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News Archive 2001
August - September - October - November- December DEFENCE FORCE ASSETS NOW TASKED ON BUSHFIRES: Two ADF 'Seaking' and two 'Squirrel' helicopters from the NAS 'Nowra' have been tasked to the Rural Fire Service through to 5 January 2002 for fire spotting and the transport of personnel and stores. Provision of the helicopters has been co-ordinated through Emergency Management Australia, now under the responsibility of the Attorney-General's Department. [31.12.01] AIR SECURITY OFFICERS START THEIR ENDURING VIGIL: Australia's first group of 22 Air Security Officers (Air Marshals) have commenced operations on Australian domestic flights. The Minister for Customs and Justice says the program aims "to deter potential hijackers of Australian aviation interests and provide a degree of public reassurance to aviation passengers during periods of heightened anxiety about aviation security." Some 111 Air Marshals will be in-service by the end of 2003. [31.12.01] TERRORISM WAR CONTINUES AMIDST BUSHFIRE CRISIS: In his New Year message, the Prime Minister has said the American-led campaign against terrorism will 'go on' in 2002. According to Howard - and acknowledging the challenge at home from bushfires - Australia "must remain part of that fight. The values and the way of life attacked by the terrorists were as much ours as they were those of the United States." [31.12.01] OSPREY V-22's SENT BACK FOR TWO-YEAR TESTS: The troubled V-22 'Osprey' transport aircraft is to undergo a further two-year flight test program to address serious doubts about safety, reliability and operational suitability. USMC plans to buy 360 tilt-rotor aircraft - as well as US Navy and USAF plans to each buy 50 Osprey's - were put on hold following two crashes that killed 23 Marines in April and December 2000. The new flight test program will start in April 2002. [24.12.01] AUSTRALIAN MINE TEAM TAKEN OUT OF MOZAMBIQUE: Two ADF personnel from the Accelerated De-mining Program are to be withdrawn from Mozambique after an eight year contribution to de-mining activities previously conducted under UN auspices. Support for de-mining work will nevertheless continue for a further two years under an A$1.3m program being administered by Australian non-government agencies. [21.12.01] INDONESIAN BOATS CAUGHT IN SENSITIVE FISHING ZONE: In a joint operation with the Royal Australian Navy, the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) yesterday apprehended two large Indonesian-flagged stern trawlers inside the Australian Fishing Zone. The two vessels, each about 50 metres in length, were sighted during a routine surveillance operation by HMAS 'Whyalla'. Following the sightings, the 'Whyalla' - with an AFMA Fisheries Officer from Western Australia on board - apprehended the vessels on the eastern side of the Gulf of Carpentaria. [21.12.02] COSGROVE CONFIRMS AIR 87 CAPABILITY PLAN: Outlining details for the integration of the 'Aussie Tiger' armed reconnaissance helicopter into the ADF, the Chief of Army has confirmed the integration of the Australian Army Aviation Corps into the all Arms Combat Team. LtGen Cosgrove says the formation of the 16th Aviation Brigade and the Aviation Capability Development Group "will ensure that the wider Army and Defence Force is ready for (the new) capability when it arrives in three years time. [21.12.01] AGING PROCESS WORRIES DEFENCE RECRUITERS: Australia's population continues to age due to sustained low levels of fertility and increasing life expectancy, says the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The median age of the local population was 35.4 years in June 2001, an increase of 5.8 years over the past twenty years. Similarly, low fertility levels have resulted in minimal growth in the number of children aged 0-14 (5%), while the number of persons aged 15-64 years has increased by 34%, those aged 65 years and over have increased by 65%, and those aged 85 years and over have increased by 156%. [21.12.01] POLITICAL RESPONSE TO ABM TREATY WITHDRAWAL: Prime Minister Howard says the Vice-President of the United States, Dick Cheney, telephoned him 13 December to advise of US plans to withdraw (14/12) from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty with Russia. The Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, Kevin Rudd, has expressed regret at the US's withdrawal decision, saying Labor has long supported the ABM Treaty as a keystone of nuclear arms control (and its) abandonment "signals a move towards a new set of strategic nuclear relationships." [21.12.01] DEFENCE CONCLUDES AIR 87 CONTRACT: The new Defence Parliamentary Secretary, Fran Bailey, has overseen the signing in Canberra of the $1.3b contract with Eurocopter International Pacific for 22 ‘Tiger’ helicopters under ADF Project Air 87. Bailey says the project will create up to 180 jobs in Brisbane, including 150 during the assembly phase (from mid-2002 to mid-2008), and another 30 jobs from the production line. The first of the Tigers will enter service from end-2004. [21.12.01] EUROCOPTER PRESIDENT VISITS AUSTRALIA: The President of Eurocopter, Jean-Francois Bigay, has visited Australian for the signing of the Air 87 Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH) contract. Bigay says the contract signature represents “a very important step (for) the go-ahead for a long term commitment through a top quality industrial partnership with Australia.” [21.12.01] TEETH AND CLAWS FOR THE AUSSIE TIGER: The Army's new ‘Tiger’ ARH helicopters are to be fitted with the ‘Hellfire’ missile, although the warhead on the ADF variant will be optimised for a range of targets apart from simply ‘anti-tank’. The ‘Tiger’ will also be fitted for (but not with) the ‘Mistral’ air-to-air missile, although the helicopter's simulator will be delivered with an AAM module, allowing Army pilots to familiarise themselves with the capability should it need to be fitted to in-service helicopters at short notice. [21.12.01] TENIX DEFENCE RECEIVES ITSEC ACCREDITATION: The Defence Signals Directorate (DSD) has awarded a licence to Tenix Defence to provide IT security evaluation services under the Australasian Information Security Evaluation Program (AISEP). As a facility under AISEP, Tenix Defence may now perform security evaluation services against the internationally recognised Common Criteria (ISO/IEC 15408) and the Information Technology Security Evaluation Criteria (ITSEC). Tenix joins CMG Admiral and CSC Australia as the only three facilities licensed under the program in six years. [21.12.01] TERRORIST ‘BLACK LIST’ FINALLY GAZETTED: The Commonwealth Government has listed in the ‘Gazette’ the names of terrorists and terrorist organisations whose assets in Australia are obliged to be frozen. Raised under Regulations associated with the implementation of United Nations charter commitments, the Gazette first lists Osama bin Laden, Al Qaida and the Taliban. A second list relates to ‘known terrorist organisations’ such as Hizballah, HAMAS, the Tamil Tigers and the Real IRA. [21.12.01] REVIEW OF NATIONAL CRIME AUTHORITY APPOINTED: Former Australian Federal Police Commissioner, Mick Palmer, and former A-G’s Department Secretary, Tony Blunn, have been commissioned by Cabinet to review (by January 2002) the performance and cost-effectiveness of the National Crime Authority (NCA). The duo’s report is to be considered prior to the March 2002 Commonwealth-State Summit on Transnational Crime and Terrorism, which will examine ways to improve Australia’s national response to these types of threats. [21.12.01] NEW CYBERCRIME ACT PROVISIONS COME INTO FORCE: The Minister for Justice and Customs, Senator Ellison, says the Cybercrime Act 2001 provides for new up-to-date computer offences and law enforcement powers to ensure Australia’s national information infrastructure is protected from cyber-terrorist attacks with the potential to seriously interfere with the functioning of the government, the financial sector and industry. One key offence in the Act is designed to cover the unauthorised use of a computer with intent to commit a serious offence such as sabotage of fraud. [21.12.01] US ARMY SAYS IT WILL TAKE 62 ADI HME VEHICLES: ADI has emerged from the US Army’s Foreign Comparative Test program with a A$30m order for up to 62 high-speed engineering vehicles under its Interim High Mobility Engineering Excavator (IHMEE) program. For both the IHMEE and a Future HMEE program, the US is looking for in excess of 1800 vehicles. ADI has teamed with the Wisconsin-based Oshkosh Truck Corporation to reply to US HMEE requirements. [21.12.01] NEXT SERIES OF ELECTRONIC WARFARE SEMINARS: Electronic Warfare Associates-Australia (EWA) will be conducting their next EW Seminar on ‘Electronic Attack Concepts and Technology Trends’ on 5-6 February 2002 - at Innovation House, Technology Park, Adelaide. Further information on this, and other, EWA seminars can be obtained from http://www.ewa-australia.com. [21.12.01] ATK TO DEVELOP ‘SPIKE’ MISSILE CAPABILITY: ATK Thiokol Propulsion Company has been awarded a 3-year US$4m contract from the Naval Air Systems Command to develop the propulsion system and warhead for the ‘Spike’ shoulder-fired missile. A low-cost, fire-and-forget guided missile and launcher system, the ‘Spike’ is designed to defeat targets such as unarmoured or lightly armoured vehicles, infantry fighting positions, mobile anti-aircraft systems, and slow-moving helicopters. A version of this missile is likely to be offered to the ADF under the Army’s Land 40 project. [20.12.01] AUSTRALIA POST MOVES INTO DIGITAL COMMUNICATION: Australia Post has received full accreditation to act as Registration Authority (through its ‘KeyPOST’ service) under the Government’s new ‘Gatekeeper’ digital communications strategy. KeyPOST’s role is to inform Certification Authorities of the authenticity of each digital certificate applicant, and then issue the appropriate certificate. Other organisations with ‘Gatekeeper’ accreditation include: Baltimore Certificates Australia, eSign Australia, the ATO, Health eSignature Authority and Telstra Corporation. [20.12.01] STRONG UK PRESENCE AT PACIFIC 2002 IN JANUARY: The UK Minister for Defence Procurement, Lord Bach of Lutterworth, is to lead a 20-company strong UK delegation to the Pacific 2002 Maritime Exhibition. Lord Bach will be visiting Australia for the first time since taking up his post in the Ministry of Defence in June. Also attending will be MajGen Robert Fry, Commandant General of the Royal Marines, Brigadier Prentice (the IPT Leader for the Type 45 destroyer program), and RAdm John Tolhurst, the Military Deputy to the Head of the Defence Export Services Organisation. [19.12.01] HELICOPTER EMULATOR TO FEATURE AT UK STAND: The leading feature of the UK Pavillion at the Pacific 2002 Maritime Exhibition (next to the DESO stand) will be a helicopter cockpit simulator – to be demonstrated for first time in Australia. The overall emulation encompasses an amphibious landing involving a new Type 45 destroyer. The simulation is to be projected onto a ‘VisionDome’ display which provides the type of vertical field-of-view considered as critical to safe operations when landing aircraft in confined spaces, such as aboard destroyers and frigates. [19.12.01] A400M MOVES CLOSER TO THE PRODUCTION LINE: Defence Ministers from eight European countries have witnessed the signing of a contract between the European Defence Purchasing Agency (OCCAR) and the Airbus Military Company for at least 196 new A400M transport aircraft. Assuming the German parliament ratifies the deal, the E18b deal will see Germany take 73 A400Ms, France-50, Spain-27, the UK-25, Turkey-10, Belgium-7, Portugal-3 and Luxembourg-1. [19.12.01] LONGER-TERM TIME FRAME ADOPTED FOR ASC SALE: The