Top Story of the Week: India’s ASEAN Defense Sales Effort&
LOOKING AHEAD:
- Members are invited to join the Council for our quarterly discussion with the ASEAN Defense Attachés on Wednesday, December 11th from 4:00 to 5:30 PM. Our featured speaker will be Mr. Daniel Hartnett on the subject of "Air-Sea Battle and the Future of the Rebalance." Please see his attached briefing paper for a preview (click here). To register, please click here. Attendees confirmed to date include Lt. Col. Zil Husam, Embassy of Brunei; Lt. Col. Hung T. Pham, Embassy of Vietnam; and Captain Myint Thein, Embassy of Myanmar.
India Increasing Defense Presence in ASEAN
India’s increasing defense sales to the ASEAN region is putting traction behind its long stated “look east” foreign policy. In October India’s Defense Research and Development Organization participated in South Korea’s ADEX-2013. India’s participation is such events helps to build relationships to develop technology to expand research and development and manufacturing capability. Thus far, India has provided Myanmar with an array of defense supplies including sonar systems and is working to upgrade its defense cooperation with the Philippines and could potentially assist in the Philippines efforts to upgrade a substantially obsolete navy. In October, India signed six MOUs with Indonesia to build bilateral ties in economic and security sectors. India’s increasing efforts may bring it closer to the fore as a regional power.
U.S. Flies B-52 Bombers Over Disputed Territory
Today, in a demonstration of defiance to China’s recently announced extension of its air defense zone, the United States flew two B-52 bombers through the new Air Defense Identification Zone, which encompasses the disputed Senkaku/Diaoyu islands. Although the flight was a routine training mission, the United States military challenged the zone by not registering its flight plan, radio frequency, or transponder information now required by China. The swift U.S. action is thought by some experts to be aimed at both the Chinese, by showing U.S. unwillingness to kowtow to changes in Chinese policy, and the Japanese, by reassuring Japan of U.S. commitment and encouraging them not to take their own action.
Although China responded to concerns that its initial response to Typhoon Haiphan was lackluster by dispatching its “Peace Ark” hospital ship to the Philippines, China continued pressing forward on its other regional territorial dispute, by dispatching its aircraft carrier to the South China Sea to conduct training exercises. News reports continued to trickle out about expanded Chinese capabilities, which include a newly tested stealth drone and a high-speed torpedo enhancing China’s AA/AD weaponry and underscoring the need for countries like Vietnam and the Philippines to continue to focus on maritime acquisitions.
IN THIS UPDATE:
ASEAN
China carrier steams towards disputed South China Sea for drills Reuters 26th Nov 2013?China sent its sole aircraft carrier on a training mission into the South China Sea on Tuesday amid maritime disputes with the Philippines and other neighbors and tension over its plan to set up an airspace defense zone in waters disputed with Japan. The Liaoning, bought used from Ukraine and refurbished in China, has conducted more than 100 exercises and experiments since it was commissioned last year but this is the first time it has been sent to the South China Sea. The Liaoning left port from the northern city of Qingdao accompanied by two destroyers and two frigates, the Chinese navy said on an official news website (navy.81.cn/). While there, it will carry out "scientific research, tests and military drills", the report said. "This is the first time since the Liaoning entered service that it has carried out long-term drills on the high seas," it added. The timing of the drills is bound to raise eyebrows with its neighbors, given the overlapping maritime disputes. China has lodged formal protests with the United States and Japan after both criticized its plan to impose new rules on airspace over disputed waters in the East China Sea. On Tuesday, Australia said it had summoned China's ambassador to express concern over its imposition of the Air Defense Identification Zone. China also claims almost the entire oil- and gas-rich South China Sea, conflicting with claims from Taiwan, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Vietnam. That dispute is one of the region's biggest flashpoints amid China's military build-up and the U.S. strategic "pivot" back to Asia.
The 21st century regional maritime silk road Jakarta Post 22nd Nov 2013?After its inception on April 13, 1949 defense cooperation between Indonesia and China survived ups and downs until bilateral relations between the two countries were frozen in October 1967. The two nations normalized ties in 1990 and gave a boost to their defense cooperation under a strategic partnership agreement signed by presidents of both countries on April 25, 2005. They also signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on bilateral defense cooperation in November 2007 that prompted the establishment of a forum for bilateral consultation regarding defense and military cooperation. It is interesting to note that in fact the legal basis for Indonesia’s defense cooperation with China had been laid down earlier than that with the US. Indonesia’s profound ties with the US only took shape in the framework arrangement on cooperative activities in the field of defense between them and in the Comprehensive Partnership signed in 2010. In view of the momentum of China’s new leadership and the calculative strategy of President Xi Jinping for 2013-2018, Indonesia should make full use of its defense cooperation with China.
ASEAN as pawn in great power game Asia Times 22nd Nov 2013?Territorial disputes in the South China Sea continue to expose divisions inside the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Without a cohesive identity and clear future vision, ASEAN will risk strategic irrelevance and remain at the mercy of great power rivalry between China and the United States for regional influence. While nominally a unified bloc, ASEAN suffers from diverse and sometimes conflicting interests between its member states. With respect to the heated and escalating South China Sea disputes, members diverge on the legitimacy of China's wide-reaching maritime claims and its rising assertiveness in the area. While countries like Cambodia and Laos are seen as sympathetic to China, the Philippines and Vietnam remain strongly opposed. Other states have taken a more neutral position. ASEAN as a whole is no more likely to side with China than it is with the United States or US regional strategic ally Japan. As China and the US jockey for regional dominance, the challenge for ASEAN is positioning itself between the push and pull of the two powers as a unified rather than fragmented bloc. That, however, will be increasingly difficult as China raises concerns the US and Japan are implementing a policy of encirclement to contain its rise.
India’s ASEAN Defense Sales Effort The Diplomat 20th Nov 2013?In late October, India’s Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and its domestic industrial partners exhibited a range of military wares abroad, with a dedicated pavilion for the first time at ADEX-2013 in Seoul. Taken together with reported sales of indigenously developed sonar systems to neighbouring Myanmar and talks with the Philippines about the prospect of supplying two naval frigates, it seems that India is now keen to move beyond mere maintenance and training support to a limited number of ASEAN members. Naturally current and near future sales are likely to be focused on areas where individual ASEAN states seek specific capabilities that India’s domestic industry can supply. The China factor in the background may meanwhile lend something of a maritime edge to these transfers. India’s defence supply relationship with various ASEAN states will unfold on a realistic bilateral basis rather than through any overarching India-ASEAN framework. However, while sensors and munitions can be more readily supplied, major platforms that require sub-systems potentially sourced from other players will create the need for India to co-ordinate closely with the United States and Russia and build a case for its entry into various export control regimes.
With visits to all 10 ASEAN nations, Abe's China containment strategy complete The Asahi Shimbum 18th Nov 2013?Prime Minister Shinzo Abe closed out a two-day visit to Laos and Cambodia, completing a swing to all 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to rally support for his push to counter China's growing presence. In Laos and Cambodia, he promoted economic cooperation and discussed security issues in the context of China exerting more influence in the region. "We've gained support (from Laos) for our policy of 'proactive contribution to peace,' " said Abe at a joint news conference in the Laotian capital. "We will enhance our communication." On the day of his Nov. 17 departure for home, Abe met with his Laotian counterpart Thongsing Thammavong at the prime minister's office in Vientiane. At the joint news conference after the meeting, Abe touched on the two countries' decision to hold regular security meetings between their respective foreign and defense authorities. Since his Liberal Democratic Party returned to power last December, Abe has made five round trips to visit all 10 ASEAN countries. It marked the first time that a Japanese prime minister has visited all ASEAN nations while in office. Abe put priority on discussing security issues during his visits, with the goal of containing China.
Global Spotlight
U.S. Directly Challenges China's Air Defense Zone WSJ 26 Nov 2013
A pair of American B-52 bombers flew over a disputed island chain in the East China Sea without informing Beijing, U.S. officials said Tuesday, in a direct challenge to China and its establishment of an expanded air-defense zone. The planes flew out of Guam and entered the new Chinese Air Defense Identification Zone at about 7 p.m. Washington time Monday, according to a U.S. official. Over the weekend, Beijing said it was expanding its air-defense zone to include the island chain, which is claimed by both Beijing and Tokyo but administered by Japan. The islands, the source of growing friction in the region, are known as the Diaoyu in China and Senkaku in Japan. U.S. defense officials earlier had promised that the U.S. would challenge the zone and wouldn't comply with Chinese requirements to file a flight plan, radio frequency or transponder information. The flight of the B-52s, based at Anderson Air Force Base in Guam, were part of a long-planned exercise called Coral Lightning. The bombers weren't armed and weren't accompanied by escort planes. But the routine flight took on new significance with China's weekend announcement, and it counters Beijing's attempts to strengthen its influence over the region. China had warned that aircraft that don't comply could be subject to a military response.
