| Regional Affairs
An emergent US security strategy in Southeast Asia Rappler 12th Feb 2014
The foundation of US security strategy in Southeast Asia since the end of World War II has been a "hub and spoke" system of formal bilateral alliances with four countries in the region: Thailand, the Philippines, Australia and, for a period, New Zealand. During the Cold War these alliances became the primary vehicle for US and allied governments to prosecute counterinsurgency campaigns against communist guerrilla forces. Both Manila and Bangkok allowed the Pentagon to establish major facilities that were critical to America's largest counterinsurgency campaign in Indochina. The end of the Vietnam War in 1975 signaled a sharp diminution of the US military presence in Southeast Asia and the end of the Cold War in 1991 removed the overarching strategic threat. Not surprisingly, the value assigned to the alliances both in Washington and in the region declined – most tangibly expressed in Manila's readiness to allow the US lease at Subic Bay to expire.
China Pushing Into SE Asia's Defense Market Defense News 11th Feb 2014
At this year’s Singapore Airshow, Chinese aviation companies AVIC and CATIC are pushing into the export defense market for Southeast Asia. Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) and China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation (CATIC) provided brochures and models of their platforms at this year’s airshow. On display were models of the L-15 Falcon advanced jet trainer, FC-1/JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft, Z-9WE attack helicopter, Wing Loong (Pterodactyl) unmanned combat aerial vehicle, ASN-209 tactical unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), and the K-8 basic jet trainer. Missing this year from the AVIC/CATIC booth are models and brochures of the J-10 fighter. AVIC/CATIC Brochures, but no models, included the FTC-2000 supersonic advanced/lead-in fighter trainer (LIFT), WMD-7 targeting pod with IR, TV, and laser sensors, and the U8E vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) light UAV. New Chinese exhibitors included Beijing ZhongHangZhi Technology Company with their static display of the TD220 unmanned helicopter. The TD220 is a 300kg class, multi-purpose and VTOL with a coaxial, twin-rotor and “HeliAP” autopilot. With an endurance of five hours it can be equipped with a variety of payloads, including infrared, synthetic aperture radar, laser radar, multi-spectral imaging, communication relay, and ground penetrating radar. This year’s Singapore Airshow has the largest Chinese pavilion in the history of the airshow, with a number of new Chinese companies exhibiting: Aero AT (Jiangsu) Aviation Industry Company, Beijing ZhongHangZhi Technology Company, China Aircraft Services Ltd, Chengdu-based Haite Group, Hong Kong Aviation Industry Association, LIMBACH, Shanghai Jinfan Container Seal Company, Topcast, Wanhang Die Forging Company, and Xibeihu Special Vehicle Company.
Obama Speech Sees Mixed Reaction on US Momentum in Southeast Asia VoA 11th Feb 2014
US President Barack Obama’s Southeast Asia-only trip in 2012 marked a high point in the US prioritization of the region. But there has been a drop in the presence of high-level US diplomats since then, and in his recent State of the Union speech, Obama spoke of Asia only rarely. Some analysts say that could mean the US won’t be able to sustain its so-called “pivot to Asia.” In one of those mentions, Obama said the US “will continue to focus on the Asia-Pacific, where we support our allies, shape a future of greater security and prosperity and extend a hand to those devastated by disaster, as we did in the Philippines.” There were not that many mentions of Asia in the speech, says Ernie Bower, senior advisor and chair for the Southeast Asia Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, DC. “He missed the opportunity to tell Americans why Asia is important to us, to our economic prosperity, to our jobs, to our ability to innovate and help drive the integration of global markets, to our security,” Bower told VOA Khmer in a recent interview.
Regional Tensions Take Center Stage at Asia Conference Defense News 11th Feb 2014
The Asia Pacific Security Conference debated a wide range of policy and modernization issues that are causing consternation and confusion in the region. The conference, held in conjunction with the Singapore Airshow, looked at the dynamics and role that air power plays in Asian security. Territorial disputes in the South China Sea and East China Sea have resurrected recently with a vengeance, said Barry Desker, dean of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, here. China’s rising military is a force to be “reckoned with,” he said. A mix of complex factors that include the US Air Sea Battle concept and Asia strategic rebalance, together with China’s anti-access/area-denial strategy, further complicates this.
Asian States Close In on Fighter Deals Defense News 11th Feb 2014
As regional powers gather at the Singapore Airshow this week, two issues will be at the forefront: upgrading their F-16s and/or buying F-35s. The biggest beneficiary in these fighter jet programs is Lockheed Martin, which has been selected by the US Air Force as the system integrator for the Combat Avionics Programmed Extension Suite (CAPES) program that will upgrade the radar and avionics on 300 F-16s. Singapore and Taiwan will be hitching their own F-16 upgrades to the CAPES program as well, depending largely on whether the US decides to continue funding CAPES, which is in doubt. However, Lockheed still benefits by being the only fifth-generation fighter maker on the market. Australia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and even Taiwan have plans to procure the F-35. Without doubt, China stands out as the No. 1 reason for the interest in new or upgraded fighters. Over the past few years, China has pushed the envelope on territorial claims in the South China and East China seas. In November, China announced a new air defense identification zone over much of the East China Sea, including the disputed Senkaku islands, administered by Japan. China also has demonstrated a remarkable talent for surprising US defense analysts who study its air force. Despite agreement among US experts that China was a decade away from fielding an aircraft carrier and rolling out stealth fighters, aircraft manufacturers Chengdu and Shenyang conducted flight tests on not one, but two stealth fighters — the Chengdu J-20 and Shenyang J-31 — in 2011 and 2012, respectively.
Interview: Gen. Hawk Carlisle, Commander, US Pacific Air Forces Defense News 10th Feb 2014
Over the past several years, the administration of President Barack Obama has promised to change focus from the Middle East and rebalance, or pivot, toward the Pacific. Just how successful the administration has been at that is a subject for debate, but top Pentagon officials are quick to bring up the Pacific when discussing long-term plans — or short-term budget fights. Gen. Herbert “Hawk” Carlisle, commander of US Pacific Air Forces, talked with Defense News twice in January regarding the Pacific and how US interests are developing in the region. Q. With the pivot to Asia, are we committing resources to the region? A. I would say that the resources have not followed the comment of rebalance into the Pacific for a couple of reasons. One, because we still have ongoing operations obviously in the Middle East. And the other reason is [because] sequestration and the cuts in defense make it actually incredibly hard to find places to pivot money to the Pacific. One term that was used colloquially is “even is the new up.” In other words, if you do not lose any money, you are actually gaining some. So I think with respect to the Pacific, in some ways, we were protected a little bit during sequestration. We had operations and maintenance funded more than other folks. But to say that there is a swing of resources — it is just left to the decline and the rest of other areas that are in a decline because of reduced defense budget. And we actually got a little relief in ’14 and less, but a little, relief in ’15. But if sequestration sets in again as it is projected to in ’16 and out, then I think that rebalance in the Pacific resourcewise will become even more challenging.
US Official Promoting Business at Singapore Airshow Defense News 10th Feb 2014
The US deputy assistant secretary of state for political-military affairs is at this year’s Singapore Airshow to promote US defense companies in the regional market. Kenneth Handelman said he believes buying American helps promote regional stability, build military-to-military relationships, and is part of the U.S. “rebalance” to Asia policy, often referred to as the “Asia pivot.” The US foreign military sales program provides for all the follow-on training and support a company needs to build a solid relationship with the buyer, he said during an interview with Defense News. “We are here to promote the ‘American brand’ in a region that has become increasingly important on all fronts: economic, diplomatic, and strategic,” he said. Handelman is part of a larger Washington delegation attending the Singapore Airshow. They include Frank Kendall, the US undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics; Kenneth Hyatt, acting undersecretary of commerce for international trade; and Michael Huerta, administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration. The team also includes military leadership from the US Pacific Command, including Air Force Gen. Herbert Carlisle, commander of U.S. Pacific Air Forces. Carlisle also participated as a speaker at the Asia Pacific Security Conference being held alongside the airshow.
