News Archive 2002

December

[TOP]

PM KICKS-OFF COUNTER-TERRORISM PUBLIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGN: The Prime Minister has confirmed the Government's commencement of a three month, $15m national security public education campaign, relating to terrorist threats facing the Australian populace. Howard says the barrage of television, radio and print advertisements, in 28 languages, have been designed to "inform, re-assure and enlist the public in looking out for Australia”. The Government’s national security web site has been significantly upgraded, while a dedicated national ‘terrorism hotline' - capable of handling up to 2000 calls per hour - has also been established. Brochures are to be distributed to every Australian household at the end of January. [27.12.02]

ADF NOW SPREAD ACROSS MANY INTERNATIONAL LOCATIONS: Defence says a record 1800 Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel have been deployed this Xmas/New Year in more than 12 countries undertaking a range of operations spanning border protection, peacekeeping duties, United Nations sanctions enforcement, and other third country/exchange deployments. Of this total, 60% were Australian Army soldiers serving in East Timor, including a large number of reservists sourced from Victorian units. [24.12.02]

NEW SAFETY MEASURES FOR BEECROFT WEAPONS RANGE: New safety measures have been implemented at the Navy’s weapons range on the heads at Jervis Bay (NSW), as a result of a comprehensive review of its use by the public. Access is now to be partially restricted via fencing, and additional clearance of unexploded ordnance (UXO) is to be undertaken to make areas safe. A community consultation program will also be put into place after Xmas. According to Defence, the Department "takes its safety responsibilities very seriously, and its first priority is to ensure that no member of the public is put at risk.” [24.12.02]

BOEING TESTS EXPAND X-45A OPERATING ENVELOPE: The sixth test flight of the initial X-45A Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle (UCAV) has been undertaken for the first time from a hard surface runway, whilst being executed with the UCAV’s landing gear retracted. The flight test program is next scheduled to progress from single to multi-vehicle operations, including coordinated taxiing and flight, inter-vehicle communications, dropping inert ordnance and performing missions against simulated threats. Boeing says the program is on-track to provide the USAF with initial operating capability by 2008. [24.12.02]

HYBRID ROLE FOR F/A-18s AS UAV AERIAL REFUELLER: Engineers at NASA’s Dryden Flight Research Centre are evaluating the capability of F/A-18A aircraft to act as an in-flight refuelling tanker to serve as an automated aerial refuelling system for unmanned air vehicles (UAVs). The automated aerial refuelling project is said to build on autonomous formation flight tests undertaken over 2000/01, which demonstrated a 14% fuel saving could be achieved by UAVs maintaining a precision formation within the wingtip vortices of the lead tanker aircraft while undergoing refuelling. [24.12.02]

MORE HOMELAND SECURITY EXPANSION FOR RAYTHEON: Raytheon has further strengthened its portfolio of integrated communications businesses with the acquisition of Solipsys Corporation - a specialist in data fusion, data distribution and display, and modeling & simulation; and JPS Communications, an innovator in key communications interoperability technologies used in civilian government command and control networks, particularly for police, fire and hospitals with dissimilar communications equipment. Raytheon says the capabilities acquired through the acquisitions “also apply to our military customers by helping bridge the interoperability gap amongst the US services and coalition forces.” [23.12.02]

BOEING SLAM-ER ORDERS PASS THE 500 MARK FOR USN: US Navy orders for Boeing's Standoff Land Attack Missile - Expanded Response (SLAM-ER) missile are nearing the 500 mark following a recent US$60.3m contract confirmation for 120 units. SLAM-ER is used for strikes against high-value land targets, ships in port and at sea, and features a capability to attack both autonomously as well as using man-in-the-loop control to give warfighters flexibility in planning and executing strike missions. [23.12.02]

DIAR.COM WISHES READERS A MERRY XMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR: This issue of the DIAR.com e-Newsletter (Number 50 for 2002) is the last for the year. Your editor and research staff will now be taking a three week break, with the first issue for 2003 scheduled to be published on 13 January. The DIAR.com office will nevertheless be staffed from 2 January 2003 for subscribers wishing to request documentary retrieval services for any urgent press releases or other materials circulated from 24 December 2002 through to 12 January 2003. [23.12.02]

TASMANIA FIRST TO STAFF COUNTER-TERRORISM TEAMS: A Tasmanian police officer is to be the first State police officer to join Australian Federal Police (AFP) led 'Joint Counter-Terrorism Teams' due to start operating throughout Australia early next year. The officer was sworn-in as a special member of the AFP on 19 December, thus providing him with powers to act in support of both State and Commonwealth legislation relating to counter-terrorism activities. Further, a Joint Agency Agreement has been signed between the AFP and the Tasmanian Police to set in place formation of the National Joint Counter Terrorist Team to operate in that State. Similar Agreements are being signed by the AFP with other jurisdications. [22.12.02]

DEFENCE CONFIRMS FORMATION OF LITTORAL COMBAT SHIP TEAM: The Department of Defence and Australian Defence Industry have teamed together to form an Australian Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Team, with the aim of highlighting to the international LCS community: unique Australian industry solutions/technologies developed specifically for the littoral environment that are applicable to the United States' LCS program; and the competitive advantage that Australian industry (as apart from individual companies) can provide to LCS program participants in terms of reduced cost, low technological risk and schedule delivery within the nominated project timeframe. [20.12.02]

PANEL SOUGHT FOR CAPABILITY DEFINITION DOCUMENT DEVELOPMENT: Defence is seeking to advance its Systems Engineering Improvement Program via the issuance of an RFT from candidates to form a panel of suitably skilled and experienced Systems Engineering practitioners to assist with the development of Capability Definition Documents (CDDs). The DMO is seeking experienced/knowledgeable personnel with a demonstrated record of achievement in CDD development and an ability to gain an understanding of DMO’s processes. Selection will be based on the tendered response to an RFT and interview (and a work test), to be conducted in February 2003. [20.12.02]

'PREDATOR B' UAV SURVEILLANCE/ATTACK SYSTEM INTO CONTRACT: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc has received a US$15.7m contract from the USAF for two 'Predator B' unmanned aircraft, to be designated the MQ-9 'Hunter-Killer'. The aircraft will be configured with a 10,000lb gross takeoff weight, and capable of operations over 50,000 feet for over 30 hours while carrying over 800 lbs of internal payload and 3,000lbs of external carriage of various payloads. Delivery of the first aircraft is scheduled for November 2003. [20.12.02]

BAES STARTS DETAILED MANUFACTURE OF JSF COMPONENTS: BAE Systems (BAES) is now producing its first aluminium components for the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) airframe, which are to be assembled in a 'Horizontal Tail' test article. The aluminium components have been engineered at BAES' Samlesbury (Lancashire) plant using the JSF engineering toolset, special processes and collaborative manufacturing environment using the plant's latest high-speed 5-axis machining technologies. Over the last year, the Empennage and Aft Fuselage Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) based at the plant have been maturing the F-35 airframe layout and design in support of the first full airframe delivery to Lockheed Martin at Fort Worth in October 2004. [20.12.02]

FINMECCANICA TAKES CONTROL OF MACCHI AEROSPACE BUSINESS: Finmeccanica is to buy the remaining 66.6% stake in Aeronautica Macchi SpA, previously held by the Foresio family, for Euros 160 million. The company had a value of production of E296m in 2001, with an EBITDA of E5m. Aeronautica Macchi is a strategic asset for Finmeccanica allowing it to leverage the military aircraft trainer market and access the 12-nation 'Eurotraining' program. Substantial synergies are also envisaged with Finmeccanica's aerostructures business (mostly grouped together in Alenia Aeronautica), and established partnerships with Airbus Industrie and Dassault. Finmeccanica also has a stake in MBDA missile systems, and recently completed acquisitions of Telespazio and Marconi Mobile. [20.12.02]

HOWARD TALKS ON EXPANSION OF ADF SPECIAL FORCES CAPABILITIES: The Government has endorsed a plan to expand Australia's Special Forces counter terrorist capability and establish a new Special Operations Command in the Australian Defence Force. Prime Minister Howard has instructed the CDF to begin work 'as a matter of urgency' to deliver on a new military framework which increases Australia's ability to use non-conventional warfighting means to respond to the threat of terrorism. Heading the list of initiatives is an additional 310 highly trained combat personnel along with associated support personnel to supplement Australia's existing Special Forces. Second is the raising of an additional commando company with its logistics, heavy weapons and communication support along with the raising of a Special Forces Combat Service Support Team. The purchase of additional Troop Lift Helicopters will also be accelerated to enable a squadron of helicopters to be based in Sydney to support East Coast-based special forces capabilities. [19.12.02]

MAJGEN DUNCAN LEWIS TO HEAD NEW SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND: Howard added the Government had decided to raise a new Special Operations Command, to be established as a Joint command with a command status equivalent to Maritime, Land and Air Commands. He saw the new Command as providing "better joint, inter agency and alliance co-operation to defeat terrorism in any form." Former Afghanistan veteran Duncan Lewis (promoted to Major General) is to head the new organisation. The Special Operations Command will comprise a joint Headquarters, the Special Air Service Regiment, 4th Battalion the Royal Australian Regiment (Commando), Tactical Assault Groups (West) and (East), 1 Commando Regiment and the Incident Response Regiment. The Prime Minister has also tasked the CDF with developing a separate proposal for the greater involvement of ADF Reserves in the response to domestic terrorist threats or incidents. As such, some elements of the Reserves would be given additional training to prepare them for short notice employment in domestic protective security roles. [19.12.02]

AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCES CAPABLE OF COVERING TWO THEATRES: Speaking in response to elements of the ADF potentially being deployed to Iraq, the Prime Minister says, "anybody who thinks we're just going through the motions of the UN are wrong. The only thing I can tell the Australian public (is) that if there is some call on the ADF as part of a Coalition action, then they are ready and that is why contingency arrangements have been put in place. If we were to get involved at the end of this process in some kind of military action, and that is completely hypothetical at this stage, we would not commit such a level of forces as to in any way weaken our capacity to deal with challenges or eventualities nearer to home. Our first requirement, our first obligation, our first response obviously is the challenges at home." [19.12.02]

ELITE OF THE ADF CREAMED-OFF TO NEW COUNTER-TERRORISM UNITS: The Minister for Defence says about 300 personnel will be required to staff the Government's decision to boost Australia's special forces capabilities, and these staff will come from existing ADF members while "new recruits will come in to fill the gaps in other areas of the Force." Hill added the Government was "putting the funding in place over the next few months (while) the Army was "working on the finer points (but) there'll be a new capacity to deal with maritime counter-terrorism. The detail of the funding is to be determined over the next few months, to be confirmed with the first appropriations in next year's Budget." [19.12.02]

SUBMARINES AND ASW TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE FOR SINGAPORE: A 'first-ever' international conference on Submarines and Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) is to be held in Singapore over 4-5th March 2003, and is aiming to look at the impact of technological advances on submarine operations and the conduct of anti-submarine warfare in the Asian environment, with special attention given to the ASEAN region. Telephone +65 6284 2292, email conference@defencedirectory.com or surf www.defencedirectory.com/conference for details. [19.12.02]

NEW SIKORSKY HELICOPTER ACHIEVES FAA CERTIFICATION: Sikorsky’s S-92 helicopter has achieved Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification after 1,570 test flight hours. The aircraft has been evolved from the S-70 'Black Hawk' and 'Seahawk', and is available in a variety of configurations including offshore oil, VIP transport, airline operations, and other missions. Sikorsky says the S-92 "provides unprecedented levels of safety and reliability. It is the only aircraft in its class certified to the latest specifications for flaw tolerance, bird strike capability and turbine burst protection. In addition to its civil helicopter capabilities, the rotor system and dynamic components are designed to meet the UH-60 'Black Hawk' ballistic tolerance requirements, with all gearboxes capable of running for 30 minutes after loss of oil." Corrosion protection is said to meet or exceed current maritime standards. [19.12.02]

GENERAL DYNAMICS PAYS US$1.1 BILLION FOR GRAB AT GM DEFENCE: In a further major restructuring of US defence industry, General Dynamics has announced it will buy General Motors Defence for US$1.1b in cash. GM Defence has 2,400 employees in four operating units: GM Defence, Delco Systems in Goleta (Calif); GM Defence, Australia (Adelaide); GM Defence, Canada (London, Ontario); and MOWAG Motorwagenfabrik AG in Kreuzlingen, Switzerland. The two companies have been working together for some time in a joint venture to supply the US Army's new 'Stryker' combat vehicle. GM Defence anticipates 2002 revenues of approximately $950m, and has a backlog of more than $1.5b. [19.12.02]

UNMANNED HELICOPTER COMPLETES COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW PROGRAM: Northrop Grumman's Integrated Systems sector says it has completed a comprehensive program review of its UCAR unmanned combat armed rotorcraft. The UCAR program is being sponsored by DARPA and the US Army, and is intended to provide enhanced reconnaissance and attack capabilities. It combines autonomous operations and advanced command and control technologies with the advantages of vertical takeoff and landing. Integrated with the Army's manned aircraft, the UCAR system is proposed to carry out armed reconnaissance and attack missions, operating within the Army's Objective Force concept, effectively identifying and attacking targets that are camouflaged and concealed in close combat situations such as dense, mountainous and urban terrain. [19.12.02]

WAR PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY, BUT NO COMMITMENT YET: Addressing media speculation Australia is preparing to go to war with Iraq in March, Prime Minister Howard says, "no decision has been taken by the Australian Government to commit military forces to Iraq. Obviously, as I've indicated earlier, the defence force has to make contingency arrangements, but in terms of any political/government decision, none has been taken. We remain hopeful that Iraq will comply in full with the demands of the United Nations and that military force will not be necessary. In the end, if Iraq does not comply then a decision will have to be taken on the best assessment the Government will make of Australia's national interests. We can't pretend that the problem will just solve itself if we walk away from it. [18.12.02]

US LOOKS TO UK AND EUROPE TO SUPPORT NEW MISSILE SHIELD: The UK Ministry of Defence has received a request from US Defence Secretary Rumsfeld to upgrade early warning radar facilities at RAF 'Fylingdales' (and possibly, 'Menwith Hill') for missile defence purposes. The US has also contacted Denmark about the possibility of using a radar station in Greenland to support missile defence plans. UK Defence Minister Geoff Hoon has stated, "as well as improving US defence, an upgraded Fylingdales radar would be a key building block in the extension of missile defence to Europe, should we and other European Allies so desire." [18.12.02]

GOODRICH TOTALLY RESTRUCTURES AEROSPACE ORGANISATION: The Goodrich Corporation has reconfigured its organisation into three strategic business segments - Airframe Systems, Engine Systems and Electronic Systems. The restructure is designed to enhance the company's alignment and communications with its global customer base and streamline the organisation. It is also the next step in the formal integration of Aeronautical Systems (AS), the new segment structure which will go into effect on 1 January 2003. The existing AS business units: Actuation Systems, Cargo Systems, Engine Control Systems and Power Systems will also form part of the new segment. [18.12.02]

CAE TO UPGRADE 'BLACK HAWK' AND 'CHINOOK' SIMULATORS: CAE has received a contract from the US Army to provide its advanced 'Medallion-S' visual system for the MH-60 'Black Hawk' and MH-47 Chinook' helicopter combat mission simulators of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne). The value of the contract is approximately C$5 million. The agreement represents the first combination of a high-end, full-featured visual system with Lockheed Martin's Tactical Operational Scene (or 'Topscene') mission rehearsal database system which uses overhead image data from satellites and other sources to rapidly convert two-dimensional imagery into simulated three-dimensional 'fly-through' battlefield visualisations. [18.12.02]

GOVERNMENT HOLDS FIRM ON BORDER PROTECTION MANTRA: The Minister for Immigration has confirmed Government action (via Regulations) to temporarily excise four islands off the West Australian coast as a result of concerns over a boat possibly carrying illegal immigrants. The effect of the regulations is that, even if the boat landed on Australian soil, any persons leaving the boat would be removed from the excised land for later processing at Christmas Island, Nauru or Manus Island. The Minister subsequently reported the vessel ended up being seized for breaching Australian fishing laws and was found to be carrying eight legitimate crew members. [17.12.02]

COMBATING MONEY LAUNDERING AND TERRORIST FINANCING: The Minister for Justice and Customs, Senator Chris Ellison, says a significant step forward in the regional fight against terrorism has been taken in Bali with Australia and Indonesia co-hosting a regional conference on combating money laundering and terrorist financing. The regional conference was opened by Senator Ellison and the Indonesian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr Hassan Wirajuda. Senior officials from 33 nations from the Asia-Pacific Rim along with representatives from the private sector and key international organisations are attending the two-day conference. These organisations include the Financial Action Task Force, the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Committee, the UN Office of Drugs and Crime and the Asia-Pacific Group on Money Laundering. [17.12.02]

BUSH ORDERS CONSTRUCTION OF NATIONAL MISSILE SHIELD: The US President has directed the Pentagon to proceed with fielding an initial set of missile defence capabilities to be operable by 2004 and 2005. Bush said the initial capabilities would include ground-based interceptors, sea-based interceptors, additional Patriot (PAC-3) units, and sensors based on land, at sea, and in space. The President's landmark national missile defence fielding announcement was couched in terms of Homeland Security, with the events of 11 September 2001 characterised as underlining the 'unprecedented threats' now posed to American citizens. [17.12.02]

UNIFIED AUSTRALIAN AIR TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT SYSTEM PROPOSED: The Government has announced it will examine whether merging Australia's military and civil air traffic management systems could cut duplication and costs. As such, Airservices Australia, the national air traffic management organisation, and the Royal Australian Air Force will shortly jointly undertake a feasibility study. The two organisations are currently joint custodians of the nation's airspace and will report to the Ministers in the first half of next year. The study will focus initially on integrating civil and military air traffic management systems at the RAAF-controlled airports of Darwin and Townsville. [17.12.02]

BLICK INQUIRY DEFICIENCIES TO BE TAKEN UP IN THE SENATE: Confirming it's dissatisfaction with the narrow terms of reference said to have been given to the Inspector-General for Intelligence and Security for his inquiry into possible intelligence warnings available to Australia prior to the Bali bombings, the Shadow Minister for Defence, Kevin Rudd, says Labor will consult with the Democrats and Greens in the new year to determine the terms of reference for a new Senate inquiry into the Australian Government's intelligence assessments and travel advisories for the period 11 September 2001 to 12 October 2002. [17.12.02]

EVANS DIGS-IN WITH CRITICISMS OF DEFENCE ADMINISTRATION: The Shadow Minister for Defence, Chris Evans, says the Howard Government "has conceded that its bungled management of Defence is compromising Australia's Defence capabilities. The Minister for Defence, after denying the obvious for 12 months, has finally admitted that his Government's management of Defence has been a disaster and will leave Australian troops without the capability they need. Just two years into a ten-year Defence Capability Plan, the Government has admitted that its mismanagement of the portfolio will see key elements of that Plan abandoned. John Howard will not be delivering the Defence White Paper he promised. While the ADF is struggling to operate at very high tempo, the Government has failed to give them the equipment they need. The Prime Minister and Treasurer have stepped in to force Robert Hill to address the widespread problems in his Department." [16.12.02]

TWELVE CONFERENCES SET FOR AVALON AIRSHOW PROGRAM: A wide range of conferences and seminars are planned to be held in conjunction with the Australian International Airshow, to be held at Avalon from 11 February 2003. The principal envents include: a UAV Conference; the RAAF Airpower Conference; Flight Test Society of Australia Seminar; Civil Aviation Safety Authority Seminars; French-Australian Cooperation Conference; Health & Usage Monitoring Systems Seminar; Royal Aeronautical Society Seminar; Australian Institute of Purchasing and Material Management Ltd Conference; Aviation Medical Conference; AOPA Seminars; Aviation Safety Foundation of Australia Seminar; and the Airports Conference. [16.12.02]

METAL STORM MAKES IT INTO NEW US WEAPONS PROGRAM: The US Army Research Office (ARO) has made a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase 1 award to Schappell Automation Corporation (SAC) to develop a capability to deliver special, non lethal, projectiles using Metal Storm's electronic ballistic technology. The system has several options including: the mounting of weapons on robotic vehicles or as a hand held weapon. SAC has extensive experience in robotics and automated weapon systems, and has been responsible for a series of remotely controlled and autonomous land vehicle programs including the design, building and testing of DARPA's Autonomous Land Vehicle. [16.12.02]

MOBILITY FUNDS ALLOCATED FOR DEFENCE FAMILIES ON THE MOVE: The Minister for Education, Science and Training (Dr Brendan Nelson) and the Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence (Danna Vale) have confirmed joint funding of $300,000 will be applied to two projects to help minimise some of the negative impacts associated with defence families moving schools. The first project will identify the most useful data needed when students move to another school and establish a best practice approach to transferring it. The second project will identify practical ways to help children better adjust socially and emotionally to a new school environment. [15.12.02]

OPENING OF BUCKLAND MARKSMANSHIP TRAINING RANGE: Defence has confirmed it has re-opened the Buckland Marksmanship Training Range (MTR) in Tasmania after the installation of a $750,000 electronic range system, supplemented by state-of-the-art facilities. The Australian designed, manufactured and installed computer controlled target systems at Buckland are described as “the only system in the world that could meet the ADF's challenging requirements.” MTRs are used to practice, assess and validate basic shooting skills for military personnel and most of Defence small-arms weapons live firing is done on these ranges. Changing requirements-such as shooting with night-vision equipment, and old target equipment, highlighted the need for new systems. The Buckland MTR is located some 76km from Hobart, and covers 23,428 hectares. [14.12.02]

COUNTER-TERRORISM VACCINE STOCKS NOW BOOSTED: Australian authorities are said to have just received a new shipment of 50,000 doses of smallpox vaccine, however, the Commonwealth’s Chief Medical Officer, Richard Smallwood, says there are “no plans to vaccinate Australian’s at this stage.” Smallwood says the vaccines will instead be stockpiled in case there is an incident, thus allowing public health authorities a reasonable chance of containing an outbreak. He adds, “I think it’s always possible to imagine scenarios where any public health response is going to have trouble, but I think we’re now in a position to move to contain an outbreak efficiently.” [14.12.02]

SENIOR US ADMINISTRATION VISITOR TALKS TO ALL EXCEPT CREAN: The cream of Australia's political leadership has assembled over the weekend to talk with visiting US Deputy Secretary of State, Richard Armitage. Armitage is visiting Australia after calls on the Prime Minister of Japan, the President of South Korea, the Vice Premier of China, to drum-up support for possible military action. After meeting Prime Minister Howard and Ministers Hill and Downer he was quoted as saying Australia and the US 'should be prepared to stand side-by-side' on Iraq, but conceded Australia should act in its own interests given the threat posed by Al Qaeda and its associates in the Asia Pacific. Armitage was also to meet Acting Opposition Leader, Jenny Macklin, and Labor Shadow Ministers Evans and Rudd. According to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alexander Downer, Opposition Leader Crean’s decision to reject an offer to meet with Armitage, “defies belief." [14.12.02]

‘JAVELIN’ MISSILE SOLUTION FOR BUNKER-BUSTING REQUIREMENT: Defence has confirmed Australia’s front-line infantry, cavalry and special forces units are to be equipped with the Raytheon/Lockheed Martin-manufactured ‘Javelin’ anti-armour and bunker-busting missile under a $180m procurement program. The purchase is described as providing enough missile launchers, ammunition, logistics support, simulators and training ammunition to equip high readiness battalions and other units, with the weapons entering wider ADF service over the period 2005 to 2007. [13.12.02]

THALES T&S PICKS-UP ‘WEDGETAIL’ AEW&C FLIGHT SIMULATOR: Thales Training & Simulation (TT&S) has confirmed the signing a contract with Boeing Australia Limited (BAL) for the supply of a full-motion flight simulator for the new AEW&C aircraft being procured by the RAAF. Under subcontract to BAL, TT&S will design, develop and manufacture the Operational Flight Trainer (OFT), which will be based on a B737-NG Full Flight Simulator modified to provide the training environment required for the AEW&C platform. As with the B767, B737 and A330 simulators TT&S is providing to Qantas, the Level D AEW&C OFT will be built using TT&S’ C2000X PC/Windows NT architecture and will be fully qualified to ICAO Level II, to meet the highest level of approval under Australian regulations. The simulator will be installed at RAAF base Williamtown in a new support facility being provided by BAL as part of the AEW&C project. [13.12.02]

ASIO BRAWL SEES LABOR BLAMED FOR LACK OF HOMELAND SECURITY: According to the Attorney-General, Daryl Williams, the Opposition has “chosen politics over community safety in rejecting a Bill that has become a test of commitment to the security of the nation. Thanks to Labor, ASIO does not have the powers it needs to question people with information about potential terrorist attacks and to gather the details we need to prevent these attacks before Australians are hurt or killed. Thanks to Labor, these vital powers may never be available as an extra layer of protection for the community because the Opposition continues to insist on amendments to the legislation that make it unworkable.” [13.12.02]

RESERVE RECRUITING UP AFTER CHANGES TO MILITARY EMPLOYER SUPPORT: The ADF's operational tempo is said to be benefiting from increasing numbers of Reservists volunteering for full-time service following increased Federal Government support for employers. According to the Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence, Danna Vale, “more than 1340 Reserve members are currently on voluntary full-time service, up from 1083 at this time last year. Almost 790 employers are said by Vale to have received Employer Support Payments between July and November this year, compared with 327 employers in the same time last year. More than $12 million in Employer Support Payments has been paid to employers nationally since the scheme was introduced. [13.12.02]

HOWARD FIRM ON PEACEFUL RESOLUTION TO WMD ISSUES IN IRAQ: Speaking in advance of his meeting with US Deputy Secretary of State, Richard Armitage in Sydney, Prime Minister Howard has said “we do not want military conflict over Iraq. We want Iraq to completely rid herself of weapons of mass destruction. We support the United Nations process, indeed, we urged that upon the United States some months ago. We want the Security Council resolution to be adhered to by everybody. We've (now) had this declaration by Iraq. Everybody's got to be given time to look at it and if there's something wrong with it or there are some gaps then those gaps will need to be pointed out. I've (also) made it very plain all along that if there were any kind of military involvement, then any contribution that Australia might make - and we haven't taken any decision to do so - any contribution that we might make would not be such as to in any way diminish our capacity to deal with other threats." [13.12.02]

INTEGRATION OF INMARSAT TECHNOLOGY INTO BORDER PROTECTION: National Air Support (NAS, a subsidiary Surveillance Australia) says it has become the world's first civilian aerial surveillance operator to transmit real-time video, still images and data via satellite from an airborne aircraft (through a modification to its Dash 8 aircraft) on contract to Australia's ‘Coastwatch’ program. Integration of the high-capacity communications link to the five-aircraft fleet means patrolling Coastwatch aircraft will soon be able to communicate (via satellite) direct to the Customs National Surveillance Centre in Canberra or to a mobile ground station. NAS adds the Surveillance Australia aircraft are "the first civil maritime surveillance and border protection aircraft anywhere in the world to field such a system, (with) the only other known system operated by the US military, using their own military satellites." [13.12.02]

RULES UPDATED FOR FREEZING TERRORIST ASSETS IN AUSTRALIA: Revised arrangements for freezing terrorist assets in Australia under the auspices of UN Security Council Resolution 1373 (2001) have now come into force. Since 15 October 2001, the Government has used a mechanism contained in the Charter of the United Nations (Anti-Terrorism Measures) Regulations 2001 to implement this obligation. These Regulations have now been replaced by a new Part 4 of the Charter of the United Nations Act 1945, and the Charter of the United Nations (Terrorism and Dealings with Assets) Regulations 2002. Under the revised mechanism, anybody holding financial or other assets of persons or entities listed as terrorists by the Minister for Foreign Affairs in the Commonwealth Gazette is prohibited from using or dealing with those assets. It is also a criminal offence to give assets of any kinds to such persons or entities. The penalty for these offences is five years imprisonment. [13.12.02]

CSC ON ACQUISITION TRAIL FOR HOMELAND SECURITY ASSETS: Computer Sciences Corporation is to acquire DynCorp under a US$950m deal that includes assumption of all of DynCorp's debt, estimated at $273m. According to CSC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Van Honeycutt, "with this transaction, we are seizing an opportunity to significantly strengthen our leadership position in the US federal marketplace, augment our capabilities to support the requirements of the new Homeland Security Department, and respond to the federal government's initiative to increase its reliance on service providers." [13.12.02]

SMITHS MOVES FURTHER INTO BOEING PLAN FOR AERIAL TANKERS: Boeing has selected Smiths Aerospace to effect a US$14m program to design and manufacture the air-refuelling boom control actuation system for its 767-based tanker transport. Smiths Aerospace is also providing the Mission Control System and the hose-and-drogue air-refuelling systems for the 767 aircraft. Commercially launched in March 2001, manufacturing development on the boom control actuation system will begin immediately with initial deliveries on aircraft scheduled for delivery to Italy and Japan in 2005 with the USAF to follow. [13.12.02]

HILL SETS-UP ACQUISITON COMMITTEE TO OVERSEE ROCHE: Defence Minister Hill has personally appointed a three-man team to work with the Under Secretary for Defence Materiel, Mick Roche, to assist with a range of issues associated with major Defence acquisitions. The Committee is to be Chaired by Malcolm Kinnaird, assisted by Len Early (the current chair of the Stevedoring Industry Finance Committee) and Member of the Commonwealth Grants Commission, and also a former Deputy Secretary of the Department of Finance and Administration, and Dr Bill Schofield, formerly chief of the DSTO Aeronautical and Maritime Research Laboratory. Hill claims "the management of major Defence acquisitions has improved significantly since the establishment of the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) two years ago.” [12.12.02]

DMO REVIEW TEAM TERMS OF REFERENCE ISSUED, BUT NOT PUBLICLY: Hill confirmed at a media conference that the new Committee has “got some terms of reference which were basically worked up by the bureaucrats. I don’t immediately see why they couldn’t be released, but I’ll have a think about it.” According to Hill, the review team “will identify the key challenges associated with the management of Defence projects, how these are currently being addressed and any potential improvements that can be made. It’s not a committee that comes in and just issues a report at the end of the business. The idea is for them to work hand-in-glove with the DMO.” The review team is to provide an initial report to the Government early next year. The Under Secretary, Defence Materiel, Mick Roche, has already met with the review team which has immediately started work. [12.12.02]

MILITARY RELATIONSHIP WITH KOPASSUS ‘STILL ON THE TABLE’: Referring to Australia’s on-going relationship with the Indonesian military (TNI), Senator Hill says “we have a program seeking to rebuild the defence relationship (as we) think that’s in Australia’s interests. We have been taking this step by step, principally through observing programs that can be of mutual benefit.” In terms of working with Kopassus’ counter-terrorism capability, Hill says “we have had a debate, and that is still unresolved. Some other countries have concentrated on trying to support the development of counter terrorism capability within the Indonesian police, but the facts are the principle counter-terrorism capability of Indonesia remains with Kopassus.” [12.12.02]

DSTO MOVES INTO ANALYSIS MODE ON NAVY ‘HEADMARK’ EXPERIMENTS: Defence scientists are expecting in early-2003 to have their first results on the Navy’s ‘Headmark 2002’ war-gaming experiments, undertaken in support of the RAN’s Innovation Strategy (NIS). System concepts explored during '‘Headmark 02’ were focused on lead Navy issues, such as: air warfare destroyer capability requirements; amphibious ship capability requirements; the utility of wide area underwater surveillance; potential uses for high-speed vessels; and the interplay between RAAF and RAN assets in the Maritime environment. The exercises are expected to inform the capability development process, and influence force structure and future war-fighting concepts. [12.12.02]

JOHN HOLLAND ACQUIRES TRANSFIELD CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS: John Holland is to acquire for $49.8m the business contracts, property, plant, equipment and goodwill of Transfield Construction, with completion of the deal expected by 31 January 2003. The deal boosts John Holland’s annual revenues to around $1.2b, and its workforce to over 2000 people. As part of the acquisition, John Holland is to form a 50:50 joint venture company with Transfield Holdings to pursue the development of major infrastructure projects in which John Holland would also be invited to invest. [12.12.02]

‘YARRA’ HANDED OVER TO COMPLETE ‘HUON’-CLASS MHC PROGRAM: ADI Limited says it has completed the $1 billion ‘Huon’-class coastal minehunter (MHC) project on schedule and within budget with hand-over of the final ship (of six) in the fleet, the ‘Yarra’. According to the company’s Managing Director, Lucio Di Bartolomeo, the original MHC contract (signed in 1994) provided for the ‘Yarra’ to be handed over in September this year. However, and due to the scope of work (to boost MHC capabilities) subsequently being increased by 4%, the handover has fallen back, but with only a 1% timetable extension. “The Australian ships have proved superior to the minehunters of other nations in their ability to locate, classify and destroy sea mines,” he added. [12.12.02]

BAE SYSTEMS TO WEAR COSTS ON OVERDUE DEFENCE PROGRAMS: Two multi-billion pound programs – the ‘Nimrod’ MRA4 aircraft and ‘Astute’ submarine being lead by BAE Systems for the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) have been declared as behind schedule, with the MoD saying it is not prepared to pick up the financial slack for the delays – thus leaving the company looking at costs possibly amounting to as much as £1 billion. The two parties are to negotiate further over the Xmas period with BAE expecting to reveal the full financial implications by February 2002. This latest news is reported to have caused a further 20% drop in BAE's share price, which has now hit a nine-year low. [12.12.02]