Government has pushed back the time-frames for the sale of the Australian Submarine Corporation (ASC) in deference to the need to concentrate on concluding arrangements for ASC to support the ‘Collins’ submarine fleet, introducing General Dynamics/Electric Boat to the ASC as a capability partner, and resolving intellectual property and design authority issues necessary to ensure proper through-life support. [19.12.01] EUROPE CONSOLIDATES MISSILE INTERESTS IN MBDA: The regrouping of European missile and related systems activities into a single company has been successfully completed with creation of the E2b annual sales MBDA. Sporting an order book of E13+b, the new MBDA is to be headed by Fabrice Bregier, and brings together Matra BAe Dynamics, Aerospatiale Matra Missiles and Alenia Marconi Systems (Missile Division). The company also has a strategic alliance with the German missile industry (principally LFK) as well as with the Spanish missile industry (EADS-Casa, Indra and Izar). MBDA is jointly owned by BAE Systems (37.5%), EADS (37.5%) and Finmeccanica (25%). [19.12.01] EUROPEAN DEFENCE ELECTRONICS CONSOLIDATION: Following-on from the formation of MBDA, joint shareholders BAE Systems and Finmeccanica have created a new E1.2b turnover AMS Group specialising in the design, manufacture and supply of radars and mission critical command, control and management systems to defence forces and civil air traffic authorities throughout the world. As such, Combat and Radar Systems Limited (CaRS) - previously part of BAES - has joined AMS, which has subsequently agreed to establish ‘preferred partner’ status with MBDA. [18.12.01] BOEING AWARDED RAAF TRAINING CONTRACT: Boeing has been awarded a three-year $US32m contract by the Royal Australian Air Force (as well as Canadian Forces) to produce an Integrated Maintenance Training System (IMTS) for F/A-18 and CF-18 ‘Hornet’ aircraft. The IMTS is a new-generation training device for military aircraft maintenance personnel, and combines a high-fidelity simulated cockpit with virtual system panels. Boeing is to work with Atlantis Systems International of Brampton (Ontario) on development of the maintenance trainers. [18.12.01] CORNALL REVIEW REPORTS ON TERRORISM THREAT: A high level review of Australia’s counter-terrorism capabilities headed by Robert Cornall, the Secretary of the Attorney-General’s Department has found, “the profound shift in the international security environment has meant that Australia’s profile as a terrorist target has risen and our interests abroad face a higher level of terrorist threat.” [18.12.01] ANTI-TERRORISM UPGRADE PROGRAM CONFIRMED: Cabinet has endorsed a raft of measures to enhance Australia’s ability to meet the challenges of an increased terrorist threat environment. ASIO is to be given new powers of investigation and detention, ‘terrorism’ offences are to the inserted into the Criminal Code, amendments will be made to the Financial Transactions Reports Act 1988 to track terrorism-related international funds transfers, and responsibility for airport physical security and counter-terrorism first response will be moved to the Attorney-General’s portfolio. [18.12.01] GOVERNMENT TO INTERCEPT TERRORIST EMAILS: The Government will move next year to amend the Telecommunications (Interception) Act 1979 to permit access to unread e-mails where another form of lawful access to the system or device capable of displaying the communication is not held by the relevant agency. The Act will also be amended to include terrorism offences in the definition of ‘Class 1 Offences’ for the purposes of telecommunications interception warrants. [18.12.01] FIRST GROUP OF 22 AIR MARSHALS IN PLACE: Attorney-General Williams has confirmed the first group of 22 (of an eventual 111) Australian Air Security Officers (Air Marshals) have completed their training and will be available for deployment in helping to ensure the security of Australian aviation. The Australian Protective Service (APS) in cooperation and liaison with the aviation industry and State and Federal Police are implementing the program. The APS is also responsible for providing the Counter-Terrorist ‘first response’ capability at major Australian airports. [18.12.01] NEW AIRCRAFT STRUCTURES ADVISORY GROUP: Defence has supported the establishment of a new, high-level, management advisory group to assist the Director-General Technical Airworthiness to meet his corporate governance responsibilities for aircraft structural integrity. At its first meeting, the new Aircraft Structural Integrity Advisory Group (ASI-AG) discussed its terms of Reference, including: the vision for ASI management in the ADF, fundamental principles and outcomes for ASI management, and policy and strategies to implement ASI management policy. [17.12.01] AREA DEFENCE MISSILE PROGRAM CANCELLED: US Navy efforts to develop a theatre wide defence against ballistic missiles for in-service implementation in two years time have come undone with cancellation of the program due to poor performance and more than 50% cost overruns. Firms principally affected are: Raytheon, Lockheed-Martin, United Defence, Orbital Sciences and L-3 Communications. The Ballistic Missile Defence Organisation will now address sea-based missile defence as part of plans to develop an integrated ballistic missile defence system capable of layered defence against all ranges of ballistic missiles. [17.12.01] US NAVY CHRISTENS LATEST DDG DESTROYER: The latest ‘Aegis’ guided missile destroyer has been launched at Northrop Grumman’s Ingalls facility in Pascagoula. Christened the ‘Mustin’, DDG89 is the 39th ship in the DDG51 ‘Arleigh Burke’ class of vessels, and is capable of fighting air, surface and sub-surface battles simultaneously. DDG89 is the 18th of 25 ships under contract or option to Ingalls. [17.12.01] CAE TO BUILD ‘CHINOOK’ SIMULATOR FOR RSAF: CAE will supply a full mission ‘Chinook’ helicopter simulator to the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) in a contract valued at more than C$47m. The simulator will be delivered and ready for training in 2004, and will feature CAE's ‘Medallion’ visual system, including visual channels for the Chinook's chin windows and databases that will be optimised for low-level helicopter training. [17.12.01] SLOW PAYMENTS TO DEFENCE SUPPLIERS: Releasing the monthly Commonwealth of Australia financial statements for September 2001, Finance Minister, Nick Minchin, says goods and services expenses of $10.024b were 12% lower than pro-rata estimates, with at least half of the variance due to payments for ‘suppliers expenses for Defence’ which are “significantly low in the first part of the year as activity levels are expected to increase later in the financial year. This is an area that Defence will keep reviewing.” [17.12.01] POLITICIANS IN NO HURRY TO RETURN TO CANBERRA: The 40th Federal Parliament will meet for the first time on 12 February 2002, some three months after the 10 November election, and 138 days since the Parliament last met. From 21 March there will be a recess of seven weeks before the 2002/03 Budget is brought down on 14 May. At this point there will have been only 14 sitting days in 2002. There will also be a seven-week Winter break from 27 June. The Parliament will not be sitting on Melbourne Cup Day, and the sitting program remains set on a two-week on/two weeks off plan. [17.12.01] ELECTION RESULTS NOW FINALLY SET THE PARLIAMENT: With the declaration of final counting of votes from the 10 November election, the state of the parties in the House of Representatives is: Liberal - 69 (67 after the 1998 election); National - 13 (16); ALP - 65 (64); and Independents - 3 (1). The Government now has a majority of 14 in the House compared to the previous election, although numbers in the House have been increased to 150 members, compared to 148 previously. [17.12.01] FIRST TRIP TO EAST TIMOR FOR DEFENCE MINISTER HILL: New Defence Minister Robert Hill will visit Australian troops in a pre-Christmas visit to East Timor on 20-21 December. The visit will be Hill’s first overseas trip since becoming Minister for Defence, and is focused on allowing him to meet front-line Australian troops stationed in East Timor. More than 1500 ADF personnel are serving in East Timor as part of the Peacekeeping force (PKF) of the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET). [14.12.01] NEW EURO ‘HORIZON’ FRIGATE SONAR SELECTED: Thales Underwater Systems (TUS) and Whitehead Alenia Systemi Subacquei (WASS) have been awarded a contract to supply sonar systems for the new Franco-Italian ‘Horizon’ frigate program. The four sonar systems (designated the 4110 CL) will utilise a cylindrical array and advanced processing in the medium frequency range to provide state-of-the-art capability to the new frigates, two of each of which are being built for France and Italy. [14.12.01] ACT GOVERNMENT SETS ITS KNOWLEDGE AGENDA: The ACT Deputy Chief Minister, Ted Quinlan, (responsible for Treasury, Economic Development, Business, and Tourism), says priorities for the newly-elected Labor Government are to: establish a Knowledge Based Economy Board (to provide advice directly to Government on the development of knowledge based industries); establish Business Canberra (to advise Government on business and industry development); and establish a Small Business and Micro Advisory Council, to advise on priorities of the small, micro and home based business sector. [14.12.01] BIG YEAR IN 2002 FOR IBM/LOTUS E-SOLUTIONS: IBM and Lotus software are planning a big year in 2002 for marketing their e-business solutions, and will increasingly involve technical counterparts WebSphere, Tivoli, DB2 and Informix (as well as US speakers) in the Lotus eSolutions Showcase (March 2002) and Lotus Fusion (2-4 July 2002). Lotus Fusion will also be moved to the Sydney Convention Centre at Darling Harbour. Email pennellm@au1.ibm.com for details. [14.12.01] AEROSPACE TO FEEL TERRORISM IMPACT IN 2002: The President and CEO of the US Aerospace Industries Association, John Douglass, says the impact of terrorist attacks upon the United States will not become evident in the aerospace manufacturing industry until next year, as companies make adjustments to the contraction of the civil aviation market. He noted that industry had already announced plans for layoffs of 60,000 to 70,000. Douglass cautioned that all was not gloom and doom, as the industry had posted near-record profits for 2001 - an estimated US$8.7b, up from $7.3b in 2000. [13.12.01] MINIATURE AIR-LAUNCHED INTERCEPTOR TESTED: Northrop Grumman's Integrated Systems sector has conducted a flight test of the Miniature Air Launch Interceptor (MALI) at the Naval Air Weapons Division, China Lake in California. The interceptor is designed to thwart cruise missiles, and is funded and managed under the Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency's (DARPA) Tactical Technology Office. MALI derives from the USAF ADM-160A Miniature Air Launched Decoy (MALD) missile, also in development by Northrop Grumman Integrated Systems. [13.12.01] DARONMONT ACQUIRES SA-BASED ACACIA RESEARCH: Melbourne-based Daronmont Technologies is to acquire Adelaide-based and specialist top-security systems designer and developer, Acacia Solutions. Daronmont features in the Howard Government’s third-term agenda with funding to advance usage of Surface Wave Radar for coastal surveillance, whilst Acacia has worked with Silicon Graphics (sgi) to develop 20 ruggedised field computer systems for the Army. The two companies have recently won an $8.7m contract to upgrade data processing capability at RAAF airspace Control and Reporting Units (CRUs) at Tindal, Williamtown and Darwin. [13.12.01] NEW HOWARD CABINET COMMITTEE STRUCTURES: Messrs Howard, Anderson, Costello, Downer, Ruddock, Williams and Defence Minister