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News Archive 2007
July - August - September - October - November - December
NEW DEFENCE MATERIALS TECHNOLOGY CENTRE FOR VICTORIA: The newly appointed Ministers for Defence Science & Personnel, and Innovation, Industry, Science & Research - Warren Snowdon MP, and Senator Kim Carr – have confirmed government support for the establishment of a new Defence Materials Technology Centre, to drive innovation in Defence technology. The Centre will primarily be located in Victoria, and will receive Australian Government funding of $30m, with a further $52m coming from collaborative partners: BAE Systems Australia, GKN Aerospace, BlueScope Steel, Surface Technology Coatings, Thales Australia and the Cooperative Research Centre for Advanced Composite Structures. Set to commence operations in 2008, the new Centre will focus on four key research programs: air platforms, maritime platforms, armour applications (especially for personnel carriers) and new hi-tech materials for propulsion systems, such as those used in the Joint Strike Fighter. [20.12.07] SMEs NOT TO BE LEFT OUT OF NEW TECHNOLOGY INITIATIVE: Snowdon added that small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) would benefit from the work of the Centre via its establishment of a technology transfer program to help them compete in global manufacturing markets. He said the new Centre is expected “to enhance the nation’s Defence capability and Australia’s international reputation for innovation by bringing together the combined expertise and resources of key industry representatives, universities and publicly funded research agencies. A key element of the collaboration, and a cornerstone of the research, is the adoption and application of world leading materials engineering capabilities. These will be used to develop, integrate and validate new materials and manufacturing technologies across existing and planned Defence platforms and structures. It will assist areas as diverse as civilian aerospace and power generation, as well as in general manufacturing industries.” [20.12.07] COMBET GETS STRAIGHT INTO ASSESSING DEFENCE PROCUREMENT: The new Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Procurement, the Hon Greg Combet MP, has visited RAAF Base ‘Williamtown’ to meet Defence personnel and receive briefings on a number of Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO)-administered projects run out of the Newcastle base. As Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Procurement, Combet will oversee the DMO in its efforts to provide the best possible equipment and support to the ADF, whilst considering opportunities for fuller adoption of Kinnaird procurement principles, as highlighted during the election campaign. During the visit, the new Member of Parliament also met a number of constituents from his neighbouring electorate of Charlton who also work at the base. Williamtown is home for two key airpower projects currently experiencing difficulties: Air 5077 (AEW&C), and Air 5376 (‘Hornet’ structural upgrade). [20.12.07] LODHI CONVICTION UPHELD IN NSW COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEAL: The New South Wales Court of Criminal Appeal has upheld Faheem Khalid Lodhi's conviction for three terrorism offences, along with his sentence of 20 years imprisonment. Newly appointed Federal Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, said he was “pleased that the court has completed its consideration of this matter. The upholding of Mr Lodhi's conviction and sentence demonstrates that those who are involved in preparing for terrorist acts can expect the full weight of the law to be brought to bear against them. The Government considers the protection of the Australian community to be a prime responsibility, and is committed to pursuing those who threaten us." [20.12.07] ‘TOP OF THE LIST’ PAY RISE FOR DEFENCE SECRETARY: The Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, acting under Section 61 of the Public Service Act 1999, and having taken advice from the Remuneration Tribunal, has determined that from 3 December the base salary of the Secretary of the Department of Defence, Nick Warner, will be $328,710, with total remuneration per annum of $410,000. The Defence Secretary’s remuneration is only matched by that of the Secretary of the Department of Prime Minister & Cabinet, and the Department of the Treasury. All other Departmental Secretaries (including the Attorney-General, Innovation & Industry, and Foreign Affairs & Trade), are to be paid $307,540 for base salary, and a total remuneration of $384,420. [20.12.07] CAE TO PROVIDE ARMY MRH-90 HELICOPTER SIMULATORS: The Department of Defence has confirmed that Canadian-based CAE, partnered with French-based Thales, has been awarded a $180m contract to provide two project Air 9000 MRH-90 helicopter flight simulators for Australian Army and Royal Australian Navy pilot training. The subject Full Flight and Mission Simulators (FFMS) will be delivered in 2012 to new training facilities being constructed at the Army Aviation Training Centre at Oakey (Qld), as well as the 5th Aviation Regiment, located in Townsville. Officials indicated the two simulators would be of the highest capability (Level D), and will enable the aircrew training to match the capabilities of operational helicopters.” [19.12.07] CEAFAR ACHIEVES RADAR & DIGITAL BEAM FORMING MARK: Canberra-based CEA Technologies has confirmed that during recent demonstrations for the project Sea 1448 ‘Anzac’ frigate Anti Ship Missile Defence (ASMD) upgrade, the company successfully achieved the required ‘through air’ radar performance using its CEAFAR Active Phased Array Radar. CEA also says that during the demonstrations it implemented important aspects of its digital beam forming technology not scheduled for this stage of the program. According to the company, “this provides significant gains in overall radar performance that will ensure the ‘Anzac’-class will be fitted with the latest digital radar capabilities available to modern warships. In completing this testing, CEA has taken a significant step towards finalising the evolution of its fourth generation digital active array radar.” The system was first trialled onboard HMAS ‘Arunta’ in 2004. [19.12.07] STOVL JOINT STRIKE FIGHTER ROLLED-OUT AT FT WORTH: Lockheed Martin (LM) has rolled-out for customer viewing its first Joint Stike Fighter (JSF) F-35B version, which combines stealth with short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) capability and supersonic speed. The F-35B is designed to replace Marine Corps AV-8Bs and F/A-18s, and will be bought by the United States Marine Corps, the United Kingdom's Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, and the Italian Air Force and Navy. An additional six developmental STOVL F-35s are now in production across the world-wide F-35 supply chain, with the first Marine Corps training jets planned for a 2011 delivery. LM is developing the F-35 with its principal industrial partners, Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems. Two separate, interchangeable F-35 engines remain funded for development: the Pratt & Whitney F135, and the GE Rolls-Royce Fighter Engine Team F136. [19.12.07] COBHAM BUYS INTO SURVEILLANCE & ATTACK BUSINESS: UK-based Cobham plc has reached agreement to purchase Lansdale (Pennsylvania)-based BAE Systems' Surveillance & Attack business unit for US$240m cash, on a debt and cash free basis payable on completion. The company is a developer of Electronic Warfare (EW) technology and a supplier of EW sub-systems for military aircraft, with equipment primarily used for stand-off radar and communication jamming and also self-protection radar warning on US Military aircraft. On completion of the transaction, the Surveillance & Attack business unit will be renamed Sensor & Antenna Systems, Lansdale Inc (Lansdale). The acquisition is also complementary to the existing Cobham Defence Electronic Systems (CDES) US-based microwave business, bringing additional subsystem product and design resource. It will be operated under the existing Special Security Agreement with the US Department of Defense. [19.12.07] ARRIVAL OF TWO MRH-90 HELICOPTERS CLASSED AS ‘IN-SERVICE’: Standing in for Defence Minister Fitzgibbon, the new Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Procurement, the Hon Greg Combet MP, has officiated at the acceptance into service of the first two ADF 10-tonne class MRH-90 Multi Role helicopters (MRH) supplied from France, at Australian Aerospace (AAe) in Brisbane. Combet welcomed the arrival of the aircraft, both of which will now undergo a period of test and evaluation, training and aircraft development leading to the declaration of Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for the Navy in 2010, and Army in 2011. Project Air 9000 is currently acquiring a total of 46 MRH-90s to ultimately replace Navy ‘Sea King’ and Army ‘Black Hawk’ fleets. The balance of French manufactured MRH-90s are due to be delivered in mid-2008. The remaining 42 (of 46) helicopters being acquired will be assembled in Australia. [18.12.07] THIRD ‘GLOBEMASTER III’ ACCEPTED AT LONG BEACH FACILITY: The RAAF’s Commander Air Lift Group, Air Commodore Jack Plenty, has formally accepted the third C-17 ‘Globemaster III’ strategic heavy lift transporter during a ceremony at Boeing’s C-17 manufacturing plant in Long Beach (California). The subject aircraft will now spend the New Year period being fitted with defensive countermeasure equipment before delivery to Australia in early-February 2008. Defence expects the Air Force to accept its fourth ‘Globemaster’ in mid-January, for subsequent aircraft delivery to Australia in early-March. Plenty anticipates the RAAF’s ‘Globemaster’ capability will keep growing in 2008, “not just in the number of aircraft and crews we have at 36 Squadron, but also in the roles we deliver. This will include the airborne delivery of cargo, as well as aero-medical evacuation, where the Globemaster can be configured to carry 36 stretcher patients.” [18.12.07] ‘ZUMWALT’-CLASS TECHNOLOGY YIELDS FIVE SENSOR OPTIONS: The electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor system being developed by Raytheon for the US Navy’s new ‘Zumwalt’-class destroyer's has passed its design review, resulting in formal approval to advance into its production phase. The subject EO/IR system provides 360-degree, 24-hour situational awareness for the ship, automated mine-like object detection, and guidance for ship self-defence gunnery. Officials indicated the key to overall program success is “the collaborative partnership between the Navy, the Raytheon design team and the subcontractor partners." The design approach employs mission-area thread analysis to verify that ship-level mission requirements are satisfied by the integrated EO/IR suite, which combines five individual sets of Lockheed Martin-provided hardware and embedded software, with the Raytheon-developed Total Ship Computing Environment resident core software. The core software allows the five sensors to be used as one or, when necessary, five individual sensors with five different missions. During final integration, Raytheon will complete the entire EO/IR ‘sensor-to-glass’ thread, from target detection to workstation display. [18.12.07] NORTHROP GRUMMAN LEADS BID FOR NEW EPX AIRCRAFT: Northrop Grumman and L-3 Communications (as a sub-contractor) have submitted a proposal for the US Navy's new EPX aircraft program, designed to yield a platform that provides a multi-intelligence capability to deliver strike targeting information to the warfighter. The Navy envisions EPX as a shore-based, manned aircraft providing intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting (ISR&T) support to carrier strike groups and theatre, combatant and national commanders. The EPX would assume the role of current Navy EP-3E aircraft, and provide greatly expanded capabilities. The proposal was submitted in response to a Navy broad agency announcement issued in November that solicited bids to develop an EPX preferred system concept, and analyse the risks and requirements. [18.12.07] WARNING TO NATO ON COUNTER-TALIBAN WAR STRATEGY: New Defence Minister, Joel Fitzgibbon, has reportedly told a special NATO meeting in Scotland of defence ministers from eight countries with forces in Afghanistan, that the multi-national effort is “winning the battles but not the war” in the troubled country, and thus needs a change of tactics orientated towards increasing civilian programs to win local hearts and minds and help bring stability to the country. Fitzgibbon is further said to have ruled out lifting Australia’s military commitment to Afghanistan in the absence of a greater contribution from NATO member countries, and especially so in an environment