ANTI-MISSILE INTERCEPTOR FAILS IN CRITICAL TEST PHASE: The US Missile Defence Agency (MDA) has confirmed that the latest test of its Ground Missile Test (GMD) system failed after the exoatmospheric kill vehicle (EKV) interceptor and the booster rocket failed to separate, preventing the EKV from engaging the target warhead in space. The failure was similar to one already experienced in a test on 8 July 2000, making the score three unsuccessful tests from eight intercept attempts since tests began on October 1999. The latest failure comes as a blow to US Defence chiefs who are working on a schedule aimed at having a basic missile defence system in place by the end of 2004. [12.12.02]

CRACKING PACE SET IN GROWTH OF WORLD CNBRE MARKETS: A new report from Frost & Sullivan has outlined the growth of scientific-based security technologies for chemical and biological detection in response to post-11 September 2001 instructions from the White House for scientists to redouble their efforts at developing technologies to help prevent or mitigate another terrorist attack. Technologies said by the report to now be in various states of development range from more sensitive and versatile detectors for biological, chemical, and radiological agents to new diagnostics, vaccines, and therapeutics against anthrax, smallpox, and other potential bio-terror agents. [12.12.02]

NO ADVANCE WARNING OF BALI BOMBINGS SAYS BLICK REPORT: An inquiry into what Australia's intelligence services knew about the threat environment before the Bali bombings is said to confirm the Government's line the 'no specific warning' was received. Tabling excerpts of a report by the Inspector-General of Security, Bill Blick, in Parliament 10 December, Blick's report is said to have found only one intelligence report 'obtained from foreign liaison sources' as mentioning places such as Bali as possible sites for a terrorist attack, but only in the aftermath of a high-profile counter-terrorist event such as the arrest of Jemmaah Islamiyah spritual leader, Abu Bakar Bashir. Blick is continuing his investigations and will make a further report to Howard once he has had time to examine foreign language intelligence files. [12.12.02]

FIRST TRANSNATIONAL CRIME CENTRE NOW OPEN IN CANBERRA: The Minister for Justice and Customs, Senator Chris Ellison, has opened 11 December the Australian Federal Police's (AFP) new Transnational Crime Coordination Centre (TCCC), which is designed to provide national and international law enforcement agencies with a 24-hour focal point of contact within Australia national and international coordination of transnational crime investigations. Ellison says the new will be structured to bring together investigations on five key crime types: terrorism; illicit drug trafficking; people smuggling; hi-tech crime; and proceeds of crime/money laundering financial investigations. He added the centre would also incorporate an intelligence function spanning three areas: collection and liaison; intelligence product; and targeting teams - to assist in coordinating the AFP's response to transnational crimes. [12.12.02]

DIAR.COM PUBLISHING DATES OVER XMAS/NEW YEAR: This issue of the DIAR.com e-Newsletter is Number 49 (of 50) for 2002 covering 2/12/02 to 11/12/02. The final issue (#50) for the year will be published 23 December covering news releases up to that date. The e-Newsletter will then take a three week break, with the first issue for 2003 being published on 13 January, and covering news releases from 24 December 2002 through to 12 January 2003. Regular weekly e-Newsletters will re-commence after that date. [12.12.02]

DIAR.COM AT THE 2003 AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW: Staff from the DIAR.com e-Newsletter will be relocating to the Avalon Airshow trade exhibition site for the week of 11-14 February 2003 in order to publish a daily Newsletter (in paper format) reporting on all major trade exhibition events. Firms wishing to have copy included in the pre-Show e-Newsletter (emailed 10 February), should lodge their material with our Canberra office by mid-day on 7 February – Email busicom@ozemail.com.au or Fax (02) 6260-3977. Firms wishing to have copy included in any one of the four daily paper-based Newsletters to be distributed at the show should drop their copy into the DIAR.com stand at the trade exhibition (Hall C, Stand 3E31 - adjacent to the business centre) by 2.30pm each day. [12.12.02]

ADBR REPORTS ON NEW ZEALAND DEFENCE ACQUISITION PROGRAM: In a second annual feature edition on the implementation of New Zealand’s Long Term Defence Development Plan (LTDP), this week’s Australian Defence Business Review (ADBR) magazine reports on the implementation of Project ‘Protector’ – the plan to revamp the Royal NZ Navy – and how implementation of this project is being used by NZ military capability officials to underpin a new ‘functional specifications’-based philosophy for achieving procurement outcomes. Email busicom@ozemail.com.au to request and electronic copy. [12.12.02]

ADI SHORT-LISTED FOR ARMY BRIDGE ERECTION/PROPULSION BOATS: ADI Limited has been short-listed to supply 24 new bridge erection propulsion boats (BEPB) to Defence to satisfy an Army requirement to replace all of its existing craft used to assemble the pontoons that create bridges across strategic waterways. ADI says it has drawn upon the design, engineering and production skills used to produce the ‘Huon’-class minehunters to develop a world class design for the new BEPBs, which will also be able to be used as ferries to transport personnel, equipment and stores - as well as a diving support tender. The 24 boats with transportation cradles are said to offer “a highly manoeuvrable, stable and robust platform. The hull is a unique part asymmetric configuration which produces the excellent directional stability and safe operation required by the Army.” [11.12.02]

CUSTOMS LAUNCHES NEW SATCOM SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM: The Minister for Justice and Customs, Senator Chris Ellison, has launched a new state-of-the-art satellite communications system at the Customs National Surveillance Centre in Canberra. The system allows live transmission of video, still images and data from Customs ‘Coastwatch’ aircraft direct to the National Surveillance Centre. Ellison says this current application “is the first time this technology has been applied to civil maritime surveillance anywhere in the world, and will therefore significantly boost Customs’ operational capability in the maritime surveillance environment.” [11.12.02]

FORCE OF CIRCUMSTANCES SPEEDS-UP ‘GLOBAL HAWK’ DEVELOPMENT: Intensive use of the ‘Global Hawk’ Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) in Operation ‘Enduring Freedom’ (OEF) is said to have significantly speeded-up the acquisition of experience in operating UAV systems with a limited number of aircraft providing more than 15,000 intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance images of potential enemy targets during 50 combat missions totalling over 1,000 flight hours. In less than 50 days after 11 September 2001, USAF officials say “hundreds of government and contractor team members totally re-focused this program. We took an immature system and fused it into a seamless, operational entity that could deliver time-critical targeting information to warfighters supporting OEF." Six Global Hawks have so far been delivered to the USAF, with the seventh and final advanced concept technology platform - slated for use as a test vehicle to support development and upgrade efforts - scheduled for delivery later this month. [11.12.02]

BOEING SIGNS ITALIAN AIR-TO-AIR REFUELLER CONTRACT: Officials from Boeing and the Italian Ministry of Defence have signed the final contract for four new 767-based Tanker Transport aircraft, including five years of contractor logistics support. Italy became the first customer for the 767 tankers last year when it selected the aircraft in a competition to replace aging 707 tankers in the Italian Air Force inventory. The Italian Air Force will receive its first 767 Tanker Transports in 2005, with deliveries continuing until early 2008. The first aircraft will be modified into tanker configuration at the Boeing facility in Wichita (Kansas), with the three subsequent aircraft to be modified by Aeronavali in Italy. [11.12.02]

TENIX REPLIES TO REITH ALLEGATIONS MADE IN PARLIAMENT: Responding to allegations made in Parliament in regard to the involvement of Peter Reith in first cancelling, and then putting up for re-tender the Defence Integrated Distribution Services (DIDS) contract, Tenix Group Managing Director, Paul Salteri, says the former Defence Minister “has not been involved with contracts or tenders. He has not been involved in the DIDS tender in any way with the joint venture company TenixToll Defence Logistics. He has not been requested nor has he provided any advice on any aspect of the company’s DIDS tender.” [10.12.02]

MILITARY COLLEGE GRADUATES COME FROM MANY PLACES: A ceremony for General Service Officer Cadets at the Royal Military College (Duntroon, ACT) has seen 123 Full Time Staff Cadets graduate as Lieutenants in the Australian Army, and three as Pilot Officers in the Royal Australian Air Force's Airfield Defence Guard. Of the total graduates, 116 were from all States of Australia, with overseas graduates including a Lieutenant in the New Zealand Defence Force, and a Second Lieutenant in each of the Royal Malaysian Army, the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, and the Royal Thai Army. [10.12.02]

HOWARD TOYS WITH SINGLE COUNTER-TERRORIST COMMAND: Responding to submissions to the FA,D&T Joint Standing Committee calling for the creation of a single integrated national security and counter-terrorist unit under a single commander, Prime Minister Howard says, “I’m looking at different ways that we might re-organise our intelligence and security responses, but (these suggestions) miss the point that we already have a very highly coordinated arrangement. Providing the agencies are working together, then you have an effective response. Now I'm not ruling out some reorganisation. Maybe there is some merit in that. But I think there is a real danger in the wake of things like we've been through recently for people to think that if you get a new title, a new office, a new description, then everything is solved. In the end, it (comes down to) the most effective use of the men and women available at a given time in response to a challenge that's important.” [10.12.02]

PRIME MINISTER SWINGS ONTO NEW STRATEGIC THREATS: Commenting on Australia’s strategic outlook, the Prime Minister added, “there is no likelihood of an attack on Australia in the conventional sense. Indeed the analysis we have had over recent weeks indicates that the likelihood of an attack on Australia in a conventional sense is even more remote now than it has been for some years. Now that's not to say that I'm complacent about it. It's not to say that I say it will never happen. I'm simply making the observation that the challenge Australia now faces and the more immediate real challenge is the unconventional threat of terrorism and we have to find ways and responses for that, that we haven't been required to do so in the past." [10.12.02]

SAS SUCCEEDS ON GOOD TRAINING, QUALITY OFFICERS AND LUCK: Briefing media on the challenge of coalition operations on the eve of the return of Australia’s Special Forces from Afghanistan, Brigadier Duncan Lewis, says they “are difficult at the best of times (but in) operating with US forces we don't have the same sort of challenges of language that others might have. We have, in the main, commonality of equipment or systems, where we can actually talk to one another in an electronic sense. There is also the great investment that we have made over many years of training and working with the US. The second lesson is that we must continue within the SAS Regiment to maintain a balance of capabilities. It's necessary that you be able to do a number of things, not just focus in on one particular skill set, and I think it is one of the great strengths of the SAS Regiment that they do have the range of military skills which have application in a broad spectrum of circumstances.” [10.12.02]

LINE-IN-THE-SAND NOW DRAWN ON AMENDMENTS TO ASIO BILL: Following-on from recommendations made by the Senate Legal and Constitutional References Committee, the Attorney-General, Daryl Williams, says the Government has accepted a number of amendments to its ASIO Bill in order to obtain passage of what it terms ‘this vital counter-terrorist legislation’. Williams adds, however, “we have repeatedly said that we will not entertain proposals that will render the Bill impotent or unworkable. The Government is of the view that the majority of the proposals made by the References Committee would do just that.” [10.12.02]

DUTCH TEAM WINS CRITICAL JSF SUPPORT SYSTEMS POSITION: The Dutch Prognostic Health Management Consortium (DPC) led by Perot Systems Corporation, has been awarded a six-year, US$8m contract to provide technology for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). DPC technologies are to be integrated into the F-35's Autonomic Logistics Information System (ALIS) off-board prognostic health management architecture, which will support the resolution of difficult-to-isolate, complex aircraft-failure scenarios. The DPC was started in early 1998 in order to develop for the JSF a system of on-board and off-board capabilities that will enable the aircraft to diagnose its own health, predict failures before they happen, and prescribe a course of action to minimise aircraft down-time. [10.12.02]

NZ PUSHES ON WITH ITS LONG TERM DEFENCE DEVELOPMENT PLAN: The New Zealand Minister for Defence, Mark Burton, says a tender will be issued in early 2003 for both the P-3 ‘Orion’ Mission Systems upgrade, and the Communications and Navigation Systems upgrade for the long range maritime patrol fleet. The upgrades will mean that the P-3s will have enhanced capabilities for gathering and processing information, as well as meeting civil communications requirements and complying with new air traffic regulations due to come into force in 2005. The tender process for the P-3 project will begin in early 2003, and fully costed options should be returned to Cabinet by late in the year. It is expected that the first aircraft will be modified and back in service in 2006 with the remaining five aircraft complete by 2008. [10.12.02]

KIWIS MOVE TO UPGRADE 'IROQUOIS' AND 'SIOUX' HELICOPTER FLEETS: Burton further confirmed work has also begun on a project to replace the ‘Iroquois’ utility helicopter and the ‘Sioux’ training helicopter, beginning with a project to define the operational, policy and training requirements for the 'Iroquois' replacement. The Minister says he expects to bring a paper to the NZ Cabinet outlining Defence's recommendations later next year. Options for the ‘Sioux’ replacement, which include purchase or short-term lease, should be before the Cabinet early next year. Approval has also been given to procure the Automatic Grenade Launcher (to meet the Direct Fire Support Weapon requirement), and the ‘Javelin’ terminally-guided anti-armour weapon, to meet the Medium-range Anti-Armour weapon requirement. [10.12.02]

‘BLACK HAWK’ PILOT AWARDED THE US BRONZE STAR: An Australian Army ‘Black Hawk’ helicopter pilot has been awarded the US Bronze Star for meritorious service while serving on exchange with a US Army unit in Afghanistan. Major Steve Jobson received the medal at the completion of a two-year reciprocal exchange with the American 82nd Airborne Division, which also included six-months' service as a pilot in Bosnia-Herzegovina. He was presented the Bronze Star medal by Major General John R Vines, the Commanding General of the international coalition against terrorism effort in Afghanistan in a ceremony at Bagram Air Field, the main Coalition base in Afghanistan. [09.12.02]

NETWORK APPLIANCE INC IN CANBERRA TO SUPPORT DEFENCE: Open network storage solutions provider, Network Appliance Inc, has opened an office in Canberra in order to support the company's recently awarded Preferred Supplier status by the Department of Defence for open network information storage systems and related software and services. Network Appliance partnered with ASI Solutions for the contract, under which Network Appliance expects to install its ‘Filer’ storage systems at some 150 Defence sites across Australia, over a three-year period. Michael Burnie has been appointed Australia and New Zealand managing director for Network Appliance Inc. [09.12.02]

BAES COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF CONDOR PACIFIC INDUSTRIES: BAE Systems (BAES) North America has completed its US$58.5m acquisition of Condor Pacific Industries Inc following receipt of all regulatory approvals. The company supplies inertial products for navigation, guidance, and control, including STARS, a two-axis rate sensor for tactical missile seekers, and STAARS, a multi-function sensor for sub-miniature, low-cost inertial measurement units. BAES officials say the acquisition “closely complements our broad involvement in aircraft control electronics (and) enhances our ability to serve the growing precision munitions market segment." BAES Controls develops and produces integrated flight and engine control subsystems and produces hybrid electric drive systems for commercial and military vehicles. [09.12.02]

HECKLER & KOCH SOLD BACK TO GERMAN IN-HOUSE MANAGERS: As part of its strategy of divesting non-core businesses, BAE Systems has sold its Heckler & Koch small arms business to Heckler & Koch Beteiligungs GmbH, a German registered company established to effect a management buy-out, and led by two of its current directors, Ernst Mauch and Dirk Holzknecht. Heckler & Koch manufactures rifles, pistols, submachine guns, machine guns, grenade launchers and hunting and sports weapons. It has 700 employees, mostly based in Germany, with elements in USA, Switzerland and the UK. Its headquarters are at Oberndorf in Germany. Heckler & Koch was bought by BAES plc in 1991. [09.12.02]

TARGET SYSTEMS TO BE UPGRADED AT FOUR ADF RANGES: Defence has signed a $5.6m contract with Swiss-based prime contractor, Polytronic, for the provision of new, world class target systems on four Defence training ranges. The company is to work with Albury-based firms Milspec (who will manufacture the target mechanisms and associated equipment), and Australian Target Systems, who will provide the software, installation and scheduled maintenance. The new contract covers upgrades to the Shoalwater Bay, Darwin, Puckapunyal and Holsworthy ranges, which are expected to be completed by 18 April 2003. Options for a further $5.8m worth of target systems have been included in the initial contract. [06.12.02]

NEW HOME FOR ARMY RESERVES 21 CONSTRUCTION REGIMENT: Defence says its 21 Construction Regiment has moved into a refurbished section of Gallipoli Lines at Holsworthy, after 30 years based at Haberfield. The move is said to allow the unit's members better access to Holsworthy's field and firing ranges and sports facilities, and places them next door to the full time unit, 17 Construction Squadron. The 21 Construction Regiment has been a very active Reserve unit, making an important contribution to the ATSIC Army Community Assistance Program through building infrastructure in remote indigenous communities in the Northern Territory last year. Members also worked on this year's highly successful 'Tour De Force 4' concert tour through East Timor, assisting with staging and transport tasks. The regiment recently completed an annual field exercise at Holsworthy Range which included bridging and engineer trade training and road construction work. [06.12.02]

INQUIRY ON MANAGING TERRORIST ATTACK CONSEQUENCES: The Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade is to commence hearings on ‘Australia’s preparations to respond to a terrorist attack’, as part of the Committee’s Watching Brief on Australia’s involvement in the War Against Terrorism. Initial evidence is to be given by: the Department of Prime Minister & Cabinet; the Attorney-General’s Department; the Protective Security Coordination Centre; Emergency Management Australia; the Australian Federal Police; the Australian Defence Force; the Australian Strategic Policy Institute; and the ANU’s School of Terrorism Studies. [06.12.02]

DEFENCE LINKS-UP WITH EMA FOR NSW BUSHFIRES SUPPORT: The Attorney-General has approved the provision by Emergency Management Australia (EMA) of two helicopters, aircraft refuelling and accommodation facilities at HMAS ‘Albatross’ at Nowra, and a mobile fuel tanker, for the fighting of bushfires around Ulladulla. The two helicopters, one with winch capability to evacuate residents and the other for fire reconnaissance work, were placed on standby at HMAS 'Albatross' after an urgent request from the New South Wales Emergency Operations Centre. Formerly part of the Department of Defence, EMA, was recently moved to become a division of the Attorney-General’s Department. [05.12.02]

HOMELAND SECURITY MAKES NATIONAL RESEARCH PRIORITIES: The Commonwealth Government has decided, as a result of work undertaken by the Prime Minister’s Science Engineering and Innovation Council, to set four new national research priorities spanning: an environmentally sustainable Australia; promoting and maintaining good health; frontier technologies for building and transforming Australian industries; and technologies for safeguarding Australia. Under the ‘Safeguarding Australia’ category, Howard envisages contributions coming forward on how Australian science can contribute to the fight against terrorism, and cited the benefits of CrimTrac’s nationally coherent database, which had formerly received research assistance. Other areas canvassed for support include: crime, invasive diseases and pests, and threats to Australia’s critical infrastructure. [05.12.02]

SUPPORT FOR 'DEFENCE-INDUSTRY' IN RESEARCH PRIORITIES: New research support for ‘frontier technologies’ for building and transforming Australian industries is said by the Prime Minister to be about “fostering creativity and innovation by supporting leading edge research in areas such as information and communication technology (ICT), bio-and geo-informatics, nanotechnology and biotechnology. ICT has an important role to play as a platform for ensuring the use and application of new technology to many industry sectors. Support for these areas of research will help stimulate vibrant new industries and ensure our future competitiveness.” All Commonwealth research and research funding bodies will be asked to submit plans by May 2003 outlining how they propose to support the four priorities. [05.12.02]

NO APOLOGY COMING ON PRE-EMPTIVE STRIKE PLANS: Prime Minister says he will not be apologising to the Malaysian Prime Minister in regard to his comments about pre-emption. According to Howard, “you only apologise when you have something to apologise for. I would invite those who criticise that statement to have a look at it and to have a look particularly at the observation I made that you would use a capacity if there were no alternative. I've re-read my remarks, and I would simply offer this observation to my critics - that if you look at all of it is a totally unexceptionable statement of the obvious and an annunciation of a basic responsibility of office that any Prime Minister of this country would have. It was not directed at any of our friends in the region and the suggestion that it was, is wrong, and I'm surprised that the Opposition Leader should invite an apology when clearly none is there.” [05.12.02]

GERMANY CUTS A400M ORDER BACK TO SIXTY AIRCRAFT: The German government is to cut E6b (£3.8b from its defence budget, with the biggest cut coming in the number of A400M transport aircraft to be ordered, from the original 73 aircraft to 60. Germany is also to effect a two-thirds cut in the number of ‘Meteor’ BVRAAM missiles it will buy. The A400M decision although unwelcome was not unexpected, since Germany had only committed enough funds to buy 40 of the transport aircraft, with a promise to find more after the general election in September. Parliament is expected to agree funding for the additional 20 aircraft in the New Year. Airbus/A400M executives were recently in Australian urging the RAAF to buy into the program with the offer of an attractive industrial offsets deal. [05.12.02]

‘GLOBAL HAWK’ DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM MOVES ON IN EUROPE: Officials from the USAF, the German Ministry of Defence, and European aerospace industry are working toward a 2003 demonstration of the interoperability of US-German unmanned aerial vehicle systems using the Global Hawk UAV. That demonstration is scheduled to take place next spring when a ‘Global Hawk’ deploys to Germany for a series of test flights focusing on: joint development and integration of a German electronic intelligence payload on ‘Global Hawk’; exchange of flight certification information between the United States and Germany; and deployment of the UAV to Germany to prove the conceptual feasibility of its signals intelligence payload. [05.12.02]

BAE SYSTEMS IN LINE FOR X-45B VEHICLE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS: The BAE Systems ‘Controls’ business has been selected to develop the Integrated Vehicle Management System Computer for Boeing's X-45B Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle (UCAV). BAES is to deliver five flight-worthy shipsets between mid-2003 and late-2004 in support of a first flight scheduled for fourth-quarter 2004. The X-45B, a joint effort of the US Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency and the US Air Force, is evolved from Boeing's X-45A UCAV, which began flight testing in May. The stealthy, all-electric craft, weighing 14,000 pounds empty and capable of carrying a 3,600 pounds weapon load, will fly at medium and high altitudes at high subsonic speed. [05.12.02]

RAYTHEON DELIVERS 2000TH GPS ANTI-JAM ANTENNA SYSTEM: Raytheon Systems has just delivered the 2000th GPS Anti-Jam Antenna system (GAS-1) unit, which is now in operation with the armed forces of the United States, the UK, and eleven other nations. The GAS-1 is a revolutionary Global Positioning System (GPS) anti-jam antenna system which is able to recognise sources of electrical interference. By adjusting the way in which the system receives the GPS satellite signals it can reject interference, allowing the navigation equipment to function safely, accurately and efficiently. In military use this allows operations to be carried out with greater accuracy and less risk. [05.12.02]

RESERVES 'LEAVE' POLICY FOR COMMONWEALTH EMPLOYEES: The Defence Reserves Support Council has commenced its review of a discussion paper and draft policy on Defence leave for Commonwealth public sector employees who are members of the ADF Reserves. The two documents focus on developing uniform leave policies and employment practices to support the release of Reservists for training and deployment, and to ensure Reservists are treated consistently across all Commonwealth Government departments, agencies and authorities. Additional initiatives will be taken shortly to develop a separate policy for Reservists employed in the private sector, which takes into account the demands of industry. [04.12.02]

NEW TRAINING FACILITIES SET FOR NORFORCE SOLDIERS: Soldiers from NORFORCE in the Northern Territory are to benefit from a Government decision to construct a new training depot in Borroloola, to house a range equipment including state-of-the-art surveillance and communications kit, land rovers and boats for inshore patrolling. Based on a core of 60 full time soldiers, most of the NORFORCE unit's 600 members are part-time soldiers recruited from Aboriginal communities throughout the region. NORFORCE's area of operations cover roughly 1.8 million square kilometres, which equates to approximately one-quarter of the Australian land mass. [04.12.02]

ADMINISTRATIVE REFORM BENEFITING UK DEFENCE PROJECTS: Reporting on the UK Ministry of Defence's top 20 projects in the ‘demonstration and manufacturing’ phase, the National Audit Office (NAO) says the Ministry was showing “a continued improvement in overall performance, but maintaining this improvement would be the challenge.” The NAO says there were also ‘encouraging signs’ that Smart Acquisition was resulting in innovative program design and risk is being measured more regularly. However, performance on individual projects once underway is more varied and some projects are continuing to suffer from delays in both the Demonstration and Manufacture stage, as well as in the Assessment Phase. [04.12.02]

SGI TECHNOLOGY SELECTED TO FINE-TUNE THE F-35 JSF DESIGN: Lockheed Martin has bought a new package of SGI visualisation systems to power its Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) flight simulation laboratory at Fort Worth, in Texas. The order is said to include SGI 'Onyx' 3000 series and SGI 'Onyx' 300 visualisation systems, as well as Silicon Graphics Octane2 workstations. Engineers have now finalised the F-35s external design following achievement of an JSF 'lines freeze' milestone on 27 June, but will continue to tweak the internal design by leveraging the compute and graphics power of its SGI systems. The company will also use the new SGI technology to achieve the program's next milestone, Preliminary Design Review, which is scheduled for March 2003." [04.12.02]

PM SAYS BOUGAINVILLE TROOPS NOW EXPECTED HOME MID-2003: Speaking with Papua New Guinea (PNG) Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare at Parliament House in Canberra, Prime Minister Howard says that while the peace monitoring group in Bougainville “will remain there while ever there is a need, we expect that need will probably have gone by the middle of next year. But that is a situation that we will continue to keep under very close surveillance and review.” Howard further confirmed the two leaders had also discussed “the continued cooperation between (the two countries) relating to the restructuring and redeployment of the PNG defence force.” [03.12.02]

BOOST GIVEN TO RESERVE COMPONENT IN TOTAL DEFENCE FORCE: The Government is to introduce new tri-service regulations dealing with the full range of personnel issues affecting serving Permanent and Reserve members in the ADF. The regulations draw together previous provisions from Navy, Army and Air Force regulations and some personnel provisions of the Defence Act and Naval Defence Act. As such, they introduce new categories of Reserve service, including: High Readiness Active Reserve; High Readiness Specialist Reserve; Specialist Reserve; Active Reserve; and Standby Reserve, which the Government says “will create a more effective Reserve capability to meet the changing demands posed by Australia's strategic environment.” [03.12.02]

‘HAWK’ LIF’s BEGIN AIR-TO-AIR REFUELLING CAPABILITY TRIALS: The RAAF's new ‘Hawk’ Lead-in Fighters have begun air to air refuelling (AAR) trials off the northern NSW Coast as part of a BAE Systems contract to upgrade the aircraft’s capability. The trials are being conducted in concert with a RAAF B707 tanker staged out of RAAF Amberley, and will involve Hawk’s coupling with the tanker to test the aircraft's newly developed AAR capabilities, prior to acceptance into service in early 2003. During the trials, the Hawk aircraft will be flown and operated by BAES aircrew, whilst the RAAF will operate the B707 and F/A-18 ‘Hornet’ chase aircraft. [03.12.02]

UK DEFENCE PRESENCE AT THE AVALON 2003 AIRSHOW: Britain is to have a major presence at next year's Australian International Airshow, and is expecting a nearly 20-strong group of defence and aviation-related companies. The Group will be led by the UK's Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Peter Squire, and the Head of Defence Export Services, Alan Garwood. The British contingent is being sponsored by Trade Partners UK, the government network dedicated to building British business overseas. The Society of British Aerospace Companies (SBAC) is to host the UK pavilion, which will be one of the largest national groups attending Avalon in 2003. [03.12.02]

CONTRACT TO FUND CONTINUING SEA-RAM DEVELOPMENT: Raytheon has been awarded a US$6.7m modification to an existing contract to continue development of the SEA-RAM Weapon System in co-operation with the US Navy. The project provides funding to continue development of the horizon emphasis radar, upgrade existing radar systems and improve the system's software to the ‘Phalanx’ gun system that is directly applicable to SEA-RAM development. SEA-RAM is a low-risk, low-cost evolution of the proven ‘Phalanx’ Block 1B Close-In Weapon System with the addition of the Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) Guided Missile Weapon System. [03.12.02]

WORLD UAV MARKET SET TO BOOM SAYS NEW REPORT: A new Frost & Sullivan report says the US war against terrorism’s focus on unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) is translating into a surge in demand for UAVs, with 2002 industry revenues of US$1408.3m projected to reach $1758.1m by 2007. The report predicts UAVs “have a promising future with their potential to revolutionise conventional military operations. The segment is currently entering a new phase of its development focusing on the design of operational vehicles planned for the end of the decade. UAVs are being adapted to maximise the exploitation of legacy and new sensors so that future conflicts can be taken to the enemy in ways never before contemplated." [03.12.02]

CREAN TALKS PEACE AS HOWARD SAID TO TALK ONLY OF WAR: Responding to weekend comments from the Prime Minister regarding the employment of ‘pre-emptive’ strikes to combat terrorists overseas, the Leader of the Opposition, Simon Crean, says “the last thing I would be doing at the moment is talking about pre-emptive strikes. The Prime Minister only ever wants to talk war. I want to talk peace (and) resolutions that can be achieved through the United Nations. I'm for saying we've got to engage our regional neighbours. We've got talk a collective responsibility, a common solution to fighting terror together, not starting to threaten them." [02.12.02]

BOEING PUSHES HARD WITH F/A-18E ‘GAP’ FILLER CAMPAIGN: Senior Boeing test pilots are planning to put the new F/A-18E ‘Super Hornet’ jet fighter through its paces at the 11-16 February 2003 Australian International Airshow at Avalon. Two of the aircraft will be featured at the flying display, and later – on the ground – will be available for airshow visitors to inspect the aircraft’s on-board canon and supplementary array of bombs, rockets, air-to-air missiles and air-to-ground guided munitions. The ‘Super Hornet’ is being pitched to fill any capability gaps that may arise in the RAAF’s flying armoury on the way into introduction of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) in the years after 2012. [02.12.02]

RUDD READS HOWARD’s MIND ON PRE-EMPTION STRATEGY: Shadow Foreign Affairs Minister, Kevin Rudd, says “I suspect that what the Prime Minister is really doing is using arguments about pre-emption against terrorism on the one hand to justify a position for pre-emption or first strike against Iraq on the other. You see, what the Prime Minister is trying to do is to say there is a problem with terrorism which we must attack and therefore as an extension of that we must also consider supporting militarily a US first strike against Iraq. These are quite separate matters – Iraq and the campaign against regional terrorism – and the Prime Minister is trying to bring those two matters together." [02.12.02]

GULF WAR MARITIME VESSELS ROTATION NOW COMPLETE: The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, Fran Bailey, has welcomed home the crew of HMAS ‘Arunta’ to Fleet Base West after a six month operational deployment to the Persian Gulf. During this time the ‘Arunta’, along with HMAS ‘Melbourne’ (which returned home last Friday), completed almost 700 boardings of vessels attempting to smuggle contraband in and out of Iraq through the Persian Gulf over the last six months. The ‘Arunta’ and ‘Melbourne’ were recently replaced in the Persian Gulf by HMAShips ‘Anzac’ and ‘Darwin’. [02.12.02]

US ‘SUPER HERCULES’ TRIALS ADDING TO RAAF CAPABILITIES: USAF trials of the extended fuselage version of the Lockheed Martin C-130J airlifter, recently re-designated the CC-130J, have confirmed the aircraft’s unique capability to take off and land on very short austere runways with the successful landing of an aircraft weighing 135,000 pounds in less than 2,000 feet. According to Air Force officials, “the ‘Super Hercules’, with its greatly increased range and speed, is going to revolutionise theatre transport operations both strategically and tactically (especially when) operating from rough fields, a mode of operation expected to become commonplace in the future.” [02.12.02]

HOWARD FIRM ON 'PRE-EMPTIVE' STRIKE FOR THE NATIONAL INTEREST: Commenting to media on evening television news bulletins regarding Australia's rising regional threat analysis, the Prime Minister has said he would not hesitate to authorize a 'pre-emptive' strike on targets within the region if he was absolutely convinced by the strength of intelligence information that such targets were being used to prepare for, and subsequently mount, terrorist strikes upon Australia, its critical facilities or its population centres. [01.12.02]

TERRORISM THREATS TO IMPEDE ON AUSSIE XMAS DINNERS: Despite criticisms this week that the Government has underestimated the level of threat to Australia caused by terrorism in setting its formal threat assessment at 'medium' (unchanged since 11 September 2001), the Howard Government has confirmed substantial electronic media space has been booked over the Xmas/New Year period to mount a public awareness campaign seeking the cooperation and vigilance of all Australians in keeping a look-out for suspicious circumstances, and reporting any such circumstances to local police. [01.12.02]

November

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October

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CARR ALL FOR COOPERATION, AS LONG AS THE COMMONWEALTH PAYS: Opening the ADSC 'Homeland Security: Who is Responsible?' Conference in Canberra, NSW Premier, Bob Carr, has committed his State to an 'open-cheque of cooperation' in fighting terrorism on Australian soil. Carr confirmed his own creation of a 'Counter-Terrorism Command' in Sydney of 70 people, as well as a review of State legislation and policing powers - all wrapped up in a reference to the Crime Commission of NSW upon which ASIO had been asked to take-up a seat on the oversight Panel. Carr repeated his call for ADF troops to be deployed protecting national assets. "If there is a real crisis, it's no use having these people sitting around in barracks," Carr told media following the delivery of his address. [31.10.02]

RICHARDSON APOLOGIES FOR OVERSIGHT OF INTELLIGENCE AGENCIES: Working through an extensive list cataloguing global terrorist incidents over the past few years in the run-up to the Bali bombings - and saying 'the world community did not pick up on the emergence of the threat' - the Director-General of ASIO, Dennis Richardson, has told an ADSC Homeland Security Conference in Canberra, the agency might sometimes make mistakes, but will now "not decide against taking counter-terrorist action on the grounds that it might constitute a bad look." He added, "we have an interest and responsibility to ensure that those very few Australians with links to international terrorism do not involve themselves with acts of terrorism." [31.10.02]