Who Is Fighting China's War On Terror? The Diplomat 26th Nov 2013?Nearly a month after an intentional car crash in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square killed five and injured 40, a group called the Turkestan Islamic Party (TIP) has claimed responsibility for the attack. According to the SITE monitoring service, the TIP released a Uyghur-language audio recording from leader Abdullah Mansour claiming responsibility for the attack. The Turkestan Islamic Party is a known alias for the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), the group that Beijing originally claimed was responsible for the attack. The video is likely to trigger an increase in Beijing’s counter-terrorist activities, especially because of its ominous promise of future attacks by its “holy warriors” against targets such as the Great Hall of the People. Before the October 28 attack, few Chinese and even fewer outside China had even heard of ETIM. As Tyler Roney explained earlier on The Diplomat, human rights activists worry that Beijing exaggerates the influence of ETIM to avoid criticism for its aggressive crack-downs in Xinjiang. Some even claim ETIM might not actually exist. “Today, we do not believe ETIM exists as an organization. Nobody has any substantive evidence of its existence,” said Uyghur American Association President Alim Seytoff in an interview with The Diplomat.
A New Washington Naval Conference for Asia? The Diplomat 26th Nov 2013?Following the end of World War I, Asia was a theater witnessing some worrying developments, particular the rise of Japan and associated tensions. In response, then U.S. President Warren Harding convened a peace conference in Washington, between November 12, 1921 and February 6, 1922, which would later be referred to as the “Washington Naval Conference” or the “Washington Disarmament Conference.” Nine countries attended: the U.S., Japan, China, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Holland, Portugal and Belgium, but not the USSR. Negotiations were primarily geared towards naval disarmament in the Pacific Ocean and East Asia, and gave way to three major treaties. These treaties helped to curtail the naval buildup in the region for a period and supported a fragile peace throughout the 1920s and 30s, up to their renunciation by Japan in 1936. Although the conference’s outcomes and effectiveness remain the subject of debate, it is nonetheless considered by many a successful milestone in disarmament. Almost a century later, could a modernized version of the Washington Naval Conference be useful, or even necessary, to deal with the competing programs and patterns of naval modernizations being witnessed in the region?
China must rescind its air zone over disputed islands WP 25th Nov 2013?Over the weekend, China abruptly raised the stakes in a long-simmering dispute over Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands in a manner that is worrisome and reckless. China unilaterally announced the imposition of a new “air defense identification zone” over a broad swath of the sea, demanding that planes identify themselves to China and obey its orders or face potential military action. The zone overlaps a similar one maintained by Japan and is nothing less than an assertion of sovereignty. At issue are a string of uninhabited islands that are claimed by both countries. Last year, Japan bought them from a private owner; China increased the frequency of patrol ships, and Japan responded with patrols of its own. The United States is neutral in the territorial dispute but committed to the defense of Japan, and it has repeatedly urged both Asian powers to negotiate.
Clash for Naval Power in the Asia Pacific USNI 25th Nov 2013?As China builds a coast guard with ties to the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), the quest for naval power becomes more complicated as the U.S. Navy shifts towards the Asia Pacific. Different from international norms, China’s coast guard (CCG) is led by Communist Party politics at the highest levels and includes a direct working relationship with the PLAN. As a rising naval power, this closely linked command-and-control structure creates flexibility and synchronization for naval operations in the East and South China Seas to protect territorial claims. The United States has an interest in reducing future maritime miscalculations in the Asia Pacific. That requires a grasp of Chinese political and military relationships, without which the probability for a clash may increase. Most scholars, policymakers, and members of the national security community focus their attention on China’s hard naval power: military ships, submarines, weapons, and aircraft. To understand China’s developing naval strength, one also should examine the impact of China’s soft naval power—including civilian ships and aircraft involved in humanitarian, law enforcement, and ocean research operations. By combining hard and soft power elements, a nation can develop a robust naval presence having applications in peace or wartime.
America Has No Military Strategy for China RCD 25th Nov 2013?Given the intense media focus on the woes of Obamacare’s rollout, it’s not surprising that no one paid much attention when Japan scrambled its fighters three days in a row beginning on October 24th in response to Chinese military aircraft’s incursions into Japan’s airspace as the so far bloodless maneuvering over claims to Japan’s Senkaku islands sharpens. A miscalculation that drew fire has the potential to enmesh us in a dispute that serves no one’s interest. An escalation of such a dispute would be disastrous. Yet the U.S. has no strategy for a conflict with China. The sole U.S. preparation for such an outcome is a set of ideas known as the AirSea Battle, (ASB). The ASB is a concept that has taken root in the U.S. Defense Department as the Obama administration talks about rebalancing forces from the Middle East to Asia, and as the American high command gradually accepts the possibility that China may be a strategic competitor to the U.S. The idea of ASB—a new approach to coordinating military services’ roles in combat, and not a strategy—comes in two parts: to preserve large American forces’ ability to bring power to bear by destroying an enemy’s command and control infrastructure; and to defeat the defenses that allow the launch of low-cost, proliferating, and increasingly accurate missiles.
Pentagon builds forces in Pacific, eyes China USA Today 25th Nov 2013?The Pentagon is fortifying bases in the Pacific and looking to revive World War II-era air bases as part of an effort to survive a Chinese missile attack that could wipe out critical installations on Okinawa and elsewhere, military records, interviews and congressional testimony show. The strategy indicates the evolution of the administration's shift toward Asia, which includes the creation of a growing base in northern Australia. Chinese missiles have been a preoccupation of Pentagon planners who worry they could be used as a threat to deny access to the region by U.S. ships, planes and troops. Chinese ballistic missiles — termed anti-access, area denial weapons — mean that virtually every U.S. base in the Pacific is under "heavy threat," said Michael Lostumbo, director of the RAND Center for Asia Pacific Study. A RAND report found that 90% of the bases were within 1,080 nautical miles of China, the distance it defined as being under heavy threat.
China creates new air defense zone in East China Sea amid dispute with Japan Wall Street Journal 23rd Nov 2013?China said Saturday that noncommercial aircraft entering a broad zone over the East China Sea must first identify themselves to Beijing, at the risk of facing “defensive emergency measures” by Chinese armed forces. China’s establishment of a so-called air defense identification zone, announced by its Ministry of National Defense, adds a new dimension to the simmering territorial dispute with Japan and raises the odds of armed conflict. The eight uninhabited islands at the center of that dispute fall within China’s new aerial zone. Based on guidelines that China’s Defense Ministry released Saturday, any Japanese aircraft flying around those islands would need to submit their flight plans to China’s Foreign Ministry or civil aviation administration. They would also need to maintain radio communication with Chinese authorities. China did not detail what measures it would take against aircraft that disobey, but defense experts say its military could scramble jets or even shoot down planes it views as a threat. Later Saturday, the country’s air force conducted its first air patrol after the establishment of the new zone, with two large scouts leading the mission and early-warning aircraft and fighters providing support and cover, according to the official Xinhua News Agency.
China 'flies first stealth drone' - reports BBC 22nd Nov 2013?China successfully flew a stealth drone for the first time on Thursday, state media said, citing eyewitness reports. A drone, called "Sharp Sword" by the media, made a test flight for around 20 minutes in Chengdu, reports said. China has been developing stealth aircraft in recent years, including J-20 and J-31 stealth fighters. In September, an unmanned drone flew close to a group of disputed islands in the East China Sea, raising tensions with Japan.
What China Is Learing From the U.S. Military National Journal 20th Nov 2013?As Typhoon Haiyan slammed into the Philippines on Nov. 2, about 60 soldiers from the Chinese military were in Hawaii taking part in a joint military exercise with the United States and several other nations to better coordinate relief efforts in the event of a typhoon in the region. The military exercise was timely, if not ironic, but it also underscores China's growing willingness to work with its neighbors, even if they're not allies. After first offering just $100,000 in aid, China has now pledged $1.4 million after a recent editorial in China's Global Times criticized the government for not doing more for the Philippines, which lies right across the contested South China Sea. "China, as a responsible power, should participate in relief operations to assist a disaster-stricken neighboring country, no matter whether it's friendly or not. China's international image is of vital importance to its interests. If it snubs Manila this time, China will suffer great losses," the editorial said. China is learning what U.S. military leaders have known for some time, which is that disaster relief and humanitarian aid are among of the most effective tools in the national security toolbox. It's also central to the Pentagon's post-war rebalance to the Asia-Pacific.
India’s Emerging Blue-Water Navy The Diplomat 19th Nov 2013?On November 16, the Indian Navy finally took delivery of aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, formerly the Adm. Gorshkov, at Sevmash Shipyard in northern Russia’s Severodvinsk town. The acquisition marks a new phase in India’s quest to become a true blue-water navy. The handover ceremony of the 44,570-tonne carrier is sure to have generated more than a passing interest within the PLA Navy and across the rest of the continent, since India will be the only country in Asia to have two aircraft carriers in its fleet. Admittedly, the 55-year old INS Viraat is “long in the tooth” as India’s Navy Chief Admiral D. K. Joshi himself described it in a recent interview, but it will continue to operate until India’s locally built carrier INS Vikrant becomes operational by 2017. At the moment, only the U.S. Navy brings that sort of capability to Asia. Although it is coming five years late – the original delivery was scheduled for 2008 – the Vikramaditya will give India the ability to project raw naval power in its “near abroad” as well as in its extended neighborhood. With a capacity to carry two dozen Mig-29 K fighter jets and 10 Kamov helicopters at any given time on board and fitted with the latest sensors and missiles, the brand-new aircraft carrier will boost the Indian Navy’s firepower significantly.