Senator Hill are to serve on the National Security Committee of Cabinet. The Prime Minister has also appointed Messrs Anderson, Costello, Hill, Abbott and Nelson to serve on a ‘Policy and Priorities Committee’, designed to provide strategic direction and a strong forward agenda for the third-term Howard Government. [13.12.01] METAL STORM SUCCESSFULLY TRADES ON NASDAQ: Australian electronic ballistics technology company, Metal Storm Limited, has made a successful debut on the NASDAQ Small Cap Market, with 625,500 (equivalent to more than 12,500,000 shares listed on the Australian Stock Exchange) of its newly listed ADRs traded on the first day. Solid investor demand helped push the opening price of the ADRs of US$16.40 to a day's high of US28.10, before closing at US$21.75. [13.12.01] NEW CONTRACT FOR ‘SPARROW’ ROCKET MOTORS: ATK (Alliant Techsystems) has been awarded a US$16m contract option by the US Navy for the procurement of 968 rocket motors for the ‘Sparrow’ tactical missile. Of the 968 motors, 266 are for air-to-air missions and 702 are for surface-to-air missions. The new motors are being procured under FMS arrangements and will satisfy individual country requirements as well as NATO requirements. Production is expected to continue through December 2003. [12.12.01] US-AUSTRALIA MARITIME COOPERATION CONFERENCE: Thursday (31 January) has been nominated as ‘US-Australia Defence Cooperation Day’ at the forthcoming Pacific 2002 International Maritime Exhibition, and will feature a one-day conference in a specially constructed auditorium within the US area of the exhibit floor to be opened by the DMO’s David Learmonth (Head of the Industry Division), and Bruce Bade, the Director (Pacific Armament Cooperation) of the Office of the Secretary of Defence. Email qwhiteree@ideea.com for details. [12.12.01] FIVE NATIONS SELECT ROLLS-ROYCE/TURBOMECA ENGINES: Denmark, Finland, Norway, Portugal and Sweden have all selected the Rolls-Royce Turbomeca RTM322 engine for powering medium-sized helicopters for military purposes, including the NH90 and EH-101 helicopters. The Anglo-French joint venture estimates the value of this business throughout the operational lives of the airecraft to be around Euros 250m (£150m). [12.12.01] BAES ON-SCHEDULE COMPLETION OF FIRST ‘RAPIER’ UPGRADE: BAE Systems Customer Solutions and Support division has completed the refurbishment of the first of 20 'Rapier' ground-based air defence missile systems to B1M standard for the Army. Delivery of the refurbished system is the first contract milestone, and completes the pilot program for the Land 140 project. The project has a through-life support element to 2006 with the first eight systems due into service in mid-2002, thus allowing the ADF to maintain its air defence capability whilst it considers a future air defence system under Joint Project 117. [12.12.01] THALES T&S TO SUPPLY NEW ASLAV CPT TO ARMY: Thales Training & Simulation has been selected to develop and supply a crew training systems for the Army’s light armoured vehicle (ASLAV) program. Working through ASLAV prime contractor, GM Defence, Thales will supply nine stand-alone Crew Procedural Trainers (CPTs) at Victoria’s Puckapunyal Army base in support of the School of Armour, and later, two ASLAV equipped Reconnaissance regiments stationed at Darwin and Brisbane. [12.12.01] US/UK TO DEVELOP NEW MULTI-PURPOSE MISSILE: The UK Ministry of Defence and US Department of Defence have committed £40 million to the Concept and Technology Demonstration phase to yield by 2003 of a new ground/air launched multi-purpose missile which can be launched from both ground and air. Should production orders eventuate, first deliveries of the missile could be expected in 2008-2010 based on a 16-year manufacturing run for and estimated 73,000 missiles between the two countries. [11.12.01] BOEING SUBMITS NEW AIR SECURITY PROPOSAL: Responding to a US Department of Transportation (DOT) call for private sector ideas to improve the security of the air transportation system, Boeing Air Traffic Management has drawn on its own research activities to recommend: new secure/encrypted communication links between aircraft, satellites and ground-based users - to provide real-time information about aircraft trajectories, weather, air traffic flow, etc; and, the use of 3D models of airports which are integrated with airport security systems to monitor passenger flows. [11.12.01] KAMAN EXPANDS INTO COMPOSITE AERO PARTS: Kaman Corporation is to acquire the Wichita-based US$14m+ turnover Plastic Fabricating Company Inc (PlasticFab), currently owned by HIG Capital LLC. Founded in 1948, PlasticFab supplies custom engineered composites, advanced plastic components and complex assemblies for commercial and military aerospace applications. Its largest customers include Boeing, Bell Helicopter Textron, Sikorsky Aircraft, Lockheed Martin, and Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. [11.12.01] CUBIC SYSTEM OF SYSTEMS FOR HI-JACKED AIRCRAFT: Cubic Defence Systems has applied for a US patent for a new system for remotely controlling existing flight systems on board commercial aircraft, designed to stop terrorists or other passengers from taking control of the plane. In cases where pilots were killed or disabled, or the aircraft was off course, authorities could remotely initiate ground control via a secure data link. The aircraft's system would then automatically be reprogrammed to approach the nearest safe airport, engage the auto landing sequence and land. [11.12.01] STUDY ON MILITARY USES OF 'NANO/PICO' SATELLITES: Canberra-based Auspace Limited has been commissioned by Defence to review emerging technologies in regard to very small satellites, and how the around 10kg (Nano) and 1kg (Pico) satellites can be used for military purposes. Such small satellites are expected to deploy in ‘swarms’ and could collectively perform functions not even possible with large satellite systems. The information gathering study was let by the ‘Emerging Systems’ group within Defence’s Aerospace Development segment. [11.12.01] RAYTHEON SUPPORTS NEW RELIABILITY LABORATORY: Raytheon has launched a new concept, ReliabilityAnalysisLab.com (RAL) to put component analysis services into the hands of the world's design engineers, manufacturing organisations, and testing laboratories. RAL provides customers with 24/7 access to product reliability reports and in-process analyses on a wide range of electronic products - from microprocessors and discrete components to printed circuit boards and assemblies. [11.12.01] NEW DEFENCE ON-LINE TRAVEL SERVICE IN PLACE: Qantas has created the first online travel booking system for a government agency with acceptance of the Defence Automated Travel System (DATS) by the Deputy Secretary, Corporate Services and Infrastructure (CSIG), Jeff Whalan. DATS is a simple and personalised on-line booking and reservation system that allows the user to book Qantas domestic flights, hire cars, and book hotel rooms from their PC. [11.12.01] RAAF FINALLY ACCEPTS ITS C-130J-30 FLEET: The RAAF’s fleet of twelve C-130J-30 ‘Hercules’ transports have been formally accepted into operational service at the ‘Richmond’ air base in New South Wales. According to the Head of the DMOs Aerospace Systems Division, Air Vice-Marshal Ray Conroy, "this exciting new platform provides the ADF with improved airlift reliability and availability, and will meet (our) strategic and tactical airlift requirements well into the twenty first century." [11.12.01] AUDITOR-GENERAL LOOKS AT DMO REFORM PROGRESS: The Auditor-General has observed that, at present, Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) project status reports do not always indicate whether major capital equipment acquisition projects are meeting agreed timeliness, cost performance or quality criteria, or report against key performance indicators. Such data is, however, expected to be captured by June 2002 with implementation of an activity-based costing model. [10.12.01] VISBY CORVETTE OUT ON FIRST SEA TRIALS: The Swedish Navy has begun sea trials of ts next-generation ‘Visby’ corvette, the first naval surface vessel to feature fully developed carbon fibre stealth technology in its design and construction. Currently on its maiden voyage, the craft is undergoing engineering tests to fine-tune its engines, steering and control systems. [10.12.01] DIAMONDBACK-WING FOR SMALL SMART BOMB: Boeing and the USAF Research Laboratory Munitions Directorate have successfully flight-tested two Small Smart Bomb Range Extension (SSBREX) weapons at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. The SSBREX utilises the same type of guidance system as the Joint Direct Attack Munition, and adds a 250 pound-class warhead to enable penetration of more than 6 feet of reinforced concrete. [10.12.01] FIRST DETAILS OF SAS TROOPS IN AFGHANISTAN: Brig Gary Bornholt has conducted Australia's first formal briefing in regard to the deployment of 150 SAS troops for combat operations in Afghanistan. The troops have been assigned to an area south of Kandahar under the umbrella of US-led forces. Defence has released a picture of the Australian forces operating with 6x6 long-range patrol vehicles, and motorbikes. [10.12.01] NEW PARLIAMENTARY SITTING SCHEDULE: Federal Parliament will resume on Tuesday, 12 February 2002, with Additional Estimates Hearings (held over from November 2001) to start 18 February. The 2002/03 Federal Budget will be brought down on Tuesday, 14 May, with Budget Estimates hearings concluding on 6 June. Parliament will rise on 27 June and recommence 19 August. [10.12.01] LOCKHEED MARTIN DUMPS ITS TELCO BUSINESS: Lockheed Martin is to exit the global telecommunications market at a cost of US$1.7b in non-recurring charges in the fourth quarter, including the shedding of 650 employees. Blaming general global telco over-capacity and a specific down turn in the Latin American market, Lockheed Martin Global Telecommunications (LMGT) will be shut down almost immediately. [10.12.01] BOEINGS UCAV COMPLETES TAXI TESTING: Boeing's X-45A unmanned combat air vehicle has completed its initial low speed taxi testing in preparation for its first flight during the first half of next year. The tests confirmed the autonomous operation of the vehicle and its responsiveness to controller commands. Additional taxi testing will occur during the next few months to verify that all functions are operational before first flight. [10.12.01] TENIX CONFIRMS NEXT SAR VESSEL CONTRACT: The Philippines Coast Guard (PCG) has confirmed orders with Tenix Defence for two 56m search and rescue vessels and four 35m high-speed SAR vessels with an option for 10 more 35m vessels under a contract worth up to US$150m. Two 56m vessels have already been supplied to the PCG under a financing deal involving the ANZ, EFIC, BNP Paribas and Societe Generale. [09.12.01] ADBR REPORTS ON NEW ZEALAND DEFENCE: This week’s issue of Australian Defence Business Review (ADBR) magazine looks in detail at developments in the Clark Government’s program to reconstruct New Zealand’s Defence profile through a focusing on land forces, as well as current plans to regenerate its whole military/administrative hierarchy with new appointments set for confirmation by February 2002. [07.12.01] SGI FILLS AIR FORCE IMAGE GENERATION NEEDS: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics has selected SGI ‘Onyx 3000’ series visualisation systems to power the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter’s flight simulation research laboratory in Fort Worth (Texas), to be used for ‘pilot-in-the-loop’ evaluations of the new aircraft. Similar equipment has recently-been acquired for upgrades to the F-111 simulator located at RAAF Base ‘Amberley’. [07.12.01] QANTAS TAKES ON SUPPORT FOR NEW VIP FLEET: Defence has