MINISTER WITNESSES ‘WEDGETAIL’ ROLL-OUT AT BOEING PLANT: Defence Minister Hill and a senior RAAF delegation have visited Boeing’s plant in Renton (Washington) to witness factory roll-out of the first aircraft to be equipped with the MESA radar and supporting equipment to comprise Australia's new A$3.45b airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) capability. Currently running ahead of schedule, and following radar integration, formal flight testing of the B737-based aircraft is due to begin in the fourth quarter of 2003. Aircraft #1 (of 4), however, will fly to Delaware in January for installation of auxiliary fuel tanks (taking about eight weeks), and will then fly back to Seattle for further modifications at the Boeing military flight centre. Delivery of the first two AEW&C aircraft are due in 2006. [31.10.02]

RAYTHEON SECURES SPOT IMAGING DEAL FOR AUSTRALIAN REGION: Raytheon Australia has confirmed its conclusion of an agreement with Spot Image (France) for the exclusive distribution of SPOT 2, 4 and 5 data over the Australian region. As a result of the agreement, the company is to install a SPOT 5 terminal at its facilities in Canberra to undertake the sole local download of SPOT 2, 4 and 5 data, meaning it will be able to provide same day critical imagery anywhere in Australia. Company representatives are now said to be building relationships with Australian distribution businesses focused on markets such as agriculture and environmental management, as well as the creation of standard products based on SPOT data ranging from 2.5 to 20 metre resolution. Spot Image Services (SIS) is similarly working with Raytheon to ensure continuity of existing services. [31.10.02]

SAGEM AND TENIX TEAM FOR AUSTRALIAN UAV MARKET: Paris-based Societe d'Applications des Generales d'Electricite & de Mecanique (SAGEM) and Melbourne-based Tenix Defence (Aerospace Division) have concluded a teaming agreement to bid on Joint Project 129, which seeks to outfit the Australian Army Aviation with a Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (TUAV). SAGEM and Tenix will offer a variant of the ‘Sperwer’ UAV for JP129, which is expected to receive final approval by Xmas, and formal funding approval in the May 2003 Budget. Other companies expected to compete JP129 include: AAI, BAE Systems, EADS, General Atomics, Israel Aircraft Industries and Northrop Grumman. [31.10.02]

ROCKWELL COLLINS REPORTS ON US$2.5 BILLION FINANCIAL YEAR: Rockwell Collins Inc has reported net income for the fiscal year ended 30 September 2002 of US$236m, or $1.28 per share. This is said to compare favourably to last year's pro forma net income of $149m (adjusted for acquisitions). Sales for the fiscal year 2002 were $2.5b versus $2.8b last year, with free cash flow for fiscal year 2002 being $397m, or 168% of net income. For fiscal year 2003, the Company anticipates revenues of approximately $2.6b with earnings per share between $1.33 and $1.38. Operating margins are anticipated to be 14-15% for commercial systems, and 16-17% for Government systems. [31.10.02]

AUSTRALIA SIGNS-UP FOR JOINT STRIKE FIGHTER DEVELOPMENT: The Minister for Defence, Robert Hill, has signed on behalf of the Commonwealth a Ministerial Exchange of Letters with US Defence Secretary Rumsfeld providing for Australia's entry into the US$200 billion Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program. The letters were signed during the course of the annual Australian-United States Ministerial (AUSMIN) Consultations in Washington DC. The letters confirm Australia will invest up to US$150 million to join eight other partner countries in the decade-long Systems Development and Demonstration (SDD) phase of the JSF program. [30.10.02]

DEFENCE MINISTER VISITS FT WORTH TO FLY THE F-35 DEMONSTRATOR: Defence Minister Hill has joined the Australian Ambassador to the US, Michael Thawley, and US Ambassador to Australia, Tom Schieffer, on an orientation visit of Joint Strike Fighter facilities in Ft Worth. The visit included tours and briefings describing the claimed 'unprecedented performance' of the fifth-generation international aircraft, as well as its lean manufacturing methods and affordable life-cycle development. The visit also featured a ‘flight’ by the Minister of the F-35 cockpit demonstrator. JSF Program Manager, Tom Burbage, told Hill that international contributions to the F-35s development equalled “almost 15% of the SDD price tag (which is) a further incentive to make the program successful.” [30.10.02]

AUSMIN COMMUNIQUE FIRMS JOINT RESOLVE AGAINST TERRORISM: In a joint communique following talks between the US Secretaries of State and Defence and Australian Ministers for Foreign Affairs and Defence, the two nations have reaffirmed their “undiminished support for the Global War on Terrorism, and in particular the effort to bring peace, stability and democracy to Afghanistan and end its status as a haven for terrorists." Both sides welcomed their deep bilateral cooperation on counter-terrorism measures, including in the areas of diplomacy, law enforcement, customs, financial controls and intelligence. In particular, they strongly reconfirmed their willingness "to coordinate efforts to assist countries in the Asia-Pacific region with counter-terrorism measures, including with capacity building, training and cooperation.” [30.10.02]

AUST/USA TO UNDERTAKE REVIEW OF COALITION WARFIGHTING APPROACHES: The communique added that both countries looked forward to “an improved capacity to operate together” as a consequence of a current/ongoing Interoperability Review, including the new agreement on the Joint Strike Fighter and “cooperation on the development of other major capability enhancements.” In addition, agreement was reached “to strengthen cooperation in strategic planning, capability planning and development of new concepts and technologies.” A future review (timing to be confirmed) is also to look at recommending “measures to enhance the ability of the defence forces to work effectively together in combined and coalition operations.” [30.10.02]

HILL SAYS AUSTRALIA WILL TARGET TERRORISM WHEREVER IT MAY BE: Speaking at a press conference after conclusion of the AUSMIN talks, Defence Minister Hill says the terrible experience of Bali “has only reinforced (the Government's) determination to defeat this scourge of terror no matter where it may be. It emphasises the global nature of the threat and that whilst it needs to be addressed at source in such places as Afghanistan, we nevertheless have to also attack it where it's being realised. And this has been brought home to us in the most stark and terrible way. We are pleased that we will be doing so with the United States. We have worked well together in Afghanistan and a considerable focus of (these) meetings … is on how we can continue to work together even more effectively in the future than what we're doing now.” [30.10.02]

DEFENCE GOES GREEN ON NEW BUILDING SUSTAINABILITY: The Department of Defence has accepted a nomination to become a founding Board Member of the Green Building Council of Australia. The Council is a national not for profit industry initiative, whose mission is to develop a sustainable property industry for Australia, and to drive the adoption of green building practices through market based solutions. Defence manages approximately 700 leased and owned built assets, including 60 major military establishments. The estate consists of approximately 3 million hectares of land with some 25,000 facilities, is valued at around $15 billion, and embraces five world heritage areas. [30.10.02]

WILLIAMS DEFENDS ASIO COUNTER-TERRORISM MODUS OPERANDI: Responding to criticisms of the approach taken by security officers in recent raids in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, the Attorney-General says, “I can confirm that ASIO and the AFP are conducting operations under warrants, including warrants authorised by me. The investigation is part of a wider and ongoing investigation designed to establish information about the possible presence of individuals linked to Jemaah Islamiyah in Australia. For operational and legal reasons, while the investigation is ongoing, I won’t be providing any detailed comment on it.” [30.10.02]

TREASURER WARMS TO PROVIDING EXTRA FUNDS FOR THE MILITARY: Treasurer Costello has acknowledged the Government may need to provide additional funds to the ADF to sustain operations and the war against terrorism, but has denied to media the cost will be as high as $1 billion a year. Costello said "this country has just gone through the worst attack on its people since WWII. In the light of those events … and Iraq … the Government will look very carefully at whether or not additional resources are needed." Defence Minister Hill has previously indicated he will be seeking Cabinet support for increased defence spending, starting with a 'top-up' via the 2002/03 Additional Estimates hearings. [30.11.02]

LOCKHEED MARTIN TAKES ON NEW UK STOVL TECHNOLOGY: New flight control laws for short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) aircraft, pioneered by UK-based QinetiQ, have been accepted by Lockheed Martin for incorporation into the Joint Strike Fighter. The new UK technology is said to mark a significant change in the flying concept of STOVL aircraft, yielding reduced pilot workloads, increased safety, reduced training times and ease of operation. The technology also contributes sizeable cost savings over the operating life of the aircraft. In one demonstration, QinetiQ says a person with no previous fast jet experience safely landed a modified two-seat ‘Harrier’ unaided - a feat previously unimaginable. [30.10.02]

AUSTRALIA LINKED INTO WORLDWIDE UAV BUILD PROGRAMS: Engineers from BAE Systems (BAES) Australia specialising in flight systems integration and integrated logistics support are said by the company’s UAV Programs Manager, Brad Yelland, to be key members of the BAES 'Team Vigilant' bidding for the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence's Systems Integration Assurance Phase (SIAP) of the ‘Watchkeeper’ Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) program. Yelland adds that the skills and capability being developed in Australia to design, develop and implement UAV solutions will have application to Phase 2 of Joint Project 129, the ADF's requirement for tactical UAVs. [29.10.02]

TENIX DEAL OPENS THE 'DOORS' TO DEFENCE CONTRACTING: Tenix Defence has become the first Australian owned military contractor to sign up for Telelogic Australia’s popular DOORS software application, as part of a push to better meet the needs of the Department and fulfil the requirements set out in Requests for Tender (RFT) documents. Having signed a five-year license agreement with Telelogic, Tenix will now implement a standard environment within the company for managing complex projects, from managing responses on major Australian military tenders to handling thousands of requirements through a project’s life cycle. [29.10.02]

HAWKER DE HAVILLAND MARKS 75 YEARS OF ACHIEVEMENT: Celebrating 75 years of Australian aircraft development and production, the Managing Director of Hawker de Havilland (a subsidiary of The Boeing Company), Lindsay Anderson, says the company is making “steady progress toward becoming a ‘Tier One’ supplier to all major airframe manufacturers.” Currently working for Airbus Industrie, Lockheed Martin, Boeing and Bombardier, as well undertaking extensive component repair work for civil and military customers (including a variety of engineering and research activities). Anderson says Hawker de Havilland “is the market leader in the development, design, test, fabrication and repair of large complex composite and metal aerospace components for the commercial and military aircraft industry.” [29.10.02]

AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL AEROSPACE CONGRESS NEXT JULY: Under the theme of the ‘Century of Aerospace’, the 10th Australian International Aerospace Congress and the 14th National Space Engineering Symposium is to be held at the Hilton Hotel in Brisbane from 29 July to 1 August 2003. Conference organisers are currently calling for ‘abstracts’ of papers to be prospectively prepared for the Congress and Symposium. Refer to www.aiac2003.conf.au for details. The Congress is expected to attract over 400 national and international delegates. [29.10.02]

NEW SIMULATION TOOL FOR MULTIPLE THREAT ANALYSIS: BAE Systems has confirmed that future applications of its Ship Air Defence Model (SADM) technology are to encompass ground-based air defence and UAV system survivability. The confirmation follows an announcement that the SADM analysis tool has been selected by the US Naval Surface Warfare Center (Dahlgren Division) and the US Naval Research Laboratories for use in simulating the defence of a naval task groups against multiple attacking anti-ship missiles and aircraft. According to BAES' Project Manager for Ship Air Defence, Peter Osbourne, the sale “establishes BAES Australia as a leading developer of operational analysis tools for use by departments of defence worldwide." [29.10.02]

SINGAPORE BUYS INTO US SHIPBUILDING AND REPAIR MARKET: Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd (ST Engg) has acquired Friede Goldman Halter's shipbuilding facilities through its US subsidiary, VT Halter Marine Inc (VTHM), thus establishing a strategic gateway for ST Engg's marine sector to penetrate the new building and ship repair markets in the Americas. As such, VTHM will have facilities located at the Mississippi Gulf Coast and Louisiana, and will begin operations immediately, focused around small to medium-sized vessels (patrol craft and logistics vessels, ferries and offshore supply vessels). [29.10.02]

MAJOR OVERHAUL COMING OF ADF DATA STORAGE TECHNOLOGY: Defence has selected Network Appliance Australia to supply new computer network storage hardware for its ‘Restricted’ and ‘Secret’ networks, on an Australia-wide basis. Through a standing offer worth around $20m over the next three years, new distributed data storage arrangements will be progressively introduced at 150 Australian Defence Force sites. Defence says the new solution will result in lower support and logistic costs, reduced complexity in the development of a common software environment, less training costs, and increased data security and availability. [28.10.02]

TENIX RE-BRANDS ROSS AIR IN PUSH FOR RAAF SUPPORT CONTRACTS: Former Adelaide-based Tenix subsidiary, Rossair, has been re-named 'Tenix Aviation' under the direction of Richard Vorias (as General Manager), and reporting directly to corporate MD, Paul Salteri. Vorias has a brief to grow the currently $30m a year turnover (and 110 staff strong) company to around $100m a year within five years. Services are to be focused on OEM authorised Turbine Engine, Propeller and Avionics repair and overhaul; Spare Parts Sales; and Specialist Aircraft Maintenance Services. Salteri also considers there are “real synergies emerging with our work maintaining and providing support systems for RAAF aircraft." [28.10.02]

RAAF ISSUES ‘IN PROGRESS’ RFT FOR NEW PROJECT AIR 5402: The Commonwealth has released 25 October an ‘in progress’ draft Request for Tender (RFT) for the acquisition of a new generation of air-to-air refuelling aircraft (to replace existing B707s), but which are also capable of boosting overall ADF ‘strategic lift’ resources. Defence says the purpose of the document’s release is “to assist development of the final RFT” which is expected for release in early 2003. A signed registration of interest and acknowledgment form is required to be submitted to obtain the draft RFT. Comments are due in by 25 November 2002. [28.10.02]

CHEMICAL WARFARE SOLUTION JUST SHOWN TO THE ARMY: BAE Systems has confirmed its latest technological solution for combating terrorism, the Joint Chemical Agent Detector (JCAD), has been shown to the Australian military at the Land Warfare Conference, in Brisbane. BAES says the company is looking to supply the JCAD ‘ChemSentry’ into new ADF programs such as Phase 1 of Joint Project 2087 (Incident Response Regiment), and Phase 1A of Joint Project 141 - which is addressing chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear of explosive counter measures. [28.10.02]

NH90 COMPLETES CRASH SAFETY TESTS IN GERMANY: A centre fuselage section of potential Air 9000 respondent, the Eurocopter NH90, with all equipment and instrumentation has successfully demonstrated its ability to protect passengers in accordance with customer specifications in recent crash tests. For the test (undertaken at the ‘Ottobrunn’ facility in Germany), the module was - among other test equipment - loaded with 13 dummies. Except for a few marginal, non-critical areas, the helicopter is said to have proved its ability to withstand a significant crash, an important confidence prerequisite for progression to delivery of the helicopter to armed forces starting in 2004. [28.10.02]

AUSTRALIA GAZETTES JEMAAH ISLAMIYAH LISTING: The Attorney-General, Daryl Williams, says a regulation listing Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) as a terrorist organization under new Australian counter-terrorism law has been gazetted by the Australian Government, meaning "members of JI are now on-notice that they are committing a serious criminal offence, and that they face prosecution and significant penalties." The regulation follows a decision by the United Nations Security Council to identify JI as a terrorist group. Offences under the new regulation carry penalties of up to 25 years imprisonment. [27.10.02]

FORENSICS UPDATE FROM THE BALI BOMBINGS SCENE: The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has reported that the forensic examination of the Bali bombing crime scene by the Australia/Indonesian police investigation team is largely complete, with "the bulk of the forensic testing and mapping of the site completed, and tests on the material collected well advanced by laboratories in Indonesia and Australia." Despite this progress, the AFP added, "it is too early to speculate on when analysis of the samples that have been collected over the last two weeks will be finalized, or what the findings may be." Approximately 120 AFP and State/Territory law enforcement personnel are working alongside Indonesians at the Kuta Beach site. [27.10.02]

DECISION ON TERRORISM INSURANCE POOL WELCOMED: The Property Council of Australia has welcomed the Howard Government's announcement of a framework to create a $10.3 billion insurance pool to be activated should an act of terrorism occur, including the extension of a $9 billion government indemnity. According to Property Council CEO, Peter Verwer, creation of the Australian Reinsurance Pool "shows real leadership from the Federal Government as it directly faces up to the emerging arc of instability that confronts the nation." [25.10.02]

HOWARD DELIVERS TERRORISM MESSAGE AT APEC SUMMIT: Addressing the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit in Los Cabos (Mexico), Prime Minister Howard has spoken of further measures to be taken to combat terrorism, saying “in the end the sum total of the strengthened determination of the nations of the world to combat terrorism is the determination of individual nations through their sovereign governments to take the steps that are needed inside the borders of their own country to counteract terrorism. No amount of international exhortation can substitute for the determination of individual governments who know they have a terrorist problem within their borders to do something about it.” [25.10.02]

AUSTRALIA TO FUND $10M INDONESIAN SECURITY UPGRADE: Howard confirmed after a meeting with Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri a ‘one-off’ offer of A$10 million over four years from the Australian Government to assist Indonesia to build its counter-terrorism capacity. The specific measures will involve new efforts to enhance travel security by strengthening airport, immigration and customs control systems and capabilities. Howard added, “we are also looking at how we can assist Indonesia to restrict the flow of financing to terrorists, and help build the capacity of the Indonesian police on counter-terrorism and transnational crime. We (also) had a useful discussion about how we can advance our joint efforts to bring the perpetrators of the Bali atrocities to justice, and strengthen the fight against terrorist threats in the region.” [25.10.02]

‘COLLINS’ PERISCOPE MAINTENANCE STAYS IN AUSTRALIA: Defence has signed a $4.76m, five year, contract with BAE Systems (BAES) Australia to provide local support for ‘Collins’-class submarine periscopes. Defence Minister Hill said award of the contract would “ensure the existing periscope maintenance capability continues within Australia, removing the threat of it returning to the United Kingdom.” Originally set-up as a defence ‘self-reliance’ initiative under AWA Defence Industries, the new contract under BAES will provide: jobs for experienced periscope maintainers to be located in both SA and WA; support for the periscope maintenance facility in Adelaide; and ongoing technical advice from Thales Optronics, now owners of the original periscope manufacturers, Pilkingtons. [25.10.02]

AWARDS RECOGNISE CONTRIBUTION OF DEFENCE RESERVISTS: Six reservists from around Australia have been recognised under the prestigious Australian Defence Force (ADF) ‘Prince of Wales’ Award for 2002. The awards recognise individual Reservists’ excellence in both the civilian and military workplaces by providing outstanding Reserve members with travel to Canada, the UK or the USA to gain experience with their civilian and military counterparts. The aim of the awards is to enhance community and employer support for the Reserves, and to encourage employers to support their Reservist-employees to undertake military training and service. [25.10.02]

USAF DEMONSTRATES ‘SMART’ COMMUNICATIONS TANKER: The USAF has moved one step closer to achieving its 'smart tanker' vision – which expands the air-to-air refuelling (AAR) mission to one of a ‘communications’ platform – with the first ‘Roll-on Beyond Line of Sight Enhancement’ (or ROBE) pallet-equipped tanker successfully relaying communication data while on a flight from Eglin AFB (Florida) to Hanscom AFB, in Massachusetts. Last year Air Force Chief of Staff Gen John Jumper stated a need to move faster toward network-centric warfare, and outlined a vision of using AAR tankers as airborne ‘nodes’ to support a warfighter communications network, as part of the greater integration of military assets to contribute to Air Force transformation goals. [25.10.02]

EUROCOPTER CREATES NEW COMPANY PRESENCE IN MALAYSIA: In an effort to develop future activities in the Southeast Asian region, the Franco-German ‘Eurocopter’ group has created - Eurocopter Malaysia - with a view to providing “the best support to local operators (logistic, technical and maintenance), as well as building strong co-operation with Malaysian industry". Eurocopter executives see Malaysia as an important potential market with particular regard to military and para-public aircraft, as well as corporate and civil operators. Local operators currently employ more than 60 Eurocopter civil and military aircraft (the Puma, Super Puma, Ecureuil, Dauphin N2 and N3, and EC-155). Some 23 Alouette IIIs are also in service with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) and Malaysian Army Aviation fleet. Malaysia is looking at re-vamping these fleets. [25.10.02]

HOWARD OUTLINES POST-BALI COUNTER-TERRORISM RESPONSE: Outlining the conclusions of a Review of Commonwealth Counter-Terrorism arrangements in the aftermath of the Bali bombings, Prime Minister Howard says that whilst Australia’s counter-terrorism arrangements have been substantially strengthened since September last year, it has been found “more could be done to further enhance those arrangements.” He confirmed the Government would introduce (retrospective to 1 October), an extra-territorial murder offence working through existing extradition law. Howard added the Government would establish a standing reward of up to half a million dollars, in addition to the A$2 million reward announced specifically in relation to the Bali bombing, for anyone providing information leading to the conviction of a person for an indictable offence contained in our counter-terrorism legislation. [24.10.02]

ADDITIONAL FUNDING OF A$60M TO COVER COUNTER-TERRORISM GAPS: Howard further confirmed the Government would: provide additional funding of $12.3m over five years to the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs to employ additional Airline Liaison Officers; provide additional funding of $15m over four years to the Australian Customs Service to assist in the detection of fraudulent travel documents; further enhance the capabilities of ASIO and ASIS to respond to the threat of terrorism; expand the 'Air Security Officer' program as a matter of priority to include selected international flights; and provide additional funding of $31.7m over five years to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to increase physical security at Australia's overseas posts. [24.10.02]

COMMONWEALTH-STATE AGREEMENT ON COUNTER-TERRORISM: Acknowledging that the prevention of, and response to, a terrorist incident is a responsibility shared between the Commonwealth and the States/Territories, Prime Minister Howard has signed with the State Premiers and Chief Territory Ministers an ‘Inter-Governmental Agreement’ on Australia's National Counter-Terrorism Arrangements. Under the new agreement, all Australian Government’s will discuss the current security environment, issues flowing from the Bali attacks and opportunities for further cooperation as part of the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) process, starting at a meeting schedule for next month. [24.10.02]

PM&C SET TO TAKE OVER COUNTER-TERRORISM POLICY COORINATION: The Prime Minister further confirmed his own Department (of Prime Minister & Cabinet) would now assume “the lead role for ‘counter-terrorism’ policy coordination (whilst) the Attorney-General's Department will continue to have responsibility for operational coordination on these issues.” Howard explained the shift of responsibility as seeking to ensure that the Commonwealth “optimises its arrangements for strong policy coordination between the Commonwealth, States and Territories. These measures are “aimed at pooling our collective resources to combat terrorism, wherever it occurs and whatever its form,” said the Prime Minister. [24.10.02]

STRONGER POWERS SOUGHT TO PROSECUTE TERRORISTS: The Attorney-General says new legislation outlawing the murder of Australians overseas will be introduced into the Federal Parliament as a matter of urgency. Through amendments to the Criminal Code to create new provisions will make it an offence to murder, commit manslaughter or intentionally or recklessly cause serious harm to an Australian outside Australia. This establishes a state of ‘dual criminality’ (that is, the conduct must constitute an offence in both Australia and the other country) so as to enable the extradition of an offender from a foreign country. Because other countries may not have specific counter-terrorism laws, but they will have murder laws, Williams says the new offence will fulfil the pre-condition for extradition. [24.10.02]

WAR ON TERROR TO BE ‘THE MEASURE’ OF ALL AUSTRALIANS: Addressing the national memorial service in the Great Hall of Parliament House in Canberra, and reflecting on the Bali bombings, Prime Minister Howard says, “this terrible event has taught us something of the world in which we live. It has told us in a brutal and in cruel fashion that terror's reach is potentially everywhere. We cannot imagine avoiding it, but we are in the response to terror with all the other nations of the world, and only the united resolution of the Australian people and the united resolution of the nations of the world can adequately respond.” Howard added that Bali “has also reminded us that although we are in the fight against terror with all the other nations of the world, ultimately the measure of the security of this nation will be the contribution that we as Australians together are willing to make towards our own security." [24.10.02]

‘LAVARACK’ BARRACKS THE SUBJECT OF ARCHITECTURE AWARD: Australian architectural practice Bligh Voller Nield is said to have affirmed its place as a leader in ecologically sustainable design after winning two of the eight major awards including the prestigious Robin Boyd Award at the Royal Australian Institute of Architects (RAIA) National Awards. The Robin Boyd Award was won by Townsville’s ‘Lavarack Barracks’ Redevelopment Stage 2 - Living–In Accommodation. Bligh Voller Nield worked on the project with locally based Troppo Architects. The highly sophisticated Barracks design has been lauded for responding to the environment and climate of the site, but unlike previous military housing projects, seeks to humanise the living environment as well. [24.10.02]

‘SEA SWAP’ PROGRAM FINDS ITS FIRST ROUND OF CANDIDATES: Defence Minister Hill has confirmed the Australian Government has concluded the framework for a ‘sea-swap’ arrangement with the US Navy, which enables it to transfer crews without the need on every occasion to return capital ships to the continental United States. Hill says the first ‘sea-swap’ is to occur in January 2003 when the USN will change over an entire ship's crew and helicopters in Perth. Under the agreement, the ADF is to assist with aircraft loading and unloading and accommodation of the crew. He anticipated the January change-over “will be the first in a rolling program of sea swaps that will provide some business opportunities in Western Australia.” [24.10.02]

ASIO ANNUAL REPORT OUTLINES DOMESTIC SECURITY ENVIRONMENT: According to the 2001/02 Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) annual report, the majority of the agency’s investigative and analytical resources over the year were directed to counter-terrorism investigations, with a particular focus on Australian links with Al Qaida. The annual report says the most significant threat to Australia continues to be from Islamic extremists, particularly those associated with Al Qaida. While Al Qaida has suffered set backs since 11 September 2001, ASIO considers the group retains the intent and capability to undertake terrorism worldwide. It also confirms "a number of Australians are known to have undertaken terrorist training in Afghanistan and Pakistan, with the level of instruction ranged from basic military training to advanced terrorist training.” [24.10.02]

SECURITY WORKLOAD KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS SPECIFIED: Confirming Australia’s profile as a terrorist target has risen, ASIO says that in 2001/02 it issued 1786 threat assessments compared to 1342 the previous year. The agency provided 147 assessments to Federal and State clients on the threat to CHOGM countries and infrastructure, including 66 threat assessments relating to 51 countries. Visa security checks conducted by ASIO increased a further 15% on top of a 36% rise last year. On ASIO advice, two visa applicants were refused entry on espionage grounds and three were refused entry on terrorism grounds. The agency also received 12,355 requests for personnel security assessments, compared to 11,107 the previous year. Three adverse and six qualified assessments were issued. [24.10.02]

AAAI SHIFTS CLOSER TO ABL FOR REPRESENTATION OF INDUSTRY: The Defence Industry Unit of Australian Business Limited (ABL) is to assume a greater role in the representation of members of the Association of Australian Aerospace Industries (AAAI) to the Commonwealth Government. Under a new agreement said to recognise ABL's “ability to represent the views of industry to Government and provide the professional services required by the Association in meeting the needs of its members”, the AAAI will aim to ‘re-position’ itself “to meet the challenges of the industry that will result from outcomes such as the Aerospace Action Agenda and the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program.” AAAI Chairman, Tony Carolan, says the initiative “will not in any way change the role of the Association.” [24.10.02]

STATE PREMIERS TOLD TO 'KEEP THEIR BEAKS' OUT OF DEFENCE: According to Australian Defence Association Executive Director, Michael O’Connor, calls by premiers Carr and Bracks for the Australian Army to guard key installations against terrorists “demonstrate ignorance of terrorism, the role of the ADF and their own responsibilities as premiers.” According to O’Connor, the ADF "is neither large enough nor free of other responsibilities to be wasted as static security guards. Even their own bases are guarded by contract private security companies to free up trained troops to do the jobs they are trained and employed for - the defence of Australia off-shore.” [24.10.02]

CONLSULTANT LAMBASTS MINISTER ON STATE OF DOMESTIC SECURITY: Defence Minister Hill has confirmed ‘al Qaeda operatives walk amongst Australians every day’, says Stratwar CEO, Dr Adam Cobb. Saying he has been labelled ‘alarmist’ for his previous statements about the rise of terrorism and risks posed to critical Australian infrastructure, the head of the boutique strategic advisory firm says a recent ‘brief audit’ by Stratwar of Australian military installations “has identified a place to park a truck bomb that would throw the command and control of the ADF into entire disarray.” Dr Cobb says he was previously an adviser to the Federal Parliament and Director of Strategic Policy in Air Force Headquarters. [24.10.02]

MBDA TO DEVELOP NEW NAVAL LAND ATTACK MISSILE CAPABILITY: Under a five-year defence equipment plan published in September, the French Government has confirmed its decision to develop the ‘Scalp’ naval land attack cruise missile for the French Navy in order to meet future requirements for a sea-based long-range precision attack capability against high value and strategically important targets. The ‘Scalp Naval’ is a derivative of MBDA's air-launched ‘Storm Shadow’ cruise missile, which will soon enter service with the UK, French and Italian air forces, and is currently scheduled for full-scale development and initial production by the end of 2004. [24.10.02]

CABINET AGREES TO US$150M JOINT STRIKE FIGHTER COMMITMENT: Following a submission by Defence Minister Hill and Industry Minister Macfarlane, Cabinet has approved Australia’s entry into a Memorandum of Understanding with the United States Government to join the decade-long Systems Development and Demonstration (SDD) phase of the US$200b Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program. The decision authorised the investment of up to US$150 million over 10 years to join the SDD as a ‘Level III’ partner. MacFarlane says “we’ve been impressed by the performance of Australian firms and the willingness of Lockheed Martin and its project partners to investigate Australia’s industry capability. Based on initial indications, we expect Australian firms to capture work in excess of our entry cost in the development phase alone.” [23.10.02]

HILL OUTLINES AUSTRALIA’S FUTURE STRATEGIC CHALLENGES: Speaking at the ANU Strategic Studies Program’s inaugural graduates dinner, Defence Minister Hill has reported Al Qaeda has been “central in the creation of a global network of Sunni extremists - 'the Mujahideen alumni' - recruited from over 55 countries (and) these countries include Australia. Some of these extremists have taken their military training back to Southeast Asia after fighting in Afghanistan, Kashmir, Chechnya and the Balkans. We know that radical individuals and some extremist groups in Southeast Asia have associations with al Qaeda or al Qaeda-connected individuals. The Abu Sayyaf Group - widely known for its kidnap-for-ransom activities in the southern Philippines and Islands off Sabah in East Malaysia - is known to have had connections with al Qaeda. Malaysian police have recently arrested two members of the Malaysian Militant Group (KMM) (due to) links to al Qaeda, (and) they were also believed to be members of Jemaah Islamiyah.” [23.10.02]

AUSTRALIAN MILITARY RESPONDING WITH CAMPAIGN LESSONS: According to Hill, the ADF is taking up lessons from the changing challenge of counter-terrorism, saying “East Timor exposed the need to improve in areas such as logistics, mobility and sustainability. Afghanistan demonstrated the enormous importance of reliable high-capacity communications and the need to provide Army with increased firepower. From our role in the Multinational Interception Force we have found that we need to be able to better plug into coalition command and control arrangements. The Government will ensure that Defence has the capability to meet the many and complex tasks we put before it. After all, the Government has no higher priority than national security. And we are committed to ensuring that Defence has the resources, guidance and support it needs to defend Australia and its national interests in the 21st century. [23.10.02]

HOWARD DENIES PLANS FOR NEW DEFENCE 'TAX LEVY': Speaking in response to suggestions the government would need to levy new taxes to finance the war on terrorism, Prime Minister Howard has responded, “there are no proposals for a defence tax in front of the Government. What I said and I repeat here is that when something like the 12th of October happens to a country like Australia you have to look quite across the gamut and I felt in my bones that we would have to commit more resources to defence and security. Now just how much and on what basis and what way at the expense of what else, is too early to say. But we have not discussed or given any consideration to what you choose to describe a defence tax.” [23.10.02]

LOCAL PUSH FOR NON-TOXIC HIGH PERFORMANCE AMMUNITION: ADI Limited and BAe Systems RO Defence are to work together to jointly develop 5.56mm ‘lead free’ high performance ammunition. The two-year development program to bring forward new ammunition is in response to concern within the military to protect personnel and the environment from the toxic components of small arms ammunition, whilst also yielding new capabilities in terms of the ability to defeat recent advancements in body armour protection. The development program is scheduled to conclude with NATO qualification of a heavy metal free high performance round, which will be jointly marketed around the world by the two companies. [23.10.02]

LASER IMAGER/RANGEFINDER LAUNCHED AT ARMY CONFERENCE: ADI Limited has launched the new generation variant of the Army’s in-service ‘Tasman’ hand held thermal imager (the Tasman-L), which is manufactured in Europe ADI-JV parent, Thales. The ‘Tasman-L’ is the world’s first high performance hand held thermal imager to include an eye-safe laser range finder (with range capability up to 10km), as well as an optional digital magnetic compass within a single unit. ADI says the addition of a magnetic compass turns the single unit into an integrated artillery observation and fire correction system, and a complete sighting and ranging system for heavier calibre weapons. [23.10.02]