China’s ‘Mystery Warriors’ The Diplomat 18th Nov 2013?There’s a joke among students here at Northeastern University in China’s northeast city of Shenyang. Every fall, it begins, America’s intelligence agencies are baffled by the sudden and drastic increase in the ranks of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA). For a few brief weeks, the PLA’s numbers are swelled with new recruits – 6 million last year – curiously all on college campuses. But within a month, the new recruits have vanished, nowhere to be seen. The Americans are left scratching their heads, wondering what happened to these mystery warriors and when they might reappear. The “mystery warriors” are really just college freshmen. Every year, first-year university students all across China participate in their mandatory regimen of military training before the start of classes. The training, held either on campus or at the nearest military base, lasts a few weeks prior to the start of classes. Students may be equipped with firearms and dispatched to a shooting range for target practice. Or they may be given gas masks and medical equipment to run an emergency response drill. There are compulsory lecture series – closed to international students and foreign teachers – in which students are introduced to national defense strategy and the latest in Party doctrine.
Chinese Military Mimics U.S., Looks to Disaster Relief to Change Perceptions Defense One 18th Nov 2013?As Typhoon Haiyan slammed into the Philippines on Nov. 2, about 60 soldiers from the Chinese military were in Hawaii taking part in a joint military exercise with the United States and several other nations to better coordinate relief efforts in the event of a typhoon in the region. The military exercise was timely, if not ironic, but it also underscores China’s growing willingness to work with its neighbors, even if they’re not allies. After first offering just $100,000 in aid, China has now pledged $1.4 million after a recent editorial in China’s Global Times criticized the government for not doing more for the Philippines, which lies right across the contested South China Sea. “China, as a responsible power, should participate in relief operations to assist a disaster-stricken neighboring country, no matter whether it's friendly or not. China's international image is of vital importance to its interests. If it snubs Manila this time, China will suffer great losses,” the editorial said. China is learning what U.S. military leaders have known for some time, which is that disaster relief and humanitarian aid are among of the most effective tools in the national security toolbox. It’s also central to the Pentagon’s post-war rebalance to the Asia-Pacific.
Russia Handed Over INS Vikramaditya to India Defense Studies 17th Nov 2013?Russia handed over to India its aircraft carrier renamed INS Vikramaditya on Saturday after a much-delayed refit and cost escalations that led to disagreements between Moscow and New Delhi. The Indian Navy finally received its modified carrier – formerly known in Russian as Admiral Gorshkov - at the Sevmash shipyard in the northern town of Severodvinsk. The ship was first scheduled to be delivered in 2008, but the deadline was repeatedly postponed over the period. The official ceremony was attended Saturday by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin and Indian Defense Minister AK Antony, who arrived in Russia on Friday for a four-day visit. The commissioning papers were signed by deputy director of Russia’s arms exporter Rosoboronexport Igor Sevastyanov and the ship’s Indian captain Suraj Berry.
Is North Korea’s Navy Finally Falling Apart? The Diplomat 15th Nov 2013?North Korea’s state news agency (KCNA) and South Korea’s Chosun Ilbo reported on November 4 that two North Korean ships sank only a few days apart in mid-October during military drills in the East Sea. With KCNA releasing several photos of North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un visiting the newly erected gravestones for the approximately 15-30 perished sailors, the two naval accidents have become a political tool in Pyongyang’s domestic power games. While it is extremely rare for the state media to report on North Korean military accidents, the two separate incidents do beg the question: Is the DPRK’s navy finally falling apart? Media reports have so far identified the two sunken ships as the 60-meter long, 375-ton Hainan-class Submarine Chaser No. 233, and an undisclosed 100 to 200-ton North Korean patrol boat. The Hainan-class is a Chinese-built anti-submarine warfare vessel. Some 126 of these boats were assembled from the 1960s to the mid-1980s. According to IHS Jane’s, 26 of these vessels were fitted for export to countries like Bangladesh, Egypt, Myanmar, Pakistan and North Korea. Pyongyang received its Hainan delivery in three shipments during 1975 to 1978.
Air-Sea Battle 2.0: A Global A2/AD Response The Diplomat 14th Nov 2013?In a recent article here in Flashpoints, William Yale attempts to make the case that Air-Sea Battle is, as the title points out a “dangerous, unaffordable threat.” Indeed, such an argument has been made before among a vocal crowd here in Washington defense circles. One of the chief concerns among such anti-ASB voices is the often repeated fear that “long-range strikes deep within the Chinese mainland, are highly escalatory and offer no good way to end a limited war.” Unfortunately for Yale and others who make similar arguments against ASB, the operational concept has evolved and matured – while their line of attack has not. In order to debate the issue, one must have an idea of what ASB is today, and not what it was or at least was perceived to be in the past. But first, it’s worth noting that ASB is easily misunderstood. That’s because much of the analysis and controversy is driven from the first major ASB publication, the 2010 Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments study (which according to at least one source received no input from DOD). ASB has evolved dramatically since this founding document, as attested to by the Joint Operational Access concept, comments by senior officials as well as public documents from the ASB office itself.
China Tests High-Speed Precision-Guided Torpedo Free Beacon 14th Nov 2013?China’s navy recently conducted a test of a new high-speed maneuvering torpedo that poses a threat to U.S. ships and submarines. Defense officials said the new torpedo is the latest example of what the Pentagon calls Beijing’s anti-access, area-denial, or AA/AD, high-tech weaponry. Other new weapons include China’s recently deployed anti-ship ballistic missile, the DF-21D, which is designed to sink U.S. aircraft carriers far from China’s shores. China’s military showcased last month another high-tech weapon designed to target Navy ships and submarines. U.S. submarines are considered one of the U.S. military’s most important counter weapons to the AA/AD threat.
The Politics of China’s Growing Arms Sales The Diplomat 14th Nov 2013?A recent article in the New York Times highlighted China’s rise as a major arms exporter. The mainstream discovery of China’s growing weight in the international arms trade won’t surprise many close observers (or many Diplomat readers), but it’s nevertheless worthwhile to study the trends in some detail. According to SIPRI, China is the fastest growing arms major arms exporter in the past decade. Also, Chinese arms exports have moved beyond small arms and into heavier equipment, such as aircraft and warships.
Brunei
USS Freedom Visits Brunei, Prepares for Operation Damayan US Navy 18th Nov 2013?USS Freedom (LCS 1) arrived at Brunei's port of Muara Nov. 18 to take on fuel and supplies in preparation to support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts in the Philippines. The port visit occurs during the annual bilateral exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Brunei with the U.S. Navy and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces. The exercise commenced Nov. 13 and continues through Nov. 19. Though Freedom's participation in CARAT Brunei was delayed, planning continues to conduct a brief passing exercise with a Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) offshore patrol vessel while en route to the Philippines. Since arriving in Southeast Asia in April, Freedom has worked with many regional navies that operate comparable-sized ships during a series of port visits, exercises, and exchanges. These engagements directly support the Asia-Pacific rebalance and further reinforced cooperation and interoperability among the Navy's partners and allies throughout Southeast Asia.
Brunei, Malaysia military officials discuss cooperation Brunei Times 18th Nov 2013?Military officials from Brunei and Malaysia convened in the Sultanate recently for the 16th consultative meeting of the Joint Defence Working Committee (JDWC) between both countries. The meeting, held last Wednesday, was co-chaired by the Permanent Secretary of Defence Police and Development at Brunei’s Ministry of Defence, Colonel (Rtd) Pg Dato Paduka Hj Azmansham Pg Hj Mohamad, and the Secretary General at Malaysia’s Ministry of Defence, Dato’ Sri Dr Hj Ismail Ahmad. Both sides discussed the recent position and development of defence cooperation between the two countries, including the direction for the future. Other topics discussed were the provision of courses and training, visits, joint exercises, exchange of staff and personnel as well as further discussions on the cooperation between the ministries and armed forces.
Military training helps to improve interoperability Brunei Times 15th Nov 2013?THE Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2013 exercise launched yesterday is aimed at strengthening multilateral and bilateral cooperation between Brunei and the United States (US). As part of the exercise, a P-3 Orion Aircraft was on display at the Rimba Airbase yesterday which is open exclusively to military personnel. The P-3 Orion Aircraft is usually deployed for maritime surveillance, antisubmarine warfare, anti service warfare and Search and Rescue (SAR) purposes, as it can accommodate 21 people including the airship crews. A tour by Lieutenant John Maddox and the crew was also provided for the media. The Lieutenant informed that the trainings and activities can foster friendship among Royal Brunei Navy officers (RBN) and the United States Navy (USN). “In the CARAT exercise, we are to work with the Brunei participants to build relationships through activities like search and rescue (SAR), disaster preparedness and working together as two militaries,” said Lieutenant Maddox.
Military officials wrap up meeting Brunei Times 14th Nov 2013?The 17th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) – Heads of Universities, Colleges and Institutions Meeting (HDUCIM) concluded on a high note yesterday after two days of discussions on the contemporary operating environment for military missions. Colonel Hj Abd Hadi Hj Saim, Bruneian co-chair of the meeting, said complex missions undertaken by many states require meticulous coordination from all parties involved. “Today’s armed forces often conduct tasks where religious or cultural sensitivity must be understood so that our missions will be made easier,” he said during the closing ceremony at The Rizqun International Hotel in Gadong. Col Hj Abd Hadi said there had been “genuine real-time information” provided by the 25 participating member states. He said the level of transparency on the theme of “Cooperation in Research and Academic Curricula on the Contemporary Operating Environment” enabled them to draw valuable lessons from the discussions.
