials said Thursday.

"We are offering to Turkey the opportunity to jointly develop the Eurofighter 2020, the next version of the Eurofighter," said Marco Valerio Bonelli, head of public relations and communications at Eurofighter. "It wouldn't be parts production, but joint development.""We would like to provide two squadrons of Eurofighters to Turkey," said Giorgio Zappa, director general of Finmeccanica, an Italian conglomerate, whose subsidiary Alenia Aeronautica is one of the makers of the Eurofighter. Two Eurofighter squadrons consist of nearly 40 aircraft.For its next-generation fighter requirements, Turkey has already chosen United States-led F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Lightning II. It plans to buy about 100 F-35s, worth about $15 billion.

Decision on new fighter jets up in the air:Japan

11:56 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

The Defense Ministry will not specify which type of next-generation FX fighter jet it plans to purchase for the Air Self-Defense Force in a new midterm national defense program to be compiled next month, according to sources.The ministry will be unable to name the fighter because of insufficient information on the performance of the F-35, a leading candidate to become the ASDF's new mainstay fighter that is being jointly developed by Britain, the United States and seven other countries.Delays in development of the F-35 will likely force the U.S. military to postpone its own deployment of the jet until 2016 or later.Other candidate fighters are the Eurofighter jointly developed by Britain, Germany and two other European countries, and the F/A-18E/F manufactured by the United States.However, because of the delay with the F-35, the ministry will set up a committee in April or later that will select one of the three candidate fighters based on performance comparisons.

Russia signs $54-mln arms contract with Indonesia

11:54 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Russia started the first day at an arms show in Jakarta with a contract on the delivery of munitions for Sukhoi-family fighters to Indonesia, worth $54 million, a senior defense official said on Wednesday.Russia recently completed a $300-million contract signed in 2007 on the delivery of three Su-30MK2 and three Su-27SKM fighters to Jakarta in addition to two Su-27SK and two Su-30MK fighters purchased in 2003.The Indo Defense 2010 Expo & Forum opened on November 10 in Jakarta to host over 400 exhibitors from 38 countries until November 13. Nine Russian defense companies are exhibiting various types of sophisticated weaponry at the biennial arms fair.

The flight crew of F-16I was able and experienced: Israel IAF Chief of Staff

11:52 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

In an interview on radio service Kol Israel IAF Chief of Staff described the sequence of events of last night flights and talked about the jet’s experienced crew

“The crew flying the Soufa jet which crashed last night was a veteran crew, able and experienced and which we fully trust,” said Air Force Chief of Staff, Brig. Gen. Nimrod Shefer, in an interview he gave Thursday morning (Nov. 11) on radio service Kol Israel.

“Around eight p.m. the jet hit the ground, a bit south of Mitzpe Ramon,” said Brig. Gen. Shefer, describing the events of the crash. “The jet was the leader of four F-16 planes, it’s crew experienced, veteran pilot and navigator.”

According to the IAF Chief of Staff, the training exercise, which took place on Wednesday, was “not too difficult” and was “a night exercise wherein the pilots were to attack planes acting as enemy planes.” Brig. Gen. Shefer explained that “during the flight it looked as though the plane hit the ground and from that moment we’ve been conducting searches.”

“The plane’s crew was made up of Maj. Amihai Itkis, a 28-year-old pilot from Sde Warburg. He was an experienced pilot very familiar with the Soufa jet. The navigator was Maj. Emanuel Levy, one of the first navigators to fly in the Soufa,” said IAF Chief of Staff who stressed that experience teaches, as in past crashes during exercises, “even experienced crews aren’t immune to accidents in the air.”

Chinese Missiles Could Close U.S. Bases in Attack, Report Says

11:51 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

The Chinese military’s non-nuclear missiles have “the capability to attack” and close down five of six major U.S. Air Force bases in South Korea and Japan, an unpublished government report says.China’s improved inventory of short- and medium-range missiles provides a “dramatic increase” in its ability to “inhibit” U.S. military operations in the western Pacific, according to excerpts from the draft of the 2010 annual report by the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission scheduled for release on Nov. 17.