reached agreement with Qantas to provide commercial aircraft maintenance and support for the new fleet of Boeing 737 BBJs and Bombardier Challenger 604s, set to take over VIP transport functions from the existing Falcons. The contract is said to have been structured in a manner to be consistent with Commercial Support Program principles - meaning, while RAAF personnel (34 Sqdn) will continue to operate the aircraft, uniformed maintenance and support personnel formerly tasked with supporting the VIP fleet will be released for other critical Defence activities. [07.12.01] BEST PRACTICE DEFENCE MATERIEL SUPPORT: A two-day conference in Canberra 13-14 March 2002 will examine the most up date methodologies being employed by Defence and Australian industry leaders to increase efficiency, cost-effectiveness and performance for the maintenance and support of physical assets and equipment. Tel (02) 9223 2600 or surf www.iqpc.com/AU-D03541, for details. [07.12.01] ALLAN HAWKE SAFE IN DEFENCE SEAT: A re-shuffling of Departmental Secretaries following appointment of the third Howard Ministry has left Defence administration arrangements intact, although the new Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources will get a new Secretary, Mark Patterson, currently the Chief Executive of the peak Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry lobby group. [07.12.01] HOWARD QUELLS DEFENCE BUDGET SPECULATION: Responding to media reports of comments by new Defence Minister Hill of an impending ‘cash’ crisis in Defence, Prime Minister Howard has said that “although the cost of the operation in Afghanistan was within the budget capacity for a period of time, if it went longer, their could be a need for more resources. I don’t think Senator Hill used the expression ‘crisis’ as such.” [07.12.01] BOEING TRAVELLING WELL POST-JSF LOSS: Boeing in the immediate future is said to remain “very well positioned to meet a growing number of world-wide military aircraft requirements” through widespread interest in its 737 airliner as a maritime patrol and electronic warfare platform, including replacement of up to 225 USN-operated P-3C ‘Orions’ in the Multi-role Maritime Aircraft (MMA) configuration. Boeing also looks set to satisfy USAF plans to lease up to 100 767s (at about $20m per aircraft, for a ten-year period), to replace 135 KC-135E tankers. [06.12.01] CAE TO UPGRADE AUSTRALIAN SIMULATORS: CAE has been awarded several upgrade and support contracts worth over C$6m to enhance the RAAF’s C-130J (to Block 5.3 software) and C-130H simulators by February 2002. CAE will also upgrade Army's S-70A-9 ‘Black Hawk’ simulator (including addition of a stimulated night vision goggle training capability), and the RAN’s S-70B-2 ‘Seahawk’ simulator to maintain consistency with operational assets. [06.12.01] NATIONAL SECURITY REPORT NOW PENDING: The Attorney-General says Cabinet ‘will consider in the coming weeks’ the report of the high-level committee chaired by his Departmental Secretary charged to review Australia’s counter-terrorism arrangements in light of the new international security environment. Williams also confirmed the Prime Minister would host a national leaders’ summit to develop a new national framework for dealing with transnational crime and terrorism. [06.12.01] RAYTHEON CONFIRMS ‘COLLINS’ CS ARRANGEMENTS: The program to replace the Combat System (CS) on Australia’s six ‘Collins’-class submarines is now underway with establishment of a Joint Initial Design Study office on 19 November. The new CS will comprise a US Navy-sourced ‘core’ Tactical Command Centre (TCC), an STN Sonar Processing suite, and TUS Sonar Arrays – all supported by ‘niche’ enhancements to provide a ‘gateway’ for Australian SME products. The TCC will be based on the USN CCS Mk2 Block 1C (Mod 6), subsequently adapted to suit the ‘Collins’ environment and its weapon systems. [06.12.01] MEDAL TO MARK ANNIVERSARY OF CONSCRIPTION: New Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence, Danna Vale, says national service men and women who served between 1951 and 1972 can now apply for a medal marking the 50th Anniversary of the introduction of universal conscription in Australia. More than 300,000 former national service persons are expected to apply of the Anniversary of National Service 1951-1972 Medal (ANSM). [06.12.01] RAYTHEON SIGNS NAVY EW TRAINING CONTRACT: The Royal Australia Navy (RAN) has signed a contract with Raytheon Australia to provide Electronic Warfare (EW) Training Services over a ten-year period. Signed under the auspices of the Commercial Support Program, the new training regime will provide simulation of missile and air-intercept radar threats, radar and communications jamming and other tactical and system capabilities likely to be experienced in an operational environment. [05.12.01] ICT SCIENTIST RECOGNISED BY MARCONI AWARD: Professor Allan Snyder’s work in three areas of the optical sciences: optical fibre telecommunications, visual photoreceptor optics and futuristic light-guiding-light technologies, has been recognised with award of the 27th Marconi International Fellowship. Snyder shares the award with Bell Industries’ Dr Herwig Hogelnik. Snyder’s design of a range of devices essential to telco network operations has enabled millions of miles of fibre optic cable to be laid around the world. [05.12.01] ADF CONSOLIDATES SAS IN AFGHANISTAN: Defence Minister, Robert Hill, says further Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel in Afghanistan have now joined the advance party of SAS that arrived in Afghanistan earlier this week. The Australian Forces will work within a coalition tasking environment in Southern Afghanistan to assist in the fight against the Taliban and Al Qaida networks. [05.12.01] ‘WIN-NOW’ PAPERS EMERGE FROM LAND WARFARE BRIEF: Addressing the Summer 2001 meeting of the Land Environmental Working Group (EWG) in Canberra, the Director-General Land Developments, Brig Steve Quinn, has confirmed the existence of a document encompassing Army’s inner most thinking about developments in Land Warfare, and its implications for future ADF equipment acquisitions. [04.12.01] BOOST FOR ‘SON OF STAR WARS’ PROGRAM: The Ballistic Missile Defence Organisation (BMDO) has concluded a third successful intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) interception (IFT-7) using a modified ‘Minuteman’ ICBM target vehicle launched from Vandenburg AFB, and a prototype interceptor, launched approximately 20 minutes later and 4,800 miles away from the Ronald Reagan Missile Site Kwajalein Atoll in the Republic of the Marshall Islands. [04.12.01] VULNERABILITY OF SPACE-BASED ASSETS: Canberra-based Auspace Limited has signed a study contract with Defence’s recently formed Space Engagement Office (within the Knowledge Office group at DHQ), to review non-military space usage in Australia, including communications, earth observation, space sciences and navigation systems. The study will identify possible vulnerabilities of the services, and the impact of their disruption. [04.12.01] WORLD’S LARGEST NAVAL SHIPBUILDER FORMED: Northrop Grumman Corporation (NRG) has completed its take over of Newport News Shipbuilding Inc, making it the US' third largest defence contractor with expected 2002 revenues of $18 billion. Newport News will initially operate as a stand-alone sector within NRG, however, all shipbuilding operations will be combined over time into one sector to take advantage of increased efficiencies in procurement, information technology and operating systems. [03.12.01] EC QUESTIONS IZAR SHIPBUILDING CONGLOMERATE : An ongoing formal investigation of the recent restructuring of Spanish shipbuilding is to be extended to include all transactions that led to the creation of the IZAR shipbuilding group. Since July the European Commission has been exploring the validity of the market transfers whereby shipyards are alleged to have changed hands for nominal fees and whether all parties involved conducted the transactions according to European regulations. [03.12.01] NEW MANAGER FOR SUBMARINE CORPORATION: Ross Milton is taking over as the Managing Director (replacing Hans Ohff) of the Australian Submarine Corporation (ASC), and will direct the Corporation’s affairs in the six to nine month interim period now expected to expire before final arrangements are concluded by the Commonwealth to sell ASC to a new industry consortium comprising local and international defence firms. [03.12.01] DSTO CONFIRMS SCIENCE CHIEF APPOINTMENTS: Ken Anderson is to become the first Chief of the DSTOs new Defence Systems Analysis Division, formerly called the Joint Operations Division during the organisational planning phase. Mark Anderson is to similarly become Chief of the new Information Networks Division (to be established in July 2002). Anderson will in the interim absorb Divisional Chief and Branch Head responsibilities in DSTO Communications operations. [03.12.01] ADF GROUND FORCES ARRIVE IN AFGHANISTAN: The new Minister for Defence, Senator Robert Hill, has confirmed an advance party of Australian troops has arrived in Afghanistan, with the remaining force (totaling 150) arriving within the next day or so. Australian troops are to operate with US Forces in Southern Afghanistan to assist in the fight against the Taliban and Al Qaida networks. [03.12.01] STORM DAMAGE AT RAAF BASE 'RICHMOND': Buildings and facilities at RAAF Base 'Richmond', west of Sydney, have been extensively damaged after being hit by a severe hail storm. Several buildings, homes, and some aircraft were damaged as a result of the strong winds and flying debris. The extent of the damage is still being assessed and base personnel and contractors have started repair work. Five personnel received minor injuries such as cuts and bruises and were treated at the base medical centre. An old Hercules airframe, used for training purposes, was also overturned by the wind gusts. [03.12.01] FREE POSTAGE SERVICES FOR DEPLOYED ADF TROOPS: The new Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence, Danna Vale, says ADF servicemen and women who deploy as part of Australia's commitment to the coalition against terrorism will benefit from postage-free mail services to and from Australia. A one kilogram limit is to be applied to the free post service, other than to 1 January 2002 where the limit will be two kilograms. [02.12.01] LONG RANGE STAND-OFF BUNKER BUSTER TESTED: The USAF has flight-tested a new Conventional Air-Launched Cruise Missile (CALCM) that, launched from a USAF B-52 bomber, flew a pre-planned flight path to a hardened, buried target complex, which the warhead penetrated prior to detonation. Boeing is under contract to convert Air Launched Cruise Missiles (ALCM) to the new CALCM variant (now designated the AGM-86D), which will be able to destroy buried or reinforced targets from standoff ranges of hundreds of miles. [30.11.01] SEA 4000 CONTENDERS FIND SUCCESS IN KOREA: The Republic of Korea Ministry of National Defence has announced that Thales Naval Nederland (TNN) is one of the two final candidates selected for the combat system of the KDX-III Destroyer program for its Navy. The combat system proposed by TNN includes the APAR multifunction radar, the SMART-L volume search radar, and the SIRIUS infrared search and track system. These systems have already been ordered by the Royal Netherlands Navy and the German Navy for their seven new AAW frigates, the first of which are currently undergoing sea trials. [30.11.01] ELECTRONIC COMBAT SYSTEM TESTERS CONTRACT: AAI Corporation has been awarded a US$1.46m contract to provide Joint Service Electronic Combat System Testers (JSECST) to the RAAF. Australia is the first foreign country to purchase the JSECST tester, which has been designated by the US Defence Department as the standard flight