Cambodia
12 China-Made Helicopters Delivered to Cambodia Defense Studies 26th Nov 2013?Twelve Chinese-built Zhi-9 (Z-9) utility helicopters, which Cambodia had purchased from China, were delivered to the Royal Cambodian Air Force on Monday. The handover ceremony was held at the capital's Military Airbase between Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Tea Banh and Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Bu Jianguo. Tea Banh said the helicopter delivery was a new historic achievement in addition to numerous supports the Chinese government has given to Cambodia. "The helicopters will be used to serve training in order to strengthen capacity for the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces in defending territorial integrity and in cracking down on offenses in remote areas," he said. "They will also be used for humanitarian activities such as disasters." Tea Banh also highly spoke of excellent relations and cooperation between Cambodia and China under the leadership of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and Chinese leadership.
Helicopters to ‘protect’ government PPP 25th Nov 2013?As political deadlock continues, Minister of Defence Tea Banh yesterday used the unveiling of 12 Chinese-made military helicopters to announce that the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces stand “ready to protect” the government and constitution, following what he called “free and fair” elections in July. Speaking in the presence of the Chinese ambassador to Cambodia, Bu Jianguo, at a ceremony to show off the Z-9 helicopters – acquired as part of a $195 million deal with China inked in 2011 – Banh said the current one-party National Assembly had legitimacy and thus the support of the military. “The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces are ready to protect the Kingdom’s constitution and the government,” he said, adding that the elections had been conducted fairly, and China had congratulated the Cambodian People’s Party on its victory. Banh did not say, however, what he envisaged that protection could be – or what the constitution and government might need protecting from. The helicopters, he stated, would “strengthen the capacity for protection of sovereignty” and be used to “crack down on offences”, including cross-border smuggling. He also added that the Z-9s would help combat natural disasters. Banh also talked up relations between the two countries, pledging support to its ally’s “One China Policy”.
Cambodian defense minister visits China to further strengthen ties Global Times 16th Nov 2013?Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Gen. Tea Banh on Saturday left for Beijing for an unofficial visit to further enhance bilateral ties and cooperation. "My visit is to discuss some tasks with the Chinese counterpart in order to further promote military relations and cooperation," he told reporters at the capital's airport before departure. "We need some help from the Chinese friend in order to develop capacity for Cambodian armed forces." Cambodia and China have constantly maintained and further developed military ties through the visit exchange of both sides' senior military officials and China's assistance for military human resources development. China has helped Cambodia since 2002 to build the Infantry Institute in Kampong Speu province, about 90 kilometers west of capital Phnom Penh. Earlier this year, some 160 Cambodian military students had completed training courses in China.
Japan, Cambodia to boost cooperation on maritime security Global Post 16th Nov 2013?Japan and Cambodia agreed during their summit Saturday that they will seek to enhance maritime security by establishing the principle of the rule of law to settle disputes in the Asia-Pacific region. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his Cambodian counterpart Hun Sen also decided to advance cooperation between their defense authorities and work together to improve health and medical care in Cambodia, according to a joint statement released after their meeting in Phnom Penh. The two leaders "underscored the importance of settling maritime disputes by peaceful means in accordance with universally recognized principles of international law...in order to establish the principle of the rule of the law in the Asia-Pacific region," the statement said. The document reflects territorial rows between China and some Southeast Asian countries in the South China Sea as well as one between China and Japan in the East China Sea.
Indonesia
Indonesia Halts Intelligence Exchange With Australia Bloomberg 21st Nov 2013?Protesters in Jakarta burned Australian flags and called for a break in diplomatic ties as tensions between the two countries escalated to their highest level in 14 years over claims the phones of Indonesia’s leaders were tapped. President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has called a halt to cooperation with Australia on asylum seekers, military operations and intelligence sharing. As the dispute escalated, a person claiming to be from the Anonymous Indonesia group said it carried out a cyber attack on Australia’s central bank. Several hundred people gathered outside the Australian embassy in Jakarta today, burning that country’s flag, police said. Indonesians were demanding an apology from Australia, said protester Donny Manurung, from a local youth group, and more rallies were planned. Prime Minister Tony Abbott has ruled out an apology over the tapping claims, which potentially complicate his bid for a free-trade pact with Indonesia after two-way trade reached A$14.6 billion ($13.6 billion) last year. Abbott, who told voters before the Sept. 7 election his diplomatic focus was on “Jakarta, not Geneva,” is seeking Yudhoyono’s help to prevent asylum seekers reaching Australia by boat.
Aust, US aim to improve Indonesia ties Sky News 21st Nov 2013?Australia and the US will seek ways to increase defence cooperation with Indonesia, despite Jakarta halting some defence exercises due to an escalating diplomatic row. At the top level Australia United States Ministerial (AUSMIN) talks held in Washington, both nations commended Indonesia for its leadership of regional security organisations and for promoting regional peace and security. "They agreed to seek opportunities to increase defence cooperation with Indonesia, including on humanitarian and disaster relief operations," the final communique released on Thursday (AEDT) says. US secretary of state John Kerry refused to buy into the diplomatic row between Australia and Indonesia over claims that Australia eavesdropped on Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's mobile phone calls in 2009. "We just don't talk about intelligence matters in public and we're not going to begin now," he told reporters at the post-AUSMIN media conference in Washington. When Foreign Minister Julie Bishop was asked whether Australia had registered its displeasure with the US over leaking of US intelligence documents by Edward Snowden, she said: "We do not discuss intelligence matters, certainly not allegations." AUSMIN is the peak forum for Australia-US discussion of strategic issues and is held annually.
Indonesian Army Developing Anti-Tapping Technology National News Agency of Malaysia 20 Nov 2013
The Indonesian Army (TNI-AD) in cooperation with University of Surya, is currently conducting research to develop an anti-tapping device, Indonesia's Antara news agency reported an official as saying on Tuesday. "With the anti-tapping technology, at least no one can bug the army," the Chief of Staff for Army, General Budiman said. He added that the device is also expected to help prevent Indonesian officials' phone calls from being intercepted. However, according to Antara, the initiative to develop an anti-tapping technology was not due to the recent wiretapping activities of Australia and the United States in Indonesia. "We commenced the research two months ago," Budiman said, adding that there were 12 kinds of research being carried out jointly with the University of Surya. The army and the University of Surya will also develop other military defence technologies, such as satellites, explosives, nano technology and vaccination. The total budget for technology development is estimated to be Rp35 billion (RM9.65 million). The army had also collaborated with Biofarma, PT Cyberworld Network Indonesia (CNI) and other research institutions for such initiatives.
Sagem Navigation System Selected by DSME of South Korea for Indonesian Submarines Defense Studies 19th Nov 2013?Sagem (Safran) beat out an international field to win the contract from Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co. Ltd (DSME) of South Korea as prime contractor for the navigation system to be installed on three 1,400 ton ocean-going submarines to be deployed by the Indonesian navy. Ordered by Indonesia in 2012, this new class of ocean-going submarine is the first South Korean-designed submarine to be sold in international markets. The Sagem navigation system (NAVS) offers outstanding reliability and precision, making it the best system for demanding submarine missions, whether at sea or for operations along coastlines. NAVS comprises two high-performance Sigma 40XP laser gyro inertial reference units, a computer and safety-critical navigation software, all contributing to the submarine’s stealth and safety during dives.
MANIS sweetens security cooperation Jakarta Post 19th Nov 2013?Australia’s bilateral ties with Indonesia and multilateral security ties through the Five Power Defense Arrangements (FPDA) are important regional security mechanisms. But there are limitations inherent in these arrangements that preclude an amalgamation. With cross-border regional security concerns affecting Indonesia and its contiguous countries, there is scope for a subregional geographic grouping to emerge to facilitate enhanced regional security cooperation. Such a forum — including one with Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia and Singapore (or MANIS) — could help address regional security concerns and “sweeten” regional security cooperation. Australia can look with some satisfaction at how the relationship with Indonesia has recovered since the nadir of 1999, when Australia led the international intervention force into East Timor. It took the trauma of the Bali bombings, the Jakarta bombings and the Indian Ocean tsunami to rebuild bilateral ties with Australia. These ties were rebuilt through a concerted effort by Australia and its various government agencies.
More Leopards In Indonesia Strategy Page 19th Nov 2013?After a few more months of negotiations there has been a final settlement on terms for the Indonesian purchase of a large quantity of Cold War surplus armored vehicles from Germany. These include 103 Leopard 2A6 tanks, 42 Marder 1A3 infantry fighting vehicles, and 11 Leopards modified for support functions (4 Armored Recovery Vehicles, 3 mobile bridge-layers, and 3 AEVs for engineering work under fire). The deal is worth about $280 million and has been under negotiation for several years. Some of the vehicles have already arrived in Indonesia for evaluation and been seen in public. This German armor is based on 1970s and 80s designs and is replacing even older British and French items from the 1950s and 60s. Indonesia has no real enemies nearby, and a hundred modern tanks should be able to handle any local emergency. All the remaining vehicles on this deal will be delivered by 2016. Nearby Singapore, which Indonesia is generally on good terms with, bought some Leopard 2A4 tanks in 2004 and has been satisfied with them. That apparently influenced the Indonesians.