China’s current force “may be sufficient” to destroy runways, parked aircraft, fuel and maintenance facilities at Osan and Kunsan air bases in South Korea, and Kadena, Misawa and Yokota bases in Japan, the report says. The facilities are within 1,100 kilometers (684 miles) of China.An upgraded missile arsenal, including a 30 percent increase in cruise missiles since last year, “poses a significant challenge to U.S. forces operating in the region,” the report says. Defense Secretary Robert Gates in June called China’s improved missile arsenal “a real concern” that also threatens U.S. aircraft carriers.

Six types of Aircraft Added to Chinese Aviation Museum

11:50 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Six types of precious relics became mew members of the Chinese Aviation Museum on the morning of Nov. 11, including the AN-26 transport plane, the F-7M fighter, the J-6 Supersonic fighter, the Shenyang JJ-5 aircraft, the Mi-6 helicopter and the Yak-18 aircraft, marking a milestone in the history of the Air Force.

The China Aviation Museum has collected 318 aircrafts representing 138 different types, other weaponry specimens and 15,000 pieces of cultural relics is the largest in Asia. Its collection is ranked fifth in the world out of professional aviation museums in the science and technology category.

By Zhang Qian, People's Daily Online

IAF's MiG-27 Fighter Jet Crashes Near Jodhpur, Pilot Safe

11:47 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

A MiG-27 fighter plane of the IAF on Wednesday crashed near Jodhpur in Rajasthan shortly after take off for a routine sortie, but the pilot bailed out safely.The crash occurred at 1320 hrs, 15 minutes after the aircraft took off from Jodhpur air base. The pilot, Flight Lieutenant A Patni, who is safe, had reported trouble in the aircraft, a defence official said, adding there is no damage on the ground.The MiG-27 crash comes just a couple of days after a Cheetah helicopter of the IAF crash landed near the Siachen Glacier base camp.

JF-17 Thunder Fighter Aircraft and ‘Sherdils’ Aerobatics Team Departed for China

11:45 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

A Pakistan Air Force (PAF) contingent comprising JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft and the ‘Sherdils’ formation aerobatics team, along with pilots and technicians, departed for China to participate in the forthcoming eight International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai from November 16 till November 21.The PAF Sherdils formation aerobatics team comprising nine K-8 aircraft will perform an aerial display during the air show. This is for the first time that a PAF Sherdil formation aerobatic team will perform in any international event of this stature.

Three indigenously manufactured JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft would also be on aerial/static display at the exhibition. World famous exhibitors like Boeing, Airbus, Honeywell, Rolls-Royce etc will also be participating in the exhibition. The Red Eagles Aerobatic team from the US and the ASB aerobatic team from the UK have also confirmed their participation in the exhibition.

Russia tests Kaveri engine for Indian LCA Tejas fighter jet

11:43 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Russia has started in-flight tests of an Indian domestically-designed gas turbine engine for an indigenous light fighter, state-run arms exporter Rosoboronexport said.The engine, dubbed Kaveri, has been designed by India's Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) for the Tejas light fighter developed under the Indian national program Light Combat Aircraft."The first flight of an Il-76LL test aircraft with a Kaveri engine set in place of one of the plane's engines continued for 45 minutes and confirmed the results of ground tests," Rosoboronexport said in a statement.The current version of the Tejas fighter is equipped with a single GE F404 afterburning turbofan engine developed by General Electric. India has recently ordered at least 99 advanced GE F414 engines for the next production batch of Tejas.