line electronic warfare test system, supporting all branches of the US military. The contract will see seven JSECST Core Test Sets delivered to support EW systems onboard RAAF F/A-18 aircraft. Australia has been a major supporter of the JSECST system, and contributed funds for the development of on-aircraft testing of the AN/APX-111 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) cable set. [30.11.01] FIRST TWO NEW GENERATION AIR 5276 ‘ORIONS’ DELIVERED: The RAAF has taken delivery of the first two of its new generation AP-3C ‘Orion’ long-range Maritime Patrol Aircraft from Raytheon Australia. One of the new arrivals was the prototype (modified at Raytheon's Greenville plant in Texas), and the other was the first production aircraft modified by Australian industry at the Avalon aerodrome, near Lara (Vic). Raytheon expects to deliver three additional production aircraft to the Air Force over the next four months. Production activities at Avalon will continue through until early 2004 when the last AP-3C is to be delivered back to the RAAF. [30.11.01] AUSTRADE TO HELP ANTI-TERRORIST EXPORTS: The Australian Trade Commission, in cooperation with the Australian Embassy in Washington DC, is assisting and advising firms with the putting forward of proposals by 23 December on security and defence-related technologies that are of interest to the US Government in the aftermath of 11 September. Firms can obtain more information about the call to Australian firms, universities and governments for new anti-terrorist solutions from: http://www.bids.tswg.gov/. [30.11.01] VISUALISATION CENTRE TOUTING FOR BUSINESS: Business managers at Australia’s 15th virtual reality centre – located at the Queensland Manufacturing Institute (QMI) in Brisbane – have told media the centre is now open and looking for business. Established courtesy of a Queensland Government capital grant, the QMI visualisation centre will be initially focused on helping local business apply virtual techniques to product development and testing, before commencing to market its services to inter-State customers. [29.11.01] KONGSBERG GETS INTO ‘WEDGETAIL’ ACT: Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace has been selected to provide software for the operator stations on-board Boeing's 737-based airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) system. The contract is worth roughly NOK 50 million, and has its foundation in a 1997 deal when Boeing chose Kongsberg to develop and deliver similar software for the modernisation of NATO’s AWACS aircraft. [29.11.01] RAAF BASE ‘TOWNSVILLE’ RE-DEVELOPMENT PLAN: Leighton Contractors Pty Ltd have been selected to deliver the $72.5m Stage 2 redevelopment of RAAF Base 'Townsville' in North Queensland. According to Defence Minister Robert Hill, Leightons “are successfully managing the design and construction of the current Stage 1 redevelopment, which should be completed by mid next year." The Stage 2 redevelopment is to be completed by December 2004 [29.11.01] STAGE 3 RE-DEVELOPMENT OF LAVARACK BARRACKS: Thiess Pty Ltd has been selected as the Managing Contractor to deliver the $170m Stage 3 Redevelopment of the ‘Lavarack’ Barracks in Townsville (Qld). Defence Minister Robert Hill says Thiess has successfully managed the design and construction of the recently completed Stage 2 Redevelopment, which has replaced existing living-in accommodation with modern facilities, including three messes co-located with living-in accommodation precincts. The Stage 3 works are designed to enhance the overall effectiveness of Australia’s 3rd Brigade ready deployment force, and will be completed by December 2005. [29.11.01] MEERKAT AND HUSKY FOR 'CHUBBY' MINE CLEARANCE: A recent field evaluation of the South African-sourced ‘Chubby’ Rapid Route and Area Mine Neutralisation System (RRAMNS) has been used to provide information for future capability design work for Army RRAMNS systems, as well as point the way for improvements to currently in-service vehicles. The trial was conducted by the 1st Brigade’s Combat Engineer Regiment, and the DSTO. [29.11.01] MAINTENANCE ACCOLADE FOR HUNTER AEROSPACE: Hunter Aerospace, a fully owned subsidiary of BAE Systems, has become the first Australian Defence industry organisation to achieve Authorised Maintenance Organisation (AMO) certification for Australian Army aircraft. The certification applies to UH-1H ‘Iroquois’ helicopters undertaking deeper maintenance at Hunters’ Archerfield airport facility in Queensland. The AMO certification is a new ADF aviation certification requirement applicable to both Defence Units/Squadrons and industry. [29.11.01] SAIC DEMONSTRATES PORTABLE SIM TRAINER: SAIC has showcased at Florida’s Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education (I/ITSEC) Conference a re-configurable laptop-based simulation system that allows up to four crewmembers to train on a variety of tanks, military vehicles and aircraft. The lightweight, portable system can be taken into the field to provide soldiers and pilots with timely mission rehearsal capability, thus providing a high assurance for accomplishing missions and ensuring crew survival. [28.11.01] CAE SIGNS EUROFIGHTER VIS-SIM CONTRACT: CAE has signed a contract with Eurofighter Simulation Systems GmbH (ESS) to supply visual systems for the Eurofighter EF2000 ‘Typhoon’ combat aircraft Aircrew Synthetic Training Aids (ASTA) program. CAE will provide more than C$170 million in visual simulation equipment and services to ESS over the next seven years. This contract forms part of CAE's current backlog of C$2.7b announced in June. [28.11.01] FUEL CELLS TO REPLACE AIRCRAFT APUs: Boeing Commercial Airplanes has tasked its new R&D Centre in Madrid to explore the idea of developing new-generation fuel cells to replace the gas turbine auxiliary power units currently used on aircraft to produce air and electricity for aeroplane systems while on the ground, and for back-up use. Fuel cells are said to be inherently cleaner and quieter than APUs, have fewer moving parts, and can generate more than twice as much electricity with the same amount of fuel. [28.11.01] SHORT-LIST FOR CTC PROJECT LAND 134: Defence says the RFP evaluation phase for the Army’s new Combat Training Centre capability has been completed slightly ahead of schedule, thus enabling confirmation of the Source Evaluation Board’s shortlisting of Oscmar International, RLM Systems and Saab Systems to proceed to the restricted RFT and source-selection phase over 2002. The Project seeks to acquire a proven, mature, supportable, non-developmental, fully-integrated, HLA compliant, open-systems, relocatable, upgradeable and scaleable live simulation and range instrumentation and information system – supported by a commercial turn-key arrangement - to equip Army’s CTC(L) by 2006. [27.11.01] SGI ONYX 3000 FOR EUROCOPTER TIGER: Thales Training & Simulation has selected the SGI Onyx 3000 series of high-performance graphics systems to serve as the image generator for the new Franco-German ‘Tiger’ helicopter training program. The reconfigurable full-mission simulator, with a dual dome and motion system for individual and crew training of pilots and gunners, is expected to be delivered in April 2004. [27.11.01] NEW NAVAL BATTLELAB UNDER CONSTRUCTION: Lockheed Martin Naval Electronics & Surveillance Systems Undersea Systems is currently constructing a new systems integration laboratory in Manassas (Virginia). The 26,000sqft laboratory will provide US and allied navies with advanced capabilities to research, design, manufacture, test and support naval electronics and surveillance systems. The laboratory is designed to replicate an actual submarine command and control centre, and will house conference facilities and office space. [27.11.01] ATTORNEY-GENERAL DRAFTS ANTI-TERRORISM LAWS: Although still in the process of drafting new anti-terrorism legislation, the Attorney-General, Daryl Williams, has confirmed the new laws will provide for people suspected of being engaged in planning for a terrorist act to be detained for 48 hours, without formal arrest or the laying of charges. Williams says “what we need to do is to be able to get maximum information and maximum intelligence, in order to prevent any terrorist attacks being committed." [27.11.01] SYSTEMS INTEGRATION COMPANY OUT OF THE BLUE: Brisbane-based GPS Online says the technology behind its successful bid with ADI Limited for a United Arab Emirates Navy minesweeping contract draws off the company’s Autonavigational Minesweeping Vessel system, which has been in service with the Royal Australian Navy for over 10 years. ADI and GPS Online are now to jointly expand the application of the remote control minesweeping system to include remote control surface targets for missile and gunnery training. [27.11.01] BALANCE OF SAS FORCES NOW DEPLOYED: The new Australian Minister for Defence, Senator Robert Hill, has confirmed the departure of the remaining soldiers from the Special Forces Task Group being deployed as part of Australia’s contribution to the coalition against terrorism. The 120 personnel who departed Perth make up a total force which the Minister said will be tasked with conducting operations “when and where they are required.” [27.11.01] REMOTE CONTROL AMASS SOLD TO UAE NAVY: ADI Limited has signed a US$2.15m deal with the United Arab Emirates Navy for the purchase of its Australian Minesweeping System, thus making the UAE force the eighth navy to purchase the Australian developed sweep already in use by the Royal Australian Navy, Denmark, Indonesia, Japan, Poland and Thailand. A remote control capability is to be added to the system by Brisbane-based GPS Online. [27.11.01] ADVANCED SHIP DESIGN TECHNOLOGY EXPOSED: Northrop Grumman Corporation's Ship Systems sector has successfully tested the Low Observable Multifunction Stack (LMS) designed to demonstrate two different advanced exhaust suppresser systems for future surface combatants. The exhaust systems, enclosed in a low signature composite structure, also integrate embedded multifunction communication arrays. [26.11.01] UK GETS ITS ACQUISITION PRACTICES IN ORDER: According to the latest findings of the National Audit Office, the UK Ministry of Defence has begun to move in the right direction with regard to controlling costs and timescales on its major projects, under the directives of the Smart Acquisition program. However, a new Major Projects Report 2001 leaves readers with little doubt that more needs to be done to improve the processes by which the department gauges its success in bringing major projects to fruition within time and budgetary limitations. [26.11.01] SECOND MILESTONE FOR ‘WEDGETAIL’ PROGRAM: With the successful completion of the preliminary design review (PDR) for the mission computing sub-system hardware, Boeing says it has achieved another design milestone for the 737-based AEW&C system and ‘Wedgetail’ project. Earlier this year, Boeing also successfully completed its first major design milestone with the radar and identification friend-or-foe PDR. The mission computing hardware PDR included a review of the hardware elements of the mission computing subsystem against the requirements assigned to that hardware. [26.11.01] WORK DONE TO SURVEY ADF RESERVE ATTITUDES: The most comprehensive survey ever conducted on attitudes of ADF Reservists has been launched by the Vice Chief of the Defence Force, Lieutenant General Des Meuller. Conducted between February and April this year, the 2001 ADF Reserves Survey details: willingness to undertake voluntary full-time service; motivations for joining the Reserves; career intentions; factors influencing the decision to leave the Reserves; factors influencing retention; and attitudes towards Reserve service. Meuller says the survey’s results will “contribute significantly to