Thales to Supply Mission Suite for Indonesian PKR Vessels Defense Studies 18th Nov 2013?Thales announced the signing of a contract with the Dutch shipyard Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding for the delivery and installation of a full mission systems suite for the two PKR class vessels under construction for the Indonesian Navy. Thales will supply the latest release of the TACTICOS Combat Management System; SMART-S Mk2 surveillance radar; STIR 1.2 Mk2 EO fire control system; KINGKLIP sonar; LINK-Y datalink, as well as its naval communication and navigation systems. The first delivery is scheduled for the end of 2014. The programme is scheduled to end in 2017.
Raytheon - Lockheed Martin's Javelin JV Gets Contract to Produce Block I Javelin Missile for Indonesia and Other Countries Defense Studies 18th Nov 2013?The Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) and Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) Javelin Joint Venture received a $176 million contract for the production and delivery of 842 Block I Javelin missile rounds and 120 command launch units (CLUs). The contract was awarded to the Javelin Joint Venture in September. The missiles will be provided through the U.S. government to the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps and three international customers: Oman, Jordan and Indonesia. Funded with Special Defense Acquisition Funds, the CLUs will be delivered to the U.S. Army beginning October 2014. "The Javelin Joint Venture is providing U.S. and allied warfighters with an affordable, versatile and lethal one-man-portable, anti-tank, guided missile and surveillance weapon," said Jeff Miller, Raytheon Javelin program director and Javelin Joint Venture president. "This contract is important to the Javelin program because the CLU retrofit business keeps our production line warm through mid-2015." Javelin enhances direct-fire capability against armored vehicles, buildings and field fortifications. Using the Javelin missile system, a single infantryman can engage and defeat targets in close combat and at ranges up to two-and-a-half kilometers.
Australia’s Humiliation on the High Seas Asia Sentinel 14th Nov 2013?Last week, Australia’s Abbott government was forced into an embarrassing climb-down when a boatload of asylum seekers called for help just 57 nautical miles from the Sunda Strait. An Australian customs craft, HMAS Ballarat went to assist. But when the Ballarat sought permission to drop off the asylum seekers at the nearest Indonesian port, the Indonesians turned them down. The standoff continued in the Java Sea for a couple of days until Australia backed down and ferried the asylum seekers to Christmas Island in Australian territory. What was ugliest about the stand-off was not the events on the sea, but the exchanges between both governments that took place during and after the incident. It dovetailed with irritation over Premier Tony Abbott’s pre-government campaign pledge to “turn back the boats” of asylum seekers to Indonesia and took place against the backdrop of revelations of Australia spying on Indonesia from its embassy in Jakarta and a number of cyber attacks on Australian business and government websites by Anonymous Indonesia. In short, what came out of these exchanges was that Indonesia strongly believes that Australia should not act unilaterally and that the two should seek a comprehensive bilateral solution to the problem.. In contrast, Abbott in a radio broadcast said he was not happy about the Australian vessel being refused permission to drop off the asylum seekers, who were picked up within the Indonesian search and rescue zone.
Enhancing the India-Indonesia Strategic Partnership Cogit Asia 14th Nov 2013?In early October, Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh made his first official bilateral visit to Indonesia. The trip, which saw the inking of six pacts between the largest and third largest democracies and fellow G-20 economies, marked a significant boost for a burgeoning strategic partnership which holds promise not only for both sides, but for India’s relationship with Southeast Asia and the broader Asia-Pacific region as well. Though India and Indonesia are modern day littoral neighbors separated by just 80 miles, their initial anti-colonial solidarity in the 1950s later gave way to divergent security interests for most of the Cold War. It was only in the 1990s, as India began its ‘Look East Policy’ and Indonesia underwent reforms after the fall of Suharto, that cooperation began to take off and both sides signed a strategic partnership in 2005, and Indonesian president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono was given the honor of being India’s chief guest for its 2011 Republic Day celebration. Today, Jakarta and New Delhi realize that the rationale for a strong India-Indonesia Strategic Partnership is clearer than ever. India and Indonesia are vibrant democracies, and influential regional powers that share interests on various issues including economic development, food security, counter-terrorism, and maritime security. Both face similar economic development issues and governance challenges such as lower growth rates over the past year and corruption.
Malaysia
Top-secret exposé: Singapore helping US spy on Malaysia Yahoo! 25th Nov 2013?Neighbouring Singapore is a key partner of the “5-Eyes” intelligence group which was revealed to have tapped telephones and monitored communications networks in Kuala Lumpur, according to more top secret documents leaked by intelligence whistleblower Edward Snowden. In a report by Australian media group Fairfax Media today quoting Dutch daily NRC Handelsblad, it was revealed that Singapore is a key “third party” providing the ring — made of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand — access to Malaysia’s communications channel. Singapore was included in a map published by NRC, which showed the US’ stranglehold on trans-Pacific communications channels through interception facilities on the US’ West coast, Hawaii and Guam.
Malaysia signs acceptance documents for three EC725s Helihub 25th Nov 2013?Chief of Air Force, elect Jen Tan Sri Dato 'Sri Rodzali bin Daud Force has completed the signing of Transfer of Ownership EC725 aircraft, M55-09, M55-10 and M55-11, held in Eagle Nest, the Defence Ministry. Also present at the ceremony were Deputy Chief of Air Force, Chief of Operations, Chief of Air Support, AKS PPO and several senior officials and representatives Force Eurocopter. The event is to mark the official handing over of the aircraft M55-09, M55-10 and M55-11 to the Force which Final Accpetance Final for the three aircraft were implemented in Eurocopter Malaysia, Subang on 21st November.
Singapore and Malaysia conclude bilateral military exercise CNA 21st Nov 2013?Singapore's Chief of Army Major-General Ravinder Singh and Malaysian Chief of Army General Raja Mohamed Affandi Raja Mohamed Noor co-officiated at the closing ceremony of Exercise Semangat Bersatu on Thursday afternoon. This year's exercise, the 19th in the series of bilateral exercises between the two armies, was conducted in Singapore from November 14 to 21. In a statement issued on Thursday, the Ministry of Defence said this year's exercise involved a total of 300 personnel from the two armies. The eight-day exercise included professional exchanges and culminated in a combined battalion field exercise
Esscom gets ships, boats to beef up security New Straits Times 18th Nov 2013?The Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) has tightened security in the state's waters to prevent transboundary crimes, including armed robbery, kidnap and murder, in the aftermath of the Pulau Pom Pom incident off Semporna on Friday. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim said the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) had sent seven ships and 17 boats to strengthen Esscom's resources. He said the murder-and-kidnap was committed by robbers believed to be from a neighbouring country and had nothing to do with Sulu intruders. "They may have blended in with locals and tourists before striking," he said after launching the Jiwa Murni Mega programme at Kuala Rompin here yesterday. Shahidan also refuted claims that Esscom had failed to stop the intrusion. Esscom's jurisdiction covers 1,400km of coastline, from Kudat to Tawau, and was established to strengthen maritime security following the intrusion in Lahad Datu.
Malaysia To Vie For A Seat In IMO Council Bernama 16th Nov 2013?Malaysia will vie for a seat in the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for 2014-2015 in London this month. Malaysia is a member of the IMO Council in Category C for four consecutive years since the 2006-2007 term. Acting Transport Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said Malaysia is among 24 countries that will vie for the IMO Council seat. "If recently we succeeded in winning a seat in the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Council for 2013-2016, this time we wanta seat in the IMO Council," he told a press conference here Friday. In a press release, the minister said as a member of the IMO Council, Malaysia has been actively involved in drafting programmes or involved in drafting the policy of IMO. As IMO Council member and an influential maritime nation, Malaysia today agreed to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the IMO in 'Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme.
China and Malaysia To Hold Maritime Exercises: What Gives? The Diplomat 15th Nov 2013?In a somewhat novel maritime development in the South China Sea, China and Malaysia have agreed to hold joint military exercises next year, following up on a Memorandum of Understanding the two signed in 2005. The exercises were confirmed by Malaysian defense minister Hishammuddin Hussein towards the end of October. The two states formally held their first defense and security consultation in Kuala Lumpur in late 2012. Despite the vagueness of the statement, Hishammuddin confirmed that the exercises would contain a strong maritime element. Beyond the fact that the drills are planned for next year, there are no details about their scope, location, or which military branches will participate. According to Defense News, Hishamuddin invited his Chinese counterpart, General Chang Wanquan, "to visit the Malaysian naval base of Mawilla 2 in the South China Sea on the island of Borneo.” The announcement came just two weeks after reports that Malaysia would establish a marine corps and a naval base close to the James Shoal, which in waters in the South China Sea (SCS) claimed by both China and Malaysia. According to IHS Jane’s Defence Weekly, the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) is expected to set up a base at Bintulu in the South China Sea "to protect the surrounding area and oil reserves.”
RM600 million gone, US Navy ends contracts with Malaysian-linked firm Malaysian Insider 15th Nov 2013?The US Navy has cancelled more than $200 million (RM640 million) in contracts with a Singapore-based defence firm caught up in a major bribery scandal linked to senior naval officers, officials said yesterday. The Navy called off four contracts worth $203.5 million (RM652 million) and prohibited new orders with Glenn Defense Marine Asia (GDMA), which is at the centre of a criminal case involving payoffs and prostitutes, two naval officials said. "All four contracts were terminated," a Navy official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told AFP. The company's CEO, Malaysian businessman Leonard Francis, has been charged with conspiring to bribe naval officers with prostitutes and perks to secure lucrative contracts to provide American ships with food, water and other supplies at port visits in Asia. "We have discontinued all active contracts, subcontracts, task orders and delivery orders with GDMA," the official said. "These suspensions mean that we are not able to enter into new contracts or issue any new task or delivery orders with GDMA."