where the Dutch government remains likely to affirm a decision to withdraw its troops in the nearer term. The US will now lead a NATO effort to draw up a new military strategy for the next 6-12 months, which will focus on southern Afghanistan - where international stabilisation force is encountering the toughest Taliban opposition. A meeting scheduled for late-January 2008 in Canada will next review development of the new strategy, which will seek to better coordinate military and civil aid representative activities. [17.12.07] NATO ALLIES TOLD TO ADJUST TO AFGHANISTAN CHALLENGES: Prior to the Scotland meeting, the US Secretary of Defense, Robert Gates, similarly criticised NATO allies in Congressional testimony on their lack of financial and military (troops and equipment) support for coalition operations in Afghanistan. Gates said the Afghanistan mission “has exposed constraints associated with interoperability, organisation, critical equipment shortfalls, and national caveats. I believe the problem arises in large part due to the way various allies view the very nature of the Alliance in the 21st century - about facing threats that are quite different from those of the Cold War. NATO must adjust to the challenges associated with conducting operations in distant locations, and (it) needs to ensure that it has the resources and the organisational structure to counter terrorist networks and triumph over insurgencies that threaten to cause instability and failed states." US authorities are also seeking to shift the focus of the coalition strategy in Afghanistan from simply reconstruction, to that of waging "a classic insurgency" against resurgent opposition. [17.12.07] NEW LEASE OF LIFE FOR BPC IN ANTI-WHALING CAMPAIGN: Originally targeted as a key coordinating organisation in the new Labor Government’s now defunct plan to create a Department of Homeland Security, the jointly manned Customs/Defence Border Protection Command (BPC) is set to be given a new key coordinating role in Prime Minister Rudd’s quest to increase pressure on Japanese proposals to expand its annual cull of whales in the name of advancing ‘research’ into the species. Rudd is considering re-tasking the Customs-leased (from P&O) 105m ‘Ocean Viking’ from the deterrence and apprehension of illegal immigrants, to the collection of evidence on Japanese whaling activities to help undo in international legal forums Japanese contravention of the international whale harvesting ban. Other BPC directed air assets are also expected to be utilised in the quest to accumulate actionable evidence. [17.12.07] JAPANESE NAVY JOINS BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENCE CLUB: A Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force vessel, the Japan Ship (JS) ‘Kongo’ – and equipped with an adapted version of the latest US Navy-certified Lockheed Martin (LM) ‘Aegis’ Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) Weapon System, has successfully guided a Raytheon Standard Missile (SM)-3 Block IA missile to intercept a medium range, separating warhead ballistic missile target outside the Earth's atmosphere. The JS ‘Kongo’ was assisted by the USS ‘Lake Erie’ (an ‘Aegis’ BMD equipped cruiser), and a ground-based Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) test unit on Kauai. The USS ‘Lake Erie’ similarly tracked and performed a simulated engagement against the ballistic missile, and exchanged information with the THAAD test unit. LM VP and GM for Surface-Sea Based Missile Defense, Orlando Carvalho, noted the demonstration of BMD capability on the JS ‘Kongo’ now “opens the door for Aegis BMD on all Aegis ships around the world, and gives allied nations a ready answer to address the ever-growing ballistic missile threat." [17.12.07] BOEING QUICK TO HIGHLIGHT ROLE IN ‘KONGO’ MISSILE TEST: The Boeing Company has claimed a key role in the successful test of the ‘Aegis’ Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) weapon system from a Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force ship – the JS) ‘Kongo’ (DDG-173) – which launched a Raytheon SM-3 Block IA missile to engage and destroy a target fired from the US Navy's Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai, Hawaii. While this was the first time the Japanese have tested the system, it marks the 12th successful intercept of 14 overall attempts for the ‘Aegis’ BMD system. Boeing has partnered with Raytheon on SM-3 development since 1996, and builds and integrates several components of the SM-3 Kinetic Warhead. Japan decided in December 2003 to upgrade their ‘Kongo’-class destroyers with BMD capability, with installations running from 2007 through to 2010. [17.12.07] FIRST ‘STIRLING’ ENGINE SUBMARINE LAUNCHED IN JAPAN: The first of the improved ‘Oyashio’-class submarines for the Japan Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) was launched at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries' shipyard in Kobe, earlier this month. The lead submarine, ‘Soryu’, is fitted with Swedish-based Kockums’ ‘Stirling’ Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, designed to enhance the boat's stealth and special operations capability. Kockums teamed for industrial partner with Kawasaki Heavy Industries on the AIP system. An extensive program has been undertaken in Japan to evaluate ‘Stirling’ AIP technology with the objective to incorporate such technology onto future JMSDF submarines, assisted by experience gained with the Swedish navy’s ‘Gotland’ submarine working in joint exercises with the US Navy. [17.12.07] CSC CUTS A LEAD ROLE IN DIRECTING ROADMAP TO THE GIG: Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) has been selected to support the Net-Centric Enterprise Services (NCES) element of the US Defense Information Systems Agency’s (DISA) Service-Oriented Architecture Foundation (SOAF) program. The subject task order, which has two base years and five one-year options, will run above US$89m if all options are exercised. Under the contract, CSC will develop, engineer, install and operate both classified and unclassified SOAF systems at multiple DISA locations in the continental United States and overseas. Expansions of the service are also expected to be ordered, and may include multiple locations worldwide. CSC officials indicated the company has developed a solution “that leverages current commercial and military technologies and services, and provides a clear and affordable roadmap for future growth of the Global Information Grid.” [17.12.07] FIRST FLIGHT OF EUROCOPTER HAD ‘TIGER’ HELICOPTER: Eurocopter has confirmed the first flight of the HAD version of its ‘Tiger’ helicopter took place 14 December in Marignane (France), exactly as forecast two years ago in an OCCAR contract. The successful flight now enables a start to be made to the flight test period, which is necessary for further HAD development and qualification activities. The subject helicopter, HAD S/N 5001, is the first serial aircraft destined for Spain, and will be transferred to Eurocopter España facilities in 2009, where it will become the main support to HAD development activities. The HAD version will be qualified end-2010, and will then start being delivered to customers in France and in Spain. The HAD version features a more powerful engine, ‘Spike’ and ‘Hellfire’ air-to-ground missile capabilities, an IFF interrogator function, improved ballistic protection, as well as a new EWS system. [17.12.07] RUDD CARAVAN HITS EAST TIMOR FOR TROOP TALKS: New Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, has landed in Dili (Timor Leste) for talks with the head of the United Nations mission in East Timor (Atul Kahre), and the country’s new President, Jose Ramos Horta, to discuss Australia’s on-going troop commitments as the lead nation in the 1,300-strong International Stabilisation Force assuring peace in the troubled nation. Having campaigned in the run up to the 24 November federal election that Australia needed to withdraw its combat force from Iraq in order to deal with security challenges closer to home, Rudd was quoted by media as saying his Government would take “an exceptionally conservative approach” to maintaining East Timor’s long-term security, and suggesting forces would be required for at least another year before expiry of the current mandate, which would see Operation ‘Astute’ wound-up by mid-2008. [14.12.07] HURDLES PUT UP FOR RUDD COUNTER-WHALING PLAN: Opposition Leader, Dr Brendan Nelson, has cautioned Prime Minister Rudd on his plan to use ADF assets to monitor Japanese whaling fleets – to collect evidence to dispute whale hunting activities are being conducted for research purposes. Submitting the Federal Coalition stood “shoulder to shoulder” with Rudd in opposing the whale hunt, Dr Nelson said before any action involving military assets and personnel is taken, the new PM should clarify: “to what extent would sending military assets unnecessarily escalate diplomatic tensions with Japan (Australia’s ally for 60 years) and one of our major trading partners?; would this be an appropriate and necessary use of ADF assets?; how would our military act were it to witness illegal acts or breaches of the laws of the sea?; what impact would the deployment of Navy and Air Force assets have on Defence operations on Australia’s northern borders, elsewhere in the region and further afield (including the Middle East); and, is sending the Navy and Air Force to watch whales in the southern oceans the most suitable and operationally appropriate response?” [14.12.07] THALES LAUNCHES NEW LOCAL ISR BUSINESS: Thales Australia has launched a new Canberra-based Intelligence Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR) business unit, which aims to bring together its search and detect sensor devices with information management, analysis and exploitation software. To be hosted within the Joint Systems Business Group, the new dedicated ISR capability seeks to assist commanders by providing the battlespace awareness necessary to successfully plan and conduct military operations. With a focus on fulfilling the requirements of Defence’s Network-Centric Warfare (NCW) approach, ISR will assist with the collection, processing, exploitation and dissemination of accurate and timely information from the field. The ISR unit complements other Thales Australia business units covering Command & Control, Information Systems and Communications Systems, to offer the full range of NCW capability solutions. [14.12.07] SECOND PROJECT ‘PROTECTOR’ IPV IN THE WATER: Tenix reports it launched into Whangarei Harbour 11 December, the second (the ‘Hawea’) of four Inshore Patrol Vessels (IPVs) built in New Zealand. Tenix will now commence ship fit-out operations, with the ‘Hawea’ scheduled to be officially handed over to the Royal NZ Navy in mid-2008. By the end of 2008, the Navy's project ‘Protector’ fleet will comprise seven ships of three different classes: one Multi Role Vessel (MRV) - HMNZS ‘Canterbury’ (commissioned in June this year); two Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) – HNNZ Ships ‘Otago’ and ‘Wellington’ (both launched at Williamstown, Victoria), and four Inshore Patrol Vessels (IPV). The first IPV, the ‘Rotoiti’, successfully completed her sea trials in the Whangarei Harbour area last week. [14.12.07] US NAVY CELEBRATING ‘GREAT WHITE FLEET’ ANNIVERSARY: The US Navy (USN) will shortly celebrate the anniversary (100 years ago), of the departure from Hampton Roads (Virginia) of sixteen US battleships – which came to be known as the ‘Great White Fleet’ – on a global tour to test naval readiness, establish a global presence, and generate international good will. The 16 December 1907 decision by President Theodore Roosevelt to deploy a portion of the Atlantic fleet is to be honoured by US Secretary of the Navy, Donald Winter, onboard the USS ‘Theodore Roosevelt’ (CVN-71) on 15 December. A year-long program of activities is planned to underscore the USN’s commitment to sustaining a Navy and Marine Corps that is responsive to the challenges of the 21st century. [14.12.07] AWARD GIVEN FOR MK57 VERTICAL LAUNCHING SYSTEM: The Raytheon Company's MK 57 Vertical Launching System (VLS) program destined for first shipboard deployment in the US Navy’s new ‘Zumwalt’-class destroyer (DDG 1000), has been recognised by the US Department of Defense (DoD) and the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) as a 2006 ‘Top 5’ DoD program award winner for excellence in systems engineering. Co-developed by Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems (IDS) and BAE Systems, the MK 57 VLS provides critical ship self defence capabilities and is designed to fire all missile types in the US Navy inventory, and projected to be in inventory for the foreseeable future. [14.12.07] KONGSBERG GRABS ‘REMUS’ AUTONOMOUS UNDERWATER VEHICLE: Norwegian-based Kongsberg Maritime AS (wholly owned by Kongsberg Gruppen ASA) - through its subsidiary, Simrad North America Inc of Washington – will acquire Pocasset (Massachusetts)-based Hydroid LLC for approximately US$80m on a debt-free basis. Established in 2001, Hydroid manufactures and supports Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV) for military and commercial markets world-wide, and is particularly well known for its ‘Remus’ Autonomous Vehicle Technology, originally developed and exclusive licensed from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. Hydroid's 2007 sales are projected at $20m, with high profitability and strong revenue growth projections in the coming years. The acquisition of Hydroid is part of Kongsberg Maritime's strategy to expand in the rapidly growing market for AUV-based operations through a broader portfolio of products, wider presence in the market and focused R&D efforts. Hydroid ‘Remus’ vehicles will complement Kongsberg Maritime's ‘Hugin’ AUV activity begun in 1995. [14.12.07] IRAQ TROOPS BACK HOME FOR AUSSIE CHRISTMAS: The Chief of Army, LtGen Peter Leahy, has welcomed home more than 40 troops and personnel from the third rotation of the ‘Overwatch’ Battle Group West [OBG(W)-3], and personnel from the Australian Army Training Team Iraq VIII (AATTI-VIII). The OBG(W)-3 is said to have conducted more than 22 major security operations during the rotation (and constantly patrolled to counter Improvised Explosive Devices and Indirect Fire Threats against Coalition Force), while the AATTII-VIII supported the Iraq Army through recruit and officer training at Iraqi Army Camp ‘Ur at Taji’, north of Baghdad. Officials indicated that during its time in Iraq, the Australian contingent had received constant praise from senior officers of the United Kingdom, United States and Romania. [13.12.07] SIMULATOR SIGNED, SEALED & DELIVERED FOR 23RD ‘TIGER’: Australian Aerospace (AAe) has confirmed its hand over of a suite of aircrew and ground training devices for the Australian Army’s new project Air 87 ‘Tiger’ Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters (ARH). The subject suite includes a Full Flight and Mission Simulator (FFMS), a Gun System Trainer, Centre Fuselage Trainer, Underwater Escape Trainer, Environmental Control System Trainer. Notable in the new capability delivered was the twin-domed (replicating the Tiger’s separate cockpits) FFMS simulator, said to be the first of its kind to achieve the highest level of global certification – FSD-1 Level 5 accreditation (equivalent to Europe’s Level D). Two Cockpit Procedure Trainers are still to be delivered in 2008 and 2009, thus completing the mission training system supporting the tactical use of the ‘Tiger’ helicopters. Nine (of 22) Tiger helicopters have so far been delivered to the ADF. Training has commenced at the Army Aviation Training Centre, in Oakey (Qld). [13.12.07] JAPANESE AMBASSADOR TALKS OF STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP: Speaking to an ASPI Defence & Security luncheon in Canberra, the Japanese Ambassador to Australia, HE Mr Taka-aki Kojima, has noted Australia’s role as a larger supplier of energy to Japan than Saudi Arabia, whilst observing the two countries’ natural partnership in trade has developed into “a comprehensive strategic partnership, with security cooperation substantively enhanced.” Ambassador Kojima added Japan and Australia are “the two most important US allies in the region, and we have naturally developed a strategic trilateral partnership (culminating in) the Trilateral Strategic Dialogue … now held at both a Ministerial and Senor Officials level.” Australian forces most recently exercised with Japanese forces in Exercise ‘Malabar’ 2007, which also involved the US, India and Singapore. [13.12.07] SIKORSKY SETTLES DOWN TO RE-CONTEST ‘SEA HAWK’ REPLACEMENT: Sikorsky has signed a five-year, US$7.4b multi-service contract with the US Government to supply 537 H-60 series helicopters to the US Army and Navy in the UH-60M ‘Black Hawk’, HH-60M Medevac, and MH-60S/MH-60R ‘Sea Hawk’ configurations, from 2007 to 2012. The UH-60M is the latest version of the ‘Black Hawk’ helicopter Sikorsky has supplied to the US Army since 1978. The MH-60R is designed for maritime dominance, and is complemented by the MH-60S, which carries out troop transport, airborne mine countermeasures and naval special warfare missions. Both the MH-60R and the MH-60S are fitted with a multi-function digital glass cockpit. Although eased out of ADF service by the Eurocopter NH90 under phases 2, 4 & 6 of project Air 9000, the MH-60R is regarded in some circles as a more suitable replacement for the RAN’s current ‘Sea Hawk’ helicopter fleet, should the new Labor government decide against a major upgrade under phase 3 of project Air 9000. [13.12.07] BAES CUTS IT BOTH WAYS ON F-22 & F-35 PRODUCTION: BAE Systems (BAES) reports it has opened a new 30,000 square foot facility in New Hampshire, within which it will undertake production work on both the F-22A ‘Raptor’ air superiority fighter and F-35 ‘Lightning II’ joint strike fighter electronic warfare suite programs. The new site will support more than 1,400 (of 4,500) BAES employees currently working in New Hampshire, with the new facility being capable of assembling and testing complex microwave products, and performing assembly, integration, and acceptance testing at significantly reduced cost and cycle times. [13.12.07] P-8A ‘POSEIDON’ FUSELAGE PRODUCTION UNDERWAY: Boeing reports that work on the P-8A ‘Poseidon’ maritime and anti-submarine warfare platform for the US Navy has transitioned from design to production, with the first fuselage components being loaded into a holding fixture at Spirit Aerosystems’ (SpAe) in Kansas. Boeing 737 aircraft-based fuselage sections are to be e built using standard SpAe processes aimed at delivering lower costs and shorter flow-times. The P-8A project is currently in the System Development and Demonstration (SDD) phase, which involves the building of five test vehicles for an up to 108 P-8A acquisition to replace the current P-3C aircraft fleet. Boeing’s ‘Poseidon’ industry team includes: CFM International; Northrop Grumman; Raytheon; SpAe and GE Aviation. [12.12.07] TURKISH ‘PEACE EAGLE’ AEW&C IN FIRST FLIGHT TEST: Boeing reports it has successfully completed from Boeing Field in Seattle, the first mission system flight test of the first (of four) B737-based Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) aircraft being supplied to Turkey under its ‘Peace Eagle’ program. The flight is said to have tested the aircraft’s communications system, including establishing links with a ground-based lab and local air traffic control towers using UHF, VHF and HF radios. Officials added the test was “the first time the integrated mission system has operated in the flight environment, and clears the path for additional airborne tests in the months ahead." Similar to Australia’s own project Air 5077 aircraft, the Turkish AEW&Cs are equipped with Northrop Grumman’s Multi-role Electronically Scanned Array (MESA) antennae, with integrated Identification Friend-or-Foe capabilities. [12.12.07] F-35 BACK INTO FLIGHT TESTING AFTER SEVEN MONTH BREAK: The first Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) conventional take-off & landing (CTOL) variant - AA-1 - has resumed flight testing after a May electrical fault cut short its 19th test flight. Lockheed Martin (LM) says that in its 20th flight test, the AA-1 exercised engine performance ratings and aircraft handling qualities at up to 20,000 feet, with the F-35 to be tested for air refuelling in the coming week. The F-35 mission systems suite test bed – otherwise known as the Cooperative Avionics Test Bed, or ‘CATBird’ – was also reported as having completed one of its final functional flight check sorties before it begins a comprehensive program of testing, the output of which will integrate and validate the mission system before it is merged with the airframe for commencement of the F-35’s fighter test program. [11.12.07] NEXT USAF LASER BOMBER CONCEPT DEMONSTRATED: Northrop Grumman has demonstrated a next generation bomber equipped with a high-energy laser-based (HEL) defensive system as part of the 2007 Advanced Concepts Event (ACE) – and annual war-gaming exercise involving US Navy, US Army and US Air Force warfighters. Company engineers participated in the event via nodes feeding into its Cyber Warfare Integration Network (CWIN) virtual battlefield, which provides a virtual, physics-based, modelling environment for airborne systems supported by terrain databases and operational command & control software. The final ACE’07 mission saw the HEL bomber collaborate with an F-35 ‘Lightning II’ (JSF) aircraft to successfully intercept and destroy four hostile airborne interceptors. [11.12.07] VOLVO SPLASHES OUT ON ‘GREEN’ ENGINE PURCHASE: Volvo Aero has acquired the SEK 110m annual turnover composite manufacturer, Applied Composites AB (ACAB), for an undisclosed price. Officials indicated the purpose of the acquisition was to use ACAB and its technology to develop and manufacture aircraft engine components in composite materials - which are significantly lighter than the comparable parts in metal, thus driving reduced fuel consumption and, consequently, lower emissions from aircraft. Volvo Aero has also undertaken to invest SEK 50m in research and development within the area of composites during the next 18 months. Founded in 1988, ACAB is a leading company in development and production of advanced composite products, with substantive military and commercial customers. Volvo Aero intends to establish a new operation that will develop and manufacture certain selected aircraft engine components in composite materials in a bid to acquire world leadership in lightweight structures. [11.12.07] CUSTOMS & NAVY BLUNT TREPANG POACHERS: Another seven illegal boats and 43 foreign fishermen have been apprehended by Customs and Navy patrol vessels in ongoing operations targeting a seasonal surge in trepang poaching in Australia’s northern waters. The latest group of illegal vessels to be apprehended was spotted by Coastwatch aircraft on patrols of Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone north-west of Darwin. The Australian Customs Vessels ‘Triton’ and ‘Hervey Bay’ responded to the initial sightings 8 December, and apprehended two vessels with a total of 12 crew aboard. In a coordinated operation with HMAS ‘Broome’, officers later boarded and apprehended a further five boats with a total of 31 crew on board. The five vessels were destroyed at sea due to quarantine risks and their unseaworthy state. All illegal fishers are being transferred to Darwin for processing. Customs and Defence aircraft and patrol boats are being coordinated by the Border Protection Command. [10.12.07] AUSTRALIAN INDUSTRY & DEFENCE NETWORK ELECTIONS: The Australian Industry & Defence Network (AIDN) has recently held both its national and Victorian branch AGMs. On the national level, Mike Turner from SVP Industries was re-elected President, Graham Priestnall from Synthesys Australasia became the new Vice-President, and Lee Stanley from Daronmont Technologies was elected Treasurer. Lee Stanley will also be the new President of the Victorian branch, while Scott Warbrick from MSX International will be Vice President and Rohan Stocker from Marand Precision Engineering will be the new Victorian Treasurer. Peter Nicholls (MD of Production Parts) was nominated by AIDN-Vic as recipient of the 5th Terry Kelly Memorial Award. [10.12.07] ‘AEGIS’ OPEN ARCHITECTURE FUNDED FOR FIRST CRUISER: The US Navy has given its final approval for Lockheed Martin to proceed with the integration and shipboard installation of the world’s first fully-open architecture ‘Aegis’ weapon system – to be installed from February 2008 in the ‘Ticonderoga’-class cruiser, USS ‘Bunker Hill’ – the first of 22 cruisers to be modernized with ‘Aegis’ Open Architecture (OA) over the next ten years. In 2012, the US Navy will begin a similar modernisation plan for its 62 ‘Aegis’-equipped ‘Arleigh Burke’-class destroyers, with the latest available iteration of this system also planned to be installed on Australia’s three new ‘Hobart’-class air warfare destroyers. Achieving ‘Aegis’ OA requires extensive systems engineering to reconfigure the extant system with commercial-off-the-shelf computing hardware and open systems software, to enable it to absorb frequent technology refreshes, as well as accept upgrades in capabilities. [10.12.07] BOEING INSTALS CHEMICAL LASER ON C-130H GUNSHIP: Boeing reports it has successfully installed a high-energy chemical laser onboard a C-130H ‘Hercules’ aircraft as part of its Advanced Tactical Laser (ATL) Advanced Concept Technology program. Officials indicated