VALE COMMENTS ON AFGHANISTAN-INJURED NZ SPECIAL FORCES: The wounding of three members of the New Zealand SAS yesterday in Afghanistan is a timely reminder of the hazards facing members of the international coalition against terrorism, including Australian Defence Force personnel, says the Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence, Danna Vale. She says this latest incident “reminds us that the war against terrorism is a dangerous undertaking in an extremely hostile environment. It is also a reminder of the way in which Australian and NZ personnel continue to serve shoulder to shoulder in Afghanistan and also in East Timor in the defence of our shared values." Vale and NZ Defence Minister, Mark Burton, are to be in Darwin 15 November to welcome NZ troops back from serving in East Timor. [23.10.02]

KOCKUMS LINK-UP SPAWNS GLOBAL LITTORAL COMBAT SHIP: Northrop Grumman Corporation (NRG) has signed a co-operative agreement with Kockums AB (and parent Howaldtswerke Deutsche Werft AG or HDW), under which Kockums will join a team developing a Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) - an element of the DD(X) family of surface combatants - to compete for the US Navy's Focused Mission Vessel Study. The agreement covers business opportunities for the design, development, construction and sale ‘Visby’-class ships and/or derivative technology to both the US government and other friendly international governments through the FMS program. The two companies are reported as also continuing to negotiate over the possibility of cooperating on the manufacture of diesel-powered submarines. [23.10.02]

PERMO-DRIVE SIGNS R&D AGREEMENT WITH THE US ARMY: Permo-Drive Technologies has signed a co-operative research and development agreement with the US Army's National Automotive Centre to push forward with evaluations of hybrid-hydraulic driveline systems for military and commercial applications. Prototype testing on vehicles in the United States and Australia has so far shown fuel-economy savings of up to 40%. Under the agreement, Permo-Drive and the US Army's Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Centre (TARDEC) in Warren (Michigan) will test as early as next year hybrid-hydraulic technology across a broad range of vehicles. [23.10.02]

ITALIANS JOIN FORCES FOR NEW WARSHIP DEVELOPMENT: Fincantieri and Finmeccanica have reached an agreement to transform the jointly-owned Orizzonte SpA - created to manage the Orizzonte (or ‘Horizon’) frigate program for the Italian Navy, into a new naval systems company. The new company will take over design, development and marketing for surface ships of over 1,000 tonnes with high systems content, including corvettes, frigates, destroyers and aircraft carriers on the domestic and overseas markets. Fincantieri will own 51% and Finmeccanica 49% of the new company, which will be based in Genoa. Fincantieri is to appoint the CEO, while Finmeccanica will choose the General Manager. [23.10.02]

LEAHY SIDES WITH HILL AT LAND WARFARE CONFERENCE: The Chief of Army, LtGen Peter Leahy, has thrown his lot in Defence Minister Hill when addressing the Army’s annual Land Warfare Conference (LWC). According to Leahy, “we now inhabit a ‘mad Max’ world of failing states where mass civilian casualties may be the objective of conflict, rather than its by-product.” Given this environment, he says the outlook of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has to change as “the price of intellectual stagnation and doctrinal failure in the future will be brutally high. Nor will it be confined to the men and women under our command. It seems that our civilisations – rather than our armies, navies and air forces – may well be the target of our enemies.” [22.10.02]

CONFRONTING A ‘MAD MAX’ WORLD OF FAILING STATES: The Army chief added that to meet the expectations of the Government in such an environment, the ADF in future would need to be characterised by: strategic agility; high precision lethality; pervasive situational awareness; highly networked sensors and shooters; joint effects; being part of a seamless force; ready and flexible; focussed on littoral warfare; based on combined arms groups; and reflecting a ‘learning organisation’ solidly based on Australian and Army values.” Leahy saw the current ADF being in ‘good shape’ to make the transition towards the ‘future force’ and “introduce in a timely fashion those capabilities which we will need to remain relevant in the new and uncertain security environment of the future.” [22.10.02]

SHIFT TO MANOEUVRE OPERATIONS IN THE LITTORAL ENVIRONMENT: Whilst not walking away from maintaining the Army’s establishment baseline to achieve ‘mastery of warfighting’, Leahy considered “it will not be good enough for the Army to merely focus on the conventional capabilities required to defeat the army of another state. We are going to need to be versatile, agile, scalable and adaptable. We will need to be deployable by air and sea and interoperable with likely coalition partners (while taking) a leadership role in coalitions.” According to the Army chief, “this is why the intellectual and doctrinal framework provided by our Manoeuvre Operations in the Littoral Environment (or MOLE) concept is essential to how we conduct warfare in the future. It is unlikely that in the future we will be fighting large scale convention defensive battles on Australian soil.” [22.10.02]

ARMY CHIEF STAKES CLAIM ON LARGER DEFENCE BUDGET SHARE: Concluding his LWC address, LtGen Leahy posited for the future, “it is very likely that joint task forces will be conducting rapid deployment/decisive effect operations further afield in support of our allies. We will be seeking security with and in the region, rather than from the region. Our junior leaders and soldiers will need to be able to handle ambiguity and to exploit broad directive command. They will be operating in a cluttered and dangerous terrain where every action will be closely scrutinised. The ‘strategic corporal’ is a reality, not a cliché. There is an area where Army can play to our strength (and) that strength is our people.” [22.10.02]

HILL AND DOWNER OFF TO WASHINGTON FOR ‘AUSMIN’: The Ministers for Foreign Affairs and Defence are to lead Australia's delegation to Australia-United States Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN) in Washington DC, set down for 29 October. US Secretary of State Powell, and Secretary of Defence Rumsfeld will lead the US delegation to the Consultations. Defence says that whilst a wide range of issues are expected to be covered at this year's talks, “the central focus will be on the war against terrorism, fighting terrorism in Australia's region, issues in relation to Iraq, and the security environment in North Asia following the DPRK's admission it has nuclear weapons.” The last AUSMIN talks were held in Canberra on 30 July 2001. Senator Hill and Secretary Rumsfeld will also sign a Ministerial Exchange of Letters relating to Australian entry into the JSF Systems Development and Demonstration (SDD) phase. [22.10.02]

‘CHILDREN OVERBOARD’ TAKEN TO HEART SAYS DEFENCE: The Department of Defence is said to have ‘improved procedures’ following detailed examination of internal/external communication issues flowing from the SIEV 4 incident. According to the Minister for Defence, “there is no doubt that confusion surrounding the incident led to inaccurate information being given to the Government.” Following-on from the recommendations of a Chief of the Defence Force/Secretary of Defence ‘Taskforce’, Hill says "a number of actions have been taken as a direct result of recommendations from the taskforce. These changes have ensured a clearer understanding of the incident reporting requirements through the chain of command and the passing of such information to the Minister's office. Further areas of improvement have also been identified and the CDF and Secretary are considering the best way to address these.” [22.10.02]

BAE SYSTEMS SHOWCASES FUTURE ADF FIREPOWER OPTIONS: Assembling a range of options to meet the potential needs of the ADF’s Indirect Fire Weapon System project, said to be a ‘corner stone’ of the Land 5000 program, BAE Systems (BAES) is offering its Type 118 105mm Light Gun, a Laser Inertial Artillery Pointing System (LINAPS), the XM 777 155 mm Lightweight Howitzer, its Lightweight Self Propelled Howitzer (LWSP) and 120 mm Armoured Mortar System (AMS). According to BAES, the re-commissioning of the Type 118 ordnances onto the ‘Hamel’ light gun carriages and the introduction to Australia of the new more lethal intensive munition family of ammunition “will provide an increase in range of approximately 50% (to 17,300 metres) over the in-service ‘Hamel’ and M2 guns. [22.10.02]

‘CANBERRA’ JET BOMBER TO FLY AT AVALON 2003: Australia’s only flying ‘Canberra’ jet bomber is to feature at the forthcoming 11-16 February 2003 Australian International Airshow at Avalon. The ‘Canberra’ was conceived during World War II and – as the West’s first jet-powered bomber – bridged the gap between aircraft such as the ‘Lancaster’ and B-17, and the giant B-52s of the Cold War. The ‘Canberra’ attending Avalon is a veteran of 551 Wing RAF Bomber Command (based in Germany in the 1950s), however, will be painted in the colours of No.2 Squadron RAAF for the airshow week. [22.10.02]

AUSTRALIAN TECHNOLOGY FOR US ARMY TRANSFORMATION: Military transformation is said to have taken a nautical turn with an ‘all-soldier’ crew piloting the US Army-leased/Australian-built HSV-X1 experimental high-speed watercraft up the Potomac River. Specifically modified for military use, the shallow-draft catamaran-hulled ferry is part of US Army plans to transform itself into a faster, more flexible component of Department of Defence's future force. The US Navy and Coast Guard are also understood to be looking catamaran-hulled vessels for their particular requirements. The HSV-X1 was leased by the US Army last October, but will soon relinquish the vessel to the US Navy following its taking delivery of a newer prototype which includes Army-suggested improvements and a deck-mounted loading crane. [22.10.02]

ATK AWARDED NEW ZEALAND AMMUNITION CONTRACT: ATK (Alliant Techsystems) has been awarded a US$4 million contract from New Zealand to supply 25mm training and tactical ammunition for use by its new LAV-III light armoured vehicles. The award represents a two-year procurement under a four-year contract, and relates to the M242 ‘Bushmaster’ cannon (produced by ATK Gun Systems of Mesa, Arizona) which is the LAV-IIIs main armament. ATK Ammunition Systems, based in Arden Hills, Minnesota, will manage the contract and produce the ammunition projectiles and fuses at the Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant in Arden Hills. [22.10.02]

FIRST SERIAL PRODUCTION NH90s INTO ASSEMBLY LINES: The splicing of the two first serial production NH90 transport helicopter fuselages has been completed on assembly lines respectively at Agusta and Eurocopter Deutschland, for the first Italian and German Army NH90 helicopter. Eurocopter adds that by the end of this year it will have activated production on its assembly line at Marignane, producing the fuselage for the first NH90 to be delivered to the Finnish Army, thus completing three assembly lines based at ‘Partner Company’ facilities. An additional assembly line will be set-up in 2003 at Patria dedicated to the production of the NH90s for the Nordic Countries. NH90 orders have exceeded 375 units, including 253 firm orders and 55 options for the five NAHEMA Countries, and 52 units and 17 options for the three Nordic Countries. [22.10.02]

FUTURE LAND COMBAT VEHICLE PROTOTYPES UNVEILED: United Defence Industries (UDI) has unveiled two Future Combat System (FCS) vehicle prototypes at the Association of the US Army's annual meeting in Washington DC. Featuring breakthrough technologies with a high degree of sub-system commonality, the C-130 transportable wheeled and tracked vehicle platforms are expected to be fielded by the US Army by 2008. According to a UDI spokesperson, “both vehicles increase mobility, survivability and - when configured as mobile gun systems - lethality. There is significant commonality between the two vehicles, thus affording the US Army the flexibility to select a mixed fleet, with wheeled or tracked systems tailored to the mission, without sacrificing the logistics savings inherent in a common design." [22.10.02]

METAL STORM FINDS PARTNER TO DEVELOP ‘SMART’ HAND-GUN: Pioneer electronic ballistic technology company, Metal Storm, has signed a cooperative agreement with the US National Institute of Justice to develop a plan for further development of the company's 100% electronic hand-gun system into a ‘smart gun’. Estimated to cost A$396,000 (US$218,000), the program involves developing a hand-gun that operates in a normal manner for authorised law enforcement users, but disables itself when in the possession of an unauthorised user. The project is due for completion in the first half of 2003. [21.10.02]

NEW CONTENDER FOR AIRBORNE LASER HYDROGRAPHY: Fugro Survey Ltd says it has signed-up Canada’s Optech to develop market opportunities (including Defence) in the Australia/New Zealand region for its Scanning Hydrographic Operational Airborne Lidar Survey (or SHOALS) system. According to company MD, Grey Roughan, “we have aligned ourselves with Optech because it has the world’s best systems for bathymetry and on-land terrain mapping, (whilst) is continuing development of a new ‘Shoals-1000’ system for the USN’s ‘Charts’ program, and the Japan Coast Guard.” Roughan added Fugro Survey had previously had experience with the ‘Shoals’ system when, in partnership with NZ-based Terralink, a survey was undertaken of the seabed and coastline around the rugged Snares and Solander islands off the southern tip of the South Island. [21.10.02]

BUNKER BUSTER WEAPONS SHOWN IN BRISBANE: One of the leading contenders for the ADF’s Land 40 (Phase1) project, the ‘Spike’ guided missile system has been shown at the Army’s Land Warfare Conference. BAE Systems, MBDA and RAFAEL have teamed to bid for the program citing the missile’s choice by Poland, Finland, the Netherlands and Singapore, as evidence of the Spike’s global position as the direct fire anti-armour weapon of choice over other options. The ‘Spike’ is currently under competitive evaluation for similar user requirements in the UK and Canada, with a decision expected by the end of 2002, just when the ADF will be releasing its RFT. [21.10.02]

HOWARD CONSULTS AMIEN RAIS ON TERRORISM ISSUES: Speaking in relation to discussions with Indonesian leaders on new counter-terrorism initiatives in the aftermath of the Bali bombings, Prime Minister Howard has confirmed he has had “a very good discussion in Bali with Amien Rais who's the head of the National Assembly and he, really in a sense (is) the alternative political figure at the moment to Megawati and he is very strong in his belief that Indonesia must do more to fight terrorism.” Howard subsequently discounted the views of Indonesian Vice President, Hamzah Haz, who has accused the CIA of being behind the bombings. According to Howard, “he does not represent the views of the Indonesian government, in the main.” [21.10.02]

WILLIAMS TABLES COUNTER-AL QA’IDA REGULATIONS: The Attorney-General says regulations listing Al Qa’ida as a terrorist organisation have been tabled in Parliament under the provisions of Australia’s recently upgraded counter-terrorism legislation. To achieve the listing the Attorney-General has to be satisfied that: the United Nations Security Council has identified the organisation in a decision relating wholly or partly to terrorism, or in a mechanism under such a decision; and the organisation is engaged in, preparing, planning, assisting in or fostering the doing of a terrorist act. The regulation will come into force after the expiry of 15 sitting days in each of the House of Representatives and the Senate. [21.10.02]

FIRST FLIGHT FOR UPGRADED LOT 25 ‘SUPER HORNET’: An improved F/A-18E/F ‘Super Hornet’ fighter with upgraded new features has had its first flight under the watchful eyes of NAVAIR and Boeing. The upgraded aircraft features a new suite of displays and increased software and hardware capacity. Boeing says these improvements will allow the ‘Super Hornet’ to incorporate future improvements like the Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and the Advanced Crew Station. The use of Higher Order Language/Operational Flight Programs software mean upgrades can be incorporated with ease. Delivery of the Lot 25 F/A-18E/F Super Hornet was two months ahead of production. [21.10.02]

NO NEED FOR NEW HOMELAND SECURITY DEPARTMENT: Speaking in response to calls by NSW Premier, Bob Carr, for the Government to form a new Department of Homeland Security and appoint a Special Minister, Prime Minister Howard says, "I'm prepared in the wake of what's happened (in Bali) to look at a whole range of suggestions. But you don't cure something like this or you don't build or protect just by creating a different bureaucratic structure. I've (first) got to be satisfied the existing structure needs improvement. I don't want to be critical of anybody, everybody's trying to help, but I don't think any Australian should imagine that you build a protection against terrorism by changing the name of the bureaucracy. [20.10.02]

ONGOING COMMITMENT NEEDED TO GLOBAL TERRORISM WAR: The Prime Minister continued, saying Australia "must remain committed to the broad war on terrorism because (Bali) is part of it. I can't understand how anybody could argue that you can respond adequately in the name of the scores of Australians who were killed in Bali without being part of the worldwide war against terror. Because, in my heart, I don't believe this is an isolated incident specific to Indonesia. Although I cannot prove it, I believe it is part of a worldwide terrorist operation (and I don't) think we can fight that battle on our own (or) without being involved with the United States, with Britain or indeed, with Indonesia. The people who did this are no friends of Indonesia." [20.10.02]

ADBR REPORTS ON BALI AND LAND WARFARE IMPLICATIONS: Australian Defence Business Review (ADBR) magazine will release a special issue 22 November analyzing the impact of the Bali bombings on future ADF Land Warfare structures, as well as the positioning of forces for Homeland Security. ADBR's editorial points to the importance of Defence now having to prepare for 'non-military threats' to Australia's security and national interests, and says the requirement to 'fight and to win' the War on Terrorism will ultimately require a re-think of the structure and composition of Australia's armed forces, including a substantial re-training in capabilities not previously held in the national armoury. Email busicom@ozemail.com.au to request an electronic copy of the magazine. [18.10.02]

ALLAN HAWKE FAREWELLED AFTER TEN YEARS IN DEFENCE: Overviewing ten years in Defence in three separate stints covering personnel, finance, strategy, intelligence, the DSTO and as Secretary for the last three years, Dr Allan Hawke has reflected on last week’s Bali bombings, saying the event “may well see the greatest number of Australian lives lost in a single incident outside of warfare.” Predicting 12 October will have ‘just as profound an impact on Australia’ as September 11 has had on the United States of America,” Dr Hawke considered “the objective of these barbarous acts is a reordering of the international system that has allowed individual freedom, religious tolerance, democracy and free trade to flourish.” [18.10.02]

AUSTRALIAN SECURITY IN THE MIDST OF REGIME CHANGES: In his last address as Secretary of Defence, Dr Hawke spoke of the impact that 'radical Islamic/Taliban-like regimes gaining a foothold in our immediate area of interest' would have on Australia’s security. He considered the attacks were aimed "directly at undermining Indonesia’s fledgling democracy and replacing it with such a regime. And their ambitions are not confined to Indonesia. This is indeed a war. A war in which defeats are public and victories often occur in secret. Those like me who know about those victories are proud of what the men and women of Defence have achieved as part of the coalition against terrorism.” [18.10.02]

NEW DEFENCE SECRETARY TO OVERVIEW BALI OPERATIONS: On the ground at Kuta Beach and after discussions with diplomats, the Commissioner of the Federal Police, and key military and forensic experts, Prime Minister Howard nominated current Australian Ambassador to Indonesia (and soon to be Secretary of Defence), Ric Smith, to become Coordinator-in-Chief of the operation to identify deceased victims and arrange for their repatriation back to Australia. Howard said State Coroners meeting in Sydney had agreed to expedite coronial clearances, whilst the US-based international mortician company, Kenyons, already had people on the ground in Bali and were in the course of finalising arrangements with Qantas concerning repatriations. [18.10.02]

NATIONAL BALI BOMBINGS MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR CANBERRA: Howard confirmed a national memorial service for the victims of the bombings in Bali would be held at 10.00am on Thursday, 24 October 2002, in the Great Hall, Parliament House in Canberra. He also expressed his gratitude to the people of Bali for their support for injured Australian’s in the aftermath of the 12 October explosions, saying that at an appropriate time in the near future he would announce on behalf of the Australian Government “a permanent measure of support for the social infrastructure of Bali which will be practical, as well as an enduring memorial to the people of Bali who have died in this atrocity.” [18.10.02]

PROGRAM TO BUILD-UP AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE CADETS: The Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) in conjunction with the South Australian Government’s ‘Active8’ youth program has launched a ground-breaking new regional youth program at the Kadina Memorial High School. The new youth program involves the formation of an AAFC Squadron and provides 12+-19 year-olds with the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities including: drill and ceremonial; cadet service knowledge; introduction to aviation; flying experiences; team building activities; camps and excursions; leadership and training. The new Squadron will be given assistance by 614 Sqdn from Port Pirie. [18.10.02]

TEAM COMING FROM EUROPE TO BRIEF INDUSTRY ON THE A400M: Australian Business Limited (ABL) is to host an industry brief at its offices in Canberra on 6 November as part of a visit to Australia of officials from the Airbus Military Company looking to speak to local aerospace industry representatives on the A400M military transport program. Heading the team will be David Jennings, the Head of Marketing for Airbus Military, who will be accompanied by Bevin Pettitt, Chief Business Development officer for Australian Aerospace Limited/EADS Australia Pacific, and AirCdre Brian Poulton (RAF,Rtd), who is advising the company. Inquiries to Paul Fisher on 02/6273-6555. [18.10.02]

CONTRACT ADVANCED FOR DD(X) VERTICAL LAUNCH SYSTEM: United Defence Industries (UDI) has received a US$1.7m contract/initial funding from Raytheon’s Integrated Defence Systems unit to design the Advanced Vertical Launching System (AVLS) destined for the US Navy's new DD(X) destroyer. UDI will now initiate the production and testing of two AVLS engineering development models designed to fire the Navy's current arsenal of missiles as well as accommodating future Navy missile requirements. UDI will commence work on the AVLS while the two companies negotiate a Cost-Plus-Award-Fee type subcontract, anticipated to be in place later this year. [18.10.02]

RADAR MARKET SURVEY PUTS RAYTHEON AT THE TOP: A Forecast International (FI) survey of military radar systems markets expects the value of radar production to total US$19.6b between 2002 and 2011. FI says that the top five players: Raytheon, Thales, Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems and Ericsson should garner roughly $15.9b (or nearly 80%) of the total ten-year market, with Raytheon at the head with a 32.2% market share, valued at $6.3b. Nearest competitor, Thales, is forecast to have an 18.5% share of the radar market, worth about $3.6b. FI says radars will continue to form a major part of military systems, noting a future requirement will be higher mobility long-range surveillance radars to decrease their vulnerability to attack. [18.10.02]

HOWARD DECLARES INTENT AT BALI MEMORIAL SERVICE: Characterising the Bali bombings as ‘wanton, cruel and barbaric’, and as having ‘shocked our nation to the core’, Prime Minister Howard has declared on behalf of all the people of Australia that “we will do everything in our power to bring to justice those who were responsible for this foul deed. We will work with our friends in Indonesia to do that, and we will work to others to achieve an outcome of justice.” Howard added, “it will take a long time for these foul deeds to be seen in any kind of context. They can never be understood. They can never be excused. Australia has been affected very deeply, but the Australian spirit has not been broken.” [17.10.02]

FEDERAL POLICE OUTLINE VICTIM IDENTIFICATION PLAN: The Australian Federal Police (AFP) says it will have 43 Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) response members on the ground in Bali, noting DVI is primarily the responsibility of the Indonesian authorities, who have now appointed a DVI Commander to oversight of the process of positive identification and subsequent repatriation of bodies to Australia and other countries. The AFP says the identification processes “must comply with internationally recognised protocols which require positive scientific identification in addition to visual identification by a friend or relative. As part of the identification process, positive identification through fingerprinting, DNA testing or dental records is sought.” The AFP is also establishing a major incident room in Canberra with experts from around Australia to assist with DVI. [17.10.02]

NO CHANGE IN VIEW OF FUTURE FOCUS OF MILITARY POLICY: Speaking to media regarding Australia’s future military outlook, Defence Minister Hill described the Bali bombings as “another illustration that we are facing global issues. We went to Afghanistan - we have forces (there) because that's where basically the al Qaeda headquarters (was), and where they (had) most of their major training establishments, and we still have forces there addressing that issue. But we also said out of that experience that we'd learnt of the extension of the networks in to South East Asia, and we've learnt more about the relationship between the various terrorist organisations within South East Asia. And I think this just simply emphasis the global perspective of the threat of terror and the reality of terror in which is the world that we're living in at the moment.” [17.10.02]

DECISION PENDING ON A 4TH SAS AFGHANISTAN ROTATION: In terms of the next rotation of troops into the war against terrorism, Hill said the Government had determined such forces would “come home as soon as the task is completed and we would obviously like to see them home sooner than later. We will make a decision on the following rotation usually about half way through the previous rotation, which means that next month I would expect we'll make a decision on whether we do a fourth rotation or not – meaning in the literal sense (we) would be sending special forces back for a second time." Hill added, "we have been expecting a lot of our special forces in recent times and, not surprisingly, I think they deserve a good break, but we'll be assessing that in the next few weeks." [17.10.02]

HILL TO SEND KEY DEFENCE POLICY ISSUES OFF TO CABINET: The Minister went on to confirm the draft of the new Defence 2002 Strategic Review was ‘being updated at the moment’ in light of the Bali bombings, but nevertheless expects to lodge it for Cabinet examination next week. In terms of plans to rationalise the naval shipbuilding and repair industry, Senator Hill says “Well I'm clear in my own mind on the way ahead. I've now completed a process of engaging the various industry players - I have to say the list is somewhat endless. Now State governments are wanting to engage me on it as well. But I'm satisfied of the right way ahead, and now that's a matter of writing it up and taking it to Cabinet." [17.10.02]

VALE LOOKS FOR SAVINGS IN MILITARY HEALTH SERVICE REFORMS: Defence has chosen Mayne Health Services as the preferred tenderer to provide health services to personnel in Victoria under a $140m contract spanning the next five years. Contract negotiation will shortly begin with the aim of phasing-in operations from late 2002/early 2003. Defence says it has identified potential cost savings of some $16m from the new arrangements. Some 86 uniformed personnel involved in providing health services under existing arrangements have also been identified as being able to be re-posted to ‘core’ capability areas. [17.10.02]

DIDS RESPONSIBILITY FALLS TO THE TENX-TOLL CONSORTIUM: The TenixToll consortium has been selected as the preferred tenderer for the Defence Integrated Distribution System (DIDS) project, which seeks the establishment of a single point of delivery for Defence's national warehousing and distribution services and maintenance support for selected land equipment. According to Defence Minister Hill, the DIDS contract was developed in a way “that specifies the outcomes we desire and the performance standard we expect. At the same time, it leaves TenixToll to make commercial decisions on how best to deliver." [17.10.02]

PLEASURE AND PAIN WRAPPED-UP IN CONTRACTING FORMULA: Senator Hill added the DIDS contract "also rewards performance where it exceeds expectations, and penalises performance where it falls short.” At a cost of around $880m, TenixToll's tender is said to offer the prospect of savings of around $80m over a 10 year period against DIDS' current cost, and savings of around $290m against the original baseline for the project after reassignment of around 500 military personnel to other higher priority activities. In a first for industry, TenixToll will encourage all remaining employees to become members of the Defence Force Reserves. [17.10.02]

NATIONAL APPROACH NEEDED FOR NATURAL DISASTERS: Welcoming the arrival of the first two Erickson ‘Aircrane’ helicopters to Australia as part of the Commonwealth Government's undertaking to assist the States and Territories in dealing with the current bush fire season, the Minister for Regional Services, Wilson Tuckey, says "we need a national approach which provides for a sharing of resources and which allows aircraft such as this to be deployed when and where needed. One of the main lessons coming out of the experience last year has been the need for the States and Territories to work together in a more coordinated manner to share resources." [17.10.02]

METAL STORM TO SPREAD TECHNOLOGY APPLICATION OPTIONS: Australian-based electronic ballistics technology company, Metal Storm, has concluded a modification to its marketing arrangement with Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) that will allow it to develop business relationships with other major defence or commercial companies, whilst also maintaining a non-exclusive business development relationship with SAIC. The two companies have worked for the last four years under an exclusive agreement to advance Metal Storm technology through defence and commercial applications in the United States. [17.10.02]

ROLLS-ROYCE APPOINTS NEW GLOBAL CHAIRMAN: Rolls-Royce plc has confirmed the appointment of Scottish-born Euan Baird as its next non-executive Chairman (replacing Sir Ralph Robins) with effect from 1 February 2003. Baird has been Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of technology services company, Schlumberger Limited, since 1986. He says he is “excited to join another globally-recognised name in engineering and technology with an established and enviable history. Rolls-Royce epitomises integrity, reliability and innovation and I look forward to using my international experience to continue to grow its profitability and strengthen its market position worldwide.” [17.10.02]

BUSH SIGNS-OFF ON IRAQ WAR EXECUTION AUTHORITY: President George W Bush has signed the Joint Congressional Resolution that gives him authority to use military force on Iraq, if necessary. Bush said the resolution "symbolises the united purpose of our nation, expresses the considered judgment of the Congress, and marks an important event in the life of America." The Iraq resolution was passed overwhelmingly by both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Bush added, "I hope the use of force will not become necessary (but) confronting the threat posed by Iraq is necessary, by whatever means that requires." [17.10.02]

CONGRESS APPROVES FISCAL YEAR 2003 DEFENCE EXPENDITURES: The US Senate has given final approval for US$355,100 million of defence spending over Fiscal Year 2003, which began on 1 October. The 93-1 vote provided $34,400m more than Congress approved in defence appropriations for fiscal year 2002, but is still $1,600m short of President Bush's original budget request. Congress left out a $10,000m contingency fund sought by Bush for the global war on terrorism, although the funding package approved already includes substantial increases in funding for counter-terrorism activities. Significantly for Australia, the funding approval provides $3,500m for development of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). [17.10.02]

CANADA MOVES INTO LINE WITH EUROPE ON AAR CAPABILITY: The Canadian Minister of National Defence, John McCallum, says US$80m will be spent to modify two Canadian Forces A-310 Airbus’ (designated CC-150 Polaris) to yield a strategic air-to-air refuelling (AAR) capability using AAR refuelling kits/pods supplied by UK-based Flight Refuelling Ltd. The work is to be carried out in Germany by Airbus/Lufthansa Technik (Dresden), commencing in the third quarter 2003, and taking eight months to complete. The project consists of three distinct contracts: the main aircraft conversion, the provision of additional fuel tanks, and the provision of the refuelling pods. [17.10.02]

EU CLEARS NORTHROP GRUMMAN PURCHASE OF TRW: The European Commission has cleared the acquisition of TRW Inc by Northrop Grumman Corp, a deal that will create the second-largest US defence contractor. The two US companies coming together in the aerospace and defence sectors "will have only a marginal impact in the European market, where Northrop Grumman will face competition from EADS, BAE Systems and other firms", the commission said. The two firms, whose presence in Europe is limited, draw the bulk of their revenues from the US Department of Defence and other US bodies. [17.10.02]

PRATT & WHITNEY ISSUES FIRST NORWEGIAN JSF CONTRACT: Norway's Volvo Aero Norge (VAN) is to provide hardware to Pratt & Whitney (P&W) for its JSF F135 propulsion system, in what is the first contract issued to Norwegian industry for JSF work. VAN is to supply Low Pressure Turbine (LPT) shafts for the 10-year SDD phase. VAN, previously known as Norsk Jetmotor, has been working with P&W since 1976 after Norway ordered F-16 fighters powered by the P&W F100 engine. At that time, the LPT module was subcontracted to Norsk as part of a co-production program. According to P&W executives, VAN has "proven repeatedly that they provide best value for many critical components.” [17.10.02]

DSTO BRINGS RAYTHEON INTO TECHNICAL ALLIANCE: The Defence Science and Technology Organisation and Raytheon Australia have signed a three-year industry alliance agreement to share information in the areas of: Maritime Command and Control (covering R&D into simulation/stimulation environments; advanced maritime combat system architectures; combat system automation; track management and contact localisation and maritime human factors); Network Enabled Warfare (in both the Australian environment, as well as cooperative engagement and time critical targeting); and Sensors/Weapons (including requirements of missiles and torpedoes in the Australian operating environment, and sensor and weapon fits for ADF platforms). [16.10.02]

COSTELLO TALKS ON AUSTRALIA AND ASIA LINKAGES: Speaking at the Australasia Centre of the Asia Society Annual Dinner, Federal Treasurer, Peter Costello, says "the events last week in Bali have reminded us again all too clearly, and all too painfully, how Asia and Australia are inextricably linked. Asia's security problems are our security problems. Asia's future will influence our future. And Australia has a vital interest in the way the countries of the region deal with the immense challenges before them. Leaving aside the geographic question about where Asia starts and finishes - the point here is that Australians are part of Asia. What we must be careful about is that (the events in Bali) do not lead to a withdrawal of Australian engagement with Indonesia. We must not withdraw. We must increase our engagement. In the first place we must increase our engagement on law enforcement." [16.10.02]

ALL ADF PERSONNEL ACCOUNTED FOR IN BALI BOMBINGS: Defence says that media reports suggesting Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel are still missing or unaccounted for as a result of the explosions in Bali, are incorrect. The Department says the Chief of Defence Force, General Peter Cosgrove, “has made accounting for all ADF personnel a priority and defence can confirm all personnel are accounted for. Three army personnel are known to have been injured (one very seriously, and two slightly injured). No ADF personnel were killed or died as a result of the bomb blasts. [16.10.02]

REWARD BEING OFFERED FOR INFORMATION ON BALI BOMBINGS: The Attorney-General has confirmed the Australian Government’s decision to offer a reward of up to A$2m to encourage the provision of information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the terrorist attack in Bali. The Australian Federal Police, Director of Public Prosecutions and the Attorney-General's Department are currently determining the terms (as well as the appropriate arrangements for offering the reward), which will also be discussed with Indonesian authorities. Persons with information or material relevant to the Bali bombings investigations should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. [16.10.02]

MORE LEGISLATION DIRECTED AT SECURITY AND DEFENCE: The Attorney-General says he is ‘pleased’ that the Senate has passed the Criminal Code Amendment (Espionage and Related Matters) Bill 2002. According to Daryl Williams, “Australia now has one of the tightest, strongest pieces of legislation in place to protect sensitive information among our information exchange partners. The new laws afford the same protection to foreign-sourced information belonging to Australia as Australian-sourced information.” The Bill provides for the maximum penalty for the most serious cases of espionage to be increased from 7 years imprisonment to 25 years imprisonment. [16.10.02]