Indonesia Nears Decision on Lockheed F-16A/Bs, C-130B/H Upgrades

11:40 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

By Greg Waldron

Indonesia should make a decision on a mid-life upgrade for its Lockheed Martin F-16A/Bs in 2011 or 2012, but could also buy an additional batch of six Block 50/52 fighters.If the upgrade takes place it will extend the service life of the Indonesian air force's current F-16s from 4,000 to 8,000 flight hours, and make them as capable as new-build models, says an industry source. An upgrade to all 10 aircraft is likely to cost around $150 million.In addition, Lockheed is pushing for Indonesia to purchase six more F-16s in the Block 50/52 configuration to give it a full squadron of 16 operational aircraft.Another option, albeit less likely, would be for the nation to replace its current F-16s with ex-US Air National Guard Block 50/52 airframes. However, these would have a remaining service life of only 1,500h each and be less compatible with the US Air Force's support system for the type.

Indonesian earmarks funds for utility helicopter deal

11:38 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

By Greg Waldron

Jakarta has earmarked $65 million for new medium utility helicopters, but the Indonesian defence ministry has yet to receive the funds.Previous reports have suggested that Indonesia's total requirement could be for 24 new utility helicopters; enough to be divided into two squadrons.Possible contenders for the requirement include AgustaWestland's AW139, the Eurocopter-promoted NH Industries NH90, and the Bell 412EP, put forward by the US manufacturer and IAe.

Embraer to sell Super Tucanos light attack turboprops to Indonesia

11:37 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Brazilian aviation giant Embraer announced Wednesday that it has won an international competition to supply eight Super Tucano light attack turboprops to the Indonesian Air Force.Embraer did not say how much the deal was worth; it also includes ground support stations and an integrated logistics package. Deliveries to Indonesia start in 2012.

"We are very pleased to have the Indonesian Air Force as the newest customer of Embraer Defense Systems," said Orlando Jose Ferreira Neto, Embraer executive vice president."The Super Tucano is a proven light attack and advanced trainer turboprop, flying currently in five air forces, and we are certain it will perfectly suit Indonesia's needs."

The Super Tucano lists at around 10 million dollars, according to local media.Embraer, the world's third-largest aircraft maker, in the third quarter of 2010 had earnings of 128 million dollars.

By Agence France-Presse

Israel Air Force Two-Seater F-16I Crashes

11:36 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Pilot, navigator missing after Air Force's most advanced plane crashes during routine training flight. No problems were reported before tragedy occurred. IDF, police rescue units search area An Israel Air Force two-seater F-16I airplane crashed late Wednesday evening during training in the south of Israel, near Mitzpe Ramon. The pilot and navigator have been described as missing, and many Israel Defense Forces troops were involved in searching for them. Pieces of the aircraft have been located.The two missing men were identified as Major Amichay Itkis, 28, of Sde Warburg, and Major Emanuel Levy, 30, of Maale Adumim. Their families have been notified.

Beechcraft T-6 Military Trainer for Indian Air Force field evaluation trials

11:33 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Hawker Beechcraft Corporation’s (HBC) T-6 military trainer will come to India later this month to take part in field evaluation trials with the Indian Air Force officials as part of its competition for a new basic trainer, a HBC release said.The Beechcraft T-6 offers military organizations worldwide the most proven and most cost-effective training system available today. The T-6 is a primary trainer aircraft that accommodates instruction in instrument flight procedures and basic aerial maneuvers. The aircraft delivers an outstanding training capability that is appropriate for the most basic introductory flight training through more challenging and complex advanced training missions. To date, it has been used to train pilots in approximately 20 different countries.

India world's largest combat aircraft buyer: SIPRI

11:31 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

India is the largest buyer of combat aircraft in the world , with the US topping the list of sellers, a leading international think tank has said. According to a report released Wednesday by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), a total of 50 countries bought 995 warplanes during 2005-09, Xinhua reported. India purchased 115 combat planes, the largest buyer in the world during the period, the Swedish institute said in the report. "India, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Israel are by far the largest recipients of combat aircraft. Together, these three countries accounted for almost one-third of all imports of combat aircraft between 2005 and 2009," the report said. The US and Russia are by far the largest suppliers of combat aircraft accounting for two-thirds of all warplanes delivered during the period. According to the report, between 2005 and 2009, the US sold 341 fighter jets, up from 286 planes sold during the previous five-year period, while Russia sold 219 planes, down from 331.