Boeing and Hexcel expand Malaysian aerospace composites facility Reinforced 15th Nov 2013?Boeing and composite materials supplier Hexcel have completed a $17 million expansion of their joint venture Aerospace Composites Malaysia Sdn Bhd (ACM). The expansion will support increased Boeing aircraft production rates. Aerospace Composites Malaysia (formerly Asian Composites Manufacturing) was formed in 1998 as a Boeing/Hexcel joint venture for composites fabrication and minor parts assembly. Hexcel is a key supplier of composite materials to Boeing. Boeing Commercial Airplanes is the customer for nearly all of ACM’s output. ACM produces flight surfaces for all Boeing’s commercial programmes, including the next-generation 737, 747-8, 767, 777 and 787 Dreamliner. Aerospace Composites Malaysia Malaysia was chosen as the location for the joint venture because of its skilled workforce, role as a long-term Boeing customer, and its plan to become an aerospace hub in Asia. The US$17 million investment in ACM by Boeing and Hexcel adds 125,000 ft2 to a factory footprint that now totals 440,000 ft2. This includes a clean-room expansion of 11,000 ft2 and installation of $5 million in new equipment. The added capacity is expected to be partially used to begin production of 787 fixed leading edge panels in 2014. ACM, located in Kedah, is also expected to grow its workforce beyond its current 950 employees.
Boustead Holdings Awards Torpedo Launch Contract to BHIC Subsidiary Defense Studies 14th Nov 2013?Boustead Holdings Bhd has awarded a contract for the second generation patrol vessels/ littoral combat ships torpedo launching system to Boustead Heavy Industries Corporation Bhd’s subsidiary Contraves Advanced Devices Sdn Bhd. Boustead Holdings said on Monday its subsidiary Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd had issued a letter of award to Contraves for the project under the government defence programme. “The letter of awards awards to CAD contracts to supply the torpedo launching system for the littoral combat ships programme. Other details are classified,” it said. Boustead Holdings said the awarded works constituted a recurrent related party transaction for which a shareholder mandate was obtained at the company’s AGM on April 8, 2013.
Myanmar
Myanmar will use ASEAN chair to address regional disputes Eleven Myanmar 25th Nov 2013?Myanmar will make use of its helm as chair of the ASEAN bloc of nations to try and improve relations between China, Japan and the U.S. over territorial claims in the South China sea. Aung Htoo, deputy director-general of ASEAN Affairs Department, made comments during the second ASEAN talk jointly organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Hanns Seidel Foundation of Germany held in Yangon on November 22 and 23. "If China puts pressure on us, we will imitate Brunei. We will have to deal with four countries as to water territory dispute. We will try to improve relations with China and all concerned countries including the U.S. We will have to practice this policy. We will cleverly address these issues as they can last longer," said Aung Htoo. There is growing concern that China will exert pressure on its long term ally Myanmar to try and rally regional support behind its claims. "Because of Chinese pressure, a statement on South China sea with the approval of ASEAN ministers couldn’t be released when Cambodia was taking up the duties of ASEAN chairmanship. Therefore, there is growing concern about China’s pressure that is likely to appear," said Kyee Myint, member of Myanmar Strategy and International Studies Institution. As the U.S. begins investing in Myanmar after lifting most economic sanctions last year, many see this as an attempt to rival China's economic and political dominance in the region.
Burma and Russia to Increase Military Cooperation Irrawaddy 21st Nov 2013?Burma and Russia are seeking to cooperate on military technology and strengthen relations between the two nations’ armed forces, the state-run New Light of Myanmar newspaper reported on Wednesday. Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing, the commander-in-chief of Burma’s armed forces, met with a delegation led by Alexander Vasillievich Fomin, the joint chairman of Russia-Burma Military Technological Cooperation, in the capital Naypyidaw on Tuesday and discussed a number of areas in which the two countries are looking to increase bilateral military ties. The push for deeper Burma-Russia cooperation on military affairs follows Min Aung Hlaing’s visit to Russia in June of this year, during which he made observational trips to a MiG jet fighter plant and a facility where anti-tank missiles, air defense weapons and artillery shells were produced.
A federal union means a federal army, says Aung Min DVB 14th Nov 2013?President’s Office Minister Aung Min has said that if Burma becomes a federal union, it will inevitably need to adopt a federal constitution and establish a federal army. Aung Min, who is the Burmese government’s chief negotiator in peace talks, made the comment on 10 November after discussing proposals by ethnic armed groups in Myitkyina, some six days after he received an 11-point plan agreed by an alliance of ethnic groups the week before in Laiza. “If Burma becomes a federal union … we will have a federal constitution and an armed forces that is in conformity with the federal union,” he said. “This is acknowledged as the main principle of federalism, so there will be no challenge to it nor will there be anything to be worried about.” Aung Min said the President Thein Sein is holding firmly to a policy of solving the armed conflict in Burma via political means. Ahead of last week’s meeting in Myitkyina between the ethnic alliance and government officials, leaders of 18 ethnic armed groups met in the Kachin Independence Organisation’s Laiza headquarters where 17 of the 18 signed an 11-point agreement pledging to work towards a nationwide ceasefire, with measures included to establish dialogue with Naypyidaw on steps to establish a federal union that guarantees ethnic equality and self-determination.
Philippines
DND Opens Bidding for 10 Units Small Amphibian Vehicle Defense Studies 25th Nov 2013?The DND through the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program intends to apply the sum of 105 mio PhP being the Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) to payments under the contract for the Small Amphibian Vehicle Acquisition Project including Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) for the Philippine Marine Corp. Delivery of 10 units of Small Amphibian Vehicle is required within 90 days from the opening of Letter of Credit. Bids must be delivered before on or December 12, 2013 and will be opened in the same day.
Typhoon Haiyan and the Philippine Military The Diplomat 25th Nov 2013?The disaster inflicted by Typhoon Haiyan (known as Typhoon Yolanda in the Philippines) has the potential to significantly shape the development path taken by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Like its counterparts in other countries, the AFP is tasked with the missions of both external defense and humanitarian aid and disaster relief (HADR), in addition to its counterinsurgency operations. However, with long-term underinvestment caused by economic constraints, domestic politics, insurgency, and an over-reliance on the U.S., the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the Philippine Navy (PN) have struggled to maintain their limited number of aging assets, which are unable to successfully carry out either external defense or HADR. The PAF has been without a fighter jet since 2005 and the PN, with vessels of World War II vintage, has severe difficulty defending the extensive territorial waters of the Philippines, as evidenced in recent disputes with China and Taiwan.
AFP Buying 2 More C-130 Cargo Planes Defense Studies 25th Nov 2013?The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is in the process of acquiring two more C-130 cargo planes. Once bought, there will be five C-130 planes in the Air Force inventory. AFP Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista said on Monday that there should be nine C-130s in order to say that the military has enough. “The Air Force told me that they will be happy if they will get nine C-130s. So we have three and we are trying to acquire two more. So we will try to get more,” he told reports at Camp Aguinaldo. The three C-130s have been the workhorse of the Air Force in the ongoing relief operations for typhoon-battered areas. It ferries relief goods and residents of typhoon-stricken areas who want to be evacuated. The local cargo planes can carry as much as 200 persons. Dozens of foreign C-130s have also been helping in relief efforts. “In terms of strategic lift the C-130 is important. We saw how it helped during calamities. It’s not just for military operations but for other operations other than war such as rescue and relief effort,” Bautista said.
Japan MSDF relief ship arrives near typhoon-hit island in Philippines Global Post 22nd Nov 2013?A Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel carrying the bulk of SDF personnel to join emergency response and relief operations teams in the typhoon-hit Philippines arrived Friday near the worst-hit island of Leyte. Cmdr. Takashi Inoue, deputy director of public affairs for the MSDF, told reporters that the Ise destroyer has arrived at Leyte Gulf carrying the majority of the 1,180 SDF personnel sent to the Philippines in addition to relief goods. Regional military commander Lt. Gen. Roy Deveraturda met with Rear Adm. Hisanori Sato and expressed his gratitude. "The outpouring of support is really overwhelming. Just like all other help extended to us, we are very grateful and the (Japanese) contribution will help a lot in the speedy recovery of the affected areas," Deveraturda told reporters after the meeting.
Strategic opportunity in Philippine crisis Asia Times 21st Nov 2013?External support from the United States and other strategic allies has been decisive in delivering aid to Typhoon Haiyan victims in the central Philippines, with American aid agencies, aircrafts and on-the-ground troops assisting affected communities that local authorities were unable to reach. The deployment of the US aircraft carrier USS George Washington represented a major foreign policy statement, underscoring Washington's bid to serve as an anchor of Asia-Pacific stability and source of crucial assistance during massive natural disasters. At least 80 American aircraft, including 12 V-22 Ospreys and 14 Sea Hawk helicopters, have delivered desperately needed food, water, and medicine. Over 4,000 people have been killed and another 1,600 are still missing in the typhoon's destructive wake. The United Nations estimates 13 million people have been adversely affected, with more than four million left homeless. Initial estimates put the total cost of reconstruction at over US$5 billion, according to the government's economic planning department.