Singapore Airshow: Asia-Pacific spending up on defence BBC 9th Feb 2014
Throughout history, a region or country's economic growth has often been followed by a rise in defence spending. Asia-Pacific as a region is witnessing this phenomenon currently. In fact, it is the only region in the world that has seen a steady rise in defence spending over the past five years and the trend is likely to continue at the Singapore Airshow, which gets under way this week. "The centre of gravity of defence expenditure is expected to continue to shift towards Asia-Pacific in 2014, following the trend of economic expansion," says Paul Burton, a director at IHS Defence. The company expects Asia-Pacific to account for nearly 28% of global defence spending by 2020, up from 24% last year. And most of this is being driven by two factors: fulfilling ambitions of global dominance and fears of heightened threats to their security.
Aircraft Deals Won't Take Center Stage in Singapore WSJ 9th Feb 2014
The biggest air show in the Asia-Pacific region kicks off this week in Singapore with organizers hopeful that deals close to $25 billion may be signed. The Singapore Airshow may come nowhere close to Dubai three months ago, where $150 billion of deals were signed on the first day itself. Still, it is attracting the brass of both Airbus Group EADSY +1.41% NV and its archrival Boeing Co. BA +3.55% because the event offers opportunities to meet the rapidly expanding airlines in Asia. Boeing formally launched its next passenger jet—the 777X that can carry 350 to 400 passengers—at the Dubai Airshow in November. Aggressive ordering of the 777X and other jets by Emirates Airline, Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways underscore the efforts by airlines in the Gulf region to become the world's dominant transit point for air traffic. Gulf carriers have, in recent years, taken business away from traditional Asian airlines such as Singapore Airlines Ltd. and Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd.
2 Years In, DoD Still Explaining Asia 'Pivot' Defense News 9th Feb 2014
It has been more than two years since the Obama administration announced the US military would “pivot” — or as the Pentagon prefers, “rebalance” — to the Asia-Pacific region of the world. Senior US officials have since logged tens of thousands of miles flying across the Pacific Ocean for bilateral meetings in more than a dozen countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, the Philippines and Cambodia. Three of Chuck Hagel’s nine overseas trips as defense secretary have been to the Asia-Pacific. Still, he takes pains to say that he’s not neglecting other regions. “[R]ebalancing for the United States to Asia-Pacific does not mean retreating from the rest of the world and especially not retreating from the continent of Europe,” Hagel said during a Jan. 30 event at the Polish Defense Ministry. But despite this and many similar statements by Hagel and others, leaders in the Middle East, Africa and Europe still spend a lot of time worrying in public about the American commitment to their regions. The strategic shift receives frequent discussion in overseas news media, and foreign journalists often ask visiting US officials about it. US allies began to voice their concerns soon after US President Barack Obama made an unprecedented trip across the Potomac River for a Pentagon briefing about the pivot. Among the most vocal were Eastern European nations concerned about Russia’s intentions. Those concerns persist; the rebalance came up during recent meetings in Warsaw between top US and Polish officials. During the customary bilateral press conference, where the traveling and local press each get two questions, the pivot was the subject of the very first question. “You said that the United States remains determined to support the engagement and continued engagement in Europe,” a Polish reporter asked. “In Poland, however, we speak quite much about the American pivot toward Asia. How would you comment on this?” A senior US defense official said the Polish government understands and supports the increased US focus in the Pacific. “All the West should in general be looking toward the Asia-Pacific just because that’s where so much of the world’s economy is and there is certainly enough going on there from a security perspective that we need to all pay attention to,” the senior defense official said. “We’re all connected.”
China’s Growing Defense Budget: Not As Scary As You Think The Diplomat 5th Feb 2014
IHS Jane’s recently estimated that China will raise its military budget by nearly $10 billion this year (going from $139.2 billion to $148 billion). The news fits in well with catchy headlines about China’s growing military might, but as with all figures, the meaning can be distorted when taken out of context. One fact that is well-known among defense thinkers (but often over-looked by the media) is that China’s military spending is increasing in overall terms, but not as a percent of China’s GDP. In fact, when measured a percent of GDP, China’s defense budget has actually declined slightly over the past four years, from 2.2 percent in 2009 to 2 percent in 2012, according to the World Bank. For the last 10 years, China’s military budget as percent of GDP has hovered at or close to the 2 percent line. To add some context, the United States’ defense budget as percent of GDP has climbed during the same period, growing from 3.6 percent in 2003 to 4.2 percent in 2012. The U.S. Central Intelligence Agency’s “World Factbook” gives very similar figures, as does the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. In other words, China’s military budget increase is solely a function of its overall economic growth. With an average annual GDP growth of nearly 10 percent since 2000, government budgets in China have naturally increased across the board. From a strategic standpoint, it would make no sense for the Chinese government to keep military spending static while all other areas of spending increase. If China had frozen its military spending at 2009 levels, for example, that budget (reported at $70 billion) would be a paltry 0.7 percent of China’s GDP today ($9.4 trillion in 2013, according to China’s official GDP figures), putting China on a level with Madagascar and Sierra Leone.
Bob Work Expected To Be Named Deputy SecDef Defense One 5th Feb 2014
Bob Work, former under secretary of the Navy, will be Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel’s right hand man in the Pentagon, succeeding Ash Carter as deputy secretary of defense. “Bob Work is expected to be nominated as early as this week,” a senior administration official confirmed to Defense One. Work is CEO of the Center for a New American Security, whose center-left brain trust has populated dozens of top national security posts in the Obama administration, including Michele Flournoy, the former DOD policy chief and now perennial short-lister for a defense secretary cabinet post. Work is a Marine Corps veteran and was Obama’s Navy undersecretary for four years. Christine Fox, who led Hagel’s Strategic Choices and Management Review earlier this year, has been serving as acting Deputy Defense Secretary since Carter retired in early December. President Barack Obama could nominate Work as early as Wednesday, according to Bloomberg News, which confirmed the long-whispered personnel move on Tuesday. If nominated, Work must be confirmed by the Senate.
China to Ramp Up Military Spending NYT 3rd Feb 2014
China already spends more on its military than any country in the world except the United States. Now, as defense budgets at the Pentagon and in many NATO countries shrink, China’s People’s Liberation Army is gearing up for a surge in new funding, according to a new report. China will spend $148 billion on its military this year, up from $139.2 billion in 2013, according to IHS Jane’s, a defense industry consulting and analysis company. The United States spends far more – a forecast $574.9 billion this year – but that is down from $664.3 billion in 2012 after budget cuts slashed spending. By next year China will spend more on defense than Britain, Germany and France combined, according to IHS. By 2024, it will spend more than all of Western Europe, it estimates. The surge in weapons spending by Beijing – military outlays this year are set to be a third higher than in 2009 – has come in tandem with an escalation in tensions with its neighbors over longstanding territorial disputes. Vietnam and the Philippines have overlapping claims with China to islands and shoals in the South China Sea. Japan and China have been at loggerheads over uninhabited islands in the East China Sea.