China Fears Spark Indo-US Courting

3:23 AM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

When the US Navy and Indian forces held their annual bilateral amphibious training exercise in late September, it got little attention from the international media. It was, after all, a relatively small, joint tabletop exercise between the two nations.But the interesting thing about Exercise Habu Nag was not in the manoeuvres that were being executed, nor their size. It was all about the location—in the waters off Japan’s Okinawa, just as Sino-Japanese tensions were rising over a maritime territorial dispute.

Indeed, it’s fitting that the issue of China again loomed so large over the exercises, because it has been Chinese criticism that in the past couple of years has deterred India from engaging fully with the United States in this way.

Against this backdrop, the long border between the two countries remains unsettled and prone to misunderstandings, accidents and standoffs. Yet any confrontation between India and China isn’t likely to come on land—it is much more likely to occur in the Indian Ocean Region and South China Sea. For, while Beijing doesn’t even accept Indian pre-eminence in the Indian Ocean region, New Delhi is itself pushing its way into the Malacca Straits and the South China Sea—an area Beijing regards as a core interest.

The USS Trenton, a decrepit amphibious ship, was the first such platform bought by the Indian Navy, in 2007, for the ‘throwaway’ price of $50 million. India has placed orders for six heavy-lift military transport planes C-130J.India has also contracted Boeing to supply 12 P-8i Poseidon long range maritime patrol aircraft. Washington has been pressing India to purchase US military hardware worth in excess of $13 billion. Who gets a piece of this Indian pie will largely depend on which fighter aircraft the Indian Air Force decides to buy to shore up its fast depleting combat jet strength—US firms Lockheed Martin and Boeing are among six foreign companies that have bid for the $11 billion fighter jet deal.Another deal hanging in the balance is $3.5 billion worth 10 C-17 Globemaster planes for the Indian Air Force.

http://the-diplomat.com/2010/11/05/china-fears-spark-indo-us-courting/

India's indigenously-developed AEW&C radar will be integrated on Embraer 145 jet by 2011-end

2:40 AM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

India's first indigenously-developed Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system is ready and is being sent to Brazil shortly to be integrated with an Embraer 145 jet .First Embraer is due to roll out in Jan 2011, and the Indian AEW&C radar will be integrated on it by 2011-end. The Embraer aircraft will be modified for mid-air refueling to extend their 3,000 km-plus range.The IAF is also looking at the Boeing 737-700 AEW&C equipped with Northrop Grumman's Multi-Role Electronically Scanned Array (MESA) radar, the type already sold to Australia. The AWACS and AEW&C systems are advanced radars, absolutely essential in contemporary defence requirements for long-range and precision engagement to neutralize hostile targets.Both the Indian Navy and the IAF should require at least 20 each of them, although on different platforms and different capabilities.

Japan Eyes Procuring F-35 fighters; Gives up on More F-2 jets

12:45 AM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

The Defense Ministry has set its sights on procuring the F-35 fighter as Japan’s main next-generation fighter aircraft for the Air Self-Defense Force, giving up on an earlier plan to buy more F-2 fighters, ministry and Self-Defense Forces sources said Sunday.The ministry plans to seek procurement costs for the F-35 in its budget request for fiscal 2012 and is slated to begin full-fledged arrangements for the procurement plan early next year through a selection committee to prepare for the budget request deadline next summer, the sources said.The ministry was planning to retool its current main F-15 fighters and buy more F-2 jets as a stopgap measure, given the delay in the development of the fifth-generation F-35 stealth fighter capable of flying at supersonic speeds as well as its price increase.But the ministry has determined that procuring the less functional F-2 aircraft additionally would not be expedient from the standpoint of deterrence and cost, the sources said.