effective policy development and help the ADF continue to provide Reserves with fulfilling and rewarding defence force careers." [26.11.01] BAES SHOWS OFF ITS LAND 135 ASSETS: Technology which could significantly boost the Australian Army’s mobile firepower capability, surveillance, target acquisition and combat precision attack has been showcased by BAE Systems at the DSTOs Land Warfare Conference in Sydney. BAES says its 120mm Armoured Mortar System has been developed “to meet increasing world demand for a self-propelled mortar that provides effective fire support and a high level of protection for mechanised and motorised forces.” [24.11.01] ANZAC RETURNS FROM EXTENDED GULF SERVICE: The naval frigate, HMAS ‘Anzac’ has returned to the RAN’s Fleet Base West at Garden Island (WA) with its 164 crew intact after completing five months serving as part of the Multinational Interception Force enforcing United Nations sanctions against Iraq. The vessel achieved 100 days on-station on 6 November, and during her five patrols in the Gulf conducted 55 'boardings' of merchant ships, checking for smuggled oil and contraband. [24.11.01] DIAR.COM OFFICIAL E-NEWSLETTER FOR PACIFIC 2002: The weekly DIAR.com e-Newsletter will be published in both hard copy and e-format - and circulated on a daily basis, from 29 January to 1 February - at the Pacific 2002 International Maritime Exposition, at Sydney's Darling Harbour. Companies and organisations wishing to have news items listed in the daily DIAR.com e-Newsletter should forward material to either: busicom@ozemail.com.au or +61 (0)2 6260-3977 (Fax), or drop media releases into the DIAR.com/ADBR stand on-site at the exposition. Inquiries in relation to advertising opportunities in the four Pacific 2002 DIAR.com issues should be made to Lissa Fabbo on: +61 (0)2 6260 5944. [24.11.01] DEFENCE RESPONSIBILITY MOVES TO THE SENATE: Senator the Hon Robert Hill from South Australia, the Leader of the Government in the Senate (and formerly the Minister for the Environment and Heritage), has been nominated by the Prime Minister as Australia's next Minister for Defence. Senator Hill will be assisted by Mrs Danna Vale, MP, as the Minister for Veterans Affairs, whilst Mrs Fran Bailey will become the Parliamentary Secretary for Defence. The new Ministry will be sworn in on Monday. [23.11.01] HILL SAID TO BE LOOKING FOR A CHANGE: Prime Minister Howard says he selected Senator Robert Hill for the position of Defence Minister because “he is a very experienced Minister. The position (was) vacant, he wanted a change and he’s had five and a half years in the Environment portfolio.” Howard noted Hill had “a great interest in defence and foreign policy, (but) the Foreign Affairs portfolio is not available because Alexander Downer’s doing a splendid job.” [23.11.01] BACKGROUND ON ROBERT MURRAY HILL: Robert Hill was born on 25.9.1946 and was first elected to the Senate for South Australia in 1980. He has served as Leader of the Government in the Senate, and Minister for the Environment since 1996. He was appointed Shadow Minister for Justice, the ACT and the Status of Women (9/88 to 6/89); Foreign Affairs (6/89 to 4/93); Defence and Public Administration (4/93 to 1/94); and Education, Science and Technology (5/94 to 3/96). Holding a BA and LLB (Adel) and LLM (Lond), Hill worked as a barrister and solicitor before entering Parliament. [23.11.01] BACKGROUND ON DANNA SUE VALE: Danna Vale was born on 14.11.1944 and was first elected to the House of Representatives for the NSW seat of Hughes in 1996. Hughes is on the Southern outskirts of Sydney and includes the Lucas Heights nuclear facility and the 'Holsworthy' Army base. Holding a BA and LLB from Sydney University, she worked as a solicitor from 1998-96. Parliamentary Committee service includes: Family and Community Affairs; Communications, Transport and Microeconomic Reform; Legal and Constitutional Affairs; and Environment and Heritage (from 12/98). [23.11.01] BACKGROUND ON FRANCES ESTHER BAILEY: Fran Bailey was born on 21.5.1946 and was first elected to the House of Representatives for the Victorian seat of McEwen in 1990. She was defeated at the general elections in 1993, but won back the seat in 1996. McEwen is located in Central (rural) Victoria and includes the 'Puckapunyal' Army base near Seymour, and adjacent ammunition factories in Benalla. Holding a Diploma of Teaching from Queensland University, she worked as a 'cashmere' goat breeder/exporter and business consultant from 1981-96. Parliamentary Committee service includes: Financial Institutions and Public Administration; Industry, Science and Technology; Primary Industries, Resources and Rural and Regional Affairs; and Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade (Joint), from 12/98. [23.11.01] EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT LOST TO DEFENCE: Seeking to bolster Australia's whole-of-government response to needs to improve homeland defence following the series of Government policy initiatives since 11 September, the Government has decided to transfer responsibility for Emergency Management Australia - the Federal Agency responsible for reducing the impact of natural and human-caused disasters on the Australian community - to the Attorney-General. Daryl Williams will be assisted by the Hon Chris Ellison as Minister for Justice and Customs. [23.11.01] COMMERCIALISATION PROGRAM GETS THE CHOP: The Office of Asset Sales and Commercial Support is to be abolished, and its functions absorbed by the Department of Finance and Administration, under a new Minister - Senator the Hon Nick Minchin (replacing John Fahey). Minchin will be assisted by Eric Abetz, as Special Minister of State. Responsibility for Departmental 'service' charters will be transferred to the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, while administrative support for Royal Commissions will shift to the Attorney-General's Department. [23.11.01] ROGER LOUGH MOVES TO MELBOURNE LABORATORY: Dr Roger Lough, formerly the DSTO's FAS Science Policy, has been appointed the new Director of the Aeronautical and Maritime Research Laboratory (AMRL), in Melbourne. Dr Lough will take up the position from January 2002, at which time he will be succeeded in Canberra as FASSP by Brigadier Tim McKenna, who is shifting from the military to take up civilian defence service. [23.11.01] NEW NAVY MARITIME WARFARE SYSTEMS: US-based Advanced Simulation Technology Inc has supplied an extensive maritime communications simulation system to Adacel Defence Systems for the RAN's Maritime Warfare Training Centre, in Sydney. The company's solution provides a network centric design to distribute voice and control signals over standard networks, and provide a growth path to a wide area network linking joint operations with other Defence simulators, such as the 'Super Seasprite' helicopter, AP-3C 'Orion', F/A-18 'Hornet' and F-111 bomber. [23.11.01] DSTO REVIEW TO BRING FORWARD NEW STRATEGIC PLAN: The Chief Defence Scientist has instituted a review of the DSTO's entire Science and Technology (S&T) program in order to kick-off the development of a new - 5 to 10-year view - S&T Strategic Plan, to be completed over the next six months. Dr Chessell says he is keen that the DSTO positions itself to remain effective in terms of future ADF developments and requirements. [23.11.01] GROUPS SCRAMBLE FOR ICT POT OF GOLD: Fourteen ‘Notifications of Intent’ have been submitted by potential applicants to operate the $129.5m Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Centre of Excellence – soon to be established as part of the Government’s $2.9b Innovation Action Plan. The 14 notifications have been published on the Internet (http://www.noie.gov.au/ictcentre) as a means of encouraging individual parties to strengthen their applications by joining forces with other parties. [23.11.01] LOCKHEED MARTIN TOPS US DEFENCE SUPPLIERS LIST: Lockheed Martin had headed the ‘top ten’ list of suppliers to the US Department of Defence (by value of contracts) coming in at US$15.1b over FY 2000. The balance of the list is: Boeing ($12.0b), Raytheon ($6.3b), Northrop Grumman/Litton Industries ($5.8b), General Dynamics ($4.2b), United Technologies ($2.1b), TRW Inc ($2.0b), General Electric ($1.6b) and SAIC Corp ($1.5b). [23.11.01] COMBINED FEDERATED BATTLELAB EXERCISED: Canberra’s Fern Hill-based Command and Control Information Systems Interoperability Laboratory (CCISIL) has just provided the Australian end of an international experiment in traditional versus future military planning operations. Via the Multi-National Limited Objective Experiment (MN LOE), the CCISIL has used its segment of the Combined Federated Battle Laboratory – a consortium of US and Allied battle labs – to assess new operational concepts, processes and procedures as part of bringing forward recommendations for Joint and Combined doctrine. [23.11.01] UK MAKES NEXT AIRCRAFT CARRIER DECISIONS: The UK Government has taken the next step in the development of its Future Aircraft Carrier (or CVF) project after the Ministry of Defence awarded teams led by BAE Systems, and Thales Naval Ltd, individual £30m competing contracts to undertake a year-long process of further design and risk reduction work, in the run-up to a choice of preferred prime contractor in early 2003. [22.11.01] LAND USE AGREEMENT FOR RAAF TOWNSVILLE: The Commonwealth has successfully negotiated and registered two Indigenous Land Use Agreements covering land needed to redevelop RAAF Base 'Townsville'. The first parcel of land will be used to construct Ordnance Loading Aprons to more effectively support RAAF combat aircraft operations. The second agreement covers part of the Townsville Town Common (north of the base), and will be used to construct a compensatory habitat for bird and aquatic life. [22.11.01] VISIT OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN NAVAL CHIEF: South Africa's Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Mudimu, is to outline the experience of transformation of the nation's armed forces at the 'Leading Change - Strategies for the New Defence Journey' conference, to be held at the National Convention Centre, in Canberra, on 7 December. Telephone (02) 6268-8849 for details. [22.11.01] BRIEF ON DEFENCE ESTATE AND INFRASTRUCTURE: The Deputy Secretary of Defence Corporate Services, Jeff Whalan, will address an Australian Business Limited breakfast on Friday, 30 November. Whalan will be accompanied by four of his senior managers, and will explain the current structure and responsibilities of the Corporate Services and Infrastructure Group (CSIG), and discuss current CSIG related opportunities for industry. Telephone (02) 6273-6555 for details. [22.11.01] SAS NOW ON THE WAY TO AFGHANISTAN: Prime Minister Howard has confirmed an advance party of 30 Special Air Service (SAS) troopers has left Perth as part of the full contingent of 150 going to join the coalition effort in Afghanistan. The contingent is to be based initially in the Gulf region (most likely, Oman), and is expected to be involved in direct action in pursuit of 'hard core' terrorist groups. [21.11.01] BAES CHOSEN FOR UK AMPHIBIOUS SHIPS: The UK Ministry of Defence has placed a £120m contract with BAES Marine for the construction of two large amphibious landing ships. The vessels (the 'Mounts Bay' and 'Cardigan Bay') are the third and the fourth of the 16,160 tonne 'Bay' Class, and will be operated by the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. They will enter service in 2005, replacing the existing landing ships, RFA 'Sir Galahad' and RFA 'Sir Tristram'. [20.11.01] KEY MERGER OF ELECTRONICS DEFENCE ASSOCIATIONS: The Defence Electronics and Systems Association (DESA), and the Command, Control, Communications and Intelligence Systems Research Forum (C3IRF), are to merge to