Abe’s defence ambitions alarm region EAF 3rd Feb 2014
The move by Shinzo Abe’s administration toward lifting the ban on the exercise of the right to collective self-defence is not driven by the imperatives of the US-Japan alliance, nor by Japan’s internationalist aspirations to contribute more to global peace. It is, rather, a central component of Prime Minister Abe’s nationalist agenda on security affairs. Supporters of the alliance in the US over the years have encouraged Japan to lift the prohibition on collective self-defence. But in recent years the US has achieved its goal of raising alliance efficiency through enhanced operational integration between the two forces irrespective of Japan’s internal discussion on collective self-defence. Under former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, Japan used ad hoc legislation, rather than changing the interpretation of its constitution, to justify the deployment of its Self-Defense Forces to perform rear-area logistical support and non-combat activities in the American-led wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. The prohibition on collective self-defence, therefore, has not been a real impediment to the actual operations of the alliance. This issue has become even less important for the US because of the withdrawal of American forces from Iraq and the pending withdrawal from Afghanistan. What Abe really intends to do is to give Japan a more muscular military posture and allow greater scope of action for its defence forces. It is part of his long-held ambition to break away from the postwar system that restricts Japan’s military role. This naturally causes wariness among Japan’s neighbours, and should also be alarming to Washington, the architect and maintainer of that system.
Air defence zone in South China Sea is unlikely, say Chinese experts SCMP 1st Feb 2014
China is unlikely to set up an air defence identification zone (ADIZ) in the South China Sea in the near future, mainland experts say. On Friday, the United States warned Beijing against forming a new ADIZ following a report by the Asahi newspaper in Japan that PLA Air Force officials had drafted plans for a zone that could encompass the disputed Paracel and Spratly islands. "Judging from China's official statements in recent months and its regional strategy, it is unlikely China would set up an ADIZ in the South China Sea and aggravate tension in the region," said Shi Yinhong, a professor of international relations at Renmin University. On Friday, US State Department spokeswoman Marie Harf said any move to set up an ADIZ in the South China Sea would be seen "as a provocative and unilateral act that would raise tensions and call into serious question China's commitment to diplomatically managing territorial disputes". Citing unnamed sources, including from the central government, the Asahi said air force officials in the People's Liberation Army had drafted proposals for the new zone, which could cover much of the sea and include the Paracel Islands.
China says Japan's 'hype' on air defence zone spreads tension Reuters 1st Feb 2014
China does not feel threatened by countries in Southeast Asia and is optimistic about the situation in the disputed South China Sea, the Foreign Ministry said, warning Japan not to "spread rumors" it plans a new air defense identification zone. China alarmed Japan, South Korea and the United States last year when it announced an air defense identification zone for the East China Sea, covering a group of uninhabited islands at the center of a bitter ownership spat between China and Japan. Last week, Japanese newspaper the Asahi Shimbun said China was considering setting up a similar zone - where foreign aircraft are supposed to report their movements to China - in the South China Sea, prompting the U.S. State Department to warn against such a move. In a statement released late on Saturday, China's Foreign Ministry implied there was no need for such a zone in the South China Sea, where China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Taiwan all have competing claims. "Generally speaking, China does not feel there is an air security threat from ASEAN countries," the ministry said, referring to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. "China feels optimistic about relations with countries surrounding the South China Sea and the general situation in the South China Sea," the ministry said, adding it believed prospects for ties with ASEAN were "bright".
Beijing preparing new air defense zone in South China Sea Asahi 31st Jan 2014
China is laying out plans to define another new air defense identification zone, but this time in the South China Sea, sources said, which could further escalate tensions in the region. The disclosure is sure to provoke Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan, all of whom claim sovereignty over parts or all of the disputed territory, which includes hundreds of islands, cays, shoals and reefs. The move comes on the heels of China’s announcement in November of its new ADIZ in the East China Sea, which drew angry reactions from Japan, the United States and South Korea. The area is also believed to have more exploitable natural resources than the East China Sea. "Gaining the upper hand in the air is a requisite for gaining the upper hand in the sea," said one military analyst. "An ADIZ is of vital importance for making maritime advances." Chinese government sources told The Asahi Shimbun that working-level air force officials have already worked out a draft plan for the prospective ADIZ, which they say, at the very least, will include the airspace over the Paracel Islands, which China calls Xisha and are under its control. The air zone could also go on to cover the entire South China Sea
China’s Deceptively Weak (and Dangerous) Military The Diplomat 31st Jan 2014
In April 2003, the Chinese Navy decided to put a large group of its best submarine talent on the same boat as part of an experiment to synergize its naval elite. The result? Within hours of leaving port, the Type 035 Ming III class submarine sank with all hands lost. Never having fully recovered from this maritime disaster, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is still the only permanent member of the United Nations Security Council never to have conducted an operational patrol with a nuclear missile submarine. China is also the only member of the UN’s “Big Five” never to have built and operated an aircraft carrier. While it launched a refurbished Ukrainian built carrier amidst much fanfare in September 2012 – then-President Hu Jintao and all the top brass showed up – soon afterward the big ship had to return to the docks for extensive overhauls because of suspected engine failure; not the most auspicious of starts for China’s fledgling “blue water” navy, and not the least example of a modernizing military that has yet to master last century’s technology. Indeed, today the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) still conducts long-distance maneuver training at speeds measured by how fast the next available cargo train can transport its tanks and guns forward. And if mobilizing and moving armies around on railway tracks sounds a bit antiquated in an era of global airlift, it should – that was how it was done in the First World War.
Submarines in Southeast Asia: Proliferation, Not a Race The Diplomat 30th Jan 2014
This recent spate of submarine acquisitions being implemented or planned has characterized Southeast Asian naval modernization efforts to date, which could lead to observers highlighting the revival of a “submarine race” in the region after the bout of submarine purchases made in the 1990s to early-2000s. A superficial survey of open remarks by the region’s defense and naval planners seemed to allude to this. For example, Indonesian Defense Minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro reportedly remarked that the submarine purchase, among other defense equipment, is designed to signal Jakarta’s commitment towards Indonesian defense modernization so that “we can keep up with ASEAN members.” Bangkok referred to the submarine programs of neighboring Southeast Asian navies when it emphasized the need for submarines as part of the country’s naval capabilities. However, technical and geopolitical indications point to neither the existence of a “submarine race” nor the prospective emergence of such a phenomenon in the foreseeable future. Any negative effects of submarine proliferation in Southeast Asia appear to be at least counterbalanced by rising trends of regional cooperation in the submarine field.
Brunei
His Majesty Grants Audience Malaysian Minister of Defence MINDEF 3rd Feb 2014
His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) has consented to receive in audience Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Hishammuddin bin Tun Hussein, Minister of Defence of Malaysia. The audience was held at Istana Nurul Iman. Yang Berhormat was in the country for one day working visit.
Cambodia
China Provides Military Trucks and Uniforms to Cambodia Defense Studies 8th Feb 2014
China on Friday delivered 26 military trucks and 30,000 sets of military uniforms to Cambodia in order to help relieve the difficulties of the Cambodian army. At a handover ceremony held at the Trucking Battalion No. 99 on the outskirts of the capital Phnom Penh, Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Bu Jianguo said the trucks and uniforms were the aid from the Chinese People's Liberation Army to the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces. "China hopes that the aid will help ease the difficulties of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, and will further promote ties and cooperation between the armies and peoples of the two countries," she said.
Hun Sen Promotes 29 to Four-Star General Cambodia Daily 5th Feb 2014
Prime Minister Hun Sen approved a request from Defense Minister Tea Banh last week to promote 29 lieutenant generals to the rank of four-star general, according to a statement from the Ministry of Defense. The promotions, which follow repeated calls from General Banh last month for the armed forces to defend Mr. Hun Sen’s government against anyone looking to replace him, would more than double the ranks of four-star generals in the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF). “We request that those named below are promoted to the rank of General of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces,” reads the statement, dated January 30 and signed by Gen. Banh and Mr. Hun Sen. The statement lists one secretary of state at the Ministry of Defense, 10 under-secretaries of state, and 18 RCAF deputy commanders-in-chief. Gen. Banh’s brother, Tea Vinh, currently a three-star general in the navy, has been recommended for a fourth star. Lt. Gen. El Vansarath, a member of the CPP’s central committee, is the one secretary of state on the list. Also listed for an elevation are Keo Pong and Sok Pheap, former senior military commanders in the Khmer Rouge who defected to join government forces in the 1990s. Lt. Gen. Dom Hak, who was arrested in 2003 on charges of producing and trafficking illegal drugs, has also been endorsed to become a top-ranking general. Lt. Gen. Hak was eventually released in the drug-trafficking case due to a lack of evidence. Khieng Savuth, former National Military Police commander, and Chhin Chanpor, former Phnom Penh municipal police commander, also appear on the list.