India May Order Another Six C-17 Globemaster-III

11:58 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

The biggest Indo-US defence deal in the pipeline, the $4.1-billion for 10 C-17 Globemaster-III giant strategic airlift aircraft, could get even bigger. India may well order another six C-17s after the first 10. The impending final contract for 10 C-17s is in tune with India's aim to have swift power projection capabilities, with the region spanning from Persian Gulf to Malacca Strait being seen as the country's ''primary area of geo-strategic interest''.

The gigantic C-17s, after all, are capable of carrying a payload of 164,900 pounds after taking off from a mere 7,000-feet airstrip. These four-engine aircraft, manufactured by Boeing, can transport tanks and combat-ready troops over 2,400 nautical miles. ''After we have evaluated the performance of the 10 C-17s, we will take a decision on whether to order another six,'' IAF chief Air Chief Marshal P V Naik told TOI on Monday.

US President to Push India to Buy More US Military Hardware

11:55 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

US President Barack Obama, on his visit to India, is aiming to seal deals worth billions of dollars. A day after announcing new business deals, now his focus is on the defence sector. NDTV has learnt that during his meeting with the Prime Minister, Obama plans to push India to buy more US military hardware. Let's take a look at the potential deals in the pipeline:

The Indian Army plans to buy 145 Howitzers, which is approximately US $8 billion deal. So far, BAE Systems has offered the M777 Lightweight Towed Howitzer for which the Indian Army has conducted field trials in recent weeks The Army also plans to buy sensor-fused weapons or Cluster bombs - a $880 million deal. Apart from this, Indian Air Force and Navy are looking for AWACS and mid-air refuelers which are going to cost $ 2 billion.

Leading US-based aircraft manufacturer Boeing has offered the B737-700. Boeing is close to winning the 10 Air Force Heavy Lift Aircraft deal by offering the C-17 Globemaster III. This deal is valued at approximately US $4.5 billion. Also, there is the closely contested $11 billion Air Force Multi-role Fighter Aircraft deal and the winner is expected to be announced latest by mid-2011.

Boeing has offered the F/A-18 Super Hornets while Lockheed Martin has offered the less fancied F-16IN single engine fighters. What's already in the bag: The Navy has already ordered 12 Boeing P8I Poseidon Aircrafts worth US $$4.5-$5 billion for maritime patrolling. The Air Force has sealed the deal for C-130 transport aircraft. First delivery is expected in less than a month. However, all these weapons platforms will come bereft of latest technology since India has refused to sign the CISMOA (Communications Interoperability and Security Memorandum of Agreement) with the United States. NDTV

Deals with US not to hit Indo-Russia ties

11:51 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

India's military ties with Russia are not likely to be affected by recent spurt in the purchase of equipment from the US. For, the wide range of military equipment being sourced from Russia, or being co-developed with Moscow, is far too huge for the US to match, sources told.

Notably, the US has recently entered the Indian military market via the government-to-government sales route and is at best "setting its foot on the soil". Russia, however, is so well ensconced that frontline fighters the Sukhoi-30 and T-90 tanks are now being produced in India itself. And co-development projects include a cruise missile, next generation of fighter and transport planes, an official said. Among the recent acquisition from the US have been the six C-130-J medium haul transport planes -- the first batch arrives in February next.

The Navy will also be soon getting the first batch of the eight long-range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft, the P-8I. India has already selected the General Electric's GE 414 engine to power the next lot of light combat aircraft - the Tejas. Besides, the Army is in the final stages of trying out the ultra-light howitzer - the M777. The gun can be slung under a chopper and dropped at remote mountainous locations. The last on the list is the much talked about $5.8 billion deal for the purchase of 10 heavy lift transport aircraft, the C-17-A Globemaster.