BUSY WEEK FOR NATIONAL BORDER/FISHERIES PROTECTORS: The Federal Minister responsible for Commonwealth fisheries, Senator Ian Macdonald, says the in the past 24 hours, four foreign boats fishing in the Australian Fishing Zone (90 nautical miles east of Ashmore Reef) have been apprehended, bringing to 72 the number of vessels caught since the start of the year. Three of the boats were fishing for ‘sea cucumber’, a sought-after delicacy in Asia. Macdonald added, “I want to send a clear message to those who fish illegally in our waters; if you break Australian law we will catch you, confiscate your boat and punish you to the full extent of the law. The boats the subject of these most recent apprehensions are now being escorted to Darwin. [16.10.02]

ADF COSTS FALL WITH NEW ‘BLACK HAWK’ TESTING SYSTEMS: The ADF is said to be ready to expand its use of National Instruments’ (NI) ‘LabVIEW’ software and PXI hardware to monitor and determine ‘safe operation’ of its helicopter fleet. An NI-based system known as the ‘Airborne Data Acquisition and Recording System’ (ADARS) is being used to identify safe landing procedures for the Army’s ‘Black Hawk’ helicopters by measuring vital information such as rotor speed, air speed, aircraft position, and engine torque as pilots land in various weather and sea conditions. NI says the ADF is now planning to build additional ADARS units to determine landing procedures for its fleet of ‘Sea King’ and ‘Sea Hawk’ helicopters. [16.10.02]

‘FIRE SCOUT’ SURVEILLANCE UAV YIELDS ITS FIRST SENSOR DUMP: Northrop Grumman Corporation's Integrated Systems sector has successfully conducted the first in-flight download of real-time sensor imagery from the US Navy's RQ-8A ‘Fire Scout’ vertical takeoff and landing tactical unmanned air vehicle. The vehicle’s tactical common data link (supplied by L-3 Communications) consists of both directional and omni directional antennas on the air vehicle and at the ground control station. The data link (Ku band) has a narrow band uplink for vehicle and payload control, and a wide band downlink for digital streaming video and data from the payload (EO/IR/LDRF) to the ground control station and on to the C4I architecture. [16.10.02]

LAND/SEA-BASED ELECTRO-OPTICAL MILITARY MARKETS: Forecast International says defence departments world-wide are set to spend nearly US$11.9b on land and sea-based electro-optical (EO) systems over the next decade, with the value of production reaching $1.2b in 2007. A new industry survey says “many systems, particularly those incorporating night vision technology, are making the critical leap from development to production and installation onto a growing variety of platforms. The need to equip military forces with the latest electro-optical systems accounts for the marked rise in production during the early to mid-years of the decade, with production of the 42 systems covered in the report reaching a peak of 45,952 units in 2006.” [16.10.02]

ADI WAVES OFF FIRST SHIPMENT OF ENGINEERING VEHICLES: ADI Limited has shipped the first two (of forty) high mobility engineering excavators under an interim contract with the US Army, which may ultimately purchase up to 120 of the vehicles. The company is also preparing to bid with US-based Oshkosh Truck Company to develop three, new generation high mobility engineering excavators more specifically designed for US requirements and likely to be sought under a new contract for up to 1500 vehicles. The Australian Army was the first customer to purchase such vehicles, and now has them in service, whilst Canada and the United Arab Emirates are currently undertaking evaluations. [15.10.02]

BALI BOMBING EVACUATIONS EXTEND TO NON-AUSTRALIANS: The Minister for Defence says that, since commencing in the early hours of Sunday morning, six medical evacuation flights have transported a total of 66 casualties to Darwin. As well as Australian citizens, these flights have evacuated 14 foreign nationals from South Africa, Sweden, Germany, NZ, Hong Kong, Canada and the United Kingdom. The ADF effort has now been joined by a C-130 from the Royal New Zealand Airforce with a seven-person medical team. The ADF has accepted the sombre task of flying in refrigerated containers to local authorities in Bali for the storage of human remains. The RAAF has also flown into Bali an AFP disaster victim identification team to conduct identification of bodies prior to recovery to Australia. [15.10.02]

HILL ANSWERS CALLS FOR TROOPS ON THE STREETS IN AUSTRALIA: Responding to calls by State Premiers Bob Carr (NSW) and Steve Bracks (Victoria) for domestic military deployments to protect possible Australian terrorism targets, the Minister for Defence has responded, “we obviously will listen to whatever representations they wish to make (but) we determine security needs on the basis of the evidence that is available and we put that into place. Since last September we've increased security on military establishments and what might be strategic targets. We've increased security in airports and on aircraft. We've doubled our counter terrorism capability. We've put in place a capacity to deal with a chemical, biological or radiological attack. We've done an enormous amount to strengthen domestic security (but) not withstanding all we've done, we will look again and determine whether we should do more.” [15.10.02]

BAES STAGES NEW DEFENCE SOLUTIONS OPEN DAY: An open day at the Canberra office of BAE Systems has seen the company outlining the extent of its tailored through-life support services and solutions for current in-service and future defence and civil capabilities. According to BAES Marketing Director, Christopher Wright, our ‘Customer Solutions & Support’ business “provides integrated solutions to ensure operational requirements are supported and maintained throughout the contract or product life. This ‘open day’ is a unique opportunity for customers to learn about the range of projects BAES undertakes, including managing government and defence facilities such as the Woomera range in South Australia, the Canberra Deep Space Communications Complex in Canberra, and providing forward maintenance support to the ADF in Timor and Darwin." [15.10.02]

UK OUTLINES NEXT ITERATION OF DEFENCE PROCUREMENT POLICY: The UK Government has launched a new Defence ‘procurement’ policy aiming to make local industry better able to provide the British armed forces with the equipment they need at the ‘best value for money’ outcome for taxpayers. According to UK Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon, the Government “is committed to a strong and globally competitive UK defence industry. We all benefit from its high-value, technology skill base. Our new policy demonstrates our drive to provide high quality equipment for the Armed Forces whilst promoting the interests of British industry and maximising the economic benefit to the UK from our defence expenditure." [15.10.02]

ROBUST MARKET FORECAST FOR MILITARY ELECTO-OPTIC SYSTEMS: A new analysis released by Forecast International (FI) predicts a robust airborne and space-based electro-optical (EO) market materialising from 2002 to 2011.Over the next ten years, FI says consumers will spend some US$32.77b developing and procuring airborne and space-based EO systems, with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) set to be one of the larger airborne EO market segments. After the successful use of UAVs in reconnaissance and attack roles over the skies of Afghanistan, FI sees 10-year UAV production forecasts increasing by 56% from the firm's 2001 projection (3,000 to 4,700 units). “The use of UAVs in all facets of air warfare “will revolutionise military operations,” says the FI study author. [15.10.02]

LOCKHEED MARTIN TO UPGRADE CUSTOMER SUPPORT: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company has launched a new inter-company program for air mobility customers designed to provide rapid and responsive service, while meeting cost, schedule and performance criteria. The new Air Mobility Support (AMS) team is to be focused on increasing the effectiveness and responsiveness in post-delivery support of aircraft such as the C-130, P-3, S-3, C-5 and C-141s. AMS seeks to integrate support across in-service engineering, technical publications, field service, supply support, field teams, modification, repair and overhaul (MRO), training, support equipment and mission systems product. [15.10.02]

ANTEON SIGNS ONTO COAST GUARD ‘DEEPWATER’ PROGRAM: US-based Anteon International has been awarded a five-year ‘blanket purchase agreement’ with an estimated value of US$20m to support the US Coast Guard Integrated ‘Deepwater’ System Program. Under this tasking, Anteon will provide systems engineering, life-cycle management and program acquisition support services. These services will aid the Coast Guard during the development and fielding of three classes of new cutters and their associated support boats, a new fixed-wing manned aircraft fleet, a combination of new and upgraded helicopters, and unmanned air vehicles. [15.10.02]

DEFENCE MINISTER BREAKS DOWN BALI BOMBING IMPLICATIONS: Responding to calls for details of Australian military responses to the bombings of tourist facilities in Bali, the Minister for Defence says “there are two issues here. Firstly, (it) is finding out who's responsible for this mass murder and bringing them to justice. The second issue is to work with Indonesia to help Indonesia better respond to terrorist networks. We know that there are terrorist cells in Indonesia. We know that they have had difficulty in wrestling with those cells for a range of different reasons, and basically, we want to help them achieve a maximum outcome. They are certainly expressing their distress over what's occurred and their determination to find an answer.” [14.10.02]

NO INTELLIGENCE ON DIRECT THREAT TO AUSSIES IN BALI: Answering media questions the Government could be accused of not providing sufficient warnings of threats to Australian tourists, Hill said there “was no intelligence to suggest a threat to Australians in Bali. If there had been, we would have taken further action. In some ways, you would have seen over recent months we've been extremely cautious and have acted upon every bit of intelligence that's come in. But really, we're not interested in the issue of blame. We're interested in solving this crime, bringing those who are responsible to justice, and best ensuring that something like this doesn't ever occur again.” [14.10.02]

BALI RESPONSE A FOREIGN AFFAIRS MATTER SAYS HILL: Speaking to the Senate, Defence Minister Hill says that ‘as the explosions took place outside of Australia’, the Australian domestic response to the Bali bombings will be led by “the Minister for Foreign Affairs (who) has primary responsibility. Early yesterday morning DFAT formed an inter-departmental emergency task force which met a number of times yesterday. It included not only consular authorities but Defence, other relevant departmental agencies - including Emergency Management Australia which (according to a Casualty Distribution Plan) is coordinating the reception of injured Australians in Darwin and the Protective Security Coordination Centre which held an emergency meeting of the Special Incident Task Force which looks to such issues as current threat assessment.” [14.10.02]

NO CHANGE TO DOMESTIC COUNTER-TERRORISM ALERT STATUS: Senator Hill continued his brief, saying, the current counter-terrorism alert for Australia "remains at 'Special CT' risk which (has been) the risk since September the 11th, 2001. The threat to Australian interests in Indonesia remains unchanged and high and other regional threats, as a result of those meetings, remain unchanged. There is in Bali now a joint AFP and ASIO team to assist with the investigation, comprising some three Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) Officers and twelve Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers including specialists in investigations, disaster victim identification, intelligence and forensics.” Hill further confirmed that investigative teams from the United States and Britain were either already (or would shortly be) on the ground in Bali, whilst the Government had accepted an offer from New Zealand to deploy a C130H transport and medical team. [14.10.02]

BALI ACTION FROM NATIONAL SECURITY COMMITTEE MEETING: Defence Minister Hill says a meeting of the National Security Committee of Cabinet has decided to immediately despatch the Foreign Minister (Alexander Downer) and Justice Minister (Senator Ellison) to Indonesia to Bali, and then to Jakarta to offer ‘further assistance and support to the Indonesian Government’ in its efforts to find those guilty of undertaking the Bali bombings. Hill said Cabinet had also decided “to review domestic security arrangements, not withstanding the very significant increases that have been put in place over the last 12 months.” He confirmed Cabinet also believed it was necessary to again look at the legislative reform(s) recently undertaken "to ensure that (domestic terrorist legislation) is adequate to meet these very difficult sets of circumstances.” [14.10.02]

PM OUTLINES MISSION FOR HIGH LEVEL OFFICIALS VISITING INDONESIA: Prime Minister Howard says the Australian Minister’s for Foreign Affairs and Justice are to take-up consultations with the Indonesian Government “against the background of the Memorandum of Understanding against terrorism which was signed in Jakarta during my visit earlier this year. They will be accompanied on their visit by Mick Keelty, the Commissioner of the Australian Federal Police, and also by Dennis Richardson, the head of ASIO. Their mission will be to maximise cooperation between Australia and Indonesia in pursuit of the murderers. Their mission will be to emphasise, by their presence and by what they convey on behalf of the Australian government, the willingness of Australia to offer all available resources to assist the Indonesian authorities in tracking down those responsible. [14.10.02]

BLAIR FIRST ‘ON THE LINE’ TO HOWARD OVER BALI BOMBINGS: The Prime Minister has confirmed that UK Prime Minister, Tony Blair, and New Zealand Prime Minister, Helen Clarke, called ‘last night’ to express sympathy in regard to the Bali bombings, whilst “Her Majesty the Queen has sent a message of sympathy and condolence, and I have received messages from many world leaders.” Howard added, “I spoke at length (at 8.00am) this morning to President Bush of the United States – all (of these leaders) have a common theme and a common resonance, and that is – in the world in which we live – our problems are the problems of others and the problems of others are so often ours as well. We live in a globalised world. We live in a world in which the young, in particular, are more footloose and more mobile than even their mobile parents and grandparents, and there is no escape in those circumstances from the reaches and the ravages of terror.” [14.10.02]

LABOR ENDORSES GOVERNMENT ANTI-TERRORISM MOTION: Speaking in support of a Parliamentary Bali Terrorism Motion, Opposition Leader, Simon Crean has described the 12 October bombings at Kuta Beach through fears that “it will be our single blackest day since World War II.” Crean added, “I think we get something of a better understanding as to what Americans must have felt on September 11, in particular, it could have been them. It is true that in those circumstances Australian lives were lost, and it was not so long ago that, on the anniversary of that September 11 attack, this House remembered them. But I think that those circumstances come together not only to give us a greater sense of grief but also to heighten the sense of vulnerability that we all face.” [14.10.02]

CREAN COMMITS TO BI-PARTISANSHIP ON BALI BOMBINGS INVESTIGATION: According to the Opposition Leader, the Bali bombings “will be an incident that does not go away. It is one of those circumstances in which we as a nation need to grieve, we need to extend our sympathy, but most of all we need to stand united to demonstrate our resolve. I join with the Prime Minister and say that, in determining our resolve to pursue the terrorists, we have to be certain that it is only the terrorists that we pursue. This bombing is a crime against the teachings of all religions, Islam amongst them. This is the work of criminals and fanatics; it is not the work of people of faith. Let us not, in the circumstance of our grief and in the search for rationale or reason in this, make scapegoats of others. This requires a proper assessment of the facts. It requires the cooperation with other countries that the Prime Minister has talked about. But, most of all, we need to make a clear-headed judgment as to the way in which the perpetrators of these crimes are to be brought to justice.” [14.10.02]

CALL FOR AUSTRALIAN FOCUS ON REGIONAL TERRORIST THREATS: Speaking to Government post-Bali bombing security initiative announcements, Simon Crean says the Opposition has supported “for more than a year now the global campaign against terrorism. The challenge of terrorism lies within our immediate region, and the events in Bali demonstrate just how close it is. Both the region and the international community will be looking to Australia for leadership. We suggest in a bipartisan spirit that (the Government) initiate a regional summit on the elimination of terrorism in South-East Asia. Such a summit (should) be convened at a heads of government level in the region itself, and include the governments of Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines and Singapore. Its first brief should be to establish how our governments can work together to identify and bring to justice those responsible for the most recent barbaric act in Bali. Beyond that immediate task, a second function of such a summit should be to establish the regional institutional machinery necessary for the ongoing campaign against terrorism in our region.” [14.10.02]

DEMOCRATS LOOK TO SECURITY FOCUS IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD: The Leader of the Australian Democrats, Senator Andrew Bartlett, has told Parliament that in the aftermath of the Bali bombings Australia will soon need to turn its attention “to what security measures we need to take in our region. Rather than largely focusing on the other side of the world, we need to care more about what is happening in our neighbourhood. I make the plea that all Australians recognise that this is the act of violent, hate-filled extremists who deserve no nationality and represent no religion. This attack is against the principles of Islam, of Christianity and every other religion. The perpetrators are the ones who must be punished.” Barlett also drew a curious parallel, in that, the 12 October Bali bombings were one year, one month and one day after the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks upon the United States. [14.10.02]

CALL TO KEEP AUSTRALIAN TROOPS IN THE IMMEDIATE REGION: Bartlet further reminded the Government of its responsibility “to focus diplomatic, security and peace-keeping efforts on the Asia-Pacific region. Whilst political debate in recent months has been around Australia's potential involvement in a war against Iraq, the Democrats emphasise that Australia's primary responsibility is in its immediate region. The Democrats hope that Australia's responsibilities to the Asia-Pacific region are highlighted in the forthcoming Defence Strategic Review. Whilst the safety of individuals must always be a primary concern, this is not the time for Australia to be withdrawing military and intelligence personnel and resources from our immediate region - such as the peace-keeping troops from East Timor - and particularly Indonesia.” [14.10.02]

DEBUT FOR FIRST GROUP OF UP-GRADED ‘ORION’ LRMP AIRCRAFT: The first six aircraft completing the fleet-wide upgrade of the RAAF’s AP-3C ‘Orion’ long-range maritime patrol aircraft have been accepted into service at RAAF Base ‘Edinburgh’ in South Australia. According to Defence Minister Hill, “the combination of a new 'imaging' radar with the Electronic Support Measures fitted previously to the fleet represents a quantum leap in maritime patrol capability and has made the upgraded Australian Orions the most advanced in the world today.” Completed under Project Air 5276 Phase 2A (Sea Sentinel) by L-3 Communications Integrated Systems, the range of improvements are said by Defence to substantially increase anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, reconnaissance, and search and survivor recovery capabilities, whilst also allowing the Air Force to extend the life of the Orion aircraft until 2015. The full fleet is to complete this current upgrade by end-2004. [14.10.02]

HOWARD OUTLINES INITIAL REACTION TO BALI BOMBINGS: Expressing a sense of ‘outrage, sadness and horror’ at what occurred overnight in Bali, Prime Minister Howard has said the ‘indiscriminate, brutal and despicable way in which lives have been taken on this occasion are “a brutal reminder that the world has in fact to face the challenge of terrorism. The warnings of the last year or more that terrorism can touch anybody, anywhere, at any time have been borne out by this terrible event. And I can only say again that the war against terrorism must go on with unrelenting vigour and with an unconditional commitment because terrorism strikes indiscriminantly, it strikes at civilian targets, it strikes without justification, it strikes without pity and it strikes in a way that I know outrages the civilised world.” [13.10.02]

ATTACKS SAID TO BE ANTI-WESTERN, NOT ANTI-AUSTRALIAN: Howard continued, saying there was a pattern in the attacks that is “anti-Western (particularly) if you look at incidents that have happened over the last year or two. But whether or not there is a particular anti-Australian component in this, I can't tell. Kuta Beach is (not only) frequented by a lot of Australians (but) also by other westerners. If you look at the other attacks - the Germans and the French who died in foreign countries, in Pakistan, in Tunisia, the several hundred Kenyans who died as a result of terrorist attacks - there is a pattern (which) is an anti-Western. Historically being a western nation, Australians can and have tragically in this case been caught up with it, but of course there were Australians who died in the World Trade Centre along with people from Europe and people from Asia and people from the Middle East and people of Islamic faith and of all faiths. So it's fair to say that there is an anti-Western character,” in these attacks. [13.10.02]

HOWARD FIXED ON COMBATING WORLD-WIDE TERRORISM: The Prime Minister added, “terrorism is a worldwide menace and that's been brought home to us. It's unrealistic of anybody to believe that if you just deal with terrorism in one part of the world then it's solved in other parts of the world, clearly our own area is of direct concern to us but not exclusive concern to us and terrorism is a worldwide threat. It needs to be responded to on a worldwide basis. It can reach people no matter where they are because of the mobility of our population. We live in the most mobile generation mankind has seen, and particularly the young, they travel more than ever before. The idea that it's only likely to touch your citizens and your loved ones if it occurs in Australia or in the countries immediately around Australia is not a realistic assessment of modern day life." [13.10.02]

CREAN JOINS HOWARD IN BALI BOMBING CONDEMNATION: Australian Labor Party Leader, Simon Crean says the Federal Opposition “is deeply shocked by the terrorist bombings on the Indonesian island of Bali last night. This callous and outrageous attack was clearly directed against Westerners holidaying in Indonesia.” Crean added, “as demonstrated by the passage of recent anti-terrorism legislation, there is strong bipartisan support in Australia for efforts to crack down on terrorism. This incident highlights the need for Australia to remain vigilant against the threat of international terrorism – especially in our own region. As more evidence on this comes to light, we must carefully analyse its full implications for Australia and for Australian citizens.” [13.10.02]

BALI ATTACKS TO BE ANALYSED AT HOMELAND SECURITY EVENT: Initial implications for Australian defence and national security policy are to be discussed at an ADSC Conference on ‘Australian Homeland Security – Who is Responsible?’, to be held at the National Convention Centre, in Canberra, from 31 October to 1 November 2002. Speakers will include: the NSW Police Commissioner, the Director General of ASIO, the Secretary of the Attorney-General’s Department, and the head of the Protective Services Coordination Centre. For program details, surf www.adfa.edu.au/ADSC or Tel 02/6268-8848. This conference is supported by DIAR.com and ADBR magazine. [13.10.02]

ADF MOBILISES TO SUPPORT BALI EXPLOSION VICTIMS: Two Australian Defence Force (ADF) C-130 'Hercules' transports with medical teams aboard are on their way to Denpasar (Indonesia) to assist victims of nightclub bombings in Kuta Beach, and to evacuate more critically ill patients to Darwin. A Government inter-Departmental working group is currently working on reception and medical treatment of patients once they arrive in Darwin. Two further C-130s have been deployed to Darwin to be placed on stand-by should further evacuation support be needed. A P-3C aircraft has also been dispatched carrying consular and federal police officials. [13.10.02]

MORE PART-TIME ARMY RESERVE JOBS IN SA SAYS VALE: The Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence, Danna Vale, says up to 100 part-time Army Reserve jobs will be created through the opening of a new ‘Fleurieu Peninsula’ Multi-User Army Reserve Depot at Victor Harbor in South Australia. The depot (located in Maude Street) will house three units from the 9th Brigade (SA's Army Reserve Brigade) including infantry, communications and logistics personnel. Vale says Reserve personnel provide the ADF with the ability to surge and sustain concurrent military operations in the defence of Australia and our interests. [13.10.02]

WILLIAMS BALANCES THE REALITY OF TERRORIST ALARMS: Speaking to media on the most recent terrorist alert, the Attorney-General has said “we are trying not to be alarmist. I think it's important that the Australian public understands that Australia is not immune from the possibility of terrorist attack." According Daryl Williams, Australia is "part of the war against terrorism, we have seen Australian interests threatened (and) the arrest in Singapore of Jemaah Islamiyah people planning an attack on the Australian High Commission building is evidence that Australia is not immune. We’ve seen Osama bin Laden on Middle East television refer to Australia specifically, so we can’t be complacent. On the other hand, there is no cause for alarm, we are not aware of any specific threat to Australia, or Australian interests, but the generalised threat remains.” [12.10.02]

DEFENCE STRATEGY CHIEF TO EXPLAIN HOMELAND SECURITY: The Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) Head of Strategic Command, MajGen Ken Gillespie, will outline the new roles and missions of the ADF in ‘homeland security’ at a special ADSC Conference in Canberra, beginning 31 October. Other confirmed speakers include: the NSW Police Commissioner, the Director General of ASIO, the Secretary of the Attorney-General’s Department, and head of the Protective Services Coordination Centre. For program details visit www.adfa.edu.au/ADSC or Tel 02/6268-8848. This conference is supported by ADBR magazine. [12.10.02]

AUSTRALIA RESPONDS TO TERRORIST WARNING ADVICE: The Attorney-General has confirmed the Australian Government has been advised by the United States of a concern relating to the possibility of a terrorist attack against energy production and transmission infrastructure. While the advice was been provided to a number of countries, Daryl Williams says “there is no information of a specific threat against Australia, and threat levels have not been raised.” The Protective Security Coordination Centre (PSCC) - located in Williams’ department in Canberra - has passed the US information onto relevant State and Territory authorities. [11.10.02]

HOWARD COMMENTS ON US IRAQ WAR DECLARATION: Speaking to media after news of the the US Congress’ 296-133 vote granting authority to President Bush to proceed with any necessary action against Iraq to strip it of weapons of mass destruction, Prime Minister Howard has said, “it's a very strong endorsement of the stance that the President is taking - almost 300 (votes) out of the Congress and indicates very strong support (not only) from Republicans but also many Democrats as well. The next important event is the Security Council resolution (which) Australia very strongly supports. I am hopeful that the efforts of the Americans and the British will not be frustrated by other members of the five Security Council members who hold vetoes. [11.10.02]

MORE WORK TO PROVE ANTI-JAM GPS CAPABILITIES: Raytheon's Precision Guidance Systems (PGS) organisation has been awarded a US$1.9m option to its Digital Antenna Electronics (DAE) contract with the US Navy's Space & Naval Warfare Systems Centre to further Global Positioning System (GPS) anti-jam research and development on the way to developing, producing, and testing DAE prototypes that are compatible with standard aircraft anti-jam antenna systems in preparation for competitive procurement of production DAE units. The DAE production effort is valued at $25m, and will be capable of functioning with both current and future modernised GPS signal structures, such as M-code and spot beam modes. [11.10.02]

JOINT PROGRAM TO UPGRADE C-130J DEFENSIVE SYSTEMS: Lockheed Martin, the US Air Force and the Italian Air Force have concluded joint tests in support of a planned C-130J defensive systems upgrade program, to ensure the Italian aircraft's upgraded software functions with the radar warning receiver (RWR) and other elements of the defensive systems upgrades, to new USAF specifications. Software integration in US C-130Js is slated for completion during the fourth quarter of 2003. Once installation is complete, the USAF will commence with its own Operational Tests and Evaluations before release for operations. [11.10.02]

BENEFITS SEEN IN CLOSER ITAR EXEMPTIONS FOR AUSTRALIA: Defence spokespersons addressing an International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) Exemptions meeting in Sydney have suggested there will be benefits to Australia in concluding a formal ITAR Exemptions agreement with the United States, particularly in terms of the 'positive impact' such an agreement would have on the mind-set of US Government agencies to facilitate future technology exchanges. The freeing up of trade will come at a price, however, with local firms having to take on additional responsibilities (and costs) in tracking sensitive goods and keeping a log of their whereabouts. [10.10.02]

NEW LEGISLATION COMING TO UNDERPIN ITAR EXEMPTION REGIME: According to Defence, Australia's approach to the ITAR Exemptions negotiations had been based on implementing the exemptions as an administrative scheme underpinned by an industry qualification program. However, and following recognition of the need to better control 'intangible transfers' (ie: transfers of controlled information by word-of-mouth, email or fax), an examination is now being undertaken of the feasibility of introducing new export control legislation to underpin the exemption. Defence has prepared a discussion paper, and is seeking comments from industry. Email steve.hyland@defence.gov.au for details. [10.10.02]

TENIX TAKES-UP A FULL SHARE OF RLM SPEED BUSTERS: In anticipation of a wider restructuring of the RLM business base in Australia, Tenix Pty Ltd has acquired the remaining 50% share in traffic and infringement systems specialist, LMT Australia - from RLM Holdings, the 50/50 joint venture established in 1997 between US-based Lockheed Martin Corporation and Tenix. LMT Australia is said to provide the only fully integrated Road Safety detection, enforcement and collection service in Australia, and currently employs 270 people spanning project management, integration, toll management, transportation, parking infringement, customer service, debt collection and information technology support services. [10.10.02]

HILL GETS HIS HANDS ON AEROSONDE TACTICAL UAV: The Minister for Defence has remotely flown one of three ‘Aerosonde’ unmanned aircraft from a ground station at Hamilton (Victoria) during trials of Autonomous Vehicle Advanced Tactical Applications (AVATAR) applications potentially applicable to ADF requirements in target detection, target tracking, battle damage assessment, artillery spotting, extending the communications range of deployed forces and even detecting chemical or biological agents. The Aerosonde UAV was originally developed for meteorological and environmental reconnaissance, but is now engaged in a $2.4m Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) contract to provide airframes, payload installation, ground support infrastructure, and engineering support for the AVATAR trials. [10.10.02]

HOWARD URGED TO ‘COME CLEAN’ ON AL QAEDA THREAT: Opposition Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kevin Rudd, says it’s “high time high time the Prime Minister made a comprehensive statement to the Australian Parliament on the terrorism threat to Australia. This has become an even more important requirement given the statement last night by a leading international analyst of the Al Qaeda movement, Rohan Gunaratna, who has stated ‘the Australian Government does not perceive there to be a significant threat to Australia at this moment and I believe that assessment is wrong’." Rudd says it is “now incumbent upon the Prime Minister to make a clear and comprehensive statement to the Australian people about: the current terrorism threat to Australia in the light of Mr Gunaratna's analysis; and the prospective terrorism threat arising from what Mr Howard has described as a ‘probable’ war with Iraq. [10.10.02]

MINCOM TO REVIEW STRATEGIC PLAN AFTER PROFIT REPORT: The Board of software developer, Mincom, and its Chairman, Bob Savage, are currently undertaking a strategic review of the future direction of the company and its long-term growth potential following its declaration of a significant turnaround in end-June 2002 financial results which saw operating profit before income tax of $8.6m, an improvement of $11.4m over the previous years loss results. According to Mincom, the improved result comes from the release over the year of new versions of flagship products, as well as “a large number of implementations in 'core' vertical markets, including defence and mining, both locally and internationally.” Mincom has also commenced an internal program to improve its operational processes and better position the business for future growth. [10.10.02]

SINGAPORE TECHNOLOGIES TO ADVANCE RMA RESTRUCTURE: Singapore Technologies Engineering (ST Engg) is advancing a restructuring of its land systems arm - Singapore Technologies Kinetics (ST Kinetics) - to meet the challenges posed by the radical transformation expected of armed forces in the future. The company has laid off 460 employees, approximately 4% of its total workforce, at an estimated cost of US $22m. New investments are also being proposed in secure networks, guided weapons and other technologies to transform itself and prepare for changing trends in the defence market, and the need to offer higher value products. [10.10.02]

RAYTHEON DEMONSTRATES SURFACE WAVE RADAR SOLUTION: An advanced technology high frequency surface wave radar (HFSWR) proposed for reliable detection of small maritime vessels and low-flying aircraft has been demonstrated by Raytheon as part of the US Defence Department's Counterdrug Technology Development program. Raytheon says the technology offers low cost, all weather, accurate and reliable surveillance of surface vessels and low flying aircraft well in excess of the visible horizon, and has considerable potential for protecting US littoral waters. The demonstrations are part of a six-month proof of concept using a transportable prototype version of the HFSWR that has been installed at the US Navy's Undersea Warfare Centre (Atlantic) Undersea Testing and Evaluation Centre test range at Andros Island in the Bahamas. [10.10.02]

AWARDS FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT INITIATIVES: The Attorney-General, Daryl Williams, has announced the winners of the 2002 Emergency Management Australia (EMA) Australian ‘Safer Communities Awards’, which recognise individual and community initiatives to make Australia a safer place to live. Presentation of the awards is the focal point for United Nations (UN) efforts under its International Strategy for Disaster Reduction to increase public awareness about ways to reduce the risk and vulnerability of communities to natural hazards. [09.10.02]

MORE MUNITIONS TO DROP FROM ROVING UAV PLATFORMS: The US Army and Northrop Grumman Corp have demonstrated the feasibility of releasing a ‘Bat’ sub-munition from a ‘Hunter’ unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), thus paving the way for tests in October to demonstrate ‘Hunter’-released Bats to engage large moving targets. The initial tests support two planned project phases to demonstrate operational capability of the baseline Bat - an autonomous munition that uses a combination of passive acoustic and IR sensors to seek and destroy moving armoured targets in enemy territory. Phase 2 tests will see a global positioning system integrated with the Pre-Planned Product Improvement (or P3I) Bat, adding millimetre-wave radar and imaging IR sensors to yield a co-boresighted, dual-mode RF/IR seeker that works with the baseline acoustic sensors. [09.10.02]

NEXT UNIFORM COMING FOR TOMORROW’S SOLDIERS: US-based Exponent Inc is being provided US$400,000 under Phase ID of the US Army's Advanced Combat Uniform (ACU) program to provide a solution to the future soldier's combat uniform needs through the use of currently available off-the-shelf technologies. The ACU concept configuration is a five-layered system composed of an under layer(s), a battle-wear layer, a chemical/biological protective layer, an insulation layer(s), and a cold/wet protective outer layer. The ACU work is complementing Exponent’s other Army technology development programs including the recently announced 'Wolfpack Enterprise' Objective Force Warrior (OFW) Phase I CTD agreement with the US Army. [09.10.02]

CONTRACT AWARD FOR JSF PRIMARY FLIGHT CONTROLS: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics has awarded Moog (and partners, Parker Hannifin) a US$113m+ contract for production of Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) primary flight controls under the F-35s System Development and Demonstration (SDD) phase. The two firms will jointly provide the ‘electro-hydrostatic actuation system’ that will control the new aircraft's major flight surfaces, including the flaperons, rudders, and horizontal tails. The US Navy's version of the aircraft will also include controls for the ailerons. Delivery of hardware is to run from 2004 through 2006. [09.10.02]

NATIONAL JET EXPANDS AEROSPACE SUPPORT CAPABILITIES: The National Jet Systems Group has opened a new aviation maintenance and engineering support facility with the commissioning of a $7m hangar at Adelaide International Airport by the South Australian Premier, Mike Rann. According to the company, the new 19.5m high ‘Harold Bayly’ hangar will enable National Jet to undertake specific maintenance repair and overhaul functions thus increasing the attractiveness of Adelaide to overseas operators of Boeing 737s and Airbus A320s. National Jet says the new hangar "is the only independent facility in the country that will incorporate a specialist painting ability for both aircraft and helicopters.” [09.10.02]

BOEING SET TO SPONSOR AVALON AIRSHOW NIGHT DISPLAY: The Boeing Company has agreed to again to become the major sponsor of the Friday flying display at the forthcoming 11-16 February 2003 Avalon International Airshow, including the evening ‘night alight’ finale flying display. Airshow officials say the Boeing Friday Flying Display will begin at 3.00pm and continue for six-and-a-half hours concluding with the legendary F-111 ‘dump and burn’. Following conclusion of the Trade Show Days, the airshow will continue over the weekend (14-16th) for the public. [09.10.02]