the laser, including its 12,000-pound module, aims to give warfighters “a speed-of-light, precision engagement capability that will dramatically reduce collateral damage." The aircraft and systems will now undergo a series of tests to prepare for a full demonstration of the military utility of the weapon in 2008, which will include firing the laser at ground targets through a rotating turret that extends through the aircraft underbelly. Boeing’s ATL industry team includes L-3 Communications/Brashear and HYTEC Inc. [10.12.07] CERADYNE ARMOUR PACK MOVES CLOSER TO JLTV PROGRAM: The US Army Tank-Automotive Command (TACOM) has notified Ceradyne Inc that its alternate lightweight armor materials - submitted in response to the Army's Long Term Armor Strategy (LTAS) requirements for application on the tactical wheel vehicle fleet - have successfully completed testing at the US Army's Research Labs, in Aberdeen (Maryland). The completion of tests takes the company’s new armour closer to being made fully available to OEM truck manufacturers on a pre-approved basis, whereby they can be incorporated into existing production and future vehicle cab designs. Discussions are already underway for Oshkosh Truck to install LTAS-based armor kits on all composite lightweight ‘A3 HEMTT’ crew cabs in early 2008. The new Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) is also proposing to incorporate an ‘A’ and ‘B’ kit armor in a manner much like the LTAS. [10.12.07] DEADLINES FOR PACIFIC 2008 PRINTED DIAR.com SHOW DAILY: Business Communication Group’s (Busicom) Defence Industry & Aerospace Report (DIAR.com) e-Newsletter will again be providing a printed internet-format Show Daily at the Pacific 2008 International Maritime Exposition, and bringing together all relevant news items generated during the event. A printed newsletter will be circulated around mid-day each business day (Tuesday, 29 January to Friday, 1 February) of the exposition. Inquiries in regard corporate news items proposed for inclusion in each daily DIAR.com newsletter for distribution at Pacific 2006 should be directed to busicom@ozemail.com.au. The DIAR.com internet-format Show Daily at Pacific 2008 is kindly sponsored by ASC Pty Ltd. [10.12.07] NEXT DIAR.COM E-NEWSLETTER TO BE PUBLISHED 14 JANUARY 2008: This is the last DIAR.com e-Newsletter to be published for 2007. Barring any defence or other national security catastrophe’s over the Xmas holiday break, the first DIAR.com e-Newsletter for 2008 will be published over Sunday evening for 14 January 2008 receipt by subscribers. DIAR.com management & staff would like to thank all individual and corporate subscribers for their continuing support for Busicom defence information products & services, and wish you all a happy and safe Xmas and ensuing holiday period. [10.12.07]
THIRTEENTH ‘ARMIDALE’ COMMISSIONED IN BRISBANE: The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) has welcomed the latest addition to its Fleet, with HMAS ‘Maryborough’ - the thirteenth (of 14) ‘Armidale’-class Patrol Boats (ACPB) commissioned in a traditional ceremony alongside Bulimba Barracks Wharf, in Brisbane. The commissioning ceremony also marked the formal inauguration of the ‘Aware Three’ crew into Naval service - the twenty first and final ACPB crew formed under the unique multi-crewing initiative supporting project Sea 1444. Defence says the combined ceremony signified “a coming of age for the new Patrol Boat Squadron after a two-year development period, which coincided with the phasing out-of-service of the ageing ‘Fremantle’-class patrol boats. [08.12.07] BROADING NATIONAL SECURITY AGENDA FOR NEW LABOR: Speaking to the ‘Security in Government’ (SIG) conference in Canberra, newly-appointed Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, has said “a change of Government presents an opportune time to evaluate - consolidate - enhance - and broaden - our approach to national security. This does not only involve preventing a terrorist attack - we must also be prepared to face a range of other significant challenges ... (such as) natural disaster, pandemic or the failure of critical infrastructure. With such a broad range of security concerns, one of the greatest challenges we now face in Government is how to manage the risks - both real and perceived - well into the future ... there is no crystal ball to show us the way. I don't think there has been enough emphasis on community building. I intend to do what I can to start building bridges with communities at risk of alienation.” McClelland added, “I think national security has to be dealt with by a mix of hard intelligence and law enforcement, as well as steps to promote greater inclusiveness and opportunity in Australia. It is a responsibility that must be shared by the leaders of all communities.” [07.12.07] CALL FOR NEW TECHNOLOGIES TO SECURE AUSTRALIA: McClelland went on to tell SIG delegates that for Australia to move forward as a nation, “we must find new and innovative ways to safeguard Australians and Australia's national interests. And we must be prepared for a range of incidents and events - including the rapidly evolving ones - such as cyber-crime and bioterrorism. While significant technological advances are being made in the area of national security, we need to evaluate whether adequate and timely consideration is being given to adopting these technologies. In particular, adopting them in a manner that is in accordance with nationally consistent protocols and practices. For us to move forward as a nation, we must also manage the risks and embrace the uncertainties - of which there are many … the future of security requires every action to be underpinned with vigilance. This is where all of us - whether in Government, industry, or the wider community - have a central role to play.” [07.12.07] QUEST FOR SKILLS MOVES INTO PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS: The Director General of Defence Force Recruiting (DFR), Brigadier Simon Gould, says that in the quest to encourage young Australians to take up a career in engineering or manufacturing-related industries (and potentially be attracted to Defence force service), the DFR will now move to establish Specialist Recruitment Cells, anticipated to be up and running in early-2008, which will heighten interaction with professional bodies such as Engineers Australia, and engineering faculties at Australian Universities. Gould was speaking after announcing the winners of the Defence-sponsored 2007 Schools Technology Challenge national final. [07.12.07] ROMANIA OUTLINES WHY C-27J IS BETTER THAN C-295M: Alenia Aeronautica has confirmed its signature with Romtechnica (the National Company for Foreign Trade of the Romanian Ministry of Defence), of a €217m contract for seven C-27J transport aircraft, along with an associated services package comprising: pilot training, initial logistic support and a flight simulator - all to be based in Bucharest, with first aircraft to be delivered by end-2008. The Romtechnica contract now takes global C-27J orders to 117 units. The Romanian Air Force selected the twin-engine C-27J in November last year, preferring it to the EADS CASA C-295M, and citing: the C-27Js inclusion of an Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) to guarantee the aircraft’s total autonomy from energy sources on ground and flying; a complete automatic defence system against all land-based threats; the capability of reaching within 15 minutes 5000 metres of altitude with full payload; a large-capacity flight data recorder; and - above all - operational interoperability with the C-130 ‘Hercules’ (the other transport aircraft in service with Romania/other NATO countries), as governed by its wide fuselage and the strength of the cargo floor. [07.12.07] NORTHROP GRUMMAN KICKS-OFF JSF SECOND SOURCE SUPPLIERS: After officially commencing Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP-1) in October by starting fabrication of the first single-piece, all-composite inlet duct for the USAF's first production F-35 aircraft at Palmdale (California), Northrop Grumman has just authorised Danish company Terma, and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) to begin fabricating subassemblies for the first two F-35 LRIP aircraft. Under a February 2007 Letter of Intent, Northrop Grumman had separately nominated TAI as production source for a minimum of 400 centre fuselages, starting in LRIP-2. The awards, which expand the international membership of Northrop Grumman's F-35 supplier team, represent the first F-35 contracts for Terma and TAI under long-term agreements signed with the company in 2005. [07.12.07] ONE BILLION DOLLAR COST TO RESET WAR EXHAUSTED BRADLEYS: BAE Systems has been awarded a US$709.4m US Army contract modification to reset 1,042 ‘Bradley’ A3 infantry fighting vehicles and ODS Combat Systems returning from Iraq, and reset additional A3 components. The contract also carries an option for an additional 58 vehicles. When combined with an earlier award of $234m for long lead materials, and a $57m option, this effort represents over $1 billion for the ‘Bradley’ reset. Vehicles that undergo the reset process will not only have their useful life restored (as consumed during combat operations), they also receive the latest survivability enhancements and other improvements. BAE Systems is working through the company's Public Private Partnership with Red River Army Depot (RRAD) to reset these vehicles. Vehicle deliveries are scheduled to begin in June 2008 and continue through June 2009, while resetting the components will begin in December 2007, and continue through December 2008. [07.12.07] INDIA TESTS SECOND BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENCE INTERCEPTOR: Scientists from the Indian Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) have confirmed the second test launch of a new single stage interceptor missile to be tasked against an incoming ballistic missile - as represented by a modified ‘Prithvi’ missile - at the Wheeler Island test site near the Bay of Bengal, and close to the Dhamra coast in Orissa. The endo-atmospheric interceptor (inside the atmosphere) engaged the subject target missile at an altitude of 15kms, as initially envisaged. The tests engaged long-range tracking radar, multi-function fire control radar, mission control centre, launch control centre, mobile launcher, mobile & multi-layer communication system, and data links to the interceptor – as part of validating the system design of an endo-atmospheric layer in the Indian ballistic missile defence system. [07.12.07] BRENDAN NELSON ANNOUNCES OPPOSITION FRONT BENCH: Former fourth Howard Ministry Defence Minister, and now Leader of the Opposition, Dr Brendan Nelson, has appointed: Senator Nick Minchin as Shadow Minister for Defence; Chris Pyne MP as Shadow Minister for Justice & Border Protection; Bob Baldwin MP as Shadow Minister for Defence Science & Personnel (and Assisting Shadow Minister for Defence); and Peter Lindsay MP as Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Defence. Other national security related portfolios include: Bronwyn Bishop – Veterans’ Affairs; Senator Eric Abetz – Innovation, Industry, Science & Research; Andrew Robb MP – Foreign Affairs; Peter Dutton MP – Finance; Senator George Brandis – Attorney-General; and Senator Marise Payne – Foreign Affairs (Assisting). [06.12.07] MINCHIN VOWS TO WORK CONSTRUCTIVELY WITH NEW LABOR: Welcoming his requested appointment (as the third most senior Liberal in the Opposition) as Shadow Minister for Defence, Senator Nick Minchin (also Senate Opposition Leader) had undertaken “to work constructively with the Labor Government to maintain the broad bipartisanship in Defence policy.” Minchin acknowledged Labor’s previous bipartisan support for much of the Coalition’s approach to Defence policy, adding, “my intention is to work with the Labor Government to build on the Coalition’s policy legacy … I will support Labor policy that is clearly in Australia’s security interests, while ensuring effective scrutiny of the Labor Government’s management of the Defence portfolio. Defence is one of the most vital responsibilities of the Commonwealth Government.” [06.12.07] INTELLIGENCE CORPS CELEBRATES 100 YEARS: The Australian Intelligence Corps (AIC) has celebrated 100 years of service with the dedication of an AIC plaque at the Australian War Memorial, in Canberra. The Corps was founded on 6 December 1907 upon the recommendation of Lieutenant Colonel W T Bridges – later fatally injured on Gallipoli. Since that time, it has seen service in both World Wars, Korea, Malaya, Vietnam and, more recently, Somalia, Rwanda, Timor-Leste, the Solomon Islands, Iraq and Afghanistan. The Corps has also been represented on duties in various United Nations and multilateral peacekeeping and humanitarian