form a new organisation - the Australian Defence Information and Electronic Systems Association (ADIESA). The Australian Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers' Association (AEEMA) will continue to provide the secretariat for ADIESA. [20.11.01] US PRIMES NEXT SPACE COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM: The USAF has awarded Lockheed Martin Space Systems and TRW Space & Electronics a US$2.7b contract to begin the system development and demonstration phase of an Advanced Extremely High Frequency communications system, set to be the next generation of global, highly secure, survivable communications for Warfighters supporting data transmission rates up to 8.2 million bits of data per second. [20.11.01] VICTORIAN GRANT FOR DEFENCE SCIENTIST: The Victorian Government has awarded a $15,000 grant to DSTO scientist, Dr Wenyi Wang, to travel to the USA, England and France to set up collaborative research programs with leading organisations working in machine diagnostics and prognostics. Dr Wang is involved in developing several advanced techniques to detect and diagnose mechanical faults in helicopter gearboxes, before they occur. [20.11.01] DSTO LAUNCHES ITS UNDERSEA BATTLELAB: The DSTO has leveraged off work on its virtual submarine to bring forward a new 'Undersea Battlelab' (USBL) capability, incorporating both real and simulated combat system components into an environment whereby ADF, researchers, the Defence Materiel Organisation, and industry representatives can be ‘immersed’. The USBL has been developed to support R&D and analysis of next-generation combat system concepts, as well as current in-service systems. [19.11.01] FIRST KEEL LAID FOR MALAYSIAN MEKO: Blohm+Voss has laid the keel of the first ship of six MEKO 100s being built for the Royal Malaysian Navy. This class modifies the MEKO design for specific use as a coastal patrol vessel. Of the six ships, two are being built in large-scale modules in Hamburg, which will then be transported by dock ship to Malaysia for final assembly and testing. The final four ships will be constructed at Penang Shipbuilders and Construction - Naval Dock Yard Sdn Bhd, in Lumut. [19.11.01] EUROPE TOO RELIANT ON USA FOR DEFENCE: The latest iteration of the UK Government's European defence policy calls for a greater level of co-operation between European Union (EU) member states in developing armed forces capable of reacting to crisis situations both within Europe and beyond. While not looking to duplicate NATO, the policy statement says the war in Kosovo did uncover significant cracks in Europe's ability to respond to crises within its own boundaries. [19.11.01] MANUFACTURING CONTRIBUTION HIGHLIGHTED: A recent review of by the Industrial Supplies Office (ISO) of its economic indicators concludes that for every $1m of successful new or retained manufacturing business in Australia, the flow through effects for the economy are: 18 full-time jobs are created (ie: 5 direct and 13 indirect); $317,900 worth of tax revenue is generated; $211,700 worth of welfare benefits are saved; and $1,262,000 of value-added is generated. [19.11.01] COMMON AGREEMENT ON EUROPEAN 'JSF' EQUIVALENT: The Ministers of Defence of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden and the UK have declared their intent to carry out a joint study to assess respective future combat air system capability requirements through to 2020. The study focuses EADS, Alenia Aerospazio-Finmeccanica, BAE Systems, Dassault Aviation and Saab into a risk-reduction technology program called ETAPs - the European Technology Acquisition Program. [19.11.01] NEW 'LEOPARD' TANK TRACK SHROUDS: Melbourne-based Mackay Consolidated Industries has built on its experience with supplying anechoic tiles to the ASC to leverage off another DSTO technology to develop a new track shroud for the Army's 'Leopard' tanks. The shroud is said to exceed the OEMs original performance specifications - particularly for hot/humid environments and rough terrain - and therefore has considerable export potential for other defence markets. [19.11.01] PROGRESS WITH NEW COMBAT WEAPON: The DSTO's Dr Vinod Puri says 'Metal Storm' electronic ballistics technology has been successfully incorporated into a prototype Advanced Individual Combat Weapon featuring a top barrel for air/ground bursting of 30mm Metal Storm rounds, whilst retaining the standard 5.56mm kinetic capability of the AUG 'Styer' assault rifle. [19.11.01] LAND USE AGREEMENT FOR EDEN WHARF: An Indigenous Land Use Agreement has been signed between the Twofold Bay Native Title Group, Defence, and the State of NSW, paving the way for construction of the new $40m Naval Ammunitioning Facility near Eden, thereby replacing interim ammunitioning arrangements at Port Wilson (Victoria). Construction of the facility will commence in early 2002, for completion in the second half of 2003. [19.11.01] FOCUS ON DEFENCE PARTNERING AND ALLIANCES: Over 150 top ranking defence contractors will gather in Canberra this week to examine partnering and alliance ‘case studies’ considered as already achieving improved communication, reduced risk, increased flexibility and timely market responses for a number of Defence materiel and service requirements. Details available at www.iqpc.com.au. [19.11.01] CANBERRA SEMINAR ON COUNTER-TERRORISM: The RUSI of the ACT has organised for a panel of experts to talk on the subject of 'Counter-Terrorism' at an afternoon seminar to be held at 4.30pm at the Theatrette at Building R1 at Defence's Russell complex. Speakers will be: Dr Clive Williams (SDSC Director of Terrorism Studies), John McFarlane (Executive Director of the Council for Security Co-operation in the Asia/Pacific), and Prof Amin Saikal (ANU Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies). Email usiact@cbr.defence.gov.au for details. [18.11.01] TIME MARCHING ON FOR NEXT MARITIME EVENT: Organisers of Sydney's 'Pacific 2002 International Maritime and Naval Exposition' - to be held at the Sydney Exhibition and Convention Centre from 29 January to 1 February - say the event promises to the "the largest and most significant exhibition of its kind ever staged in the Southern Hemisphere." Hundreds of local and international firms will exhibit a wide gamut of maritime, maritime-related and defence-related products and services. [18.11.01] PLANNING MANAGER SOUGHT FOR POINT COOK: Defence is advertising for a Planning Manager to develop a master plan for the future use of its 344 hectare RAAF Base Point Cook site. According to the Assistant Secretary Estate Management (Ross Bain), a master plan for the site is to be developed before any marketing of the property. The successful applicant will overview a consultative process designed to capture the views of stakeholders including site users and members of the public who have an interest in the future of the site. [16.11.01] WORK BEGINS ON 'BLACKHAWK' UPGRADE PROGRAM: Evaluation of the first three US Army 'Blackhawk' helicopters (slated for upgrade to the new UH-60M configuration), has begun in the United States as a pre-cursor to a recapitalisation program scheduled to overhaul 1,200 aircraft over 25 years. The UH-60s will have an additional 20 years of service life with lower maintenance costs than the current fleet. [16.11.01] NORTHROP GRUMMAN ROLE IN LAV III BUILD PHASE: Northrop Grumman Systems Canada is to supply electronic chassis and turret control systems to GM Defence under a C$52m deal relating to major new Light Armoured Vehicle (LAV) programs for the US Army, the Australian Army and the New Zealand Army. GM's contract with the US Army calls for the delivery of 2,131 LAV III model vehicles over the next seven years. [16.11.01] REVIEW OF GLOBAL MARKETS AFTER TERRORISM EFFECTS: The Australian Trade Commission (AusTrade) is running a series of national seminars 3-6 December to assess how Australian companies might be altering their international business plans in response to unfolding events and reactions following the 11 September terrorist attacks in the United States. Email emma.finlayson@austrade.gov.au for further details. [16.11.01] ADAMSON PUTS DOWNER ON NZ DEFENCE INDUSTRY: Speaking to the 4th annual Defence Seminar in Wellington, the Chief of the NZ Defence Force, Air Marshal Adamson, says local community perceptions are that Defence “is a spender of taxpayers funds, not a contributor to the economy,” He considered such perceptions should help local industry understand “why the NZDF may not be able to support you” with direct materiel purchases, and recommended NZ companies “join with overseas suppliers to gain credibility” in upcoming NZDF procurement tenders. [15.11.01] SUPPORT FOR HYDRODYNAMICS RESEARCH CENTRE: Tasmania's new Australian Maritime Hydrodynamics Research Centre is to receive $4.6m in funding under the Commonwealth Government's $155m Major National Research Facilities Program. The Research Centre is a joint venture between the DSTO, the Australian Maritime College and the University of Tasmania in order to provide Australia with a research facility that previously could only be accessed overseas. [15.11.01] AUSTRALIAN AEROSPACE TAKES KIWI DEFENCE AWARD: Brisbane-based Australian Aerospace has been awarded the prestigious New Zealand Defence Industry Committee Award of Excellence for its work in re-winging RNZAF P-3K 'Orion' aircraft under Project 'Kestrel'. The ‘Kestrel’ project extends the life of the aircraft by at least 20 years, potentially allowing for continuing capability upgrades, including the addition of a air-to-surface strike missile. [15.11.01] TACTICAL UAV DEMONSTRATIONS COMPLETED: AAI Corporation has completed a series of milestones in its ongoing work on the US$106m Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (TUAV) program for the US Army. The demonstrations have advanced the TUAV's development, from testing new technology and capabilities to demonstrating the TUAV system's interoperability with other systems, helping to pave the way for incremental contract awards as early as January 2002. [15.11.01] UK ASSAULT SHIPS TIMED FOR AUSTRALIAN REQUIREMENT: HMS 'Bulwark', the second of a new class of assault ships for the Royal Navy, has been launched at the BAES shipyard at Barrow-in-Furness. The 'Bulwark' and sister ship (HMS 'Albion') are known as Landing Platform Docks, and can transport an embarked military force of around 300 people, plus their equipment. The vessels can also co-ordinate amphibious operations through an integrated command, control, and communications system. [15.11.01] AIRBOURNE ELECTRONIC ATTACK 'HORNET' DEMONSTRATED: Boeing has successfully completed an initial flight demonstration of its EA-18 airborne electronic attack concept aircraft using a 'Super Hornet' to carry three ALQ-99 jamming pods and two fuel tanks while measuring noise and vibration data and assessing aircraft flying qualities. The EA-18 is one of the platforms under consideration in a US Department of Defence analysis of alternatives to replace the EA-6B 'Prowler' EW aircraft from 2008. [15.11.01] DEFENCE STARTS IMPLEMENTATION OF INDUSTRY PACKAGE: The next series of Defence-Industry consultations being run under the Capability Development Advisory Forum (CDAF) will be asked to consider the formulation of future strategies for dealing with Defence under a new Industry Engagement Plan (IEP), to be implemented in the Howard Government’s third term. The IEP will be supported by a new regime of Nondisclosure Agreements as part of wider defence-industry relationship-building policy. [15.11.01] NEXT LAND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING GROUP MEETING: The next Land Environment Working Group meeting is to be held at Duntroon on 4 December. The guest speaker will be Mike Scrafton, who has recently returned to Defence as the Head of Infrastructure