INTERNATIONAL POLICE CONFERENCE TO FOCUS ON WOMEN: For the first time Australia is to be the host of an international women and policing conference, set down for Canberra on 20-23 October at the National Convention Centre. Jointly hosted by the Australasian Council for Women and Police (ACWAP) and the International Association of Women Police (IAWP) and supported by the Australian Federal Police (AFP), the conference will look at violence against women, international and domestic terrorism, investigating and prosecuting war crimes, trafficking in women, improving the status of women within policing, and the role of police in protecting human rights. For details surf www.auspol-women.asn.au. [09.10.02]

TENIX AND METAL STORM TEAM FOR ARMY COMBAT WEAPON: Tenix’s Electronic Systems Division has signed a collaborative agreement with the DSTO and Metal Storm bring forward a new high technology weapon for evaluation by the Australian Army. To be undertaken as a Concept Technology Demonstrator, the Advanced Individual Combat Weapon (AICW) prototype will seek to combine the standard issue rifle with an advanced fire control system and a grenade launcher based on electrically fired, axially stacked technology. The fire control system will use a laser range finder and other sensors to provide Australian soldiers with a corrected sight picture of the target as well as improved target acquisition and engagement. [08.10.02]

UNITED DEFENCE SET FOR NEW DD(X) NAVAL GUN: United Defence Industries has received a contract and initial funding to design, produce and test 155mm Advanced Gun System (AGS) system models for the US Navy's new DD(X) Destroyer. The potentially US$300m contract initiates the engineering development phase intended to see the new gun fire guided projectiles at a rate of 12 rounds per minute, at a range of up to 100 nautical miles. United Defence is working with Northrop Grumman Ships Systems under a Cost-Plus-Award-Fee type subcontract to be put into place later this year. [08.10.02]

MORE DEBATE ON SUSTAINABILITY OF EUROPEAN AEROSPACE: More than 300 leaders of the European aerospace industries attending the Annual AECMA Convention to debate the July report of the STAR 21 (Strategic Aerospace Review for the 21st Century) advisory panel, have concluded the European aerospace industry requires European governments to create a coherent approach for its aerospace related requirements. ACEMA says “time is short if Europe is to maintain and develop industrial capability,” and has encouraged European Member States to be ‘joined into’ the STAR 21 debate. [08.10.02]

FRANCE OUTLINES DIRECTION IN FUTURE UAV PROGRAMS: The French Minister for Defence has launched two new UAV programs: a Multi-Capteurs Multi-Missions (MCMM) tactical UAV for the Army of 80 units (with a first delivery in 2008) designed for battlefield intelligence collection, target designation and electronic warfare costing Euros 450m; and a medium altitude (or MALE) UAV for the Air Force requiring 12 units and their ground stations, with a first delivery in 2009. The MALE UAVs will be designed for battlefield intelligence collection, target designation and communications relay at a cost of around Euros 1.1b, including 15 years support. [08.10.02]

POWER CONVERSION CONTRACT FOR ELECTRIC SHIPS: General Atomics (GA) has signed a US$16m contract option with the US Navy relating to the development of advanced, megawatt-class power conversion modules for potential application to future all-electric ships. This contract, which also includes an additional $6m option for at-sea testing, is part of the Navy's Integrated Power System (IPS) Integrated Fight-Through Power (IFTP) program, which uses zonal ship-electric-power-distribution technology to provide redundancy of power distribution. GA and team members SatCon Technology Corp, Gibbs & Cox, and Neeltran Inc have been working on the IFTP since 2000. [08.10.02]

DEFENCE THE PROBLEM IN ELECTRONICS SECTOR SUSTAINABILITY: A draft Defence Electronics Sector (or Military Systems Integration) plan has put much of the blame for problems in developing/sustaining military electronics industry capabilities on Defence’s management and contractual processes. The plan says Military Systems Integration (MSI) work is unnecessarily sporadic, and this lack of continuity of work has actually prevented companies developing a core capability. By implication, and by keeping MSI companies ‘poor’ by contracting Defence work that ensures they continually lose money, the draft Plan suggests companies have been forced to concentrate their ‘A’ Teams on other more profitable work, in-turn meaning Defence projects are more likely to run into trouble and experience schedule delays. Criticism is therefore made of Defence’s short-term thinking and its practice of issuing fixed price contracts for work that is essentially high-risk. [07.10.02]

BRIEFINGS ON US ARMS TRADE (ITAR) REGULATIONS EXEMPTIONS: Defence's Director-General - International Materiel, John Popham, and the Director for US Export Control Systems, Steve Hyland, are to conduct briefings in Sydney (10/10, at Defence Plaza, 270 Pitt Street) and Melbourne (17/10, Defence Plaza, 661 Bourke Street), to inform industry of the latest developments in regard to the US International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) Exemptions. To reserve a seat email Lynda.mackenzie1@defence.gov.au (for Sydney) and charles.seracino@defence.gov.au (for Melbourne. [06.10.02]

RAYTHEON TAKES GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION TO THE STATES: Raytheon Australia has won a position on the NSW Government Information Technology Conditions (GITC) panel contract for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and related services. The contract covers the supply of GIS services to NSW departments, instrumentalities and local government across the State, through to December 2004. Raytheon is only the second of 12 panellists offering GIS services over all eight categories required by the NSW Government – from specification and customisation through to project management – and will also support customers with a range of training, support and maintenance services. [06.10.02]

GRANTS FOR $1M UPGRADE OF AVALON AIRSHOW ROAD ACCESS: The Victorian State government has pledged a grant of $500,000 to get work moving on the upgrade of feeder roads servicing the Avalon Airport so that works will be completed in time for the forthcoming 11-16 February 2003 Australian International Airshow. AirShows DownUnder officials say improvements to Beach Road, Pousties Road, the Point Wilson Bridge and associated freeway ramps now being funded will ‘dramatically enhance’ traffic flow into and out of the air show. The City of Greater Geelong and AirShows DownUnder will also each contribute $250,000 to overall project costs. Tenders will shortly be called by the City of Greater Geelong for the road upgrade work. [06.10.02]

BAE SYSTEMS TO SHOWCASE 'SOFT' DEFENCE SUPPORT CAPABILITIES: The Canberra office of BAE Systems (BAES) is to conduct an 'integrated support, services and solutions' (or 'S3I') open day on 15 October, in order to showcase its broad capabilities in 'maintenance repair and overhaul, training, facilities management, logistics and manpower'. Shuttle buses are being organized to collect interested persons from the Russell and Campbell Park offices, roughly hourly, and starting from 0945 hours to 1545 hours. Morning tea and lunch will be served, with drinks from 3.00 pm. For further detail or open day registration, email penny.reidy@baesystems.com. [06.10.02]

NORFORCE OPERATIONS REVIEWED AFTER MINISTERIAL VISIT: Defence Minister Hill has visited the Broome-based members of the ADF’s ‘Kimberley’ Squadron of NORFORCE, as well as members of the 21st Construction Squadron participating in the ATSIC Army Community Assistance Program (AACAP) in Lombardina. The Kimberley Squadron has responsibility for a large area of operations in the Kimberley region, including adjacent offshore islands, while NORFORCE has patrol responsibility for 1.8 million square kilometres, or nearly one quarter of Australia's land mass. AACAP is a joint initiative between ATSIC, the Army and the Federal Department of Health and Aged Care (DHAC), and involves Army engineers in work to improve health and living conditions to remote Aboriginal communities. The soldiers from the 21st Construction Squadron are based primarily at the Beagle Bay aboriginal community. [04.10.02]

FIRST STAGE OF RAAF ‘TOWNSVILLE’ REDEVELOPMENT COMPLETED: Completion of the $70m Stage I redevelopment of RAAF Base ‘Townsville’ is said to have enhanced its ability to contribute to operational capability and high level support for air operations. Work just completed includes new ordnance loading aprons capable of hosting fighter, strike, maritime patrol and transport aircraft, all of which are regularly deployed to Townsville for operational training. A $72.5m Stage II redevelopment program began earlier this year to provide a new main entrance, transit accommodation, mess complex, air movements facility, gymnasium and swimming pool. The project contractor is Leighton Pty Ltd. [04.10.02]

CALL FOR REASON IN GLOBAL AEROSPACE INDUSTRY CONFLICT: Speaking on 'The Future Transatlantic Marketplace' at the Annual Convention of the European Association of Aerospace Industries (AECMA) in the Hague, the Chairman and CEO of Lockheed Martin, Dr Vance Coffman, has said the aerospace industry “should work towards an integrated transatlantic defence marketplace and avoid ‘fortress mentalities’ on both sides of the Atlantic.” Dr Coffman also said that governments must cooperate globally and be able to coordinate their policies and their military and law enforcement actions in response to global threats. Accordingly, “we must now think of ourselves as part of the 'international security industry,' not simply the aerospace or defence industry." [04.10.02]

RATIONALISATION PLAN FOR UK DEFENCE SCIENCE LABORATORIES: The UK's 3000-person Defence, Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) is to rationalise the number of sites from which it operates, whilst building a new laboratory complex at Portsmouth. As part of the rationalisation, Dstl sites at Farnborough, Malvern, Winfrith, Portsdown West, Bedford and Rosyth will be closed, with the majority of staff moving to the new site near Portsmouth. Smaller numbers will be transferred to either Dstl Fort Halstead (Kent) or Dstl Porton Down, in Wiltshire. It is anticipated that this process will start in 2005. Dstl is that part of the former Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA) that was not privatised and re-established as QinetiQ. [04.10.02]

ELECTRIC BOAT SIGNED UP FOR ‘COLLINS’ SUBMARINE SUPPORT: The Commonwealth Government has formally engaged US submarine manufacturer, Electric Boat Corporation (EBC), as a capability partner to the Australian Submarine Corporation (ASC). Under a US$20m (over three years) deal with up to four years of annual extensions, EBC will provide specialist management and technical advice on the maintenance and ongoing support of the ‘Collins’-class boats - focused on modernising through-life support and capability upgrades. A team of experts from EBC’s head office in Groton (USA), will be based in South Australia from mid-October. Defence Minister Hill says the technical/commercial support agreement will help the ASC’s transition from being "a producer of submarines to an agency for through-life support." [03.10.02]

HILL TAKES AN INSPECTION CRUISE ON THE ‘RANKIN’: During a visit to Perth, Defence Minister Hill has also taken the opportunity to inspect the last of the six ‘Collins’ submarines, the ‘Rankin’. According to the Minister, the vessel is “still in the hands of ASC and undergoing trials here off Fremantle (and) we are hoping the boat will be commissioned into the fleet in about March 2003.” Hill added, HMAS ‘Sheean’ was recently involved in exercises with the US off Hawaii (and) “performed in excellent fashion against American ships and submarines. This is another confidence boost for us and for the Navy. I don’t think it’s widely appreciated that this class of submarine has now been operational for us for some time and in its operational work has been not only impressing us, but also impressing others who have been in the submarine business for a very long period of time.” [03.10.02]

MINISTER CUTS INTO RUSSELL HILL’S ARMY OF MINDERS: Responding to allegations of the mass sacking of up to 100 Defence public relations staff, Defence Minister Hill has confirmed ‘a desire’ to reduce numbers back to more normal levels. According to Senator Hill, over the last few years, the number of PR officers/minders have “grown with specific one off events such as the Centenary of Federation and the like. We are (now) interested in it (the numbers) being brought back to what it was intended to be, and we’re going through a process with the Department of looking at how that might be achieved. They are yet to advise us on how they propose to achieve that.” [03.10.02]

AFGHANISTAN CAMPAIGN TURNS TO TESTING MILITARY EQUIPMENTS: Official Defence briefings in Canberra have confirmed a wider range of ADF military capabilities are being deployed and tested in the Afghanistan theatre. In addition to Special Forces activities, mine clearing and helicopter operations, for the last six months a small detachment from 145 Signals Squadron from Holsworthy (NSW) has been working around the ‘Bagram’ air base with a ‘Parakeet’ satellite communications terminal testing the systems’ ability to support a full range of secure voice and data services “through dust storms and temperatures ranging from the high 40s to well below zero.” The three-person detachment is also laying a series of communications lines around the area. [03.10.02]

DEFENCE OUTLINES INVESTIGATION INTO EAST TIMOR MISCONDUCT: The Army’s Director of Personnel Operations, Col Terry McCullagh, has confirmed a comprehensive investigation into serious allegations of mistreatment of detainees by Australian INTERFET soldiers in 1999 has been underway for the last two years. McCullagh says the investigations have been advanced in cooperation with a number of organisations including the UN, the Federal Police (AFP) and service personnel from Australia, NZ and the UK. He adds, "the Australian Army demands the highest standards of behaviour and decency from our men and women and any allegations of inappropriate behaviour are taken very seriously. This investigation has and will continue to be done as an open and transparent process and once it has been completed, the Australian public will be advised of the outcomes." [03.10.02]

ERICSSON TO CLOSE TELECOMMUNICATIONS RESEARCH FACILITY: Australia is set to lose one of its largest centres of telecommunications research and development by mid-2003 following a decision by Swedish-based Ericsson to close its Asia-Pacific laboratories in Melbourne, and shift work back to Europe. The decision will see the loss of up to 450 jobs and a cut in annual R&D spending of up to $100 million as part of a world-wide initiative to cut 10,000 jobs across the global organization and centralize research in Sweden and Germany. Ericsson has extensive research links with the University of Melbourne, the University of NSW, the ANU and two Co-operative Research Centres. Company capabilities in wireless communications (via its 'Bluetooth' technology), are also understood to have been under consideration by the Department of Defence. [03.10.02]

NEW ZEALAND TO IMPLEMENT REVISED DEFENCE INDUSTRY POLICY: Confirming New Zealand was currently reviewing its Defence industry policy under a new procurement approach focused around better prescription of requirements and functional specifications, NZ Defence Minister, Mark Burton, has told guests at the fifth annual Defence Industry Seminar dinner that all future military procurements will emphasise ‘price, availability and proven performance’ in their evaluation. Burton said deference to obligations in trade relations – including the free trade agreements with Singapore and Australia – would also feature in defence project assessments, as well as factors that help maximise interoperability. Burton confirmed the NZ Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Economic Development we currently undertaking a joint review of industrial development opportunities arising from implementation of the military’s long-term development plan (LTDP), with a particular focus on the uptake of innovation. [02.10.02]

CHANGED STRATEGIC CONCEPTS TO DRIVE KIWI DEFENCE FORCE: The Assistant Chief of Development at Headquarters New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), Commodore Gary Collier, has outlined to a defence-industry audience a new four-pronged ‘CDF’s vision’ now underpinning future NZ military capability. According to Collier, the strategic concept is comprised of four key tenets: to build a ‘knowledge edge’ force; to yield a ‘tailored joint force’; to excel with a ‘multi-mission’ joint force; and to develop an overall ‘network force’ that is coherent internally as well as capable of working with allies. On the basis of the NZ Government’s endorsement of the Long Term Development Plan (LTDP), Collier says the NZDF “has started on a transition program to take the (force) into the future.” [02.10.02]

PROJECT ‘PROTECTOR’ TO TRIAL NEW PROCUREMENT RULES: New Zealand’s Assistant Secretary for Defence Acquisition, Kevin McMahon, told seminar attendees the current program to reinvigorate the Royal NZ Navy with new maritime lift/multi-role and offshore/inshore patrol vessels would be the first project to be run under the new procurement policy, which would give much more emphasis to ‘whole-of-life’ costs given the NZ military ‘capex’ budget had been frozen out to 2005/06. McMahon confirmed that 21 responses from 14 countries had been received from the Government’s issuance of an ITR for Project ‘Protector’, with a short-list of six to seven companies being concluded by year’s end. The first of the new vessels is due into service in 2005 upon the retirement of the HMZNS ‘Canterbury’. [02.10.02]

ROCHE CONFIRMS NEW DEFENCE COMMITTEE STRUCTURE: Speaking in Wellington on progress in reform of Australian defence procurement structures and procedures, the Under Secretary for Defence Procurement, Mick Roche, has confirmed the top-level Defence Capability Investment Committee (DCIC) is to be restructured to streamline decision making on higher-importance defence capability projects. According to Roche the ‘old DCIC chaired by the Vice Chief of the Defence Force’ is to be replaced by a ‘new DCIC with much reduced numbers’ (essentially the military chiefs) to focus defence acquisition at a more strategic level. The surplus of DCIC work falling under the new ‘strategic level’ benchmark is to be pushed down to the Defence Capability Committee (DCC) and dealt with at the two-Star level. [02.10.02]

FIRST NATIONAL ‘SMALL POX’ VACCINE EMERGENCY STOCK COMING: Arrangements for the purchase of an initial shipment of 50,000 doses of smallpox vaccine are ‘well advanced’ says the Commonwealth Chief Medical Officer, Professor Richard Smallwood. Federal Health Department officials are currently finalising contracts with vaccine manufacturer Aventis Pasteur (France), with the first shipment due to arrive in Australia within the next few weeks. Smallwood also said Australia has “commitments from the World Health Organisation and American Centres for Disease Control to provide additional smallpox vaccine to Australia should that prove necessary.” The Federal Government is implementing an $11.4m strategy to acquire and stockpile a range of antibiotics, vaccines, antiviral drugs, chemical antidotes and diagnostic tests. The US is looking at gearing up a national vaccine program that would initially cover between 500,000 and ten million health care workers. [02.10.02]

HOWARD TALKS ON TRADE AND SECURITY LINKAGES: Responding to media questions regarding US free trade agreement negotiations and consultations regarding military action in Iraq, Prime Minister Howard says, “I would never trade the two off. If we are involved in any kind of international, political action with the Americans it will be because that is the right thing to do and in the best interests of this country, not because America has covertly agreed to give us some kind of trade deal. I think you have to keep the two things completely separate. We have more investment from America than any other country in the world and outward investment from Australia goes to America in a much greater volume than any other country. We have a very close economic relationship with the Americans already, and our economic future involves a closer relationship with them. And our defence association with the US is the greatest guarantee of security that this country has.” [02.10.02]

PM SAYS MANY REASONS TO TAKE A STAND ON IRAQ: Continuing his US theme in a speech to the Australian Chamber of Commerce, Howard said there “are many reasons why America is taking the stance she is. Not least of course is the greater sense of vulnerability that country very understandably feels as a result of the attacks of the 11th of September last year. Having happened, it is now very understandable that nations should factor in to their national security arrangements a capacity to safeguard against and where possible and where appropriate, prevent the occurrence in advance of indiscriminate terrorist attacks orchestrated from abroad. This country's national interests are never served, in my view, by walking away from international realities (and they won’t be served) by separating ourselves without proper reason from those countries whose values and whose view of life is similar to our own. And that naturally includes amongst many other countries, the United States and the United Kingdom." [02.10.02]

RUDD TALKS ON THE STATE OF FOREIGN POLICY: Joining the debate on Australia's international outlook, the Opposition Spokesperson for Foreign Policy, Kevin Rudd has said “the end of the cold war marked the collapse of a security policy order that had governed the planet for the better part of half a century. Economic globalisation, a phenomenon which waxed and waned during the life of the twentieth century, in the last decade of that century acquired a momentum whereby the magnitude of non-state economic transactions, matched by the might of non-state economic actors, caused many to conclude that the state indeed was beginning to wither away. And with it, the continuing relevance of state-based conflict.” [02.10.02]

GENERAL POPULATION NOW SETTING DIPLOMACY’S DIRECTION: Rudd added, “September 11 injected a further element into the complex melting pot of the emerging international order. On the one hand, it demonstrated the failure of the classical forms of defence, diplomacy and intelligence in dealing with non-state actors. On the other hand, it demonstrated that non-state actors such as terrorists could not readily operate in the absence of state-based systems of support. While none of these phenomena can strictly be described as ‘new’, the truth of the matter is that the quantum of their cumulative impact on the totality of ‘international reality’ has meant that the impact of foreign policy has moved from policy elites to the general population.” [02.10.02]

UK CHOOSES STOVL JOINT STRIKE FIGHTER VARIANT: The UK has decided on the Short Take Off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) version of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) to equip two new £3 billion large (CVF) aircraft carriers currently being procuring, as well as to fly from shore bases. Up to 150 of the new the Lockheed Martin F35Bs will now replace both land-based and carrier-based ‘Harrier’ aircraft in a program worth up to £10b, for first entry into service with the new carriers in 2012. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) expects to place F35 production contracts, having confirmed the numbers of aircraft required, in 2005/06. According to UK Procurement Minister, Lord Bach, the UK has "chosen this variant, which is the one being bought by the US Marine Corps, because it fully meets our military needs - and it builds on Britain's unique and valuable knowledge of STOVL aircraft acquired during nearly four decades of operations with the 'Harrier' on land and at sea.” [02.10.02]

F-35B SELECTION DETERMINES UK AIRCRAFT CARRIER OPTIONS: Confirmation of the F-35B STOVL variant for UK forces has also allowed the MoD to firm-up design parameters for its new 55-60,000 tonne (displacement) aircraft carriers. According to Lord Bach, “these ships must have the maximum flexibility to meet our defence needs throughout their service lives of up to 50 years. That is why we've decided they will be built to an innovative 'adaptable' plan so that they will operate STOVL F35 aircraft, but can be modified to fly the generation of aircraft - which might possibly be unmanned combat aerial vehicles - even beyond the F35, whether or not these too are STOVL. This represents a sensible way to maximise the benefits of our investment in the carriers, and is good long term value for money." Industry estimates that some 3,500 jobs could be created or sustained by work on the F35 in the UK, rising to 8,500 once the aircraft moves into production and then into service. The total value of the program to UK industry, including exports, could be as much as £27 billion. [02.10.02]

GOODRICH COMPLETES TRW AERONAUTICAL SYSTEMS ACQUISITION: Goodrich Corporation has completed its acquisition of TRW's Aeronautical Systems businesses for US$1.5 billion in cash. The acquired businesses design and manufacture commercial and military aerospace systems and equipment with 6,200 employees located in 22 facilities throughout the world. Commenting on the acquisition, Dave Burner, Goodrich Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said the newly-acquired products and systems “expand and strengthen our established global leadership positions, further improving our ability to meet the changing needs of the aerospace industry." In 2001 these newly-acquired businesses had sales of $1.1b and EBITDA, before special items, of $180m. [02.10.02]

DEFENCE HQ BURGLARY PUTS MILITARY SEMINAR INTO FOCUS: Delegates attending the fifth annual New Zealand Defence Association Industry Seminar in Wellington have been greeted by front page newspaper headlines of a weekend burglary at NZ Defence Headquarters, in Stout Street, Wellington. Several offices on the fourth floor of the building, including the suite of the Chief of General Staff, Jerry Mateparae, were ransacked, with two laptops and personal items (including car keys) being taken. Defence officials said no sensitive material was missing as the top secret HQ follows a ‘clean desk’ policy, with all confidential and above material locked in safes. Ironically, the burglars are believed to have gained access to the building via external scaffolding left unattended over the weekend by a private contractor hired to plug other types of leaks, namely water coming in from windows whose seals have failed. [01.10.02]

COMMUNICATIONS IMPROVING TRAINING RANGE SAFETY RECORD: Defence's training ranges around the country are expected to become more safer following the introduction of a new communications capability - the Standard Training Area Range Safety Network (or STARSN) - on each of the 24 Australia-wide training areas used by the military. The $10.5m project integrates products from a number of Australian and New Zealand (NZ) suppliers, and involves acquisition of new equipment, installation and follow-on support. ‘Pockets’ within training ranges that are currently not covered by the existing combat radio system will now be covered, with a single frequency dedicated to range safety. [01.10.02]

MINISTER WELCOMES HOME UN HQ MILITARY ADVISER: Defence Minister Hill has congratulated Major General Tim Ford on his return to Australia following his two-year tenure as the Military Adviser to the United Nations Headquarters. According to Hill, this is “the first time in the history of the United Nations that Australia has held the Military Adviser's position. It’s a great credit to the Australian Defence Force that an Australian officer was selected to fill such an important position. As the Military Adviser, Major General Ford was responsible for all military aspects of UN peacekeeping operations around the globe and plans for any future peacekeeping missions. He returns to Australia looking forward to a well-earned retirement.” [01.10.02]

DEMOCRATS SAY NO TO RAISING A SPECIAL IRAQ ‘WAR TAX’: Australian Democrats Interim Parliamentary Leader, Senator Brian Greig, has expressed his party’s opposition to the raising of a special levy to fund possible Australian involvement in a war with Iraq. According to Greig, “the Treasurer and Cabinet have expressed concern about costs, but the Prime Minister is appearing to duck debate on costs until a war on Iraq is a fait accompli. It seems that John Howard is wanting to involve Australia in US foreign policy, and pay for it not only with Australian lives but with Australian taxes. The Prime Minister knows that our actions now may back us into a corner where we have no choice but to go to war if the United Nations process fails." [01.10.02]

SIKORSKY SECURES SIXTH MULTI-YEAR H-60 CONTRACT: The US Army Aviation and Missile Command has awarded a five-year, US$1.5b multi-service contract to Sikorsky Aircraft for the manufacture of H-60 helicopters and related support services and equipment. The basic contract includes 80 Army UH-60L ‘Black Hawks’ and 82 Navy MH-60S utility helicopters, associated mission kits, project systems management and related support for production years 2002 through 2006. The contract also contains options which, if exercised, could potentially be worth $6b for approximately 600 total aircraft, mission kits and support. Sikorsky has previously delivered more than 2,600 H-60s to US government and international customers across the world. [01.10.02]

September

[TOP]

OPPOSITION SAYS DEFENCE BUDGET BEING MANIPULATED: Opposition Defence spokesperson, Chris Evans, says the Government appears to have manipulated Defence spending on military equipment acquisitions in order to reduce the size of the deficit. Evans observes that with just one month to go in the 2001-02 financial year, “Defence estimated in May 2002 that it would spend $2.98b on military equipment acquisitions. Between May and June this year the Government moved to pocket $450m of those funds, leaving Defence to spend $2.53b on military equipment in 2001-02, which is lower than in previous years. This raises serious concerns that the Government pressured Defence into suddenly delaying a large number of military equipment projects in order to prop up the Government's 2001-02 balance sheet.” [30.09.02]

ADI LAUNCHES ITS CAMPAIGN FOR PROJECT SEA 1444: ADI Limited is to officially launch in Newcastle its ‘Patrol Boats for the Hunter’ campaign, in support of the company's bid for the Navy’s replacement patrol boat project. ADI says the Hunter region ‘will gain substantial economic benefits’ if its bid for Project Sea 1444 is successful. ADI’s new managing director, Lucio DiBartolomeo will open the program by outlining a vision for the future role of its Newcastle facility, and will be followed by an address from the Minister Assisting the NSW Premier on Hunter Development, Richard Face. [30.09.02]

AIR-TO-AIR REFUELLING TEAM WELCOMED INTO RICHMOND: Prime Minister Howard has joined the Chief of Defence Force (General Peter Cosgrove) and the Air Commander (AVM John Kindler) to welcome home RAAF personnel returning from the ‘Manas’ airbase in Kyrgyzstan, who have been serving as part of Australia's commitment to the international coalition against terrorism. The airmen and women of 84 Wing have spent the past three months undertaking refuelling operations for coalition aircraft (mainly French and USAF), and at last count (19/9) were said by Defence to have offloaded 5.8 million pounds (2.6m kilograms) of fuel since the start of operations. [29.09.02]

VISIONARY RAIL PROJECTS TO HAVE DEFENCE LOGISTICS IMPLICATIONS: A proposed $2.3 billion inland rail link from Melbourne to Brisbane and Gladstone has been granted Major Project Facilitation (MPF) Status by Industry Minister, Ian Macfarlane. The link is part of the visionary 'Inland Expressway' project from Melbourne to Darwin developed under the Australian Transport and Energy Corridor plan, estimated to cost $10 billion to develop. Trains are expected to be running to northern NSW on existing/upgraded track within 3 years, and on to Toowoomba (via Albury, Parkes, Moree and Goondiwindi) by the end of 2006. The route to Brisbane, involving major engineering works, is expected to be completed by the end of 2008. [28.09.02]

PR CAMPAIGN TO SUFFICE FOR MORE COASTWATCH RESOURCES: Although not agreeing to fund any new ‘Coastwatch’ initiatives other than those already announced in the last Federal Budget, the Government’s reply to the August 2001 Parliamentary (JCPAA) review of Coastwatch has accepted the need for a public information campaign built around the development and publication of a Charter for the organisation outlining the Government’s expectations of Coastwatch and the evolution of the civil maritime surveillance and response program in recent years. [27.09.02]

DEFENCE TO BEEF-UP ITS PRESENCE IN COASTWATCH HIERARCHY: The established practice of having a senior Australian Defence Force (ADF) officer server as the Director-General of Coastwatch is to be enhanced with the Chief of the Defence Force, General Cosgrove, having agreed to maintain three other Defence-filled positions in the organisation, and to provide a fourth ADF member to assist Coastwatch in maximising the opportunities available to the organisation as a result of its recent increased access to a range of intelligence systems. [27.09.02]

NEW EFFORT TO CLEAR LINES OF COASTWATCH-DEFENCE COMMUNICATION: Coastwatch and Defence are now understood to be negotiating a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which will consolidate in one document the various components of Defence involvement in Coastwatch coordinated activities. This MoU will address all Defence contributions including: personnel, intelligence, assignment of forces (eg: Patrol Boats and AP-3C ‘Orions’), and responsibilities for certain actions associated with matters of mutual interest such as Unidentified Aircraft Movements (UAMs) and training. [27.09.02]

STUDY UNDERWAY TO DEVELOP NEW OFFSHORE PATROL VESSEL: Work is currently being undertaken by Defence and relevant agencies to assess the threat and the risk to Southern Ocean fisheries in order to identify the infrastructure necessary to establish a matrix of response options. As part of that process, and in the context of the Heard and McDonald Islands (HIMI), a new coordinating group – the HIMI Operational Group (or HIMIOG) – is to determine the requirements for a vessel to patrol the Southern Ocean and other remote areas. This requirement will then form the basis upon which Defence and other relevant agencies will determine the size, type and characteristics of the required vessel, and therefore, its cost. [27.09.02]

HARRIS DIGITAL MAPS FOR F/A-18 UPGRADE PROGRAM: Harris Corporation has been awarded a US$2.3m contract by Northrop Grumman Canada Corporation to provide digital map technology for a display upgrade for RAAF F/A/B-18 and Canadian CF-18 A/B fighter jets. The ‘card-level digital map module-based’ technology supports the horizontal situation display, whose output enables military flight crews to operate with increased navigational and situational awareness using advanced, real-time terrain visualisation data. Contract options could increase the overall value of the program to $7 million over the next five years. [27.09.02]

NORTHROP GRUMMAN UNVEILS NEW BOMBER CONCEPT: Northrop Grumman Corporation's Integrated Systems sector has unveiled its design for an efficient and capable long-range supersonic cruise aircraft that would operate with a less intense sonic boom. The ‘preferred system concept’ includes variants for a long-range military strike aircraft, as well as a civil business jet, and is part of a DARPA ‘Quiet Supersonic Platform’ program focused on validating multiple breakthrough technologies to enable such aircraft to be brought into production. The company has already successfully completed a critical design review with DARPA, in preparation for a flight demonstration. [27.09.02]

NASA TESTS NEW HELMET CONCEPT ON F/A-18 HORNETS: Engineers from the US Navy's NAVAIR Crew Systems Research and Engineering Competency group have developed a new helmet concept that they expect will enhance the stability and reliability of helmet mounted devices, ultimately improving the accuracy of information available to the aircrew on US Navy and Marine Corps aircraft. In July, pilots began wearing the modular, two-part helmet prototype during limited flight testing in an F/A-18 Hornet at NASA's Dryden Flight Research Centre. [27.09.02]

‘OK’ GIVEN FOR NEW LAVARACK COMBAT TRAINING CENTRE: Approval has been given for the construction of new high tech facilities to support the Combat Training Centre-Live (Project Land 134) at Lavarack Barracks, in Townsville. The CTC(L) will combine existing training organisations from Townsville and other centres in Queensland, with about 75 extra personnel moving to the Townsville area to bring the unit up to 100 personnel by the end of 2002. The new Centre will include an instrumented range area that will electronically record activities that can then be replayed for teaching and analysis. The centre will assist Army units in preparing for combat on Defence's major training ranges in the Northern Territory and North Queensland. The proposed facilities, consisting of headquarters, support and transport facilities, are expected to cost around $5.8 million. [27.09.02]

WEBSITE LAUNCHED FOR RE-LOCATING DEFENCE FAMILIES: The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence, Fran Bailey, has launched a new website to help ease the difficulties of moving to a new location for Army families. An innovative 'PuckaOnLine' (www.puckaonline.com/) website now provides direct access to information about housing, education, employment, health and a variety of other facilities on the base, and across the central Victoria region. The new website is a joint initiative involving the Land Warfare Development Centre, Puckapunyal and District Neighbourhood Centre Inc, Defence Community Organisation and the Action Plan for People Team. [27.09.02]

HILL STANDS UP TO DEFEND DEFENCE PROCUREMENT REFORMS: Addressing a C3I Defence Watch luncheon in Canberra, Defence Minister Hill has mounted an extensive defence of criticisms to achievements of the Defence Reform process. The Minister pointed to institution of the ‘two-pass’ project approvals system, as well as early decisions on project short-listings, as clear examples of improved certainty and reductions tendering costs for industry, whilst also noting the benefits of the ADF’s adoption of ‘evolutionary acquisition’ as the preferred approach to acquiring software intensive military systems. [26.09.02]