‘Yolanda’ exposes chinks in gov’t armor against disasters Inquirer News 21st Nov 2013?Supertyphoon “Yolanda” has exposed yet another chink in the government’s armor against disasters. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the agency tasked with setting up a national early warning system, has no satellite phone that its staff could use after Yolanda walloped central Philippines on Nov. 8. Neither does it have a generator set or tents. This came to light at Wednesday’s plenary debate on the budget of the Department of National Defense (DND) in the Senate, reviving calls for the creation of a “stronger” agency like the US Federal Emergency Management Agency (Fema). “The NDRRMC has no satellite phone,” noted Sen. Loren Legarda, who defended the DND budget as chair of the Senate finance subcommittee. Then chuckling, she added: “I’ll lend them mine.” Sen. Nancy Binay raised questions on the apparent lack of communications equipment by the government in coordinating massive search-and-rescue operations in provinces where Yolanda left a wide swath of destruction. When Binay asked if the military had any satellite phone, Legarda said the Philippine Navy had 40 such phones, quoting DND officials, led by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin.
Defense, AFP to spend P18.28B for 4-year fuel needs Philippine Star 21st Nov 2013?The government is spending P18.28-billion for the fuel requirements of the Defense department and the military for the next four years. A bid bulletin signed by Defense Assistant Secretary Efren Fernandez showed that the project would involve petroleum, oil and lubricants for the years 2014 to 2017. The project has been divided into six lots. Lot 1 involves the fuel requirements for units in Metro Manila and has an approved budget of P2.39-billion. Lot 2 entails the procurement of fuel requirements for Luzon with a budget of P4.58-billion. Meanwhile, P1.86 billion has been allotted for lot 3, which pertains to the fuel requirements for Visayas units. Lot 4 or the fuel requirements for troops in Mindanao has been given P5.47-billion. Fuel requirements for military units with a national scope constitute lot 5, which has been allotted a P3.65-billion outlay. Lot 6 or the fuel requirements for the Defense department requires P321 million. The Defense department and the Armed Forces of the Philippines are now inviting prospective bidders to participate in the project.
Chinese Military Sending Relief Ship to Philippines WSJ 20th Nov 2013?The Chinese military will deploy a medical-relief ship to aid in humanitarian efforts in the Philippines, and the country will dispatch relief workers to the country once it gets a green light from Manila. China’s Foreign Ministry said Wednesday that the Chinese military will deploy a medical-relief ship to aid in humanitarian efforts in the Philippines, and that it will soon deploy an initial batch of relief workers to the country following a green light from Manila. A statement posted to the Foreign Ministry website gave no specifics on what the military ship, known as the “peace ark,” would be doing in the Philippines, or on where it would anchor once it arrived. China’s Defense Ministry didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment Wednesday morning. The announcement by China follows earlier commitments by both Japan and the U.S. to deploy military ships to aid relief in the Philippines, where the death toll from Typhoon Haiyan is at nearly 4,000. Beijing took criticism early on for what many viewed as a meager commitment of aid, at first announcing only $100,000 in relief through the Red Cross Society of China. The U.S., meanwhile, was gearing up an aircraft carrier to help. Some experts said Beijing had stumbled on the public relations front, as its heated territorial dispute with Manila in the South China Sea made it reluctant to do more.
The Philippines Gets Some New New Helicopters Strategy Page 18th Nov 2013?The Philippines recently ordered eight AW109 attack helicopters for its air force. These will be equipped with rocket launchers and two 12.7mm (.50 caliber) machine-guns. The AW109 can also be armed with up to eight missiles (TOW or Hellfire types). The air force AW109s will cost about $10 million each. Last year the Philippines bought three AW109 maritime helicopters (at $11 million each) for its navy. All eleven of the Filipino AW109s should be delivered by 2015. Britain's last helicopter manufacturer (Agusta Westland, a division of Italian firm Finmeccanica) builds the AW109, which is a three ton aircraft with a max speed of 285 kilometers an hour and endurance of about three hours. The commercial version can carry up to seven passengers (and one pilot). Military AW109s are used mostly for reconnaissance as well as search and rescue. Nearly 600 AW109s are used by fifty countries. The Philippines is buying new equipment in small batches because it is basically broke. But growing Chinese intrusions into Filipino offshore areas has generated sufficient fear to force the Philippines to scrounge up cash for this emergency.
George Washington Carrier Strike Group Arrives in the Philippines navy.mil 14th Nov 2013?George Washington Strike Group (GWSG) arrived in the vicinity of the Leyte Gulf today to support the Third Marine Expeditionary Brigade in assisting the Philippine government in 'Operation Damayan' in response to the aftermath of the Super Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda in the Republic of the Philippines. "We've completed our high-speed transit and linked up with our U.S. Navy logistical assets from Commander, Task Force 73, which brings 7th Fleet naval forces to participate in 'Operation Damayan' in the Republic of the Philippines," said Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery, commander, GWSG. "Specifically, the aircraft carrier, USS George Washington and the cruisers USS Antietam and USS Cowpens will go to a position just off the eastern coast of Samar island in order to begin to assess the damage and provide logistical and emergency support to include medical and water supplies." In preparation to provide relief support, the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 flew a number of fixed winged aircraft to Naval Air Facility Atsugi this morning creating more room on the carrier's flight deck for helicopter operations. "One of the best capabilities the Strike Group brings is our 21 helicopters. These helicopters represent a good deal of lift to move emergency supplies around."
Asia Rivalries Play Role in Aid to the Philippines The New York Times 14th Nov 2013?The American aircraft carrier George Washington has arrived, its 5,000 sailors and 80 aircraft already busy ferrying relief supplies to storm-battered survivors, and the United States has committed an initial $20 million in humanitarian assistance. Japan is dispatching a naval force of 1,000 troops, in what officials say is that country’s largest ever disaster-relief deployment. Also on the way: the Illustrious, a British aircraft carrier stocked with transport planes, medical experts and $32 million worth of aid. The outpouring of foreign assistance for the hundreds of thousands left homeless and hungry by Typhoon Haiyan is shaping up to be a monumental show of international largess — and a not-so-subtle dose of one-upmanship directed at the region’s fastest-rising power, China.
Singapore
Artillery: For Those Who Insist On The Best Strategy Page 20 Nov 2013
Singapore recently ordered another 528 American GMLRS GPS guided 227mm rockets (packaged six each in 88 pods). That comes to about $182,000 per rocket. In 2007, Singapore ordered 18 U.S. truck mounted MLRS (HIMARS) rocket launchers. This system carries only one six rocket container pod (instead of two in the original MLRS), but the 12 ton truck can fit into a C-130 transport (unlike the 22 ton tracked MLRS vehicle). The first of the 900 HIMARS vehicles were issued to American combat units in 2004. The U.S. Army is using most of the HIMARS, with the marines getting the rest. Singapore is one of several export customers. Singapore also bought 192 GMRS rockets (32 pods) with that HIMARS purchase. The 309 kg (680 pound) GMLRS (guided multiple launch rocket system) is a 227mm GPS guided rocket. It was first used in 2004. It has a range of 70 kilometers and the ability to land within meters of its intended target at any range. This is because of the GPS, plus a less accurate back up inertial guidance system, to find its target. Singapore is getting the rockets equipped with an 82 kg (180 pound) high explosive warhead. The U.S. Army has bought over 100,000 GMLRS rockets, and this weapon has been used with great success in Iraq and Afghanistan. The guided rocket is much more effective than the older, unguided, version and has replaced it.
Thailand
Northrop Grumman to Supply AN/TPS-78 Air Defense Radar Systems to RTAF Defense Studies 26th Nov 2013?Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) has been selected by the Royal Thai Air Force to supply additional AN/TPS-78 air defense and surveillance radar systems. Under the terms of the contract, Northrop Grumman will begin supplying equipment to the Royal Thai Air Force in 2015. The company will also provide training, spares and logistics support. "With this award, we continue our 25 years of support of the Royal Thai Air Force and the national security infrastructure of Thailand," said Robert Royer, vice president of Northrop Grumman's International Systems business unit. "Highly mobile and proven in a wide range of environmental conditions, the AN/TPS-78 will give the Royal Thai Air Force a powerful new capability for monitoring its national airspace."
Antigovernment Protests Grip Bangkok Reuters 26th Nov 2013?Thailand expanded special-security laws to cover the entire capital after protesters forced their way into government offices in a bid to oust Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. Crowds poured into government ministries in Bangkok on Monday, escalating their monthlong antigovernment campaign and raising fears that the country could return to the unrest that followed the ouster in 2006 of Ms. Yingluck's brother, Thaksin Shinawatra. Ms. Yingluck said on television Monday evening that her government is placing the entire capital under tighter control by employing the Thai Internal Security Act, which gives security forces broad power to impose curfews, block roads and stop vehicles, and restrict access to areas or buildings. The law has often been imposed to curb and deter prolonged street rallies in recent years, most effectively to prevent protesters from entering key government offices. Thousands of protesters swarmed into the Finance Ministry compound Monday afternoon, following a march in the capital to pressure Ms. Yingluck to resign and dissolve the House of Representatives. The protesters accuse Ms. Yingluck of acting as a proxy for Mr. Thaksin, who held office from 2001 to 2006 before he was toppled by the military.