Indonesia
PTDI and Airbus Helicopters to Jointly Develop Local Support and Services Capabilities for Indonesia Defense Studies 13th Feb 2014
The long-established cooperation of PT Dirgantara Indonesia and Airbus Helicopters will be expanded to include support and services for the users of Airbus Helicopters rotorcraft based on a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed today at the Singapore Airshow. This MoU covers maintenance, repair and overhaul for the various Airbus Helicopters products operated within Indonesia – in particular, the AS365 Dauphin, EC725 Cougar and AS350/AS555 Fennec rotorcraft acquired by the country’s government. The agreement was signed by Budi Santoso, President Director of PT Dirgantara Indonesia, and Airbus Helicopters President Guillaume Faury. "PT Dirgantara Indonesia’s cooperation with Airbus Helicopters results from a long term relationship built on trust, and each company will support the other with this new strategic collaboration for the mutual benefit of both parties," Budi Santoso said.
Air Force to get new T-50i jet fighters Jakarta Post 11th Feb 2014
The Air Force is preparing to operate 16 new South Korean-made T-50i jet fighters. The jets, which are now kept at the Defense Ministry’s facility, will be officially handed over to Air Force on Thursday at the Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force base. Col. Iwan Agung of the Air Force said initially the handing- over ceremony was planned to be held at the Iswahyudi Military Air base in Madiun. President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Defense Minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro were slated to attend the ceremony. Yudhoyono’s presence was part of inspection toward the military main weapon system. “However, due to high officials’ activities, the ceremony then being held at the Halim Perdanakusumah Airbase,” he said as quoted by Antara news wire on Tuesday. He said the new fighter jets would be placed at the Iswahyudi Air base, along with the F-16 fighting jets squadron. Air Force’s Grob and Sukhoi squadrons were also scheduled to show off their abilities at the event.
Indonesia Follow-on Order for Rheinmetall Skyshield Defense Studies 11th Feb 2014
Rheinmetall wins major orders in Asia and Europe - total value around €50 million PresseBox) (Düsseldorf, 11.02.2014) In recent weeks Rheinmetall has won major orders in the field of military air defence. Indonesia and a European nation have ordered air defence products for air force and naval applications which, together with accompanying services, are worth a total of about €50 million. Indonesia has opted to expand its existing Rheinmetall-made Oerlikon Skyshield air defence systems with a follow-on order for Skyshield fire units. Worth over €38 million, the contract includes training and logistical services for the Indonesian armed forces. The delivery period extends through to the end of 2015. Meanwhile, a European navy has ordered two Oerlikon Millennium automatic cannon for one of its surface combatants. The contract is worth around €12 million, and also includes technical documentation, spare parts and services relating to maintenance training and system integration. Delivery is scheduled to take place in 2015. Rheinmetall is one of the world's leading makers of sophisticated short-range air defence systems. It is the market leader in cannon-based air defence, and the only single-source system supplier of fire control technology, automatic cannon, integrated guided missile launchers and the Group's proprietary Ahead ammunition.
FMS of Hellfire II Missile to Indonesia Defense Studies 11th Feb 2014
HELLFIRE SYSTEMS, LLC, Orlando, Fla., was awarded a $157,362,903 modification (P00068) to firm-fixed-price contract W31P4Q-11-C-2042, to exercise option for fiscal 2014 Hellfire II missile production requirements. This contract involves foreign military sales to Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Indonesia. Fiscal years 2012, 2013 and 2014 funds in the amount of $157,362,903 are being obligated on award. The performance location is Orlando, Fla., with an estimated completion date of Nov. 30, 2016. The U.S. Army Contracting Command – Redstone Arsenal (Missile), Redstone, Ala., is the contracting activity. Weeks Marine, Inc., Covington, La., was awarded a $9,570,000 firm-fixed-price contract for work consisting of furnishing one fully crewed and equipped ‘cutterhead’ dredge, with a dredge discharge size of 30-inches inside diameter complete in all respects, including all attendant plant and crew. Fiscal 2014 operations and maintenance funds in the amount of $9,570,000 are being obligated on award. The contract was solicited via the Web with two bids received. The performance location is Pilottown, La., with an estimated completion date of July 25, 2014. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – New Orleans District, New Orleans, La., is the contracting activity (W912P8-14-C-0023).
Indonesia skips Singapore Airshow amid warship row BBC 10th Feb 2014
ndonesian military officers have pulled out of a Singapore aerospace show amid a row over the controversial naming of a naval warship. Indonesia angered its neighbour by naming the new ship after two marines who carried out a bombing which killed three people in Singapore in 1965. Singapore's second minister for defence said he was "disappointed" with Indonesia's naming decision. Jakarta defended the move saying it was customary to name vessels after heroes.
Indonesian Air Force Draws Up Shopping List Defense Studies 9th Feb 2014
Boasting one of the fastest growing economies in the world is allowing Indonesia to invest much-needed funds in its military. After years of stagnation caused by the 1997 financial crisis, leading to most of Indonesia’s military acquisition programs being cancelled, the situation deteriorated further when the U.S. imposed an arms embargo in 1999 that lasted until 2005. The Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) entered into only one major acquisition program during that period, procuring Su-27 and Su-30 Flankers from Russia to bolster its aging fighter fleet. The TNI-AU had never ordered Russian aircraft after the failed communist coup in 1965 but it was left with no option after Western companies stuck to the arms embargo. This deal led to a pair of Su-27SKs and two Su-30MKs being delivered to SkU 11 [Skadron Udara (SkU)–air squadron] at Hasanuddin, Sulawesi, in August/September 2003, followed by three Su-30MK2s in late-2008/early-2009 and a trio of Su-27SKM variants in 2010. With military budgets set every five years, the armed forces are now drawing up a shopping list for 2015-19. Local industry, particularly PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI), will play a major part in how this money is spent. The past 15 years has not been kind to the company; it was hit massively by the 1997 crisis. However, in July 2011, EADS-Airbus Military signed a strategic collaboration with PTDI to assist with revitalizing Indonesia’s national aerospace industry, mainly by growing PTDI’s manufacturing output. The two companies enjoy a long-standing manufacturing relationship, which goes back to the days of CASA and PTDI’s predecessor: IPTN.
Indonesian Ship’s Name Opens Battle Wounds in Singapore Wall Street Journal 8th Feb 2014
A reopening of historical wounds, according to Singaporean leaders, who say Jakarta’s decision to name a new warship after two Indonesian marines executed for a deadly 1960s bombing in Singapore revives painful memories. Osman Haji Mohamed Ali and Harun Said were convicted for killing three people and injuring 33 others in the March 1965 bombing of MacDonald House, a bank building in the Orchard Road shopping district. They were hanged in 1968. Their names may have been relegated to the history books were it not for the announcement earlier this week that the Indonesian navy was naming one of three new British-made frigates the Usman Harun, in honor of the two marines it considers national heroes. The announcement has since set off a diplomatic row between the two countries—major trade partners who have, in recent years, bickered over issues such as crossborder air pollution and Indonesia’s ban on sand exports to Singapore.