PROJECT MANAGEMENT BETTER THAN MEDIA REPORTS SAY: Hill said over the past three financial years, Defence had gazetted 152,000 contracts for a total value of nearly A$19 billion. The majority of those contracts, the Minister said, “were with Australian-based suppliers, who supplied a vast range of locally made and imported goods and services. They ranged from fresh fruit and vegetables to early warning aircraft. In 2001-02 alone, the purchase of goods and services from industry amounted to $7.1b, 76% (or $5.4b of which) went to Australian-based companies (while) 24%, or $1.7 billion, was directed towards overseas-based companies. [26.09.02]

MINISTER ELUCIDATES THE POLITICS OF DEFENCE PURCHASING: Commenting on the geographic spread of this expenditure, Senator Hill said it ranged “from about $2 billion flowing to NSW-based vendors in 2001-02, to $11 million flowing to Tasmanian-based vendors. My own State, South Australia, attracted $514m. The Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) spent about 40%, or $2.9b, of that $7.1b in 2001-02. It recorded some 400 individual projects or project phases, with expenditure ranging up to $263m for the AEW&C aircraft. The DMO's top 20 Australian-based contractors ranged from ADI, with about 3,000 employees, to Owen International, with about 10 employees.” [26.09.02]

KAMAN FUNDING GETS CHOPPED FOR ITS ‘SEASPRITE’ SINS: Speaking in regard to expectations of industry to deliver the ‘trinity’ of on-time, on-budget and to performance spec’s in major defence acquisition projects, the Minister said the Government was currently withholding funds from Kaman Aerospace - under his own personal direction - and following Defence’s negotiation of a new payment schedule in May. According to Hill, “these changes are currently being drafted into formal contract changes, to ensure the Commonwealth has withheld sufficient money to complete the project without Kaman, should it fail to meet its contractual requirements. While this project has been subject to considerable delay, it is still within its approved budget.” Kaman, of course, is on a fixed price contract for the ‘Seasprite’ naval helicopter project. [26.09.02]

ENTHUSIASM WANING FOR BIG BANG STRATEGIC LIFT SOLUTION: Having now had a chance to study the costs of the RAAF acquiring/running a small fleet of Boeing C-17 transports – as part of moves to reprioritise funding for military strategic lift – Defence Minister Hill says he is now looking at alternatives to direct purchase to upgrade ADF mobility, to enable it to deploy long distances. Rather than opting to lease aircraft from commercial interests on an ad hoc basis, the Senator has now suggested “perhaps we need to (put into) place more permanent leasing facilities to ensure that we are best able to meet that requirement as it is needed.” [26.09.02]

DEFENCE EXPECTED TO OPERATE IN EXISTING BUDGET PARAMETERS: Noting the Defence Capability Plan (DCP) was worked out ‘on the basis of the figures that were provided at that time’ for the proposed acquisition projects set out in the Plan, Defence Minister Hill has confirmed the Government is “operating within that funding envelope. If variations to the Plan should be made within that (funding) envelope, I would be expecting (Defence) to meet such capability changes with the funding that’s been provided. The practice of this Government has been that when we undertake additional operations – which includes obviously additional costs – that has been supplemented at the time on the basis of the actual costs.” [26.09.02]

NEXT DEFENCE SECRETARY TO BRING A RANGE OF QUALITIES: Responding to questions concerning the replacement of Dr Allan Hawke as Secretary of the Department of Defence by Richard Smith (currently Ambassador to Indonesia), Senator Hill said each new appointee “brings a different set of qualities and experiences, different skills and talents. I think that obviously the Government has decided that in this next phase, which I see very much as consolidation, that Ric Smith has a mix of talents and experiences that can best achieve the outcomes that the Government is seeking. And those outcomes are obviously to continue to support, in the way we would want, a very capable Defence force.” [26.09.02]

NEW RECRUITS NOW FLOODING INTO MILITARY SERVICE: The ADF is said to have benefited from an increase of almost 50% in full-time recruitment enlistments in the past three years under the auspices of a national collaborative arrangement with recruitment agency, Manpower Services Australia. According to the Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence, Danna Vale, "this exceptional performance is in addition to an increase of more than 70% in Reserve Force enlistments. These results are even more impressive when set against a reduction in marketing and advertising spending of 35% over the same period.” Enhanced outsourced recruitment services are to be introduced across Australia from 1 July 2003. [26.09.02]

MINISTER'S SPEECH EXPANDS ON REGIONAL AL QAEDA THREAT: The Minister for Defence has told media that what has come out of Afghanistan is intelligence that “basically links Al Qa'eda and other like bodies to regional secessionist organisations in south east Asia, in Indonesia, in Singapore, in Malaysia and into the southern Philippines. This is what's talked about (in terms of) an ‘arc’ and it's provided evidence of the links between these organisations and basically what they are seeking to do is to (replace) regional governments with an Islamic government and to achieve it through force. What we learnt from the arrest in Singapore at the end of last year that those threats and we believe the violence and threats were not just against western interests (or) US interests, but really were part of a broader organised plan for that objective." [26.09.02]

HOWARD THANKS DR HAWKE FOR WORKING AT DEFENCE: The Prime Minister has publicly thanked Dr Alan Hawke “for the work that he's done as head of the Defence Department, and also previously as head of the Department of Transport and Regional Services. I think Ric Smith will be an excellent replacement (but) Alan Hawke's contract was up.” Pressed by journalists for further comment on the decision not to extend Dr Hawke’s term of office, Howard stated, “I want to thank him for what he's done. He worked very hard. He's a fine loyal officer." [26.09.02]

GENERAL DYNAMICS SET TO INTEGRATE JSF GUN SYSTEM: General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products has been selected by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company (LMAC) as the gun system integrator for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). Design and development work of the gun system is to be undertaken in Burlington (Vermont). According to a General Dynamics spokesperson, the development contract selection “is a significant competitive win for (the company) and reaffirms our position as premier aircraft gun system provider." [26.09.02]

US ARMY EXHIBITS NEW ‘SHADOW 200’ SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM: The US Army has displayed its newest ‘Shadow 200’ UAV at the Pentagon, describing the aircraft as a tactical vehicle meant to accompany initial entry ground forces. The aerial vehicle has a 13- foot wingspan and can stay aloft up to 14,000 feet over a target for five to six hours. It can fly off a ramp or an airfield and land on a field the size of a soccer pitch. US Army leaders will soon decide whether to proceed to full production. If approved, it would buy 41 systems, each consisting of three Shadow 200 air vehicles, two ground control stations, one portable ground station and four remote video terminals to feed back ‘near-real-time’ video to commanders. Nine systems could be delivered in fiscal 2003. [26.09.02]

OPPOSITION CARPETS HOWARD ON DEFENCE SACKINGS: The Shadow Minister for Defence says that under the Howard Government there has been “a revolving door for senior appointments in Defence. Of the fifteen people in senior Defence positions, including the Minister, only three have been occupied by a person who has been in the job for more than 12 months. There have now been four Secretaries and four Ministers in Defence over the past six years. It has gotten to the stage now where people in the Department of Defence do not bother having their names put on the door because they will not be in the position very long.” [25.09.02]

HILL FLAGS CHANGES TO MILITARY FORCE STRUCTURE: Responding to allegations of military deficiencies by former senior ADF officers, Defence Minister Hill says “I agree with a fair bit of what he (Wallace) said - this is one of the issues that I'm working through with Defence at the moment. We basically have structured our defence force for the defence of Australia and yet we constantly ask them to do other things. They've been able to do it - incidentally, you might say. And therefore it is said by some well, they're adequately equipped for those other tasks. The question I ask is, but are we offering them the full support that they really need and deserve? I think that there is still an issue there that we need to resolve (and) I'm certainly factoring that into our planning for future." [25.09.02]

‘ARC OF ISLAM’ THREATS CHARTED OUT TO FOUNDATION: Addressing a CEW Bean Foundation dinner in Canberra, Defence Minister Hill says the 11 September terrorist attacks in the US have seen the strategic environment of the 21st century emerge into sharper focus. This means Australia “can no longer take a narrowly geographic approach to strategy and force structure (although) there are some continuities – particularly the overwhelming importance to Australia of the Asia-Pacific region”. In this environment, Hill told the Foundation he now saw ‘an arc of militant Islamic influence – albeit at the margins of society’ stretching across the region from Malaysia and Singapore across into the southern Philippines and Indonesia, including Sulawesi and Maluku. [25.09.02]

HOWARD LAUDS IRAQ DOSSIER IN STRAW TALKS: In a statement following talks with British Foreign Secretary Straw, Prime Minister Howard has said Australia supports “very strongly the efforts of Britain and the United States to craft a Security Council resolution. The Iraq ‘dossier’ produced by the British government and tabled in the Commons yesterday is an excellent document and I think it has made a significant impact, not only here, but also in Australia. It’s a further coherently argued document which pinpoints the dimension of the threat that Iraq poses if the issue is left unaddressed. I said yesterday after I met Mr Blair that nobody wants military conflict. But you cannot leave this issue unaddressed. That’s happened in the past and it can’t be allowed to happen indefinitely in the future.” [25.09.02]

AUSTRALIA CLOSE TO US THINKING AND INTELLIGENCE: Howard added that Australia was able to play ‘a strong diplomatic role’ in Iraq matters because we have “a very close alliance with both the UK and the US. We have a very close intelligence sharing arrangement. It’s unique in the degree of confidentiality and trust that exists between the intelligence services of our three nations, and there are other ways in which Australia can diplomatically support the efforts that the Americans and the British are now undertaking in the UN to try and get a resolution together. I think (President Bush’s) speech to the UN brought (out) all of the elements of this very difficult issue together very nicely, and we support very strongly what both Washington and London are trying to do together to achieve an outcome that I think is in the long term interests of both of their societies and also our own." [25.09.02]

RESPONSE PROVIDED TO INTERNAL CRITICISM OVER IRAQ THREATS: Responding to the comments of three former prime ministers and the former Governor General urging the US and UK not to strike Iraq without UN sanctions, Prime Minister Howard has said, “right at the moment, Australia is strongly supporting the attempts of the United States and Britain to obtain Security Council support for a resolution on this issue. It is clearly not in Australia's interests for me to speculate as to what this country might do if those attempts fail. The right thing for Australia is for me to support those current attempts and to refrain from any comment as to what might be Australia's attitude if those bona fide attempts are not successful. [25.09.02]

METAL STORM COMMITS TO NEW NAVAL DEFENCE SYSTEM: Based on its unique electronic, rapid fire technology, Metal Storm Limited says it will draw on US$50m in R&D funds to develop a digital ballistics system to provide an automated, state-of-the-art defence shield for naval vessels to counter attacks at very short range, such as attacks by small craft loaded with explosives. Utilising the company's ‘Very-Close-In Ship Defence’ (VCSD) prototype system, Metal Storm is hoping to bring forward a weapon that provides an effective response, with unparalleled reaction time, against a stealth attack, at a low cost of procurement and maintenance. The VCSD project team has this month successfully fired the first specially designed 16mm projectiles from a single barrel prototype. The first multi-barrel prototype, due for testing early next year, is intended to prove that the system can be effective against a number of simultaneous attacks." [25.09.02]

DELIVERY OF ADF ‘PARAKEET’ SATCOM SYSTEMS COMPLETED: BAE Systems (BAES) Australia has completed production of twelve second-generation tri-band Satellite communications Terminal Assemblages (STAs) for the ADF, as well as the upgrade of 18 STAs provided under an earlier contract to the same standard. The STA is part of the ‘Parakeet’ tactical trunk communications system which supports the operations of remotely deployed units by providing a comprehensive, secure and highly mobile, tactical satellite & trunk communications infrastructure. The STA provides the means of interfacing a range of communications features including facsimile, telephone, data and messaging for the military subscriber. [25.09.02]

DR ALLAN HAWKE TO GO AS SECRETARY OF DEFENCE: Senator Hill has confirmed that Australia’s current Ambassador to Indonesia (and also a former Defence Deputy Secretary), Ric Smith, is to succeed Dr Allan Hawke as Secretary of Defence from 20 October. Hill thanked Dr Hawke for his ‘contribution to the portfolio over the last three years’, noting it had been “a challenging time to be at the helm of the Defence Department. I am pleased that Dr Hawke will continue to serve the Government in a senior and important role, and (I) wish him well in the future.” [24.09.02]

DEMOCRATS CALL FOR CONSCIENCE VOTE ON IRAQ: The Australian Democrats have stepped up their moves for all parties to allow a conscience vote on Australia's involvement in any war with Iraq. Democrats Defence spokesperson, Senator Andrew Bartlett, says he will again move in the Senate for all Parliamentary Party leaders to ensure their MPs get a conscience vote on this issue. Bartlett added, "the Democrats were the first to call for a conscience vote as far back as June, and it is clear that members from both the Liberal and Labor parties would also like the ability to speak and vote according to their own views.” [24.09.02]

HOWARD AND BLAIR IN AGREEMENT ON IRAQ SOLUTIONS: Speaking in London after discussions with UK Prime Minister, Tony Blair, Australian Prime Minister Howard commented, “on Iraq, it’s fair to say that our views are very similar. I believe that the British Prime Minister has taken a very strong and clear position. His concerns are very close to mine. We are both working very hard. As a permanent member of the Security Council obviously Britain is in the middle of the process in New York. We are both working very hard to marshal support for a Security Council resolution. Both of us remain hopeful that can be achieved and it can be passed." [24.09.02]

STRONG ARGUMENT REFELECTED IN BLAIR IRAQ DOSSIER: Commenting on the ‘dossier’ outlining Iraqi capabilities regarding weapons of mass destruction tabled in the House of Commons, Howard said he considered the material to be “a very strong document which argues a very compelling case. I mean there’s a lot of material in it I was very familiar with from previous intelligence briefings. But I think it does add to the accumulation of material and accumulation of evidence and supports very much the line that my government and the British government have taken." [24.09.02]

NSR PLAN STILL VALID DESPITE NUMERICAL ERRORS: The Department of Defence says the thrust of its Naval Shipbuilding and Repair (NSR) Sector Plan remains valid despite the discovery of several errors in the economic data underpinning the Plan’s conclusions. Defence has now corrected the errors, and has produced an erratum, which is now posted on the Defence website. Defence says, “none of these errors change the key policy conclusions or modelling outcomes of the Plan (and we) advised the Minister two weeks ago of the (nature of the) typographical errors, and reaffirmed the robustness of the economic modelling in the Plan." [24.09.02]

AUSSIE DEFENCE GURU TO SPEAK AT EUROPEAN CONFERENCE: The Director of Contracting (Strategic Agreements), Tony Halberg, is to speak at the second annual PPP/PFI Global Defence Conference, to be held at the Radisson SAS Hotel (Brussels), from 13-14 November 2002. Halberg is billed as providing ‘an in-depth briefing into Alliancing as an integral part of procurement reform which enables closer ties between the public and the private sector’. Halberg works in the Contracting Policy and Operations Branch of the Defence Materiel Organisation. [24.09.02]

ROCKWELL COLLINS CONTRACTED FOR F/A-18 DISPLAYS: Rockwell Collins has been awarded a US$16m contract by Northrop Grumman Canada Corporation to develop advanced colour flat panel displays for the modification of 71 Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and 80 Canadian Forces (CF) F/A-18 “Hornet’ aircraft. The development effort is expected to last approximately 30 months and will yield new displays to replace the monochrome CRT displays developed in the 1970's. The new displays will provide enhanced situational awareness by supporting improvements in aircraft sensors, mission computers and weapon systems also being introduced to the aircraft. [24.09.02]

DATES FOR AVIATION PROCUREMENT TRAINING WORKSHOP: The Australian Institute of Purchasing and Materials Management is organising a two-day training seminar/workshop over 12-13 February 2003 in parallel with the International Airshow being held at Avalon. Former RAAF Logistics Supply and Supply Operations chief, Ross Clelland, will lead workshops on aviation procurement after the first day’s training program, which will be focussed on assisting purchasing professionals understand procurement principles in the context of Australia’s civil/military environment. [24.09.02]

BUSH LAUNCHES NEW US NATIONAL SECURITY POLICY: President George W Bush has presented to Congress 20 September a new United States national security strategy that essentially abandons concepts of deterrence (which dominated defence policies during the Cold War years), in favour of a forward-reaching, pre-emptive strategy against hostile states and terrorist groups. Bush sees the new strategy as being similarly consistent with expanding development assistance and free trade, promoting democracy, fighting disease, and transforming the US military. Bush says “defending the US from its enemies is the first and most fundamental commitment to the American people.” [24.09.02]

RAYTHEON AWARDED NEXT AMRAAM LOT CONTRACT: Raytheon is to receive US$50.6m under a contract modification seeking the production of an additional 142 Advanced Medium Range Air- to-Air Missiles (or AMRAAMs). This is the second modification to the Lot 16 contract award received in April, and it brings the total number of missiles ordered in Lot 16 to 754 with contract values of more than $289m. The Lot 16 missiles will be produced for the USAF and US Navy as well as a number of international customers. The contract also provides five additional years of fixed price options (Lots 17-21) with a potential contract value of nearly $2 billion and a total quantity of up to 5,000 missiles. [24.09.02]

BOEING CONSOLIDATES ITS HOLD ON FLIGHT SAFETY GROUP: The Boeing Company is to acquire all of FlightSafety International’s (FSI) interests in the FlightSafety Boeing Training International (FSBTI) joint venture, subject to US and German Government regulatory approvals. Boeing and FSI formed FSBTI in 1997 with each company contributing $100 million in assets. FSBTI is responsible for flight training and maintenance in the 100-seat-and-above range of aircraft. Today, it has 800 employees in 21 locations worldwide, 70 full-flight simulators, plus numerous fixed-base and maintenance training simulators. [24.09.02]

FINAL APPROVAL STAGES COMING FOR SIKORSKY S/H-92: The US FAA has issued the S/H-92 helicopter Type Inspection Authorisation (TIA) to Sikorsky, beginning the final stage in the regulatory process before type certification. The TIA allows FAA pilots and engineers to begin flying and testing the aircraft. Satisfactory completion of the TIA tests will result in issuance of the coveted Type Certificate under FAR Part 29 Airline Transport regulations, amendment 45. Upon certification in December 2002, the S/H-92 will be the first helicopter in the world approved under the FAA's newest and most stringent safety and performance regulations. S/H-92 production has begun and first deliveries are scheduled for the first quarter 2004. [24.09.02]

MILITARY INTEREST IN ENERGY-EFFICIENT DRIVE TECHNOLOGY: Following expressions of interest from the United States regarding Australian-based ‘Permo-Drive’ energy conservation technology, the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has similarly announced it is to investigate the scope for using electric power to drive military vehicles. As such, a contract has been awarded to the QinetiQ research company to build a demonstration vehicle with Hybrid Electric Drive (or HED), which combines electric transmissions, power generators and stored energy systems with conventional combustion engines. The MoD says HED has the potential to provide improved mobility, lower fuel consumption, better payload, increased stealth range and boosted acceleration. [23.09.02]

CREAN TALKS OF CONSENSUS ON IRAQ WAR COMMITMENT: Opposition Leader, Simon Crean, says that if troops are to be sent to Iraq, “they have to go with the full support of the Parliament. And the way that that can be achieved is (by) going through the proper channels of the United Nations. That's what I've been urging the Government to support. That's what Labor is unanimously behind. The conscience vote is a completely separate issue. What we've got to try and get to is a position in which, if there is to be support for our troops, it's unanimous. I've said in the Parliament, the conditions that would have to be met in circumstances of backing either a pre-emptive (strike), or the United States going alone, it is a higher bar." [23.09.02]

DEFENCE MINISTER TO SPEAK ON PROCUREMENT: The Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Robert Hill, is to address a C3I Defence Watch luncheon at the National Press Club, in Canberra, on Thursday 26 September (registrations commence from 11:30am). The Minister is to speak on the topic - 'Defence Acquisition - Getting it right' - and is expected to cover issues relating to Defence acquisition, the current system & planned changes including 'Private Financing'. Table bookings for the event are still available. Inquiries to Mike Kreibig on (02) 6232 6804. [23.09.02]

DEFENCE SHIPBUILDING CASE NOT CONVINCING SAYS ADBR: A review of the Department of Defence’s submission for rationalisation of the Australian Naval Shipbuilding and Repair (NSR) Sector is ‘unconvincing’ says the latest edition of Australian Defence Business Review (ADBR) magazine. According to an editorial/analysis of the NSR Sector Plan, ADBR says “NSR capability and business now operate within a global setting. This is the big change in the last 15 years, and it is surprising the Department has not put more weight on this variable in its study. Cosy deals at home no longer cut it on the world stage.” Email requests for a copy of the article to: busicom@ozemail.com.au. [23.09.02]

HILL COMMITS $309M TO UPGRADING WARFIGHTING CAPABILITIES: Farewelling soldiers from the Darwin-based 5th/7th Royal Australian Regiment Battalion Group enroute to peacekeeping duty in East Timor, Defence Minister Hill has confirmed Cabinet approval of three new projects worth $308.83m to further upgrade Army capabilities. Infantry, special forces and cavalry units have firstly been allocated $173m under Phase 1 of Project Land 40 to acquire medium range direct/shoulder-fired guided weapons to enable them to attack armoured vehicles, bunkers and buildings at ranges over 2000 metres. Hill says the project budget provides enough missile launchers, ammunition, logistics support, simulators and training ammunition to equip high readiness battalions and other units. The weapons are expected to be in service in 2006/07. Secondly, $38.23m is being provided to cover a real cost increase under existing Project Land 121 Phases 2A/B which are currently upgrading the Army’s heavy recovery vehicles: to retrieve damaged or bogged heavy vehicles; procure six bulk liquid fuel tankers; and address excessive cabin noise and make some of the vehicles safer by fitting protection systems. [21.09.02]

START MADE ON LAND-BASED NETWORK ENABLED WARFARE: Thirdly, Hill said that $97.6m had also been approved for Phase 1 of Joint Project 2072 - Battlespace Communications Systems (Land) – that would eventually allow soldiers to exchange images, video, text and voice messages in the battlefield. The new system will replace currently-used 1970's analogue-based communications that are largely limited to supporting only voice messages. Hill commented, “modern warfare requires that battlefield commanders get swift access to information to plan and conduct operations. Under this project, the Army will get new field equipment that will allow a web-type communication network to be established in the field (that is) capable of handling voice, data, images and video.” According to the Minister, “as the Air Force and Navy modernise their communications, a Defence-wide network will be established making our defence force more effective on the ground, in the air and at sea." Phase 1 of the Project funds a deployable brigade-sized joint task force to be equipped with the new digital communications from 2005. [21.09.02]

RAYTHEON TO PUT THERMAL SIGHTS ON USMC LAV-25s: Raytheon has won a US$8.2m USMC contract for development of the Improved Thermal Sight System (ITSS) for its LAV-25 light armoured vehicles. The contract prospectively covers production, installation, and contractor logistics support options, and with all options exercised is valued upwards of $105m. The production phase will see the upgrade of more than 400 LAV-25s with an improved forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensor and an eye-safe laser range finder. The system also includes an embedded fire control computer, far-target location capability and moving target indication. The award of the ITSS program follows the Marine Corps' initial fielding of Raytheon's first generation thermal sight, HIRE I. [20.09.02]

DEFENCE STRATEGY CHIEF TO EXPLAIN HOMELAND SECURITY: The Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) Head of Strategic Command, MajGen Ken Gillespie, will outline the new roles and missions of the ADF in ‘homeland security’ at a special ADSC Conference in Canberra, beginning 31 October. Other confirmed speakers include: the NSW Police Commissioner, the Director General of ASIO, the Secretary of the Attorney-General’s Department, and head of the Protective Services Coordination Centre. For program details visit www.adfa.edu.au/ADSC or Tel 02/6268-8848. This conference is supported by ADBR magazine. [20.09.02]

STOP PRESS: AEEMA PUTS ON A NEW TOP HAT AND TAILS: The Australian Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers' Association (AEEMA) has launched a 'new look' logo and brand at a gala ‘excellence awards’ evening in Sydney attended by Prime Minister Howard. AEEMA President, Erik Scholz says that to meet the new and changing environment of its members, AEEMA has transformed, with a new structure, and new management and advisory boards. Scholz says "AEEMA has adopted clear policies supporting 'smart' manufacturing (and) the new logo aligns us even more closely with the activities and interests of our membership. AEEMA has (now) embarked on a growth strategy for the industries it proudly represents.” [20.09.02]

HOWARD DENIES PRIVATE UNDERTAKINGS TO SUPPORT IRAQ WAR: Replying to Donald Rumsfeld’s comments to the US Congress that key US allies had given private undertakings to support military action against Iraq, Prime Minister Howard says Australia has made “no advance commitment. We haven’t been asked to contribute. A request has not been received because no final American decision has been made.” Howard added, “obviously the Americans have involved themselves in contingency planning, and clearly our own placement of people inside the American military structure means that we are aware of that, and abreast of it and conscious of it. But the American administration has not made any final decision on this, and I was informed of that as recently as last Saturday week when I spoke to President Bush.” [20.09.02]

BLAST SHOWS NORWEGIAN ARCHITECTURE THE STURDIEST: The shabby practice of issuing media releases in advance of events actually happening has been shown up with the detonation of 27 tonnes worth of high explosives at the Woomera test range – which failed to demolish a specially built and furnished Norwegian home - as claimed to have already occurred in a Defence Ministerial release. The $3m explosives trial, managed by the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO), is the latest in a series of static storage blasts conducted under a MoU between Australia and the UK. The Netherlands, Norway and Singapore also participated in the trial as part of NATO weapons storage standards validation activities. [20.09.02]

ELECTRONIC WARFARE SELF PROTECTION MARKET MOTIVATED: A new report says world governments have been re-energised to increase defence spending as anticipated improvements in ‘targeting systems’ are driving the need to equip combat aircraft with more advanced electronic warfare (EW) self-protection systems to counter emerging threats. According to Frost & Sullivan’s ‘World Airborne Electronic Warfare Self-Protection Systems and Decoys Market’ report, the industry generated revenues totalling US$3.1b in 2001, and market revenues could reach $5.3b in 2007. The report further states that, because coalition air operations will be dominated by the United States, “international forces working with the US will be required to field systems that both actively and passively operate with US systems.” [20.09.02]

UK LETS FUTURE OFFENSIVE AIR SYSTEMS CONTRACTS: BAE Systems (BAES) has been awarded one of two £700,000 contracts by the UK's Defence Procurement Agency to develop the definition of the Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Information/Intelligence, Surveillance, Targeting Acquisition and Reconnaissance (C4ISTAR) architecture for the Future Offensive Air System (FOAS) program. FOAS is intended to supply the UK with an expanded long-range offensive air capability to replace that currently provided by the Tornado GR4, and may consist of any mix of Eurofighter ‘Typhoon’, JSF/F-35, current/next generation cruise missiles and future combat UAVs. BAES will work with EDS Defence, AMS, Lockheed Martin, Aerosystems International, Northrop Grumman IT Europe Limited, Systems Consultants Services Ltd, The Royal Military College of Science, MBDA and Astrium. [20.09.02]

GKN PICKS-UP JSF ENGINE COMPONENTS CONTRACT: GKN Aerospace North America has won US$14.4m in new contracts from Pratt & Whitney to develop components for the Joint Strike Fighter’s (JSF) F135 engine. The contracts relate to development and fabrication of: the engine's fan inlet case and inlet guide vanes; the engine nozzle's static structure; the front compressor case; engine blade finishing; and the lift fan containment case. GKN says the development contracts could lead to more than $1b in manufacturing contracts for the 6,000 fighters that could be produced over the life of the program for both US and international customers. [20.09.02]

ANTI-TERRORISM ARMOUR FRUSTRATED SAYS WILLIAMS: The Attorney-General says community safety is being undermined by continuing opposition in Parliament to the Government’s package of counter-terrorism laws embodied in the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) Legislation Amendment (Terrorism) Bill 2002. According to Daryl Williams, “we were unable to accept recommendations (for change) because they potentially undermine the effective operation of the legislation. The purpose of the Bill was always to give ASIO the tools it needs to gather important intelligence in relation to terrorism and prevent terrorist attacks.” [19.09.02]

HOWARD TO LONDON TO TALK ON INTERNATIONAL SECURITY: Prime Minister Howard is to visit the United Kingdom on 24-25 September to deal with what he says are ‘key international security issues’. In London he will have discussions with the UK Prime Minister and Foreign Minister regarding developments in Iraq, and initiatives underway in New York aimed at ensuring compliance with UN requirements for the permanent elimination of Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction. Howard says he remains “sceptical of Iraq. I believe (the concession on inspections) to be a diplomatic ploy designed to shift the initiative away from the Americans an in Iraq’s favour.” [19.09.02]

GULF SMUGGLERS CHANGE TACTICS AGAINST INTERCEPTION FORCE: Mass breakouts of large numbers of small wooden-hulled ‘dhows’ seeking to ferret oil out of Iraq have been subdued in favour of large steel-hulled tankers, says the ADF’s Brigadier Mike Hannan. In recent interceptions, HMAShips ‘Melbourne’ and ‘Arunta’ have found renegade tankers to have upped their defences against external interception in the form of: “doors being welded shut, and spikes being fixed to the side of the ship,” say Hannan. [19.09.02]

SOUTH AFRICA TO RAMP-UP DEFENCE INDUSTRIES: South African Defence Minister Mosiuoa Lekota, speaking at the Africa Aerospace and Defence 2002 show at ‘Waterkloof’ Air Force Base in Pretoria has described the country's defence industry "as a reservoir of high technology and innovation." Lekota told guests attending the opening ceremony the number of delegations attending the event had doubled in the past two years. "This gives the industry the opportunity to continue to fight the myth that defence is a monster, and its weapons are only claws by which it destroys. The Government considers our defence-related industries as national assets." [19.09.02]

L-3 COMMUNICATIONS BUYS ONTARIO-BASED WESCAM: L-3 Communications has signed a definitive agreement to purchase Wescam Inc in a deal worth around US$118m. Based in Burlington, Ontario, Wescam designs and manufactures systems for defence applications that capture images from mobile platforms and transmit them in real time to tactical command centres for interpretation and for commercial broadcast applications to production facilities. Leading products include precision stabilised electro-optic surveillance systems serving the needs of the intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance & communications markets. [19.09.02]

EXERCISE ‘SWIFT EAGLE’ TESTS EVACUATION SKILLS: Almost 1000 local role-players from central Queensland will be evacuated from their homes in ships, helicopters and aircraft this month, as part of an ADF evacuation exercise running from 19-26 September. Exercise ‘Swift Eagle’ involves 2500 Australian and New Zealand Defence personnel, all engaged to evacuate role-players from areas in Rockhampton, Gladstone, Biloela, Mt Morgan, Calliope and Yeppoon. The Army, liaising with local authorities, has been preparing for the exercise for over 12 months, and has received overwhelming from the local community." [18.09.02]

TAFE CEMENTS $77M CONTRACT FOR ADF TRAINING: The National Party Member for Riverina, Kay Hull (representing Defence Minister Hill), has confirmed award of a new $77m six-year contract with the TAFE NSW/Riverina Institute to deliver technical training to Defence personnel in Wagga Wagga. Under these arrangements, TAFE NSW and Defence staff will work together to provide initial aviation technical training for the three Services, plus a range of Air Force postgraduate technical training at the National Aerospace Training Centre of excellence - located at RAAF Base ‘Wagga’. The new contract includes an option for the Commonwealth to extend it to 10 years. [18.09.02]

PROVISION OF FACILITIES FOR IRAQ WAR A CONCERN: Australian Democrats' Interim Leader, Senator Brian Greig, says breaking news that Defence Minister Hill is considering allowing the United States to permit HMAS ‘Stirling’ (WA) to be used as a 'Sea-Swap' port during any conflict with Iraq, as well as using land close to ‘Lancelin’ as a US bombing training range, “raises serious questions of domestic security in Australia. When we are seen around the world as an alternative US base, we become actively involved in the war effort.” [18.09.02]

US NAVY NOW INTERESTED IN COMPOSITE-HULLED SHIPS: ADI Limited has drawn attention to comment in the Armed Forces Journal International which reports the US Navy is evaluating the Norwegian Navy’s advanced composite hulled ‘Skjold’-class fast patrol boat as it moves towards transforming its surface fleet. According to the Skjold’s commanding officer, LtCmdr Rune Andersen, “there are numerous advantages to using composite materials on a ship. They are light, very rigid and strong, and there is no corrosion or fatigue problems over time.” ADI is bidding the Royal Danish Navy’s ‘Flyvefisken’-class patrol boats into the RAN’s new patrol boat requirement under Project Sea 1444. ADI has proposed to build the boats form advanced composite materials at its Newcastle facility. [18.09.02]

TEST SHOWS THE JASSM MISSILE IS NOW ANTI-JAMMABALE: A Block 1A Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (or JASSM) is reported as having successfully navigated through an intense jamming environment in recent development (DT-10A) tests, which included the use of selective availability anti-spoofing module technology in an enhanced digital JASSM anti-jam GPS receiver (JAGR-S). The JAGR-S component is to be included in JASSM production vehicles produced in Lot 2 from 2004. The DT-10A tests are said by Lockheed Martin officials to have proved the JASSM could now perform first-day, first-strike operations in support of warfighters under extreme conditions. [18.09.02]