operations. Army Chief, LtGen Peter Leahy noted, “the battle space we operate in is complex and its threats numerous, lethal and often unbound by international laws and norms … I charge (the AIC) to continue to ensure the Army is forewarned and forearmed.” [06.12.07] DUTCH AUDIT REPORT BACK WORRYING OVER JSF COSTS: A new Dutch Court of Audit report looking into the Netherlands' procurement of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) complains that even the Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) cannot be sure of the actual costs of JSF procurement. The latest report looks at aircraft development costs, the role played by Dutch industry, and the JSF project organisation's preparation for the arrival of the aircraft. It concluded the Ministries of Defence and of Economic Affairs (EZ) were making good progress clarifying uncertainties surrounding the JSF program. Nevertheless, it considered it was still highly likely that a decision to purchase the JSF will be taken without there being assurances on the ultimate cost – given there was no complete overview of JSF costs to the Netherlands because some of the costings fall outside the MoD's definition of the ‘F-16 Replacement Program’. Furthermore, costs could not be compared with each other “because the Ministries of Defence and of EZ use different price indices and currencies.” [06.12.07] SPACE COMPANY MOVES INTO SOPHISTICATED ROBOTICS: MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates (MDA) has acquired Pasadena (California)-based Alliance Spacesystems LLC, in a move to expand its Information Systems business in the United States. Alliance Spacesystems provides the US Government and aerospace customers with advanced technology solutions, and is a leader in sophisticated robotic and mechanical structures applied on a variety of space missions, as well as terrestrial applications. Alliance Spacesystems will become part of MDA Federal, the MDA subsidiary that includes all of the US businesses of the MDA Information Systems Group. MDA Federal operates under a Special Security Agreement to ensure compliance and optimal access to classified US market opportunities. [06.12.07] TEXT OF DEFENCE TRADE TREATY WITH THE UNITED STATES: The Department of Defence has formally released the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade-drafted text of the new Defence Trade Cooperation Treaty, initially agreed to and signed 5 September by former Prime Minister, John Howard, and US President, George Bush, in Sydney during the APEC 2007 leaders’ week. The purpose of the Treaty is to create a comprehensive framework for two-way trade in defence articles, including equipment, spare parts, services and related technical data within an approved community of government facilities and private companies in Australia and the US, without the need for licences. The governments of both countries must still ratify the treaty (via reference to Congress and the Federal Parliament), before the Treaty comes into force. [05.12.07] ‘ANZAC’ HOME AFTER SIX MONTHS ON OPERATION ‘CATALYST’: The RAN ‘Anzac’-class frigate, HMAS ‘Anzac’ has returned home following a six-month deployment to the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) as part of Operation ‘Catalyst’. Principal duties undertaken were associated with the maintenance of Iraqi maritime sovereignty, protection of Iraqi offshore energy production infrastructure, and assistance in the training of the Iraqi Navy. During her time in the Gulf, the ‘Anzac’ conducted 65 boarding and security patrols, 490 boat evolutions, 17 replenishments at sea and vertical replenishments (ie: 323 flying hours were undertaken by its embarked ‘Seahawk’ helicopter), and 650 investigative queries were progressed on merchant vessels. [05.12.07] LEGAL CIRCLES BOG DOWN ANTI-WHALING INITIATIVE: Having undertaken during the election campaign that Royal Australian Navy (RAN) vessels would be employed to collect “evidence” on Japanese whaling ships and their practices for a possible International Court of Justice action, the new Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, now says, “I'm getting advice on the legal issues (and) my colleagues are obtaining advice on from their own departments. I've already requested advice in respect to the potential for international legal action, and also looking at one domestic case that's before the Federal Court of Australia as to the appropriate course of action in light of submissions made by my predecessor, Philip Ruddock.” McClelland added, “I've had some discussions with Joel Fitzgibbon, the Minister for Defence. I know this is a matter that he is obtaining advice on, but clearly he would be the best person to discuss that issue. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on that.” [05.12.07] EUROCOPTER APPOINTS NEW CEO TO AUSTRALIAN AEROSPACE: Eurocopter has confirmed the appointment of Jens Goennemann as the new Chief Executive Officer of its local subsidiary, Australian Aerospace (AAe) Limited, replacing Joseph Saporito, who will return to Eurocopter headquarters in Marignane (France), to become Executive Vice President – Commercial Programs. Goennemann officially takes up his appointment in January 2008, and will be responsible for all marketing (encompassing Australia, NZ, PNG, Fiji, and other Pacific Islands), sales and support activities in the Australia-Pacific region. Holding an Economics Degree and a Political Science doctorate, Goennemann has spent the last six years in Germany with the European Aeronautic Defence & Space (EADS) company, the parent of Eurocopter and AAe. [05.12.07] SECURITY IN GOVERNMENT CONFERENCE TURNS TWENTY: The 20th annual ‘Security in Government’ (SIG) Conference has commenced in Canberra, with the focus of discussion on the ‘Future of Security’. Setting the tone for discussion, just appointed Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, told delegates the national security environment “has changed dramatically since the inaugural SIG Conference in 1987, and for the 20th anniversary, it's timely to look ahead to the future." Speakers at this year’s event included: the Secretary of the Attorney-General’s Department, Robert Cornall AO; the Chief of the Defence Force, Angus Houston AO AFC; and the ASIO Director-General of Security, Paul O’Sullivan. The conference brought together senior representatives from the private and public sector, and featured a trade show with over 100 exhibitors. [05.12.07] PPB PROGRAM EXERCISE NETS ILLEGAL TAIWANESE TRAWLER: An August 2007 Pacific Patrol Boat Program (PPB) exercise (Operation ‘Rai Balang’) conducted around the common Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) border between Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia is said by officials to have successfully apprehended an illegal Taiwanese long-line fishing vessel, and leading to the imposition of a US$180,000 fine. The discovery built on the success of the Cook Islands, which in May apprehended the Taiwanese registered ‘Yin Chen’, and successfully imposed NZ$250,000 in fines. During the operation, the Niue Treaty Subsidiary Agreement between Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia was invoked, allowing both countries to conduct patrols in each others’ EEZ. [04.12.07] HMAS ‘SIRIUS’ & CHIEF OF NAVY ATTENDING LIMA 2007: Defence has confirmed that the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Auxiliary Oiler, HMAS ‘Sirius’, is attending this week’s (4-8 December) Langkawi international maritime exhibition (LIMA 2007), in Malaysia. The Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Russ Shalders, AO, CSC, RAN, is also to attend the exhibition and participate in a conference focussing on the preservation of security in the Malacca Strait. This year’s LIMA has attracted warships from South Korea, India, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, the USA, Thailand and Malaysia – it also coincides with Malaysia’s celebration of her 50th year of independence. Defence says Australia has a very strong and mature defence relationship with Malaysia, hallmarked by strong exercise, training and exchange programs that are in place. [04.12.07] SPY-1F RADAR EMPLOYED AT EXTREME SHORT RANGE: Lockheed Martin reports it has demonstrated a new Extreme Short Range (ESR) mode for its family of SPY-1 naval radars. The new ESR mode is said to provide an additional layer of ship defence that supports close-in operations, such as helicopter approach control, and enhances small surface target detection and performance in the littorals. During the recent demonstration of the ESR mode with Norwegian Navy and US Navy participants, the SPY-1F radar is said to have successfully tracked a live helicopter test target as it performed a variety of challenging approaches. While operational in ESR mode, the SPY-1 radar nevertheless continued normal operations, maintaining its traditional high performance in surface, horizon and area surveillance with 360-degree coverage. [04.12.07] UAVs PERFORM AUTOMATED AERIAL REFUELING ROUTINE: Recent flight tests by the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFLR) and Boeing’s Phantom Works under the Automated Aerial Refuelling (AAR) program are said to have witnessed the successful refuelling of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) in mid-air, as demonstrated by an autonomously controlled Calspan Learjet UAV to a Boeing KC-135 tanker. Assuming seven air refuelling position behind the tanker over the period of an hour and 40 minutes, the Learjet is said to have held a critical contact position for twenty minutes. A follow-on Phase II of the program aims to include autonomous multi-ship operations and the delivery of fuel to a surrogate UAV. [04.12.07] EOS/FCS TO SUPPLY EXTRA 72 SRWS UNITS TO THE ARMY: Queanbeyan (NSW)-based Electro Optics Systems (EOS) subsidiary - Fire Control Systems - has won an order to supply an additional 72 Stabilised Remote Weapon Systems (SRWS) to the Australian Army, for fitting (via Thales Australia) to the ‘Bushmaster’ Infantry Mobility Vehicle. The $26.3m order is on top of an initial contract for 44 SRWS units announced in December 2006, taking the total order to 116 units, all to be delivered by April 2008. Fire Control Systems is currently delivering (with Recon Optical Inc) 450 SRWS units to the US Army under the Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS) program, but lost out in August to Norway-based Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace’s ‘Protector’ RCWS (also fitted to certain Australian Army ASLAVs) in the competition for a more substantive US Army follow-on order. EOS says this latter contract award “is subject to a strong protest by Recon Optical Inc, to be determined by the US Government Accounting Office in January 2008.” [03.12.07] BOEING OPENS AUSTRALIAN CAPABILITY OFFICE IN SEATTLE: The Boeing Company, through its Integrated Defense Systems Industrial Participation organisation, has opened an Office of Australian Industry Capability (OAIC) in Seattle. The new OIAC will work with the Australian Department of Defence (particularly the Defence Materiel Organisation - DMO) and Australian industry, to coordinate a ‘Team Australia’ effort to identify bid opportunities for Australian aerospace companies. A series of industry roundtables is to commence in the first week of December in Brisbane and Melbourne, with future meetings scheduled throughout the country next year. Initial focus will be on suppliers whose capabilities have been designated by the DMO as ‘export-ready’, and important to maintaining the through-life support capability necessary to sustain the ADF’s aerospace assets. Boeing’s establishment of the OAIC is in response to initiatives contained in the March 2007 Defence Industry Strategic Policy (DISP). [03.12.07] ‘TOPOWL’ NIGHT VISION HELMET FOR NEW MRH90 HELICOPTERS: Thales Australia has confirmed that via a $100m contract with Australian Aerospace, the company will provide avionics for helicopter cockpits, internal secure communications, identification systems, navigation and tactical systems for the 34 MRH90 helicopters being purchased by the Australian Army (via phases 4&6 of project Air 9000), thus extending the total number of aircraft for delivery of such equipment to 46 (via phase 2) over the period 2008 to 2013. In addition to the cockpit avionics, Thales Australia will also be incorporating the ‘TopOwl’ night vision helmet into the MRH90s, as is similarly being done for the project Air 87 ‘Tiger’ armed reconnaissance helicopters. The contract also encompasses the supply of MRH90 equipment and spares, as well as Australian-developed Ground Mission Management Systems. [03.12.07] MIKE DEEKS MOVES TO RAYTHEON IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA: Former Nautronix Chairman of the Board and Western Australian (WA) Government Defence Adviser, Mike Deeks, has been appointed to the position of WA Site Executive, at Raytheon Australia’s Henderson (south of Perth) facility. Previously Commander of the Australian Submarine Group and the Senior Naval Officer in WA, Deeks takes over from Richard Drain, who has in turn accepted a senior position within the project Sea 4000 Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) program in South Australia. Deeks took up his appointment on 5 November, and is responsible for the Raytheon team in WA, and the performance and expansion of Raytheon’s WA Operations. [03.12.07] AIR SERVICES LETS $28M CONTRACT FOR MAJOR TAAATS UPGRADE: Thales Australia (via its Air Systems division in Melbourne) has been awarded a $28m contract from Airservices Australia to upgrade the Australian Advanced Air Traffic System (TAAATS) with new air traffic control functionality. Launched at the end of October, the program is planned to be completed by 2010, and will see the design, development, delivery and set-to-work of enhancements (including a new multi-sensor surveillance system) to each of the ‘Eurocat’ air traffic systems deployed in TAAATS. Thales Australia is currently delivering a nationwide network of terminal area radars, and has recently provided ADS-B ground stations for Upper Airspace surveillance across areas of continental Australia. [03.12.07] EURO-MERGER IN UNDERWATER WEAPON SYSTEMS: French-based DCNS and Thales, and Italy-based Finmeccanica have signed a Heads of Agreement to merge their underwater weapon system activities, and create three joint-ventures: a ‘Torpedo Program JV’ owned 51% by Finmeccanica and 49% by DCNS - to assume torpedo system engineering, design and development, marketing & sales and program management activities, as well as the overall Design Authority and Customer Interface for torpedoes (both heavy and light weight) and torpedo defence systems; a ‘Torpedo Manufacturing JV’ (same ownership as above) - to be responsible for torpedo manufacturing and support activities, as well as energy module engineering, test and manufacturing; and a ‘Sonar JV’ (owned 51% by Thales and 49% by Finmeccanica) - to be responsible for acoustic head design, development, manufacturing and support activities, as well as the sonar business dedicated to the Italian customer. [03.12.07] INDUSTRIAL CONSOLIDATION STILL ON THE AGENDA: Officials indicated, however, that each of the Joint Ventures' existing industrial sites would be maintained in the current locations: DCNS - through its Underwater Weapon Business Unit; Finmeccanica - through its Whitehead Alenia Sistemi Subacquei SpA subsidiary; and Thales - through its Thales Underwater Systems SAS subsidiary. Each of these companies have been working together for several years, and operate the Eurotorp GEIE consortium for lightweight torpedoes (ie: the MU90 bought by the RAN), and the Euroslat GEIE consortium in the field of anti-torpedo systems. The merger is expected to complete in 2008, with officials indicating that, in due time, they would consider opening the alliance to other European players. Finmeccanica and Thales also signed an MoU for a joint effort to propose, develop and implement a multi-user and integrated Maritime Safety & Security (MSS) project for European maritime areas, in the framework of a common initiative, called ‘Seasame’. [03.12.07] NAVANTIA LAUNCHES FOURTH NORWEGIAN FRIGATE: Spanish-based shipbuilder, Navantia, launched at Fene-Ferrol in northern Spain at the end of last month the fourth (of five) F310-class frigates being built by the Norwegian navy. The F-313 was christened 'Helge Ingstad' in honour of the famous 20th century Norwegian explorer. The subject frigate, whose keel was laid in April last year, has been launched with a slightly higher degree of completion than her earlier sister ships - approximately 75% of the ship has already been completed, and she is expected to be delivered in September 2008. The contract for the construction of the five frigates was signed in June 2000 following an extremely competitive international tender involving the major western shipbuilders. The program provides work through to the end of 2009, when the main focus of activity will become construction of Australia’s two Joint Project 2048 amphibious ships. The first ship of this class – the Spanish Armada’s ‘Juan Carlos I’, is expected to be launched by end-March 2008. [03.12.07] TECHNOLOGY BEING PUSHED ON JSF MISSION SIMULATOR: UK-based SEOS reports it has successfully passed Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) for the first element of the F-35 ‘Lightning II’ display system - the Software Development Center (SDC) - currently being installed in the US. The Full Mission Simulator with FAT is scheduled for spring 2008, and is said to be “pushing the envelope in terms of new technology.” To meet the demanding requirements of the training system, SEOS is widening it's sphere of activity, to include the production of specialist acrylic domes unique in shape and finish for the fast-jet market, and the use of Helmet Mounted Displays. Software addressing efficient pixel management and also the stringent security issues associated with the program has also been developed, and operates hand in hand with SEOS’ 2015HC QXGA LCOS projectors to provide a seamless, integrated display solution. [03.12.07] PRIZE GIVEN FOR SUBMARINE MISSILE DEFENCE SYSTEM: The Defence Industry Committee of the Federation of German Industries (BDI) has recognised ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems-owned Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft (HDW) for its technical innovation in developing a new Interactive Defence System for submarines (IDAS) – essentially a guided missile that can be fired and deployed from a fully submerged submarine (including deep dived submarines) for self-defence against anti-submarine helicopters, as well as surface seaborne targets and targets on land. IDAS remains in contact with the launching submarine via a fine fibre-optic wire, thus providing constant image feedback to the submarine via an infra-red camera installed within the missile, and enabling short-term adjustments to the target or the transmission of a message to abort the mission. IDAS’ first flight trials were successfully completed at the end of 2006. [03.12.07] ADBR 'PACIFIC 2008' SPECIAL EDITION EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING DATES: Australian Defence Business Review (ADBR) magazine has advised it is now in the course of producing its special edition for release at the Pacific 2008 International Maritime Exposition, on 29 January 2008. The special edition will feature lead stories on: ‘Labor Government Approaches to a Changing Defence Industry’; 'Challenges facing the Building of the Air Warfare Destroyers Australia'; ‘Critical Window for Selling the ASC Now Short’; 'Mapping out the Joint Project 2048 Offshore Build Option'; Updating Support Structures for the 'Collins' Submarine Fleet (Sea 1439); ‘Inside the Loop on the FFG Upgrade Audit’; and 'Empowering the RAN with the SM-2 and ESSM Missile Systems'. All materials relating to this edition need to be delivered into ADBR’s Canberra office no later than 11 January 2008. Inquiries for late placements to Paige Darby [+61 (0)2 6260-5944] or email busicom@ozemail.com.au. [03.12.07] DEADLINES FOR PACIFIC 2008 PRINTED DIAR.com SHOW DAILY: Following endorsement from the organisers, the Business Communication Group’s (Busicom) Defence Industry & Aerospace Report (DIAR.com) e-Newsletter will again be providing a printed internet-format Show Daily at the Pacific 2008 International Maritime Exposition, and bringing together all relevant news items generated during the event. DIAR.com will produce a printed newsletter each business day (Tuesday, 29 January to Friday, 1 February) of the exposition, which will be distributed to all stand holders at mid-day on the four substantive trade show days. Inquiries in regard to the placement of news items proposed for inclusion in daily DIAR.com newsletters for distribution at Pacific 2006 should be directed to busicom@ozemail.com.au. [03.12.07] LAST DIAR.COM (#50) FOR 2007 TO BE PUBLISHED 20 DECEMBER: Reflecting the rapidly approaching holiday season and pending Christmas close-down, publication of the next (and last) DIAR.com e-Newsletter for 2007 will be delayed to Thursday morning, 20 December 2007. Barring any defence or other national security catastrophe’s over the Xmas holiday break, the first DIAR.com e-Newsletter for 2008 will be published over Sunday evening for 14 January 2008 receipt by subscribers. DIAR.com management & staff would like to thank all individual and corporate subscribers for their continuing support for Busicom defence information products & services, and wish you all a happy and safe Xmas and ensuing holiday period. [03.12.07]
FORMER DEFENCE MINISTER ELECTED OPPOSITION LEADER: In a narrow (three votes margin) election, former Howard Government Minister for Defence, Dr Brendan Nelson, has been elected Leader of the Opposition, with WA-based Julie Bishop MP to serve as his Deputy, and taking on the portfolio of Industrial Relations. Malcolm Turnbull is to become Treasury spokesman upon the decision of former Treasurer, Peter Costello, to move to the back benches to ponder his future in politics. Senators Nick Minchin and Eric Abetz have been appointed leader and deputy leader in the Senate. The appointment of addition shadow Ministers will await the election of the new Leader of the Nationals following the stepping down of former Howard Government Trade Minister, Mark Vaile. Commenting upon Labor policy in relation to Iraq, Dr Nelson said, “the election is over now and Mr Rudd has a responsibility to do what is right, not just what he thinks is popular.” [30.11.07] SIXTY-EIGHT NH90s ORDERED FOR FRENCH ARMY AVIATION: The French military procurement authority, the Délégation Générale pour l’Armement (DGA), has approved the purchase of up to 68 10-ton NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopters (TTH) for the French Army Aviation (ALAT). The contract signed between the NATO Helicopter Management Agency (NAHEMA) on behalf of the DGA and NHIndustries, mentions a first firm order of 12 NH90 units, with 56 additional options. The new order comes on top of a June 2000 order for 27 NH90 NFH versions to equip the French Navy. The NH90 helicopter program is now the largest ever launched in Europe, with firm orders reaching 507 units for 19 Armed Forces of 14 Nations: France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Greece, Oman, Australia, New-Zealand, Spain and Belgium. [30.11.07] REVIEW OF GLOBAL MARKET FOR UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES: A new Teal Group market study estimates that spending on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) will more than double over the next decade - from current world-wide UAV expenditures of US$3.4b annually to $7.3b within a decade, totalling close to $55b in the next ten years. The most significant catalyst to this market is observed to be the enormous growth of interest in UAVs by the US military, tied to the general trend toward information warfare and net-centric systems. Teal’s study suggests that the US will account for 73% of world-wide RDT&E spending on UAV technology over the next decade, and about 59% of the procurement. The study also provides 10-year funding and production forecasts for the wide range of UAV payloads, including: Electro-Optic/Infrared Sensors, Synthetic Aperture Radars (SARs), SIGINT and EW Systems, C4I Systems, and CBRN Sensors. [30.11.07] ITALIAN BID FOR CONTROLL OF ALL UK VEGA PLC STOCK: Italy-based Finmeccanica is to splurge £61.6m on a cash takeover of UK-based (and London Stock Exchange listed) Vega plc, a company operating in defence, aerospace and government services. Finmeccanica will fund the acquisition by drawing on available lines of credit, and intends to delist the company if at least 75% of Vega's share capital is tendered in acceptance. The acquisition will considerably strengthen Finmeccanica's presence in the UK market in defence electronics, and is said by management to be consistent with the firm’s international growth strategy. Vega chiefly provides engineering and technology consulting services, as well as advanced solutions for simulation and training, particularly in the UK and Germany. Its main programs include: Eurofighter, the Galileo system, NEC (Network Enable Capability) and ‘Watchkeeper’. [30.11.07] PRIME MINISTER-ELECT RUDD OUTLINES HIS MINISTERIAL TEAM: Australian Labor Party Leader, Kevin Rudd, has confirmed that Joel Fitzgibbon will transition from the Opposition Spokesperson on Defence to become Minister for Defence in the 1st Rudd Labor Government Ministry. Fitzgibbon will be supported (Outer Ministry) by NT-based Warren Snowden, who will become Minister for Defence Science & Personnel. Rudd has flagged the appointment of two Parliamentary Secretaries for Defence: Greg Combet – who will be assigned to defence procurement reform; and former military lawyer, Mike Kelly – whose specific duties are still to be defined. Senator John Faulkner will become Special Minister of State, as well as Cabinet Secretary (including Vice President of the Executive Council) – with Rudd signalling all submissions to Cabinet by new Ministers will first have to pass through Senator Faulkner’s hands and, following their approval, will have their implementation also monitored by Faulker. Federal Cabinet is to meet twice before Xmas. [29.11.07] ATTORNEY-GENERAL MCCLELLAND TO PONDER HOMELAND SECURITY?: Prime Minister-elect Rudd has shifted Robert McClelland (formerly Labor’s foreign affairs spokesman) to the position of Attorney-General, whilst delaying the immediate implementation of plans previously developed by Arch Bevis to create a Department of Homeland Security. Rudd says instead, Labor will undertake during the first six months of 2008 “a policy discussion” within the government on how the proposed new homeland security proposal can be advanced. Potential participating agencies will be directed to put submissions to an external Commissioner with parliamentary experience, and report back to the government by the middle of 2008 with recommendations for implementation. Speaking at his first media conference as national head, Rudd said, “I do not want … our security agencies to be confronted with a new ministry of arrangement … caus(ing) them to be pre-occupied with the ministerial re-arranginging rather than the operations they have on foot.” [29.11.07] AEROSONDE TESTED WITH MINI-COMMON DATA LINK: Rockwell Collins and Cubic Defense Applications have confirmed their new Mini-Common Data Link (CDL) system has been successfully flight tested on a AAI-Aerosonde Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) platform – thus bringing CDL capability to one of the smallest Naval Air Systems Command Tier 2-class (set for an RFP later this year) platforms. During the testing, the Mini-CDL demonstrated bi-directional communications with the USMC's new Team Portable - CDL (TP-CDL) terminal. The Mini-CDL prototype, which weighs less than 1.5 pounds, also demonstrated interoperability with existing US Department of Defense CDL ‘Rev. F’ compliant systems. Additional lab testing validated interoperability with the 10.71B waveform. The UAS was further said to have successfully transmitted high-bandwidth streaming video from an on-board video camera to the ground station below. The air terminal achieved data rates up to 10.7 Mbps. [29.11.07] DSTO CEMENTS RELATIONSHIP WITH UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE: Building upon an initial agreement in place since early 2004, the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) and the University of Adelaide have just signed a new Strategic Alliance Agreement, to support a number of initiatives, including a new centre of expertise. DSTO will also sponsor ten $500 scholarships for final-year honours students engaged in the study of future technologies for defence and national security applications. According to the DSTO’s recently-appointed Deputy Chief Defence Scientist (Information and Weapon Systems), Dr Warren Harch, “this renewed agreement strengthens a long-standing mutually beneficial relationship and enhances our ability to communicate at a strategic level across vital areas of research important to the defence of Australia and national security.” The DSTO and the university previously founded (2005) a Centre of Expertise in Photonics, and a Centre of Expertise in Phased Array and Microwave Radar. [28.11.07] NEW STUDY CENTRE IN ADELAIDE TO LOOK AT ‘ENERGETIC MATERIALS’: In a separate initiative, the DSTO and Adelaide-based Flinders University are to establish a new Centre of Expertise in Energetic Materials, to study the chemistry of such materials and support the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with new and improved explosives, pyrotechnics and propellants and methods for their handling and storage. Key focus areas for the new centre include safety & environment, materials & properties, and detection & analysis. It will be based within Flinders University’s School of Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences and will provide opportunities for staff exchanges between the two organisations. Dr Harch says the new research program “is not just about explosives, but all energetic materials including pyrotechnics (such as those used in flares), and propellants used to fire weapons from small arms to artillery.” DSTO will sponsor the centre with $200,000 over three years, and will also fund the university to undertake additional, focused research tasks. [28.11.07] FEMALE ADVENTURERS FLOCK TO ADF GAP YEAR PROGRAM: The Department of Defence says women have been forwarded more than 30% of the letters of offer issued for the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) first ‘Gap Year’ program – 21% of the Army’s recruits, 56% of the Navy’s recruits, and 37% of those joining Air Force. The ADF Gap Year program is intended for students about to finish their Year 12 studies, recent school leavers, and students currently enrolled in tertiary courses. It claims to offer a military experience with a shorter time commitment - with the enlistees signing on for approximately 12 months on pay rates ranging between $30,000 and $46,000 over the year. In the ‘Gap Year’ program’s first year of implementation, Defence Force Recruiting is working to recruit 500 participants for the Army, and 100 each for Navy and Air Force. Once fully established, the program will offer 500 places in the Army and 250 each in the Navy and Air Force. [28.11.07] MICROSOFT ESP BREAKING INTO DEFENCE APPLICATIONS: Adacel has confirmed that its Voice Activated Cockpit (VAC) intelligent speech recognition technology, and its ‘MaxSim’ simulated Air Traffic Control environment, have been integrated with the new Microsoft ESP visual simulation platform. Announced on 14 November, Microsoft ESP is a commercial visual simulation platform that can be used across a wide range of civil and military applications – thus expanding opportunities for the use of simulation in training, as well as enabling easier networking of a wide range of simulators. By working with Microsoft, Adacel Management says the company will offer “additional benefits to civil and military air traffic simulator operators, while reducing development time for new products and related cost reductions by enabling applications to share Microsoft ESP platform technology and future enhancements. Adacel will also be able, for the first time, to offer the integration of a wide range of simulators, including ‘MaxSim’ air traffic control, flight-line driving trainer, flight simulation, unmanned air vehicle and airport security simulation products - thus allowing joint multiplayer simulation scenarios for added realism and increased training value.” [28.11.07] NORTHROP GRUMMAN PICKS-UP MICROSOFT ESP FOR C4ISR: Northrop Grumman Corporation’s Mission Systems sector has confirmed its choice of Microsoft’s ESP visual simulation platform to develop enhanced capabilities for joint military command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR) applications for route and mission planning. The first application project will use Northrop Grumman’s existing software to move from 2-dimensional to 3-dimensional (3-D) planning and immersive fly-though, given Microsoft ESP’s support for high-fidelity, dynamic 3-D experiences. The new mission planning capability will provide for multiple- and single-ship plotting, as well as a pilot’s view in 3-D rendering for aviation mission rehearsal. Accordingly, both pilot and planner will have an enhanced ability to visualise the mission prior to execution, and to identify and correct potential route conflicts with other aircraft. [28.11.07] TENIX & SAAB SIGN LHD COMBAT SYSTEM CONTRACT: Saab Systems has confirmed its signature of a $106m contract with Tenix Marine to design and develop the combat management system for the Royal Australian Navy’s (RAN) two new Joint Project 2048 landing – helicopter & dock (LHD) amphibious ships. Agreement in relation to the contract was completed on 23 November for design, development and integration of the LHD combat system, including its electronic sensors, weapons, and command & control system. Saab Systems will supply the 9LV Combat Management System, and the ‘Sea Giraffe’ agile multi-beam (AMB) radar. The combat system to be installed on the LHD is based on the anti-ship missile defence system upgrade being installed across the RAN’s current ‘Anzac’-class frigates. Special features of the system will include helicopter control, watercraft control and close-in self-defence against military and asymmetric threats. Work is to begin immediately, and will span more than six years until the LHDs are delivered in 2013 and 2015. The majority of the work will be performed in Adelaide and Melbourne. [27.11.07] JOINT AGENCY EFFORT AGAINST ILLEGAL MARITIME ACTIVITIES: A joint agency operation just conducted off the east coast of Australia – and targeted at detecting any illegal activities in national waters - has seen 26 vessels stopped and inspected for compliance with State and Federal laws. The subject Operation ‘Sirius’, targeted all vessels in the Australian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) within 200 nautical miles of the coast between Ballina and Tweed Heads. Similar operations were also carried out during Operation ‘Baker’ in September 2006, and Operation ‘Imagist’ in April 2007. Operation ‘Sirius’ involved the Police Launch ‘Alert’ and the ACV ‘Roebuck Bay’. A Coastwatch Dash 8 surveillance aircraft also provided assistance. Operatiom ‘Sirius’ was coordinated by the NSW Police Marine Area Command. [27.11.07] RNZAF LOOKING FOR ADVANCED PILOT TRAINING AIRCRAFT: The NZ Cabinet has given the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) the green light to begin acquiring advanced pilot training aircraft for the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF). The project aims to find a suitable replacement for the air force's leased 1980s B200 ‘Kingair’ aircraft. At this stage, no decision has been made as to the number and type of aircraft required, and the project cost. A tender is being prepared for release next year seeking submissions from industry to supply aircraft, a training package - including a simulator and other modern training devices - and maintenance and support. The NZ Government has further directed that the capability to be provided through the new training system be managed and run by the NZDF, rather than through outsourced training to other military forces or civilian training organisations. Aircraft to which the training regime will be applied include: C-130 ‘Hercules’, Boeing 757, NH90 helicopter and the P-3K ‘Orion’. [27.11.07] CUBIC NZ EXPORTS TRAINING SYSTEM TO DANISH ARMY: Cubic Defense New Zealand has completed delivery of approximately 1,800 Infantry Weapons Effects Simulation Systems (IWESS) and accessories to the Danish Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation – as part of preparations for a possible Danish Army Combat Training Centre, to include enhanced Military Operations on Urban Terrain (MOUT) facilities and training preparations for peacekeeping in Kosovo, and full-spectrum operations in Afghanistan. IWESS system capabilities for Denmark include: an Identify Friend or Foe capability; a Close Quarter Battle ability; an enhanced range capability allowing events to be reported in real time from the field to an Exercise Control facility; the ability to function in any firing position (ie: to shoot around corners); and to receive and process simulated effects from grenades, mines, artillery, mortar, close air support and vehicles; as well as RFID-equipped medic key tags to provide correct electronic simulation of medical, maintenance and logistics events. [27.11.07] CAE TO COLLABORATE WITH MICROSOFT ON DEFENCE: Montreal (Canada)-based CAE has announced that Microsoft Corporation has selected the company as a worldwide ‘go-to-market’ Industry Priority Solution partner focused on simulation-based solutions, including professional services and commercial-off-the-shelf simulation software. Working together in the defence, public safety and homeland security sectors, Microsoft and CAE will utilise the products, services, and expertise of their respective companies to provide decision support, training, and other simulation-based solutions. CAE's collaboration with Microsoft also includes ‘Presagis’, CAE's company specialising