Indonesia’s foreign relations: policy shaped by the ideal of ‘dynamic equilibrium’ EAF 4th Feb 2014
We haven’t heard much about Indonesia’s ‘concentric circles’ foreign policy lately, a concept that gained currency when Mochtar Kusumaatmadja served as Indonesian foreign minister from 1978 to 1988 and continued to be popular until the end of the New Order. The idea was that instead of pursuing a globalist foreign policy as President Sukarno had done when he tried to position Indonesia as a leading light among the ‘new emerging forces’ confronting colonialism and imperialism, President Suharto would pursue more modest foreign policy goals centred on Indonesia’s needs for security, stability and economic development. Indonesia’s foreign policy priorities would be based on geographic proximity, with the inner circle encompassing ASEAN (seen as the cornerstone of Indonesian foreign policy), the second circle comprising major neighbouring countries in East Asia, the third circle the wider Asia Pacific region, with the outer perimeters being of diminishing importance. Thus the Asia Pacific was the focus of Indonesia’s foreign policy interests and strategic priorities throughout most of Suharto’s New Order period, while relations with countries and regions beyond were selective, on the basis of what they could offer Indonesia economically. Since then new buzz words have emerged in Indonesia’s foreign policy practice, though the adherence to the ‘free and active’ foreign policy doctrine, introduced in 1948 as a means for Indonesia to strike an independent path in the face of the bipolar rivalry, has been reiterated from time to time.
Indonesian Militants Join Foreigners Fighting in Syria NYT 31st Jan 2014
Indonesians have joined the thousands of foreign fighters who have traveled to Syria to help extremist groups trying to create an Islamic state there, according to a new report, a finding that analysts said Friday could help revive a weakened jihadi movement in Indonesia and set off more attacks on minority Shiites in the Southeast Asian country. The report by the Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict, based in Jakarta, said that the Syrian conflict, approaching its third anniversary in March, had “captured the imagination of Indonesian extremists in a way no foreign war has before.” Related Coverage Syria’s foreign minister, Walid al-Moallem, center, said Friday in Geneva that he did not rule out returning for more negotiations. Syrian Talks, Ending First Round, Fail Even to Agree on Easing Aid BlockadeJAN. 31, 2014 “The enthusiasm for Syria is directly linked to predictions in Islamic eschatology that the final battle at the end of time will take place in Sham, the region sometimes called Greater Syria or the Levant, encompassing Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine and Israel,” the report said, adding that atrocities committed by government forces against Sunni Muslims have been given strong play in the Indonesian news media and on radical websites.
Laos
Laos , Myanmar to Cooperate in Security Brudirect 4th Feb 2014
Laos and Myanmar have vowed to cooperate in ensuring security, peace and stability between the two countries, according to a Xinhua report in Yangon on Thursday. The implementation of a memorandum of understanding on cooperation regarding the rule of law between the two countries was discussed at a Myanmar-Lao Ministerial Meeting in Yangon. The discussions between Myanmar Minister of Home Affairs, Lieutenant-General Ko Ko and Lao Minister of Public Security, Dr Thongbanh Seng-aphone also covered immigration, anti-human trafficking operations, technical exchange and control and management on foreign labor between Myanmar and Laos. During President Choummaly Sayasone's Nay Pyi Taw state visit last December, leaders of the two countries also touched on anti-drug trafficking and border security.
Malaysia
Armed Forces Fund Board Declares Dividend And Bonus For 2013 Bernama 7th Feb 2014
The Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT) Friday declared a dividend of 16 per cent and bonus amounting to RM818.2 million for the financial year ended Dec 31, 2013, up 7.8 per cent, from RM759.3 million paid out in 2012. The dividend and bonus comprise of seven per cent dividend, one per cent bonus and eight per cent special bonus in the form of unit trusts for active members. The average yearly dividend and bonus paid out for the past 41 years stood at 11.2 per cent per annum, said LTAT in a statement. For 2013, LTAT registered an unaudited total income of RM966.5 million, an increase of 19.1 per cent compared with last year's RM811.6 million. Total assets increased 5.8 per cent to RM9.1 billion compared with RM8.6 billion recorded in 2012 while members' contribution stood at RM8.3 billion compared with RM7.8 billion last year. "LTAT's consistent growth in its financial results over the years clearly reflects its commitment to its key stakeholder, the serving members of the armed forces.
M'sian security forces in full control of Sabah's east coast: police chief Asia News Network 7th Feb 2014
Malaysian security forces are in full control of Sabah's east coast, a year after they defeated Sulu militants who intruded and occupied Tanduo here on February 12 last year. "We are in control," Inspector-General of Police Khalid Abu Bakar declared here on Friday after a three-day working visit to security outposts at islands dotting the state's east coast with southern Philippines. Khalid said that various measures taken to beef up security by police, armed forces and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) had put them in a position to check on armed intrusions whether by militants or criminals. He said the public and tourist need not worry as "security decisions that were made had been implemented," he said, adding that they were able to prevent intrusions in late December and January in island areas close to the border due the preparedness and alertness of security personnel. Speaking to reporters after awarding 233 Pingat Kedaulatan Negara for police personnel who served under Ops Daulat last year, Khalid said that the prime minister has approved the setting up of a second General Operations Force (GOF) brigade in Sabah.
Singapore and Malaysia to strengthen bilateral defence relations Channel NewsAsia 10th Feb 2014
Singapore and Malaysia have reaffirmed the longstanding defence relationship between the two countries and agreed to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation. Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen and Malaysian Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein held discussions on Monday evening at a dinner hosted by Dr Ng. The Singapore Armed Forces and the MAF share a long history of cooperation, and interact regularly through bilateral exercises such as the Land Exercise Semangat Bersatu and the Naval Exercise Malapura.
Malaysia: Boustead Naval Shipyard Awards USD 9.6 Mln Job to Boustead Atlas Naval Today 30th Jan 2014
Malaysian-based Boustead Atlas Hall has signed a RM26.6m (about USD 9.6 million) contract with Boustead Naval Shipyard, under which Boustead Atlas Hall will construct a hangar and consolidate two vessels, according to the The Star Online. Both companies are subsidiaries of the Boustead Holdings Bhd, which owns 68.85% of Bousted Naval Shipyard. These contracts were deemed related party transaction under the Listing Requirements of Bursa Malaysia Securities Bhd and the awarded works are in the best interest of the Boustead Holdings, the parent company said. Boustead Naval Shipyard covers an area of 46 hectares and was originally known as the Royal Malaysia Navy Dockyard. It became fully operational in 1984. The shipyard is capable of building patrol vessels, fast troop carriers, anchor handling tub, OSVs, luxury yacht hotel and vehicular ferries.
Malaysia navy chief denies Chinese incursion Reuters 29th Jan 2014
Malaysia's navy chief has denied a report that three Chinese navy ships patrolled an area claimed by the Southeast Asian country, saying the Chinese exercise took place hundreds of miles to the north in international waters. Chinese state news agency Xinhua reported that an amphibious landing craft and two destroyers patrolled the James Shoal on Sunday, 50 miles off the coast of Malaysia's Sarawak state, and held a ceremony in which they swore to safeguard Chinese sovereignty.
Membership
United Technologies Considers Sale or Spin-Off of Sikorsky New York Times 31st Jan 2014
The United Technologies Corporation is considering a spin-off or sale of Sikorsky, the maker of the Black Hawk helicopters favored by the United States military, according to people briefed on the matter. Discussions about the fate of the Sikorsky unit are preliminary and may not result in a deal. But United Technologies is considering the unit as a candidate for a tax-free spinoff or potentially a sale to a rival. Sikorsky has been part of United Technologies for nearly all of the helicopter maker’s 90-year history. In addition to the Black Hawk, Sikorsky makes a range of commercial and military helicopters, including the Seahawk and Superhawk. In recent years, the Pentagon has awarded $18 billion in contracts to Sikorsky, according to Defense News, which first reported United Technologies’ deliberations.