DESIGNATION CHANGE HERALDS IN THE F/A-22 BOMBER: Confirmation of a change in the designation of the F-22 ‘Raptor’ by USAF Chief of Staff, Gen John Jumper - adding an ‘A’ (for ‘attack’) prefix – emphasises “the multiple roles and many dimensions now envisaged for the aircraft (allowing it to) feed on prey both from the sky and from the (ground).” Technological advancements in the aircraft’s fire control radar and integrated avionics, combined with the advent of smaller/very precise munitions, “create a far more powerful air-to-ground strike system,” he says. Jumper considers the Raptor's most significant contributions over the next 30 years will be (in) its attack role, particularly against the most lethal next two generations of (enemy) surface-to-air missiles - thus ‘sanitising the fly corridors’ and enabling (our) other stealth assets and airlift aircraft (resupplying ground forces deployed in enemy territory), to operate 24 hours a day. [18.09.02]

NAVY TO UPGRADE SAFETY ON-BOARD SHIPS AT SEA: The Chief of the Navy, Vice Admiral Chris Ritchie, says the Navy had already taken action on several fronts to improve safety on-board its ships including: ensuring boat decks on Guided Missile Frigates have adequate safety fittings; seeking the provision of additional search and rescue equipment to all RAN Ships; and providing guidance on powers in regard to personnel searches to prevent illicit alcohol onboard ships. Stores allowances have also been amended to allow all ships to carry Search and Rescue Datum Buoys with a tracking beacon to supplement existing free floating buoys. The Navy is also reviewing all of its existing alcohol management policies with a view to tightening controls. [17.09.02]

DOWNER CAUGHT-OUT BY IRAQ TURN OF FACE: On the eve of his speech to Parliament on Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction, Foreign Affairs Minister Downer has commented, “the announcement this morning by the UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan, that Iraq has decided to allow the return of weapons inspectors immediately and without conditions is, on the face of it, a promising first step. I hope this is the start of a genuine diplomatic solution, a course Australia has always supported. But experience with Iraq demonstrates that the international community must not take Saddam Hussein's commitments at face value. Caution is essential. Australia has never been naïve about President Saddam Hussein. He is a past master of last-minute manoeuvres to head off decisive action. And he is renowned for his unpredictability.” [17.09.02]

ONUS ON IRAQ TO COMPLY WITH UN RESOLUTIONS: Responding to Downer’s statement, Opposition Leader, Simon Crean, says the “onus is on Iraq to comply with UN resolutions—that we agree with—but the process for discharging the onus must squarely rest with the United Nations. It is rightly back there now, and appropriately so, since the intervention of the United States President last week. The debate today is not about whether Iraq will comply—it must—nor is it about any reversal of the onus of proof. At all times we must act within international law to secure Iraq's compliance.” [17.09.02]

CALL TO LEVERAGE US RELATIONSHIP TO ACCEPT IRAQI OFFER: The Australian Government “must use our close relationship with the United States to urge them to accept the Iraqi Government's unconditional offer to allow UN weapons inspectors back,” says the Australian Democrats’ Senator Andrew Barlett. He adds, the Democrats “have had some successes in the Senate such as forcing the Government to put the issue of military action to the Parliament for debate, and calling for more information to be provided. We hope to be similarly successful with our proposal for a public inquiry.” NB: The motion was voted down by a combined Coalition/ALP vote on 19 September. [17.09.02]

TENIX USES S600 ‘SHORLAND’ BASE FOR ANTI-HIJACK VEHICLE: Tenix Defence has delivered two specialist S600 Anti-Hijack vehicles to a customer in northern Asian customer. Both vehicles are fitted with mobile adjustable ramp systems (or MARS) to enable special forces troops to exit the vehicle quickly and gain access to hijacked aircraft for hostage rescue. Tenix staff travelled to the customer’s barracks to provide introduction-to-service, operator and maintenance training courses as part of a number of through-life support services it fulfils for a range of export customers. [17.09.02]

BAES AND THALES LINK FOR HELO AVIONICS SUPPORT: BAE Systems’ (BAES) Avionics Group and French-based Thales have signed a collaborative agreement to team up on future avionics support for UK rotary wing platforms. All Ministry of Defence (MoD) helicopter types use the two companies' avionics and mission systems including radar, electronic warfare, communication and navigation, and the new agreement now formalises the working relationship established on the ‘Sea King’ Integrated Operational Support (SKIOS) initiative. [17.09.02]

ATK TO BUILD JSF ALL COMPOSITE UPPER WING SKINS: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company (LMAC) has selected ATK (Alliant Techsystems) to produce single-segment, all-composite upper wing skins for all three variants of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). Under an initial US$14m system development and demonstration contract, ATK Composites (of Clearfield, Utah) will supply parts for 22 ship sets through to October 2006. Follow-on potential during the low-rate initial production phase includes an additional 674 ship sets through 2015. [17.09.02]

VOUGHT AND ATK TO FABRICATE ‘GLOBAL HAWK’ WINGS: Vought Aircraft Industries and Alliant Techsystems (ATK) have been awarded a ‘team’ contract to design, produce the required tooling and fabricate two enhanced prototype wings for the ‘Global Hawk’ unmanned reconnaissance system. The enhanced wing is one of a number of system improvements Northrop Grumman is making to the UAV to accommodate a larger payload, while maintaining current platform performance specifications. Whilst Vought is an existing subcontractor on the UAV program, ATK is a new addition to the ‘Global Hawk’ industry team. [17.09.02]

AUTOMATIC TARGET ACQUISITION SLAM-ER NOW OPERATIONAL: Boeing’s Standoff Land Attack Missile-Expanded Response (SLAM-ER) missile with Automatic Target Acquisition (ATA) capability has become operational following completion of its operational test and evaluation. The ATA system adds a second mission computer to the SLAM-ER missile, which enables it to locate small targets in cluttered environments and either cue the pilot or guide the missile autonomously to the target. SLAM-ER addresses the US Navy's requirements for a precision-guided standoff outside-of-area defence weapon. Boeing is under contract with the US Navy to produce 376 SLAM-ERs, with production expected to continue beyond 2004. [17.09.02]

INTERCEPTION NOW EFFECTIVE IN FIGHTING CRIME: Attorney-General, Daryl Williams says Criminals are “increasingly using telecommunications technology in the course of committing crimes, contributing to a rise in interceptions by law enforcement agencies. The use of telecommunications interception is subject to stringent criteria and is overseen by Commonwealth and State ombudsmen. In addition, an annual report must be tabled in Parliament under the Telecommunications (Interception) Act 1979. The most common categories of offences listed in telecommunications interception warrants are narcotics, drug trafficking, bribery or corruption, and murder.” [16.09.02]

HILL NOT CONCERNED BY IRAQ POLL NEGATIVITY: Speaking to media in regard to public caution regarding an assault on Iraq, Defence Minister Hill says, “I'm not surprised by the polls - it's not as if we've got the trigger of an invasion into Kuwait or a bombing in New York. This is really a failure of the policy of containment. We had the invasion a decade or so ago. We responded. Part of the response of the international community was that (Saddam Hussein) had to disarm. He has failed to do that. Despite 10 years of the international community trying to contain him, we know that policy is not fully successful. Therefore, the risk is growing. Now, we mightn't like to face up to it, but it's better to end that program now than to have to face a more developed weapons system in a few years' time.” [16.09.02]

SGI ‘ONYX’ COMPUTING FAMILY SELECTED FOR F/A-22 TRAINERS: Link Simulation & Training (a division of L-3 Communications) has purchased eight SGI ‘Onyx’ 3000 series high-performance graphics systems to power USAF F/A-22 Full Mission and Weapons Tactics Trainers. The systems will provide pilots with a high-fidelity virtual training environment that realistically simulates this next-generation air superiority fighter. Two 32-processor SGI ‘Onyx’ 3800 systems, each with eight graphics pipes, will power the F/A-22 Full Mission Trainers with 360-degree out-the-window views, whilst the F/A-22 Weapons Tactics Trainers will be powered by six 16-processor SGI ‘Onyx’ 3800 visualisation systems, each with a single graphics pipe. [16.09.02]

NEW TRANSNATIONAL CRIME CENTRE LAUNCHED: The Australian Federal Police has hosted in Melbourne 10 September is first Commonwealth Investigations conference, bringing together representatives of over 30 State and Commonwealth agencies to share information on challenges facing the law enforcement and regulatory communities. The conference program included a briefing on the Transnational Crime Centre (TCC) being formed in Canberra to coordinate multi-agency activities spanning law enforcement, customs and defence. [16.09.02]

RAYTHEON WELCOMES ‘COLLINS’ COMBAT SYSTEM DECISION: The Managing Director of Raytheon Australia, Ron Fisher, has welcomed the Government’s confirmation of the Raytheon CCS MK II as the replacement combat system for the ‘Collins’-class submarines. The new system will be based on the Raytheon CCS Mk II tactical command and control system that is being fitted across the submarine fleet of the United States Navy. According to Fisher, “the Raytheon CCS Mk II system represents a significant capability enhancement on the existing Collins combat system, and will improve interoperability and logistics with the United States Navy.” [16.09.02]

ROYAL AIR FORCE READY TO FIELD ASRAAM MISSILES: The RAF has completed a series of trials with the ASRAAM (Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile), and the weapon is now ready to be deployed on operations. Defence Procurement Minister Lord Bach says RAF fighter squadrons are being equipped with the new ‘fire-and-forget’ missile, which he says chases down targets using a homing head, and can ‘see’ an image of the hostile aircraft it is about to destroy. ASRAAMs will be carried by Tornado F3s (replacing AIM-9L Sidewinders), and will also be fitted to the Eurofighter ‘Typhoon’ and JSF. [16.09.02]

US GOVERNMENT RAMPS-UP JDAM PURCHASES: Boeing has been awarded a US$378m contract for an additional 18,840 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) kits. The new contract is for a mix of GBU-31 (2,000lb warhead) kits, and GBU-32 (1,000lb warhead) kits for both the USAF and US Navy, to be delivered between October 2002 and March 2004. The new contract requires Boeing to deliver kits to both services at a production rate of 2,800 kits per month by August 2003. The JDAM guidance kit is a low-cost way to convert existing unitary warheads into smart bombs. [16.09.02]

BAILEY TO OPEN NEW DEFENCE CALL CENTRE IN DEAKIN: The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence, Fran Bailey, will open today in Canberra a new Defence Information Services Branch Customer Support Centre. Located in the suburb of Deakin, the new Customer Support Centre is responsible for the provision of enterprise server support and corporate communications systems for voice and data. Having been relocated to Canberra, Bailey says the centre is one of the largest of its kind in the Asia Pacific region. [16.09.02]

HOWARD IMPRESSED BY BUSH SPEECH ON IRAQ THREATS: Following a ‘very impressive’ speech by President Bush overnight, Prime Minister Howard has commented the President 'made a very compelling case' in relation to Iraq. Howard says Bush "basically put the wood on the United Nations (UN) to do its job. The UN should have done something about Iraq's non-compliance a long time ago - (this) has become more focused since the 11th of September last year, and people now realise because of what then happened that you can't indefinitely ignore potential threats, because they might turn into reality. And that is the problem the world now has, and it's something that we have to come to terms with and the real issue is Iraqi non-compliance.” [13.09.02]

REPLACEMENT COMBAT SYSTEM FOR COLLINS SUBMARINES: Cabinet has agreed to fund $400m to procure a replacement combat system for the six ‘Collins’-class submarines, to be based on the Raytheon CCS Mark II tactical command and control system currently being used by the US Navy. Defence Minister Hill says the Raytheon system "will be sourced through the US Navy" although advocated 'further improvements' would be made to the Collins’ sonar processing solution within the project budget. The Minister also confirmed the Government would shortly sign a capability agreement with Electric Boat Corporation, under which the company would provide technical and commercial support to the Australian Submarine Corporation (ASC). [13.09.02]

RAAF TEST FIRES HARPOONS FROM UPGRADED ORIONS: The RAAF has successfully fired two ‘Harpoon’ missiles from a recently updated AP-3C ‘Orion’ long-range maritime patrol aircraft during Exercise Pacific Rim 2002 (RIMPAC) in Hawaii. The firings, the first to be conducted from the new aircraft, exercised both the capabilities of the ‘Harpoon’ missile and the AP-3C Orion's new Data Management System. According to an Air Force spokesman, the RIMPAC exercise allowed the RAAF to complete “the broader and more complex tactical evolutions required for the initial AP-3C Orion Operational Test and Evaluation.” Both of the fired missiles, worth about US$1.5m each, hit a retired US Navy support ship supplied for the exercise. [13.09.02]

AWARD RECOGNISES LOCAL AIRCRAFT FATIGUE TEST CAPABILITY: The Defence Science & Technology Organisation (DSTO) and RAAF have been presented, for the first time, with the prestigious Von Karman award from the International Council of Aeronautical Sciences for their structural testing program assessing the fatigue life of the F/A-18 Hornet aircraft. The award relates to DSTO’s role in the International Follow-On Structural Test Project - undertaken in collaboration with Canada’s armed forces, which also shared the award – which aims to extend the safe operating life of the F/A-18 ‘Hornet’ fleet by up to 25%, an achievement likely save the ADF millions of dollars. [13.09.02]

NO CHANGE TO USE OF BEECROFT RANGE AT JERVIS BAY: Officials from the Department of Defence’s Corporate Support and Infrastructure Group - responsible for the management of Beecroft Weapons Range in Jervis Bay (NSW) - have confirmed that there has been no change with respect to public use of the range area. The range was re-opened 30 August following a live firing exercise, and is expected to remain open for normal use - except during times when gazetted range activities are to be held. A planning meeting with representatives from the Corporate Services and Infrastructure Group, Headquarters Australian Theatre and Navy is to be held shortly to continue development of the Beecroft Weapons Range Management Plan, which Defence says “is designed to enhance and ensure public safety regarding access to the range. This management plan will include an in-depth consultative process with all stakeholders.” [13.09.02]

FIREFIGHTING AIRCRAFT SUBSIDY FOR NATURAL DISASTERS: The Minister for Regional Services, Wilson Tuckey, says the Commonwealth Government will provide up to $5m to assist States and Territories to bring heli-tankers to Australia for the coming bush fire season. The contribution will pay up to half of the direct costs of leasing and locating three Erickson 'aircrane' heli-tankers over the peak fire season. Tuckey added that the location of heli-tankers in Australia was “not a substitute for effective fire prevention strategies, including proper land management and ground-based fire-fighting.” [13.09.02]

COUNCIL STILL GRIPING ABOUT NEW NUCLEAR REACTOR: The Sutherland Shire Council has called for an independent assessment following the release of an Australian Nuclear Science and Technology (ANSTO) report supporting the construction of a new nuclear reactor in Sydney’s south, despite the presence of two fault-lines at the Lucas Heights site. ANSTO’s submission to the nuclear regulator, ARPANSA, claims there is “no change required to the design hazard spectrum or the facility design” of the replacement reactor. Sutherland Shire Council questions if this assessment is true, and if the fault-lines pose no threat, why is their opposition to receiving another opinion? [13.09.02]

L-3 ACQUIRES DISPLAYS BUSINESS FROM NORTHROP GRUMMAN: L-3 Communications has signed a definitive agreement to acquire by year's-end Northrop Grumman's San Diego-based Electron Devices and Ruggedised Displays businesses. Acquired as part of the April 2001 purchase of Litton Industries, Electron Devices and Ruggedised Displays are part of the company's Electronic Systems sector. At around $140 million of annual sales, the businesses is understood to generate less than four percent of the sector's revenue, and currently employ 900 people. [13.09.02]

SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGH ON FIBRE OPTIC HYDROPHONES: The DSTO claims it has made a breakthrough in the application of emerging fibre-optic technology, which could reduce the size and cost of hydrophones for underwater defence applications. Working with Thales Underwater Systems (TUS), DSTO is leveraging its ability to create a laser cavity in the core of an optical fibre to produce a fibre laser sensor (FLS) which acts as a hydrophone - used by submarines and naval ships for detecting sound waves in water and for tracking target vessels. DSTO says the new technology could see long very thin streamers containing many hydrophones deployed from Unmanned Underwater Vehicles or onto the seabed. [12.09.02]

DOWNER TO SPEAK SOON ON IRAQ AND UN RESOLUTIONS: Prime Minister Howard has confirmed the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alexander Downer, will make a statement next week to Parliament regarding the general subject of Iraq's non-compliance with United Nations resolutions. Downer will make his statement following a meeting in New York with the Iraqi Foreign Minister. Howard added, "circumstances may develop over the next few days that require the addition to that statement of one or two other things, particularly arising out of what occurs in New York.” President Bush is scheduled to address the United Nations next week. [12.09.02]

NEW $21M TENIX DEAL ON ASM THREAT SIMULATORS: The Electronic Systems Division of Tenix Defence has been awarded a $21 million contract by Defence to develop two Generic Threat Simulator (GTS) systems, as well as provide three years of maintenance support. Anticipated to be in operation in late 2004, the GTS Mk 1 systems will provide the Royal Australian Navy with a fully-programmable anti-ship missile threat emulation capability for use in electronic warfare operational effectiveness testing and training. Tenix says the Mk 1 system incorporates engineering improvements, and considerably expands system performance and functionality over the technology proven via a concept demonstrator system delivered to Defence in October of 1998. [12.09.02]

VISIT OF TURKISH MINISTER OF NATIONAL DEFENCE: Defence Minister Hill says he is looking forward to his meeting in Melbourne with the Turkish Minister of National Defence, Sabahattin Çakmakoglu, to talk about “issues that shape our contemporary and future defence relationship, including future areas of defence cooperation. It is clear that there is great potential for us to work together on materiel and defence industry cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including on our respective Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) projects and other projects where synergies exist. I am also looking forward to discussing security issues of mutual interest, including the coalition operations against terrorism, and in particular Turkey's role in leading the current rotation of the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan." [12.09.02]

DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM FOR NEW MARITIME PATROL AIRCRAFT: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co and the Boeing Company have each been awarded US$7m contracts to advance Phase I of the US Navy's Multi-mission Maritime Aircraft (MMA) component advanced development (or CAD) program, designed to replace the Navy's existing fleet of P-3C ‘Orion’ and EP-3E aircraft. The five-month Phase I contract will provide the Navy with a variety of concepts from which two to three preferred concepts will be chosen and carried forward into CAD Phase II. These concepts then will be further refined to form the basis of competitive proposals for a single contract award for an MMA System Development and Demonstration (SDD) program, expected in early 2004. Australian Defence Department officials are monitoring this program in relation to future activities relating to Project Air 5276 Phase R. [12.09.02]

EXTERNAL STORES CARRIAGE TESTS FOR F-22 ‘RAPTOR’: Lockheed Martin’s F-22 ‘Raptor’ air superiority fighter has for the first time successfully conducted a test flight while carrying external stores under its wings. Held at Edwards Air Force Base (Calif) in late August, the tests saw two radar-guided AIM-120 missiles suspended from pylons attached to the aircraft's two outboard hardpoints. Although designed to carry weapons internally, the F-22 is also able to carry weapons externally on two inboard and two outboard hardpoints during deployments or during military operations when stealth is not critical to mission success. [12.09.02]

DD(X) PROGRAM BACK ON TRACK FOR 2005 SDD COMPLETION: Northrop Grumman says it is back on track to complete the system design and associated engineering development models (EDM) for the DD(X) program by 2005. While the DD(X) system design work is proceeding, eleven EDMs will be built and tested in parallel with key systems such as the integrated power system, the advanced gun system, and integrated radar suite. Land-based and selected at-sea testing of the EDMs is also planned with the results to be engineered into the total ship system design. The second shipbuilder, Bath Iron Works, will perform DD(X) design and test activities as a subcontractor to Northrop Grumman, ensuring that both shipbuilders can compete on an equal basis for the next contractual phase, detail design and construction in FY05. [12.09.02]

BAE SYSTEMS TABLES ITS 2002 INTERIM REPORT: In its interim financial report for 2002, BAE Systems (BAES) claims an order book worth £42.9b, along with sales of £5,703m, profit before interest of £461m, operating cash outflow of £262m, net debt of £1,551m and earnings per share of 7.7p. The company said strong performance from its North America and Customer Solutions & Support business groups and at Airbus, together with an improving position in its Air Systems activities, enabled the company to maintain its financial plan for 2002, despite pressures elsewhere. BAES sees a resumption of growth in 2003, although it is acknowledged the company faces "a number of challenges." The outlook is particularly dependent upon defence program changes resulting from the addition of a New Chapter to the UK's Strategic Defence Review. The New Chapter places greater emphasis on Network Centric Warfare capabilities, which BAES sees as both a company strength as well as a future global growth area. [12.09.02]

SIKORSKY S-92 STAYS ON-TRACK FOR AIR 9000 REQUIREMENTS: Sikorsky reports its civil/military S/H-92 program has passed another milestone on its way to FAA certification following the completion of two auto-rotational landings in August by Aircraft No. 4. Sikorsky says the full power off landings were flown at slightly above the maximum gross weight of 26,150 lbs. Next comes the FAA Type Inspection Authorisation, which Sikorsky expects shortly, followed by full Type Certification in December, and then first production deliveries in early 2004. Since the first flight in December 1998, the program has compiled more than 1,340 test flight hours. [12.09.02]

NO NEED FOR HOMELAND SECURITY DEPARTMENT SAYS CORNALL: Addressing a 'post-11 September - New Directions' Conference at the ANU, the Secretary of the Attorney-General's Department, Robert Cornall, acknowledged 9/11 as "one single event that will change the course of history, although it will take nations many years to get a grasp on this fact." Referring to recent calls for the creation of a separate Department of Homeland Security in response to the heightened terrorist threat, Cornall said the Government had "already considered" creating a new body, however, the case for establishment was not proved conclusive, as officials were not clear on 'what would be the purpose' of the new Department when considered against existing infrastructure and response mechanisms. [11.09.02]

US TRANSFORMED AFTER 9/11 DESPITE MORE DOUBTFUL WORLD: Speaking at the same conference, the ANU Strategic Defence Studies Centre's Professor Paul Dibb said - despite varying views around the world - the United States' believed the world "had been fundamentally changed by the September 2001 terrorist attacks, and it won't be the same for many years to come." According to Dibb, 9/11 was "more than Pearl Harbour. It was an attack on their very heartland, and they see a considerably more anarchical world in the future. Unlike the Cold War, now there are no no-go areas, and no weapons accounting rules." [11.09.02]

CREAN LIMITS WAT CAMPAIGN TO BIN LADEN & TALIBAN: Speaking in regard to Australia’s participation in a campaign against Iraq, Opposition Leader, Simon Crean, says “the basis upon which we joined the ‘War on Terror' (was) against Osama bin Laden and the Taliban in Afghanistan. If the link had been made to Saddam Hussein, we would have supported the extension of that already enjoined activity. The second string in the bow is really the UN resolutions that call for the inspectors to go in and establish the evidence. That link may still be established. All I am saying is that we are fighting the ‘War against Terror' against Osama bin Laden. There are two different strands. One is the link to Osama bin Laden, the other is the weapons of mass destruction, for which there is a United Nations resolution, for which we are calling for the UN weapons inspectors to get back in there." [11.09.02]

HILL MARKS OUT NEW WAR AGAINST STATES WITHOUT BORDERS: Addressing an American Chamber of Commerce memorial luncheon in Adelaide, Defence Minister Hill has spoken of the extension of terrorist networks into the Southeast Asian region, and Australia’s welcoming of steps by regional governments to address these threats, “including arrests and a range of measures to increase regional cooperation. We have signed MOUs on countering terrorism with Indonesia and Malaysia and are negotiating a similar arrangement with Thailand. My department is playing its part in these efforts, including (the provision of) training in intelligence and counter-terrorist techniques and more generally by strengthening regional capabilities through the Defence Cooperation Program. At our meeting of regional Defence Ministers mid year, there was strong agreement that increased cooperation is fundamental to the eradication of terrorist networks in our region." [11.09.02]

SECURITY CAMPAIGN BASED ON MORE THAN COUNTER-TERRORISM: Looking at Australian security interests in the broad, Hill told the AmCham luncheon Australia’s view was that “Iraq’s regime can no longer be allowed to remain in breach of UN resolutions and the terms on which hostilities were suspended in the Gulf War in 1991.” He said Australia’s argument “does not rest on Iraq being involved in the events of 11 September. Rather, Saddam Hussein's weapons programs have become a risk impossible to ignore. We should not forget that Iraq has used both weapons of mass destruction and remains a state sponsor of terrorism. We have made clear that we wish to see Iraq comply with UN resolutions and end its weapons program. We have also emphasised that we see the responsibility for ensuring this happens resting with the international community as a whole, not just the United States. We have also emphasised that continuing inaction and prevarication can no longer be tolerated. We need to be clear that the onus is on Saddam Hussein to comply with Iraq's international obligations in full, and not those who feel threatened by his weapons program." [11.09.02]

TWO UPGRADED P-3C ORIONS HEADED FOR THE GULF AT YEAR'S END: Defence Minister Hill has confirmed two upgraded RAAF P-3C maritime patrol aircraft will be deployed at the beginning of next year to support the international coalition against terrorism, Hill confirmed the two aircraft had been upgraded with new equipment – understood to be focused on surveillance and intelligence collection capabilities – and operating crews retrained following last year’s commitment of P-3’s to Operation Slipper, which ultimately were not deployed. According to the Minister, “our coalition partners have now requested that the Australian aircraft be deployed (for up to a year) to conduct maritime patrol and missions in the Persian Gulf in support of aircraft carrier operations, maritime interdiction and al Qaeda and Taliban leadership interdiction operations." [11.09.02]

HOWARD TALKS ON AUSTRALIA-UNITED STATES RELATIONSHIP: Addressing the National Press Club in Canberra, Prime Minister Howard has spoken steadfastly about Australia’s relationship with the United States saying, “I will never apologise for the depth and the strength of (this) relationship. We have many relationships that are deeply important and rich …. but we do share with the US a rich and deep history. We share some common values …. universal human values of respect for life, respect for the individual personality, a belief that there is a difference between right and wrong, and there are evil deeds in the world which require an appropriate response. We share with the American people a comradeship in arms in all of the wars of the last 100 years. We share a belief that the worth of an individual is not derived from that person's race, religion, ethnicity, colour or social background, but rather the innate decency that a person represents and the contribution that that person wants to give to society.” [11.09.02]

UNITED STATES WAT SPENDING PASSES THIRTY-SEVEN BILLION: A new report by the US Congressional Budget Office (CBO) says Federal Government has spent nearly US$37b responding to the 11 September attacks, and could spend as much as $443b more over the next 10 years. The figures are based on actual spending since 11 September, and assume funding requests for counter- terrorism requested by the Bush administration for Fiscal Year 2003 will be accepted by Congress, and will continue to be funded at levels that keep place with inflation over the next decade. The CBO estimated that of the new spending, $24b went to the military. Costs of military operations in Afghanistan are estimated to be running at roughly $2.4b a month. [11.09.02]

KAMAN AEROSPACE TO SUPPLY BOEING TRANSPORT COMPONENTS: Kaman Aerospace Corporation’s Aerostructures business has been awarded a US$16.2m contract (with a follow-on on value of $67.5m) to supply structural components for Boeing’s C-17 ‘Globemaster III’ transport. Kaman is to produce 60 ship sets of C-17 ribs and bulkheads in four lots, with 15 ship sets per lot. The multi-year contract runs from August 2002 through June 2007, with the bulk of the work to be done in Jacksonville, Florida. [11.09.02]

NEXT-GEN TACTICAL UAV FIELDED BY THE US ARMY: United Industrial Corporation (UIC) has revealed the US Army has fielded the first of its next generation Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (TUAVs), based around its ‘Shadow’ UAV. Fielded by the new ‘Stryker’ Brigade Combat Team at Fort Lewis, incorporation of the TUAV is part of the combat team's training preparation for full operational readiness by December 2002. The TUAV system has been designed to provide brigade commanders with mobile target acquisition, battle damage assessment and battle management capabilities. Additional ‘Shadow’-based TUAV systems are to be fielded at Fort Hood and Fort Lewis later this year. [11.09.02]

USAF EXERCISES RAYTHEON ‘MAVERICK’ MISSILE OPTIONS: The US Air Force has exercised a US$9.2m production contract option with Raytheon Company to produce 301 AGM-65K ‘Maverick’ missile guidance and control sections. Work on the option will be done primarily at Raytheon's Missile Systems business unit in Tucson (Arizona), and run through to December 2004. The upgrade program will create two new versions of the AGM-65: the -65H, which carries a 125-pound shaped charge warhead, and the -65K, with a 300-pound blast fragmentation warhead and selected fuse delay. [11.09.02]

DUCKS LINE-UP FOR NEW SHIPBUILDING PLAN: The Executive Director of the Australian Industry Group (AiG), Leigh Purnell, says the association supports “Defence and Industry working in partnership. It makes good sense economically and strategically, and it will meet the long-term needs of both Defence and industry.” The Federal Cabinet is soon to consider the future of the naval shipbuilding and repair sector in Australia following receipt of a Department of Defence restructuring plan. This decision will have a significant impact on the future shape of the industry and its ability to support the Australian Defence Force. [10.09.02]

AUSTRALIA REACTS TO EMERGENT EAST TIMOR THREAT: The Government has confirmed precautionary measures were taken to protect Australian interests in Dili following an unconfirmed report of a possible terrorist threat. ADF members of the UN Peacekeeping Force currently operating in East Timor were placed on heightened alert and tasked to provide additional security, including protection of the Australian embassy. Australia is also liaising with the UN and other missions in Dili regarding broader security arrangements.” [10.09.02]

CHANGED WORLD A REALITY SAYS DEFENCE MINISTER: Defence Minister Hill says 11 September ‘did change the world’, adding Australia now recognises “non-State interests have a great capability to bring enormous pain if they so choose, and that we need to effectively respond to terrorist threats from non-State interests. We have been tackling it head on in Afghanistan, we’ve further expanded our domestic security capabilities in terms of doubling our counter terrorism force. We’ve put in place a capability to address chemical, biological and radiological weapons (and) we’ve increased security around strategic assets and we’ve substantially increased our intelligence gathering." [10.09.02]

WORK FOCUSING ON COUNTERING ON-GOING TERRORIST THREAT: Beyond continually working to have a better understanding of terrorist networks and what threat they might be to Australia in the future, Hill considered the first lesson from 11 September “is to learn from the experience and from that seek to do everything possible to avoid a re-occurrence. And I think the second lesson really is that it does demonstrate - how terrible the pain - that human kind can overcome it and rise up. And I think (the) spirit of determination and resilience that’s been shown in New York and around the world from this awful experience is something that should give us confidence for the future.” [10.09.02]

HILL BROADENS SHIPBUILDING ALLIANCE PLAN TO TWO: Speaking on Defence Department recommendations to restructure Australia’s naval shipbuilding industries, Senator Hill has noted that “in the past - when a shipbuilding program is finished - the highly skilled staff have simply been laid off. We would prefer to engage in a strategic partner, or partners – maybe two – who can work with Government over a long period of time to invest in young people, our intellectual capital, to ensure that we’ve got the skills - not only to meet the next shipbuilding task for this country - but also to maintain our highly complex fleet. Adelaide is well placed (as) alot of that intellectual capital resides with the Australian Submarine Corporation (ASC). So it’s impossible to see an outcome that doesn’t incorporate the ASC and that intellectual capital, which is going to be so critical to our strategic interests in the future." [10.09.02]

NO MORE IRAQ WMD EVIDENCE NEEDED SAYS HOWARD: Discussing the potential content of President Bush’s address to the UN, Prime Minister Howard says, “there is already a mountain of evidence (regarding Iraq’s Weapons of Mass Destruction) in the public domain. Overnight, the respected Independent Institute of Strategic Studies in London has released a report which is compiled entirely on the basis of .... publicly available material and discussions with people who have worked on weapons inspection and have previously worked in Iraq. I read that report right through. It is a very restrained, sober report. It's not over the top. It has a very strong view that Iraq does have the weapons. It says that if it were able to get the relevant fissile material from an overseas source, it might be able to develop a nuclear capacity within months.” [10.09.02]

PROTECTIVE SECURITY COORDINATION CENTRE OPENED TO MEDIA: Attorney-General, Daryl Williams, says the Protective Security Coordination Centre (PSCC) run by his department is ‘a very important component of the security and intelligence operation’ run by the Government. The PSCC has two principal roles – the first is the coordination of protective security for high office holders or visiting dignitaries and, second, the coordination of Federal and State authorities in the event of terrorist or other incidents requiring national crisis management. Williams says the Centre clicked into operation last Friday when Sydney Airport was the subject of a bomb threat. The PSCC ‘Watch Office’ currently operates 16 hours a day, seven days a week, under a $14.4m four-year budget. [10.09.02]

NEW SALVAGE PUMP OFFERED TO NAVY & MARITIME SERVICES: A new light weight diesel powered salvage pump manufactured from engineered thermo plastics in the form of glass filled polyester is being trialed by Defence Maritime Services, and is expected to be a big hit with both commercial and Defence personnel, says Australian Pump Industries. The new pump, called the ‘Aussie Seamaster’, is powered by a 4.8hp air cooled Yanmar diesel engine and comes in a heavy duty roll frame with either zinc plating or powder coat finish. Hose kits in US Coast Guard grade hose are also available for both salvage and fire fighting applications. Australian Pump is a major supplier of equipment and services to the Royal Australian Navy, as well as providing a comprehensive range of marine pumps for commercial and military applications. [10.09.02]

‘SHORLAND S600’ AND EXPORT SUCCESS FOR AUSTRALIA: Strategic partnerships have ensured local Australian businesses are sharing in the exporting success of the ‘S600 Shorland’ vehicle say Tenix Defence, with exports “dir