in COTS simulation software, which will be combined with Microsoft ESP - the new visual simulation platform - in the development of overall solutions. [27.11.07] ‘SCANEAGLE’ TESTED ABOARD A US NAVY DESTROYER: The guided-missile destroyer USS ‘Oscar Austin’ (DDG 79) is said to have completed “a robust testing phase” of the Boeing/Insitu ‘ScanEagle’ unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The primary mission of the ‘ScanEagle’ UAV is to provide intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support to the ‘Oscar Austin’ and the Harry S Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG). While in flight, the UAV provides live, high-quality video that helps develop and maintain a Recognised Maritime Picture and further enhances Maritime Domain Awareness. Contractors operate the UAV while Navy intelligence specialists and flight deck crew work side-by-side with the civilians. The UAV has the ability to go as high as 10,000-feet, and the capability to fly more than 20 hours, both day and night. [27.11.07] EADS PICKS-UP SWISS SOLDIER MODERNISATION PROGRAM: EADS Defence & Security, through its integrated Business Unit - Defence & Communications Systems (DCS) - as prime contractor, and Sagem Defence Securite (SAFRAN Group) as main subcontractor, have been awarded an exclusive contract with armasuisse, the Procurement, Technology and Real Estate Centre of the Swiss Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport DDPS, for the prototype phase of IMESS, the future soldier modernisation program, with options for a subsequent industrialisation and first series delivery. The framework contract includes a first development phase plus options for series productions worth more than €120m. The prototype phase will be finalised in September 2008, followed by an optional industrialisation phase in 2009 and optional series production phases in 2010 and 2014 – all subject to approval by the Swiss Parliament. [27.11.07] F-111 SIMULATOR LOGS OVER 100,000 HOURS OF SERVICE: Since first being assembled from kit form by a Wormald/Tyco team in North Sydney in the late-1990s, an F-111C simulator capability subsequently acquired by Thales Australia is now said to have successfully logged over 100,000 total operating hours training RAAF pilots. In September 1993, Thales Australia was awarded a $19m contract to supply a mission simulator to be used by the then F-111C Strike Reconnaissance Group at RAAF Base ‘Amberley’. Commissioned in 1994, the simulator is celebrating 10 years in operational service, with the first operational training activity being conducted on the 13 January 1997. The capability has since achieved 99.9% availability – meaning only 16 hours of lost training time have been experienced throughout the lifespan of the simulator. [26.11.07] RELIEF EFFORT UNDERWAY IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA: The Australian Government has committed $1m to assist the current Papua New Guinea (PNG) natural disaster relief effort, and comprising urgently needed stores, particularly water containers, tarpaulins, generators, blankets and water purification tablets. An amount of $500,000 has been distributed to key non-government organisations (NGOs) who are well placed in PNG to contribute to the relief effort. A senior AusAID officer and his team of staff are assisting the State of Emergency Controller with coordination and distribution efforts. The ADF has deployed single Air Force C-17 sortie to deliver urgent supplies into Port Moresby, supplemented by an RAN heavy landing craft for supplies delivery to Gona Beach and Oro Bay. Three ‘Caribou’ transport aircraft and three Army ‘Black Hawk’ helicopters have also joined the relief effort. [26.11.07] UPGRADE APPROVED FOR RNZN ‘ANZAC’ FRIGATES: The New Zealand Cabinet has approved funding for an upgrade of the platform systems on the Royal New Zealand Navy's (RNZN) two ‘Anzac’-class frigates, HMNZ Ships ‘Te Kaha’ and ‘Te Mana’ – first envisaged under the nation’s long term defence development plant (LTDP). According to NZ government officials, the upgrade includes control and monitoring systems, stability management, attention to each ship’s propulsion system, as well as heating, ventilation and air conditioning, and is expected to cost NZ$50-$60m depending on contract negotiations. The upgrade program is scheduled to begin in 2009. [26.11.07] BOEING DEMONSTRATES UNMANNED SUBMARINE RECOVERY: Boeing reports it has successfully demonstrated, for the first time, that an unmanned undersea vehicle (UUV) can be recovered by an underway submerged submarine, opening up new possibilities for advanced naval operations. During recent tests, a US Navy attack submarine launched the AN/BLQ-11 UUV (formerly called the Long-term Mine Reconnaissance System, or LMRS) from one of its torpedo tubes, whereupon it undertook its mission, then returned to the vessel. The AN/BLQ-11 is designed to launch from the host submarine's torpedo tube to survey, detect and gather data on underwater threats such as mines and other threats. After completing its mission, the vehicle homes and docks with a robotic arm that extends from another of the host submarine's torpedo tubes for recovery back through the launch tube. The system allows operators to retrieve data from the vehicle and prepare it for re-launch. [26.11.07] HOWARD ERA ENDS WITH HISTORIC SHIFT TO RUDD & LABOR: With 75% of the vote counted, the Australian Labor Party (ALP) has won 53.4% of the national vote (two party preferred) in the 2007 Federal Election, with the Coalition (Liberal-National parties) gaining 46.6%. The voting outcome will likely deliver the ALP 86 seats in the House of Representatives, a majority of 22 over the Coalition’s likely 62 seats. The Coalition has also likely lost two Senate seats, meaning it will lose the ability to frustrate Labor’s legislative program after July 2008. Prime Minister in waiting, Kevin Rudd, has told his first conference of initial telephone conversations with the leaders of Indonesia, the UK and the United States. The Labor Cacus will first meet this coming Thursday, with Rudd claiming he will go against traditional Labor practice and pick his own ministerial team shortly after. The former Treasurer, Peter Costello, has declared he will not contest leadership of the Coalition in Opposition, and will instead serve on the back benches whilst building a career post-politics. [25.11.07]
POST-ELECTION DEFENCE & NATIONAL SECURITY ANALYSIS: In a late program change, the 1st National Defence Capability Development Symposium, being held this week (27-28 November) in Canberra, will feature – at the close of the conference – a panel session looking at the implications for future national defence and homeland security policy of the Australian Labor Party’s ascendancy to Federal Government on Saturday night. The second day of the conference includes visits to the DSTO’s Joint Decision Support & Simulation Centre (JDSSC), and Ball Solutions Group’s Advanced Conceptualisation & Evaluation (ACELab) Laboratory. These visits will be followed by a seminar on ‘Capability Development for the Border Protection Command’, as well as a parallel workshop looking at ‘Capability Development for Civil-Military Co-operation’ (CIMIC). Surf www.capabilitydevelopment.org.au for an updated symposium program and late-registration information. [24.11.07] SPECIAL OPERATIONS SOLIDER KILLED IN AFGHANISTAN: The Department of Defence has confirmed an Australian Commando serving with the Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) in Afghanistan has been killed by small arms fire whilst participating in a planned and deliberate attack by Australian forces against Taliban leaders and their supporters in Oruzgan Province. The action in which the subject Private Luke Worsley died was said by the Chief of the Defence Force, ACM Houston, as “characterised by heavy, close quarter fighting. The SOTG was conducting an operation to clear an identified Taliban bomb making facility in Oruzgan Province, when the soldier was hit by small arms fire … the SOTG assault followed several weeks of monitoring and intelligence gathering by Australian and ISAF elements.” [23.11.07] ‘TIGER’ HELICOPTER SIMULATOR ACCREDITED BY DEFENCE: Brisbane-based Australian Aerospace (AAe) reports that the project Air 87 ‘Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH) Full Flight & Mission Simulator (FFMS) has been granted FSD-1 ‘Level 5’ accreditation - equivalent to Europe’s Level D - the first time a flight simulator with two coupled domes has attained the highest level of certification worldwide. The ‘Tiger FFMS’ - located at the Army’s Aviation Centre in Oakey (Qld) - replicates the helicopter’s two separate cockpits – one for the pilot and the other the Battle Captain – and can be operated either coupled as one virtual aircraft, or independently. Formal accreditation of the FFMS was granted to AAe by SIMULINC, a Canberra-based specialist group retained by the Department of Defence and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority to advise on flight simulator standards and accreditations. The simulator will officially be handed over to the Australian Army next month. [23.11.07] SECOND BERYLLIUM EXPOSURE AT DNSD-NSW FACILITY: The Department of Defence has confirmed a second potential contamination to the chemical beryllium at the Defence National Storage and Distribution Centre in Moorebank (NSW), was averted 22 November following the prompt action of a contracted employee. Upon inspecting a package containing damaged equipment, the subject storeman is said to have identified that the physical condition of the equipment may also involve exposure of the chemical beryllium. Immediate action was then taken to close and seal the package, and place it in quarantine. Defence says no decontamination or medical treatment was required, and it will now commence a second investigation into potential beryllium exposures. [23.11.07] UK PILOT-LESS BOMBER TO TRUMP US NAVY SURVEILLANCE UAV?: Updating progress in the UK’s Strategic Unmanned Aerial Vehicle-Experiment (SUAVE) program, a Ministry of Defence (MoD) DE&S team leader has commented the £124m ‘Taranis’ contract will form the basis of its plans to build the first pilot-less front line fighter-bomber. The project will also play a significant first step in sustaining key capabilities in the UK industrial supplier base, and supporting the future fast-jet fleet - in particular, the ‘Typhoon’ and Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). Technology risk reduction and knowledge acquired by industry from ‘Taranis’ activities will underpin an Initial Gate Balance of Investment decision in early-2011, in order to inform the emerging ‘Deep and Persistent Offensive Capability’ (DPOC) within the future combat air force mix – given the ‘Tornado’ and ‘Harrier’ are due to retire from service in the next 20 years. ‘Taranis’ ground-testing is scheduled to begin in early-2009, with the first flight trials due to take place in 2010. Working under a MoD Team Charter is BAE Systems, QinetiQ, Rolls-Royce, Smiths Aerospace and the MoD. [23.11.07] QINETIQ PRIVATISATION QUESTIONED FOR TAXPAYER VALUE: A new UK National Audit Office (NAO) report has concluded the UK Ministry of Defence's (MoD) privatisation of the defence technology business ‘QinetiQ’ (sold to the Carlyle Group), worked to safeguard the viability of a business of national strategic importance, and generated significant proceeds for the taxpayer. Still, the NAO believes the UK taxpayer could have received more money from the deal, given risks remain which the MoD (which retains a 19% shareholding currently worth over £200m) must manage carefully if long term value for money is to be delivered. The NAO's report to Parliament adds the process to establish QinetiQ was well managed against a tight time scale, and the 2006 flotation was well executed. To date proceeds of £576m (net of costs) have been generated for the UK Government. [23.11.07] WHOLESALE REVIEW OF DEFENCE SECURITY AUTHORITY COMING: ‘The Australian’ has reported Secretary of Defence, Nick Warner, will authorise a sweeping review of his Department’s internal security structure – including the roles and responsibilities of the Defence Security Authority (DSA) - to combat a growing number of dangerous security breaches. The move (not revealed by Defence Minister Brendan Nelson during the election campaign), comes after a series of controversial security breaches, including stolen army M72 rocket launchers. The review is reportedly much broader than changes announced by Dr Nelson in September to safeguard defence weapons, which followed the findings of a joint DSA-ASIO audit into stolen weapons. The newspaper quotes a Defence spokesman as saying the DSA review was needed "in response to changed circumstances, (including) |