Northrop Grumman's Profit Drops, Raytheon's Rises WSJ 30th Jan 2014
Northrop Grumman Corp. NOC +2.01% on Thursday reported a 10% drop in fourth-quarter profit, but forecast higher margins this year and pledged to continue the sector's most aggressive share buyback program. Meanwhile, Raytheon Co. RTN +3.42% posted forecast-beating earnings for the fourth quarter, though its full-year guidance fell short of expectations. The disappointing outlook is a sign of the challenges U.S. defense contractors could face as they seek to generate profits from their push into overseas markets. The company forecast adjusted per-share earnings this year of $5.76 to $5.91, well below the $6.30 analysts' consensus, with cash flow broadly flat. Raytheon's closely watched order backlog decreased to $33.7 billion at year-end from $36.2 billion a year earlier. Northrop Grumman, the world's sixth-largest defense contractor by sales, said net profit in the fourth quarter fell to $478 million from $533 million. Per-share earnings, though, only dipped to $2.12 from $2.14 a year earlier because of fewer shares outstanding in the latest quarter.
Lockheed teams with AeroVironment to seek new customers Washington Post 11th Feb 2014
Bethesda-based contracting giant Lockheed Martin last week said it will partner with California-based AeroVironment to pursue marketing an AeroVironment-built drone to a broader group of customers. The deal illustrates defense contractors’ continued focus on unmanned systems, particularly on moving them beyond simply military use. The agreement centers around AeroVironment’s Global Observer drone, a hybrid-electric platform that can operate for about a week at an altitude of 55,000 feet to 65,000 feet, according to Steven Gitlin of AeroVironment. Gitlin said the aircraft can be used to host equipment that enables, for instance, communication or surveillance. It could be used “to monitor borders, to monitor critical shipping lanes, to monitor weather, to help after natural disasters,” Gitlin said. Under the partnership, Lemmo said Lockheed will be able to help AeroVironment adapt the aircraft for a whole variety of potential customers, from international governments to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Honeywell to Get $75 Million to End Goggle Patent Fight Bloomberg 6th Feb 2014
Honeywell International Inc. (HON) will get $75 million from the U.S. government to end a decade-long patent dispute over night-vision goggle technology used in Lockheed Martin Corp. (LMT)’s F-16 fighter jet. Honeywell in return will give the government a license to use the technology, according to a judgment entered yesterday. Honeywell argued in its lawsuit that the government used the invention without compensation before and after the patent was issued in 2002. The patent relates to modifying the normal color display in an airplane cockpit so controls can be seen with and without the goggles. Night-vision devices can be overwhelmed by red or infrared lights such as those used for warning signals. In addition to the F-16, the technology is used in Lockheed’s C-130H and C-130J transport planes.
General Dynamics Corporation Wins $520 Million Submarine Contract Daily Finance 4th Feb 2014
The Department of Defense awarded General Dynamics Corporation a $520 million sole-source undefinitized contract action, or UCA, on Tuesday, funding the purchase of long lead-time materials that the defense contractor will require for use in constructing the Virginia-class nuclear fast attack submarines SSN 794, SSN 795, SSN 796, and SSN 797. The DoD issues UCAs to authorize defense contractors like General Dynamics to begin work on a project, and to provide them with funds to accomplish this work, even before final agreement has been reached between the parties on all terms of a contract. Work under this UCA is expected to be complete by January 2015.
Northrop Grumman gets US-CERT deal FCW 4th Feb 2014
The Department of Homeland Security awarded a five-year contract worth as much as $350 million to Northrop Grumman to provide services to the department’s cyberattack response team. The indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract will support DHS' U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team, the operational arm of the agency's National Cyber Security Division. US-CERT analyzes and reports on cyberthreats and coordinates incidence response among the federal government, intelligence community, international partners, state and local agencies, law enforcement, and the private sector.
Myanmar
Chinese rifle is welcomed by Warlords in Burma wantchinatimes 10th Feb 2014
The Chinese-built Type 81 assault rifle is a surprise hit amongst the various warlord groups in Myanmar, according to the Party-run China Youth Daily.The Kachin Independence Army was the first amongst all rival groups in Myanmar to receive the bootleg version of the assault rifle. The rifle, which loads the same M43 bullet as the commonly used AK-47, has gained its popularity in Myanmar.The rifle's bootleg version used by the Kachin Independence Army is called the M23. The rifle was re-designed specifically for Kachin soldiers, who are commonly shorter than those in China's PLA. the folding stock applied to the original Type 81 assault rifle in Myanmar. A weakness of the custom-designed rifle, however, is that the Kachin Independence Army is unable to produce qualified propellant for it.China's foreign ministry denied accusations last year of providing weapons to anti-government forces in Myanmar last year, a claim made by the Voice of America and Janes Defense News.
Govt unwilling to seek political solution to ‘civil war’: KIO chief Mizzima 6th Feb 2014
The government of President U Thein Sein is not interested in seeking a political solution to the “civil war” in Kachin State, Kachin Independence Organization chairman Lanyaw Zawng Hra said on February 5.“We can clearly see that the government is unwilling to solve the civil war politically; we, the armed ethnic groups, are trying to change this policy and their mindset,” Lanyaw Zawng Hra said in a speech marking the 54th anniversary of Kachin Resistance Day.The speech was read on his behalf at a function held by the Kachin Baptist Association in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and attended by KIO vice chairman General N-Ban La and more than 200 people, including former fighters with the Kachin Independence Army, the KIO’s armed wing.In his message, Lanyaw Zawng Hra also urged the government to halt offensives against ethnic minorities so that the country could be a peace.
Steve HirschFebruary 5, 2014 00:17 globalpost 5th Feb 2014
When US forces tested their jungle warfare skills in last year’s Cobra Gold exercise in Asia, two officers from Myanmar got privileged access, attending as observers.That's one example of cooperation that would have been unthinkable a few years ago — when the US still knew Myanmar as Burma — and which remains controversial today.Critics contend that the administration of President Barack Obama has been too quick to embrace Myanmar's military since the country initiated reforms, overlooking its dubious international allies and its lamentable reputation for violence against civilians and minority groups. In addition to launching military cooperation, the Obama administration has eased sanctions and other restrictions.Dominated by generals, Myanmar’s government has long ranked among the world’s most oppressive and corrupt. It maintains close ties to China and North Korea. The latter link may have aided Burmese nuclear weapon and missile efforts.
Journalists Detained for Reporting Alleged Burmese Chemical Weapons Factory Irrawaddy 3rd Feb 2014
Four journalists and the CEO of the Rangoon-based Unity journal have been detained by the Burma police force’s Special Branch after the newspaper reported the existence of an alleged chemical weapons factory in central Burma.The news report last week—under the headline: “A secret chemical weapon factory of the former generals, Chinese technicians and the commander-in-chief at Pauk Township”—included photographs of the supposed chemical weapons plant in Magwe Division.Lu Maw Naing, a reporter for the journal based in Pauk Township, and CEO Tint San were detained on Friday and Saturday, respectively, apparently for publishing state secrets.
Armed ethnic groups disagree over federal army issue Mizzima 29th Jan 2014
Armed ethnic groups attending a conference in Kayin State have disagreed over references to a federal army in a draft ceasefire agreement to be negotiated with the government, a spokesperson told Mizzima on January 22.“There were differences of opinion over the use of the term ‘federal army’ and this is why the conference was extended [by a day] to January 23,” said Khun Okka, the joint secretary of the United Nationalities Federal Council and a spokesperson for the conference.The gathering, at the Lawkheelar camp in territory under the control of the Karen National Union, began on January 20.It is being attended by representatives of the 18 armed ethnic groups in the National Ceasefire Coordinating Team formed to participate in the peace talks with the government. Some other armed ethnic groups are also attending the meeting.