Division, within the Corporate Services and Infrastructure Group. Scrafton was previously the Senior Adviser to Defence Minister Reith. The EWG meeting will be chaired by Brigadier Steve Quinn, Director-General Land Development. [15.11.01] HELI-CENTRE AUSTRALIA IN ROLLS ROYCE ENGINE DEAL: Rolls-Royce Engine Services – Oakland Inc and Rolls-Royce Engine Services Limitada Inc have signed an agreement with Caloundra-based Heli-Centre Australia Pty Ltd, designating it as the sales and marketing agent for Model 250 engine repair and overhaul in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. The 250 gas turbine engine powers more than 125 rotary- and fixed-wing applications in both the civil and military markets. [15.11.01] DEFENCE SECRETARY HAWKE FOR AIDN-VIC MEETING: The Secretary of the Department of Defence, Dr Allan Hawke, has accepted an invitation to address Victorian members of the Australian Industry Defence Network (AIDN) at their end of year function, to be held in Melbourne on 5 December. Email aidnvic@aidnvic.org.au for attendance details. [15.11.01] ENGINEERING AWARD FOR ‘WEDGETAIL’ PROJECT: A rigorous audit of Boeing’s engineering and quality systems conducted by Commonwealth of Australia personnel last July, has resulted in the 737-based Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) system being named an Authorised Engineering Organisation (AEO). AEO status means Boeing is recognised as having the necessary expertise, technical information and resources needed to complete its obligations under the Project ‘Wedgetail’ contract. [15.11.01] CALL TO SHAKE-UP KIWI DEFENCE RESEARCH: Opening the 4th Annual New Zealand Defence Industry Seminar in Wellington, the Commander Joint Forces (NZ), MajGen Martyn Dunne, has argued recent developments in asymmetric warfare will prompt a further revolution in military affairs, thus requiring a greater association in the future between the Defence Technology Agency and NZ Defence Industry to look at innovative opportunities to enhance defence capability. [14.11.01] ADI COMPLETES AUSTRALIAN ARMY HMEV DELIVERIES: The last of 27 ADI Limited-built high mobility engineering vehicles has been handed over to the Australian Army. According to the company's MD, Jean-Georges Malcor, the HMEV had demonstrated Australia’s ability to produce world leading, complex systems engineering vehicles. The United States, Canada and the United Arab Emirates are all currently evaluating the HMEV. [14.11.01] SEMINAR ON UPCOMING DEFENCE PROJECTS: Ipswich-based AeroTeam Limited will be holding a seminar at the Queensland Manufacturing Institute 29 November to examine industry teaming for upcoming Defence projects, in particular, Project JP 129 (Tactical UAV) and Project Land 134 (Combat Training Centre). Email admin@aeroteam.com.au for details. [14.11.01] BAES MILITARY LOGISTICS SOFTWARE FOR ALL: BAE SYSTEMS-IFS has been selected to supply and support its logistics management system for the Joint Strike Fighter program, and follows its recent similar selection for Eurofighter. The IFS Applications software package will enable major advances in aircraft support planned for both aircraft. Open architecture and inherent connectivity allow interfacing with on-board aircraft systems to assist both advance warning of equipment failure, and maintenance based on need rather than service intervals. [14.11.01] BOEING SEES GROWTH IN UNMANNED MILITARY SYSTEMS: The Boeing Company has established a new organisation to co-ordinate its efforts in the expanding unmanned systems market, and named Mike Heinz as its Vice President and General Manager, Unmanned Systems. The new organisation will oversee two current Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle programs (one for the USAF, and the other for the USN) sponsored by the Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency,. Boeing is also developing an unmanned UAV concept based on canard rotor wing technology. [14.11.01] ROLLS-ROYCE PREFERRED FOR UK SUBMARINE WORK: Rolls-Royce has won a UK Ministry of Defence contract worth £100m over three years to keep the Royal Navy nuclear submarine flotilla safe and in service. The contract covers design improvements, inspection, refurbishment, condition monitoring and a continuous safety review for the nuclear power plant, which creates the steam to drive a submarine’s turbines. Future support programs envisaged for 2004-2011 are potentially worth a further £300m. [14.11.01] DEFENCE OPENS NEW RECRUITMENT WEB SITE: The Defence Force Recruiting Organisation (DFRO) has revamped its recruiting website, which is now said to offer 'greater insight' into life in today's Navy, Army or Air Force. The site, at www.defencejobs.gov.au provides the latest job information, details of pay and conditions, prerequisites for Defence careers, and other benefits of a job in the military. [14.11.01] NEW DATE AND LOCATION SET FOR CHOGM MEETING: The Commonwealth Heads of Government (CHOGM) Secretary General, Don McKinnon, says Heads of Government from 52 Commonwealth countries will now meet at the Hyatt Regency Coolum on Queensland's ‘Sunshine’ Coast from 2-5 March 2002 to undertake the biennial summit previously deferred from the beginning of October 2001. [13.11.01] EADS POSTS THIRD QUARTER FINANCIAL RESULTS: The European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company has recorded third quarter revenues increasing by 26% to E6.6b over the same quarter of last year. Excluding the impact of the first time consolidation of Airbus UK in 2001, this increase represents a rise of 9% compared to pro forma figures for the same period last year. Year-to-date (September 30) revenues amounted to E20.7b, up 30%. The double-digit growth was generated through increased deliveries by Airbus, revenues growth in all divisions but Space, and the stronger US-Dollar. [13.11.01] SATCOM INNOVATION FOR AIRCRAFT CREW AND PASSENGERS: ASX-listed Quadrant Communications is coordinating the regional re-launch of revamped 'Iridium' satellite communications services via the development of tailored customer solutions for satellite voice and data. The company has just released its 'SatTalk II' system, which provides aircraft crew and passengers with a reliable, world-wide communications facility that work in the air and on the ground. [13.11.01] CLOUGH SHARE PLACEMENT TO FUND GROWTH: WA-based defence contractor, Clough Limited, has made a placement of 38.5 million shares at 92 cents each to help support the company’s current growth plans. According to Clough MD, Dr Brian Hewitt, "with a strong and growing order book (we) can employ the funds for working capital and smaller-scale strategic acquisitions.” Clough’s order book currently sits at a record $1.48b, while work in hand is in excess of $800m. [13.11.01] EWA-AUSTRALIA OPENS ITS NEW CANBERRA OFFICES: The President and CEO of EWA Inc, Carl Guerreri, has officially opened the new Braddon (ACT) offices of local subsidiary, Electronic Warfare Associates – Australia. Guerreri noted the "remarkable" growth of the company's electronic warfare, consultancy and training activities, saying EWA-Australia was also rapidly moving "to fill its role as the Australasian and South East Asian leader of the EWA Global IT Security Net”. [13.11.01] COUNTER-TERRORISM FOCUS FOR METALSTORM WEAPONS: Metal Storm's Managing Director, Mike O'Dwyer' has told the Land Warfare Conference in Sydney the company has identified a number of applications of its novel technology for application in the counter-terrorism role. He spoke particularly about a compact multi-barreled remotely operable perimeter-defence and asset-protection pod requiring minimal maintenance, but able to remain in-situ and ready to fire, for extended periods. [13.11.01] TERRORISM ATTACKS CHANGE ADF SPECTRUM OF CONFLICT: Australia's Chief of Army, MajGen Peter Cosgrove, has told the Land Warfare Conference in Sydney existing mechanisms within the Australian Defence Force were not up to scratch in terms of dealing with terrorism strikes on the scale executed in the United States on 11 September. Cosgrove made a pitch for extra resources to apply military-class 'battlefield information systems' to upper echelon civil law enforcement agencies to improve Australia's ability to react to terrorism threats. [12.11.01] A400M RUNS INTO PROBLEMS WITHIN EUROPE: The formal contract signing for the development of the A400M transport aircraft (due to take place on 16 November) is likely to be further delayed given the indecision of the Italian Government about its participation in the project. According to the German Co-Chairman of EADS, Rainer Hertrich, even though Italy might withdraw from the program now, it could join later in building the A400M plane, but admitted it would be "painful if Italy did not participate." [12.11.01] LOCKHEED MARTIN AND BOEING TALK ON JSF: Boeing and Lockheed Martin say they have held a "constructive initial discussion" about ways in which Boeing could potentially add value to the company's Joint Strike Fighter team, given fears Boeing might be forced out of fighter production altogether given its JSF competition loss. Having insisted that the contract was a 'winner take all' award, the Bush administration now says any decision for the two companies to cooperate must be taken as a commercial decision, and at the discretion of Lockheed Martin. [12.11.01] PEACEKEEPERS REMEMBER FALLEN COMRADES: Australian UN Peacekeepers in Dili, Suai and Balibo have paused to observe two minutes silence and pay respects to fallen comrades. A large percentage of the 1500 Australians serving in East Timor are from the 2nd Battalion (2RAR), whose focus of remembrance was undertaken at battalion headquarters in the 300-year old Portugese fort at Balibo. [11.11.01] JUBILANT COALITION RETURNED TO GOVERNMENT: The Howard Government has been re-elected for an historic 'third' term as Australian's decided against a change of national government at a time of unprecedented international conflict. Out of A new House of Representatives of 150 seats, the Coalition will hold 77 seats, Labor -64, and Independent -3, whilst six seats are still to be decided. [10.11.01] CHANGES IN BUSICOM CONTACT NUMBERS: The editorial staff of the DIAR.com e-Newsletter moved to larger offices at the end of last month. New telephone numbers from Tuesday (6/11) are: 02/6260-5944 (DIAR.com), 02/6260-4855 (ADBR), with both publications served by a common facsimile - 02/6260-3977. Address for receipt of mail (PO Box 250, Mawson ACT 2607) is unchanged, as is the email: busicom@ozemail.com.au. [10.11.01] AFGHANISTAN-BOUND HORNETS FAREWELLED: The Chief of the Air Force, Air Marshal Angus Houston, and the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence, Dr Brendan Nelson, have farewelled four F/A-18 'Hornet' jet fighters from RAAF 'Williamtown' as they commence their deployment as part of the Australian contingent joining the international coalition against terrorism. [09.11.01] ENCOUNTER REPORT WITH REFUGEE BOAT RELEASED: The Minister for Defence has released a Confidential Defence Minute reporting into the circumstances surrounding the rescue at sea of unauthorised boat arrivals on the Indonesian-flagged 'Sumber Lestari'. The Minute records the subject vessel was observed "dumping fuel and water overboard (along with) parts of the ships structure." [09.11.01] DSTO AND UNIVERSITIES TO WORK ON KNOWLEDGE: The Defence Science and Technology Organisation has begun working with the Universities of Sydney and Wollongong on improving knowledge management. The two universities have been awarded a three-year $180,000 grant from the Australian Research Council to look into ways technology can be better used to improve team performance, design better systems to support groups working together, and to improve the generation of knowledge. [09.11.0 |