United Arab Emirates Requests Sale of AH-64D Apache

11:42 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress November 3 of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the United Arab Emirates of 30 AH-64D Block II lot 10 APACHE helicopters, remanufactured to AH-64D Block III configuration and 30 AH-64D Block III APACHE helicopters, as well as associated parts, equipment, training and logistical support for a complete package worth approximately $5.0 billion.

The Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has requested a possible sale of 30 AH-64D Block II lot 10 APACHE helicopters, remanufactured to AH-64D Block III configuration, 30 AH-64D Block III APACHE helicopters, 120 T700-GE-701D engines, 76 Modernized Target Acquisition and Designation Sight/Modernized Pilot Night Vision Sensors, 70 AN/APG-78 Fire Control Radars with Radar Electronics Units, 70 AN/ALQ-144A(V)3 Infrared Jammers, 70 AN/APR-39A(V)4 Radar Signal Detecting Sets, 70 AN/ALQ-136(V)5 Radar Jammers, 70 AAR-57(V)3/5 Common Missile Warning Systems, 30mm automatic weapons, improved counter measure dispensers, communication and support equipment, improved helmet display sight systems, trainer upgrades, spare and repair parts, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor engineering and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $5.0 billion.

UAE displays upgraded Apache AH-64D Block II

10:57 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Boeing has completed work bringing the United Arab Emirates’ fleet of 30 Apache attack helicopters up to AH-64D Block II configuration, it has been announced. Speaking at the Dubai Helishow, Boeing director for rotorcraft business development, Mike Burke, said the company had remanufactured all 30 of the aircraft, which now feature the Longbow fire control radar and new fire control system. The UAE Army displayed one of its AH-64D Apaches at the static display here at the show. As well as the Longbow radar, the Apache fleet now incorporates the Modernized Target Acquisition and Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (M-TADS/PNVS) electro-optical fire-control system and AGM-114L3 Hellfire II laser-guided missile. Burke said the upgrade to the fleet, carried out under a contract with Boeing that was signed in 2006, was made possible by the ‘plug and play’ nature of the Apache.Boeing was awarded a $247 million contract on 22 October for the initial production of eight Apache Block III aircraft, with the delivery of the first scheduled for October 2011.

Pakistan Navy Inducts Z9EC helicopters, EW Jet Aircraft

10:51 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

The second batch of four Z9EC Anti Submarine helicopters, and the first Information and Electronic Warfare Jet aircraft were formally inducted in Pakistan Navy Aviation fleet on Thursday.The induction ceremony was held at PN Aviation Base PNS Mehran. Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral, Noman Bashir was the chief guest.The Z9EC helicopters have been acquired from China under the contract with China National Aero technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC). The first batch was inducted last year which has been successfully taking part in Naval Air Operations. These helicopters operate from F-22P Frigates which now make an important part of PN Fleet. The helicopters are equipped with advanced sensors and torpedoes for undertaking designed role of Anti Submarine Warfare.

The acquisition of IW/EW jet aircraft would add a new dimension to Pakistan Navy’s intelligence gathering capabilities. The aircraft, equipped with modern and sophisticated equipment, is capable of covering larger areas in short time span, and would significantly enhance maritime domain awareness of own area of operations.

30th anniversary of Taiwan's AT-3 jet trainer celebrated

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Taiwan celebrated Friday the 30th anniversary of the maiden flight of its self-designed, self-manufactured jet trainer.In attendance at the Taichung complex of Aerospace Industrial Development Corp. (AIDC), were Vice Minister of Economics Lin Sheng-chung, Taichung City Mayor Jason Hu, AIDC Chairman Shung Yeou-kuang and representatives from the Air Force.The event started with a film looking back at the difficulties encountered and overcome during three decades of the trainer's development."Without the AIDC, there would be no aerospace industry in Taiwan," Lin said.Due to the experience gained by developing the AT-3 trainers, Taiwan was later able to develop its first indigenous defense fighters: a supersonic, twin-engined plane similar to the F-16 but slightly smaller and with a slightly shorter range.