Is Burma really buying submarines? The Interpreter 29th Jan 2014
For the past six months, there have been intermittent reports in the news media and on specialist websites stating that Burma (Myanmar) is developing a submarine capability. If this is true, it has important implications not only for Burma and the region, but also for the wider international community. However, equally dramatic stories about Burma have emerged in the past, only to prove misleading or false. This is not the first time Burma has been linked to a submarine sale. In 2003, it was claimed that the military government had held discussions with North Korea on the purchase of one or two small submarines. The 110-ton Yugo and 370-ton Sang-O classes were mentioned. Despite the limitations of both designs, Burma's interest in these boats was said to reflect a wish to police its territorial waters and help deter an invasion. According to Jane's Defence Weekly (JDW), Burma eventually opted to purchase one Sang-O class submarine, but was forced to abandon the deal in late 2002. It was suggested that the project had been scuppered by the cost of the boat, and perhaps belated recognition by the country's military leadership of the technical difficulties of keeping it fully operational. These reports were never confirmed, but other developments gave them some credibility. For example, after the 1988 uprising, Burma's new military government launched an ambitious plan to modernise and expand the armed forces. This included a naval rearmament program. In 1999, it was reported that Burmese naval officers had undergone unspecified 'submarine training' in Pakistan. Also relevant was the fact that in the 1990s Burma started to expand its defence ties with North Korea. If the generals were interested in acquiring other weapons from Pyongyang, possibly including ballistic missiles, so the logic went, why not a few submarines? If Korea was prepared to sell Yugo-class boats to Vietnam (which it did in 1997), why not to Burma? Over the next decade, Burma's navy acquired several new ships, some armed with anti-submarine weapon systems, but the emphasis was clearly on surface warfare. Claims by an activist group in 2010 that India had provided training for Burma on a Foxtrot class submarine, and that Naypyidaw was considering the purchase of two Foxtrot boats from Russia, could not be verified.
Philippines
Philippine Navy Signs Contract for Two Additional AW109 Power Helicopters Defense Studies 13th Feb 2014
AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce the signing of a contract with the Philippine Navy for two additional AW109 Power maritime helicopters. The helicopters will be used for a wide range of naval missions including economic zone protection, surface surveillance, SAR and maritime security. This latest contract brings to five the total number of AW109 Powers ordered by the Philippine Navy which is already operating the first batch of three aircraft. The order further expands the success achieved by this model in the Philippines for military applications following the contract for eight units signed by the Philippine Air Force in 2013. The two additional helicopters will be delivered in the second half of this year and will operate from both shore and ship bases. The contract includes initial logistics support and training for aircrew and maintenance personnel. Vincenzo Alaimo, AgustaWestland’s Head of Regional Sales for SE Asia, said “It gives us great pleasure to announce this new order for the AW109 Power by the Philippines’ military following the initial success achieved in 2013 with contracts signed by both the Navy and the Air Force. This very capable and cost effective helicopter can provide tremendous support to the nation’s security and safety thanks to its outstanding performance and mission capabilities.” The AW109 Power is a three-tonne class eight seat helicopter powered by two Pratt & Whitney PW206C engines with FADEC. The spacious cabin is designed to be fitted with a number of modular equipment packages for quick and easy conversion between roles. The aircraft’s safety features include a fully separated fuel system, dual hydraulic boost system, dual electrical systems and redundant lubrication and cooling systems for the main transmission and engines.
DND Releases Shopping List with P3.68B Boost Defense Studies 11th Feb 2014
The Department of National Defense (DND) received P3.69 billion as part of its 2013 year-end releases by Department of Budget and Management (DBM). In a statement on Tuesday, the DBM presented DND's 18 "priority projects" that will be covered by the funding supplement mostly under the modernization program for the armed forces. These include: P2.135 billion for: P1.670 billion for strategic sealift vessels P189 million for C41/GIS equipment P109 million for radio test equipment P58 million for the production capability and facility upgrade/prime loading and assembly equipment P52 million for portable radio receivers P20 million for a master development plan P19 million for technical forensic upgrades P10 million for laser packing machines P6 million for the Camp Bautista Station Hospital P1.542 billion for: P97 million for small amphibian vehicles P229 million for shoulder-launch multi-purpose assault weapons P500 million for AV config radios P364 million for HH radios P107 million for 60mm mortars P50 million for 7.62mm sniper rifles P12 million for audio video equipment P178 million for AFP JSOG requirements P6 million fot Jacinto Class Patrol Vessel Ph 2 DBM explained that the recent P3.68-billion release would benefit DND general headquarters, the Philippine Army, the Philippine Navy and the Government Arsenal.
MPACs to be Transformed Into 'Harassment Force' Defense Studies 10th Feb 2014
The Philippine Navy (PN) is planning to transform its MPAC (multi-purpose attack craft) squadron into a force capable of harassing foreign ships that may intrude in the country's territorial waters. The Navy presently operates six MPACs, three of which were obtained from Taiwan and the other three from Filipino shipbuilder Propmech Corporation which is based in Subic Bay, Zambales. Navy officials said the MPACs are suited for these mission as they could go in, attack or harass the offending vessel and evade quickly. To create this capability, more heavier weapons and longer range sensors and surveillance will be installed on these 45-knot small craft. PN MPACs are 16.5 meters long, 4.76 meters wide and has a draft of one meter and a top speed of 45 knots. Each one costs around P90 million. It has a range 300 nautical miles. The hull is made of high-quality aluminum and is crewed by one officer and four enlisted personnel. It is capable of carrying 16 fully-equipped troopers or two tons of cargo. The MPAC is also capable of operating in territorial waters up to "Sea State 3" (slight waves) without any system degradation and is armed with one .50 caliber and two 7.62mm machine guns.
Israel offers excess defense articles to Phl PhilStar 5th Feb 2014
Israel has offered to provide the Philippines with excess defense articles. Department of National Defense spokesman Peter Galvez said Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon discussed the matter during a bilateral meeting in Tel Aviv last week. “Israel also offered assistance in the development of command, control, communications, computers and intelligence capabilities as well as the availability of excess defense articles for Philippine acquisition,” he said. Gazmin and Ya’alon also discussed the prospects of information exchange, particularly on terrorism and technology-sharing. Earlier, The STAR reported that the Philippines would acquire three air search radars from Israel to boost monitoring activities in the West Philippine Sea. The radars will be purchased from state-run Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd.-Elta for P2.6 billion.
Philippine Leader Sounds Alarm on China NYT 4th Feb 2014
President Benigno S. Aquino III called on Tuesday for nations around the world to do more to support the Philippines in resisting China’s assertive claims to the seas near his country, drawing a comparison to the West’s failure to support Czechoslovakia against Hitler’s demands for Czech land in 1938. Like Czechoslovakia, the Philippines faces demands to surrender territory piecemeal to a much stronger foreign power and needs more robust foreign support for the rule of international law if it is to resist, President Aquino said in a 90-minute interview in the wood-paneled music room of the presidential palace. “If we say yes to something we believe is wrong now, what guarantee is there that the wrong will not be further exacerbated down the line?” he said. He later added, “At what point do you say, ‘Enough is enough’? Well, the world has to say it — remember that the Sudetenland was given in an attempt to appease Hitler to prevent World War II.” Mr. Aquino’s remarks are among the strongest indications yet of alarm among Asian heads of state about China’s military buildup and territorial ambitions, and the second time in recent weeks that an Asian leader has volunteered a comparison to the prelude to world wars.
A peace agreement in Mindanao The Economist 1st Feb 2014
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is preparing to sign an agreement with the government that is meant to end decades of conflict in the south of the Philippines. Government leaders hope that the rebel group will begin disarming in May. The southern region of Mindanao is home to most of the predominantly Catholic country’s Muslim minority. The MILF is the most important in a range of armed groups that have been fighting for independence for the majority-Muslim areas. After 18 years of negotiations, often interrupted by heavy fighting, the government and the MILF concluded the last and most crucial part of a four-part peace agreement on January 25th. The first three parts gave autonomy—not independence—to the mainly Muslim areas, in return for peace. The fourth sets out how the government and the MILF will jointly restore order in the autonomous entity, to be called Bangsamoro. It also lays out how the 12,000 or so MILF fighters will put down their weapons, once all the other groups have been disarmed. This is the nub of the agreement. That the negotiators have got this far demonstrates the determination of both sides, weary from 46 years of a conflict that has killed tens of thousands. A few obstacles remain. Hostilities have not yet ceased. Two days after the agreement, the army assaulted a stronghold of a faction of the MILF, known as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), that rejects the agreement. The army said it boffed 37 rebels, a claim they rejected.