FD-2000 missile system may cost too much for Thailand: source China Times 14th Nov 2013?The QW-18 featured in a brochure published by China Precision Machinery Import-Export Corporation. (Internet photo) A source from the Royal Thai Army has told China's People's Daily Online that Thailand is more interested in purchasing the QW-18 portable air defense missile system from China instead of the FD-2000, the export version of the HQ-9 surface-to-air defense missile, due to economic concerns. The FD-2000 system has been in the news recently after Turkey controversially chosen the Chinese system for the nation's next-generation long-range air defense missile over the US PAC-3 and Russian S-300. China Precision Machinery Import-Export Corporation, the manufacturer of the system, sought to introduce the FD-2000 to Thailand along with the FL-3000N short-range Close-in Weapon System at a defense expo in Bangkok earlier this month. However, the source said the Royal Thai Army has not yet decided whether to purchase FD-2000 because it could cost too much money for Thailand to operate and maintain the system. The Thai military is however considering buying the QW-18 portable air defense missile, also designed by China Precision Machinery Import-Export Corporation, to replace its 12.7mm anti-aircraft guns, the source said.
HTMS Chakri Naruebet has been Installed with SADRAL Missile Weapon System Defense Studies 14th Nov 2013?The Navy has released the procurement of SADRAL missile weapon system from Matra Defense, France. Three missile system to be installed to the HTMS Chakri Naruebet. Design and construction for installation of the system was implemented by Department of Navy especially Sattahip Naval Base and the Naval Ordnance.
Vietnam
The Bear is Back: Russia Returns to Vietnam The Diplomat 26th Nov 2013?President Vladimir Putin paid a whirlwind one-day visit to Hanoi on November 12 to advance the comprehensive strategic partnership reached with Vietnam last year. This was Putin’s third visit to Vietnam and his second since assuming the office of President of the Russian Federation. Putin met Vietnam’s top three leaders, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, President Truong Tan Sang and party Secretary General Nguyen Phu Trong. At the conclusion of his visit it was announced that seventeen bilateral agreements had been reached, including five in the oil, gas and energy sectors. These agreements were a reflection of the broad-based nature of bilateral relations developed ten years after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Vietnam’s armed forces — air defense air force, navy, armor and artillery corps — are dependent on Soviet-era spare parts and equipment and badly in need of modernization. Between 1993 and 2000, Russia sold Vietnam twelve Su-27SK and Su-27UB Flanker jet aircraft, two missile attack corvettes, four radar systems, and other military equipment. In March 2001, the Russian Federation became Vietnam’s first strategic partner. At that time the two sides mapped out eight major areas of cooperation: political-diplomatic, oil and gas, hydro power and nuclear energy, trade and investment, science and technology, education and training, culture and tourism, military equipment, and technology.
India trains Vietnamese navy to handle new Russian subs Thanh Nien 25th Nov 2013?India’s navy is training over 500 Vietnamese submariners as part of the countries’ resolution to expand bilateral military ties, the Times of India reported last week. During talks between Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and visiting Communist Party general secretary Nguyen Phu Trong last Wednesday, it was decided that India would issue Vietnam a US$100 million line of credit for the purposes of enabling the latter to acquire four naval patrol vessels from the former, the report said. The ongoing training of Vietnamese sailors in "comprehensive underwater combat operations" at the Indian Navy's submarine training center, INS Satavahana in Visakhapatnam, is a major bilateral initiative of the nations’ emerging strategic partnership. Over 500 Vietnamese sailors will be trained in batches at the center, which is equipped with state of the art technology, by the Indian Navy, according to the report. In December 2009, Vietnam signed a $2 billion deal to buy six submarines from Russia, which is due to deliver them all by 2016. The Indian Navy's extensive experience in operating Russian Kilo-class submarines, which dates back to the mid-1980s, will be invaluable to Vietnam as its navy learns how to handle their new underwater vessels, according to the Times of India.
India kicks offs sub training for Vietnamese navy Times of India 22nd Nov 2013?India has kicked off the training of a large number of Vietnamese sailors in the intricate art of submarine operations and underwater warfare, even as the two countries have now resolved to further expand their bilateral military ties. Both wary of China's assertive behaviour in the Asia-Pacific region, India and Vietnam have been slowly but steadily ramping up their cooperation in military training and "capacity-building" as well as in joint oil exploration in the contentious South China Sea that has riled Beijing no end in recent times. During talks between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and visiting Vietnam Communist Party general secretary Nguyen Phu Trong on Wednesday, it was decided that India will also transfer four naval offshore patrol vessels to the East Asian country under a $100 million credit line. The ongoing training to Vietnamese sailors in "comprehensive underwater combat operations" at Indian Navy's submarine school INS Satavahana in Visakhapatnam, equipped with advanced training aids and simulators, is a major bilateral initiative in the emerging strategic partnership.
New Zealand Seeking To Build Defense Ties With Vietnam, China National News Agency of Malaysia 22nd Nov 2013?New Zealand Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman said his country is looking to build on its military links with Vietnam and China, Xinhua news agency reported. Coleman will visit Vietnam from Nov 24 to 26 where he will meet Minister of National Defense General Phung Quang Thanh and visit Cam Ranh Bay Naval Base in Nha Trang. "New Zealand has a productive bilateral relationship with Vietnam and I look forward to reciprocating Thanh's visit to New Zealand earlier this year," Coleman said. From Nov 27 to 30, Coleman will visit China during which he will meet Minister of National Defense General Chang Wanquan and General Zhao Keshi, director of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Logistics Department and member of the Central Military Commission. "New Zealand's defence engagement with China continues to grow and complements the wider political and economic links between our countries. The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) is keen to continue to build its engagement with the PLA," Coleman said. New Zealand engaged with a wide range of defence partners in the Asia-Pacific region cooperating on matters of common interest. "A good example of this cooperation is Exercise Phoenix Spirit held in New Zealand in August, where NZDF, Australian, US and Chinese personnel worked through humanitarian assistance and disaster relief scenarios," Coleman said.
2nd defense dialogue between Vietnam, RoK opens Tuoi Tre News 16th Nov 2013?During their second strategic defense dialogue in Seoul on Friday, Vietnam and the Republic of Korea (RoK) reviewed the achievements in defense cooperation in recent years and discussed plans to boost ties in the future. In the dialogue, which was co-chaired by RoK Deputy Defense Minister Baek Seung-joo and his Vietnamese counterpart Deputy Defense Minister Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Chi Vinh, the two sides also discussed the defense policies and armed forces capabilities of each country, as well as the security situation in Northeast and Southeast Asia. The two sides affirmed that they have worked together to develop and deepen the contents of the Vietnam-RoK memorandum of understanding on defense cooperation as well as the contents agreed by the two defense ministers. The host and guest identified key issues to focus on in the future, including the increasing of delegation exchanges, the discussion of strategic matters as well as the enhancement of cooperation in training, military medicine and cyber security. The two officials shared the same view that there are positive developments in regional security but acknowledged that risks still remain. They also agreed that some new challenges are emerging, including those of non-traditional security and cyber security.
Russia returns its positions in military-technical cooperation The Voice of Russia 16th Nov 2013?The expiring week was, without exaggeration, exceptional in the sense of Moscow's foreign political activity. The results of foreign visits of the first persons of Russia allow to say that at least in the sphere of the military-technical cooperation the country is returning its old positions. The official visit of President Vladimir Putin to Vietnam began on November 12. Summing up the results of the bilateral negotiations, the Russian leader has also reported that Moscow intended to expand the stock-list of supplies of modern products for the Vietnamese army. Today, Vietnam is one of Russia's most important partners in the sphere of military-technical cooperation (MTC). Actually, the country already ranks among the top three buyers of Russian weapons and military equipment. Russia supplies to Vietnam the Molniya missile boats and Gepard frigates equipped with anti-ship shock complexes. The Coast Defense of the country is strengthened by mobile mounts of the Bastion missile system. Vietnam also buys the Su-30 MK2 fighters. The latest most large-scale contracts include the construction of six diesel submarines equipped with the Club S cruise missiles for the naval forces of Vietnam.
Vietnam Began to Operate AD Star Radar Defense Studies 16th Nov 2013?According to some undisclosed sources, after 6 months of installation and field testing, the ELM-2288 AD-STAR is fully operational. This is a big improvement for the Air Defense Force and it has increased the early warning and detecting capability of the Vietnam Air Defense Force.
Vietnam Wins Human Rights Seat Despite Tainted Record The Diplomat 15th Nov 2013?Earlier this year, Global Witness scored international headlines with a telling report on illegal land grabbing in Cambodia and Laos by Vietnamese companies and the extraordinary damage these companies had inflicted on the environment from which they profited. The report, Rubber Barons, claimed that Vietnam Rubber Group (VRG) and another Vietnamese company, Hoang Anh Gia Lai (HAGL), were the biggest offenders and that both were partially supported by Deutsche Bank through Vietnam-based funds. HAGL also has investment from the International Financial Corporation (IFC), the private-sector arm of the World Bank. Both Vietnamese companies have denied any wrongdoing. Deutsche Bank and the IFC said they would study the findings. However, Global Witness now says HAGL has failed to keep to commitments to address environmental and human rights abuses in its plantations in Cambodia and Laos and it now poses a financial and reputational risk to its investors, including Deutsche Bank and the IFC and recommends they divest.