Poor inspection blamed for damages to ROKAF's F-15K

10:31 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

By Jung Sung-ki

One of the three F-15K aircraft delivered by U.S. aerospace company Boeing to the South Korean Air Force (ROKAF) in September had severe defects allegedly due to the poor quality of work at a St. Louis manufacturing facility, industry sources said Thursday.On Sept. 9, Boeing delivered three of the second batch of 21 F-15Ks ordered under a 2008 contract, following the delivery of 40 F-15Ks under a previous deal in 2002.But one of the newly arrived aircraft had an engine damaged by foreign objects, and fuel transfer and avionics glitches, the sources said, citing testimony of Korean technicians based at the K2 Air Base in Daegu, about 300 kilometers south of Seoul. The Daegu base is home to the F-15K fleet.The broken engine built by Pratt & Whitney was immediately replaced with a new one and other problems were repaired, the sources said.

Typhoon closes in on $11bn fighter deal

10:28 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

The multi-role combat aircraft, manufactured by a joint venture between Britain's BAE Systems, Italy's Alenia Aeronautica and the German-Spanish giant EADS, has come top in the Indian Air Force's technical assessment of rival bids, beating the American F16 and F18s, the Russian MiG 35 and its closest rival, the French Dassault Rafale. President Barack Obama of the United States is in India this weekend and is expected to lobby on behalf of the US defence industry for the F16 and F18. "There are a number of cost and strategic considerations which still have to be looked at, but in purely technical terms, Eurofighter is ahead," the official said. The Typhoon's unique advantage, he said, is an integrated platform for its weapons, radar and intelligence- gathering systems. "It has this flexibility and adaptability at any one time," he said. Sir Stephen previously headed Britain's Typhoon development programme at the Ministry of Defence.

Indian Air Force to purchase of 10 C-17 Globemaster III military transport aircraft

10:26 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

The Boeing Company and the Indian Air Force have reached preliminary agreement on the purchase of 10 C-17 Globemaster III military transport aircraft, and are now in the process of finalizing the details of the sale. Once all have been delivered, the Indian Air Force will be the owner and operator of the largest fleet of C-17s outside of the United States. Boeing, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, is the aircraft manufacturer. Boeing reports that each C-17 supports 650 suppliers across 44 U.S. states and that this order will support Boeing’s C-17 production facility in Long Beach, California, for an entire year. This transaction is valued at approximately $4.1 billion, all of which is U.S. export content, supporting an estimated 22,160 jobs.

Finmeccanica Sells Helicopters to Turkmenistan

10:09 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Italian defense group Finmeccanica has sold helicopters, including the AgustaWestland AW101 and the AW139, to the government of Turkmenistan, the firm said Nov. 4.The sale was announced during a conference call with analysts. During the call, Chief Financial Officer Alessandro Pansa also said that a long-delayed deal to sell the M-346 jet trainer to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) could be struck in 2011.

Russia sends 3rd AWACS plane to India

10:06 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Russia has completed its part of a contract on the delivery of A-50 Mainstay AWACS aircraft to India, a Russian aircraft industry official said.India ordered three A-50EI variants, developed on the basis of the Russian Il-76MD military transport plane and fitted with the Israeli-made Phalcon radar system, in 2004. The first two aircraft are already in service with the Indian air force (IAF).

Indian air chief dismisses UK’s ‘iffy’ Harriers

10:04 PM ASIAN DEFENCE No comments

Britain has hit an early obstacle in its bid to sell its fleet of Harrier jump jets after India, the most promising potential buyer, described the aircraft as “iffy” and obsolete.Air Chief Marshall PV Naik, the head of the Indian Air Force, said on Tuesday he would be looking to acquire modern aircraft of fourth-generation capabilities or better. “The Harrier doesn’t fit into that category,” the Air Chief Marshall said.