Philippines military offensive 'kills 37 rebels' BBC 29th Jan 2014
At least 37 Philippine rebels have been killed in a two-day offensive in the south, the military says. President Benigno Aquino said the offensive would protect villages from rebels in Maguindanao province. The insurgents involved in fighting oppose a recent peace accord between the government and the larger Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Under the new deal, MILF rebels will hand over their weapons in exchange for self-rule in parts of the south. But insurgents belonging to the breakaway rebel Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) say MILF compromised too much in the truce. The group, which comprises a few hundred militants, say they will continue their uprising because the deal did not lead to a separate homeland for minority Muslims in the south.
Dozens of Rebels Killed After Philippine Peace Deal Is Struck The New York Times 29th Jan 2014
More than 40 people were killed and a school district supervisor was kidnapped in separate episodes around the island of Mindanao, days after a landmark peace deal was struck with the largest Muslim insurgency group in the Philippines, officials said Wednesday.
PH, US 'close' to signing military deal Rappler 7th Feb 2014
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines and treaty ally United States are close to arriving at a military-to-military agreement allowing the increased presence of American troops in the Philippines and giving them more access to military bases here, a New York Times report quoted President Benigno Aquino III as saying. "Mr. Aquino said he thought the Philippines and the United States were close to a long-delayed deal that would allow more American troops to rotate through the Philippines, enhancing his country’s security," the US newspaper reported.
Bagsamoro Law to be certified as urgent Business World 29th Jan 2014
Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio B. Coloma, Jr. told a press briefing yesterday that all indications would say the Bangsamoro Basic Law will be certified urgent by Mr. Aquino. “All indications point to that. That he will certify the Bangsamoro law as urgent because this is one of the priority programs of our administration,” Mr. Coloma told reporters in Filipino.
Singapore
Singapore Airshow GM 200 Display Confirms Air Force Purchase Defense Studies 12th Feb 2014
The Republic of Singapore Air Force has displayed its Shikra radar – based on the ThalesRaytheonSystems (TRS) Ground Master (GM) 200 - on-board an 8x8 vehicle at the Singapore Air Show, thus confirming the purchase of the air defence radar system. The GM 200 is believed to have been ordered from prime contractor TRS in 2008, although the radar in the Singaporean configuration has never before been displayed. Thales has not been able to confirm or deny the purchase due to customer sensitivity, but Shephard understands that the TRS radar was adapted into the Shikra configuration in order to effectively operate in an Asian climate. For the show it was mounted on a KMW MAN 8x8 which is operated by the Singaporean forces; according to Thales the GM 200 when operated off of a truck can be deployed within some 15 minutes. The GM 200 is a medium range tactical multi-mission radar operated in S band that has an extended detection range of 250 km in surveillance mode and 100 km in engagement mode.
STK's Humdinga Attracts Interest Defense Studies 12th Feb 2014
Singapore Technologies Kinetics (STK) has received indications of interest from several Southeast Asian navies for the Humdinga convertible amphibious vehicle designed by UK-based Gibbs Technologies. Under a partnership agreement, STK would build production quantities of the vehicle while Gibbs remains a design and fabrication house. Speaking to IHS Jane's at the Singapore Airshow, an STK spokesperson said that the all-wheel drive amphibious truck has attracted the attention of navies in the region looking to eliminate land and water boundaries. The Humdinga is an amphibious vehicle with retractable wheels and water jet propulsion and boasts highway-capable speeds on land and in excess of 50 km/h on water.
Boeing Will Pursue F-16 Upgrades, Executive Says Defense News 10th Feb 2014
Boeing is ready to throw its hat in the ring and compete for upcoming Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter upgrades, company executives said Feb. 10 ahead of the start of the Singapore Air Show. The US defense giant is eyeing Singapore as a target if the southeast Asian nation decides to compete a possible upgrade of its F-16 fleet, said Chris Raymond, vice president of business development and strategy for Boeing Defense, Space and Security.. “Should they [Singapore] go that route, we would be interested in pursuing that and introducing some competition,” Raymond told reporters. The Pentagon notified the US Congress in mid-January of a possible $2.4 billion deal to upgrade a fleet of aging F-16 Block52 aircraft. That could involve a deal similar to the one signed by Lockheed Martin with Taiwan to upgrade its F-16 fleet on the back of the US Air Force’s Combat Avionics Programmed Extension Suites (CAPES) aimed at revitalizing the capabilities of around 300 jets with an AESA radar and new avioinics.
Singapore, the tiny state with military clout CNBC 7th Feb 2014
Singapore, one of Asia's smallest countries thinks big when it comes to defense. Between 2008 and 2012 the city-state, with a population of just 5.3 million, was the world's fifth-largest arms importer, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. The wealthy Southeast Asian country consistently allocates about 20 percent of national spending to defense, analysts say. Ever since an acrimonious split with larger neighbor Malaysia in 1965, Singapore has placed a strong emphasis on the military. That's likely to remain the case for some time given regional tensions, increased military spending by neighbors and the threats posed by piracy and terrorism, experts add. "The greatest fears for a small country like Singapore lie in two things – coercion by bigger powers and strategic uncertainty that arises from any conflict between great powers," said William Choong, Shangri-La Dialogue senior fellow for Asia-Pacific Security at the International Institute for Strategic Studies. "Singapore's defense spending should be seen in such a context."
Unfunded F-16 Upgrades Put Jet's Combat Value in Doubt Defense News 2nd Feb 2014
As officials in Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) were busying themselves for Chinese New Year celebrations last week, they received potentially devastating news for the Pacific nation’s air defense plans. The US Air Force plans to defund the combat avionics programmed extension suite (CAPES) program, as budget constraints could force the service to move remaining money from CAPES to the F-16 service-life extension program (SLEP), according to sources. While a lower profile program in the US, CAPES has huge implications for Taiwan. The program would upgrade 300 US F-16s and 146 Taiwanese F-16s with top-line avionics. While more US F-16s would receive the upgrade, the Taiwan piece represents a larger percentage of its overall fighter fleet. And without the program, Taiwan could be stuck with an aging fleet of F-16s as it continues to worry over China’s intentions. Its largest feature would be the integration of the Northrop Grumman scalable agile beam radar (SABR) with Lockheed Martin as prime contractor. If CAPES remains unfunded, Taiwan has several options. The first is to go forward and pay the additional costs of the program under CAPES with no financial assistance from the US. While exact costs aren’t clear, such a move seems unlikely, as Taiwan’s military is going through severe cuts and struggling to pay off previous US arms deals. The second option is drop out of CAPES and go with South Korea’s F-16 upgrade solution with Raytheon’s advanced combat radar with BAE Systems as prime contractor. South Korea is upgrading 134 KF-16C/Ds.
Indonesia naming ship after MacDonald House bombers "would reopen old wounds" Channel NewsAsia 6th Feb 2014
Singapore has sent a strong signal to Indonesia that it opposes the naming of an Indonesian warship after two marines who carried out the bombing of MacDonald House in Singapore in 1965. A day after Foreign Minister K Shanmugam spoke to his Indonesian counterpart to register Singapore's concerns, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean and Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen also spoke separately with their counterparts. They conveyed Singapore's position that the bombing was wrong, and was a grievous attack on civilians in Singapore that resulted in deaths and injuries. The bombing of MacDonald House along Orchard Road was carried out during the period of Konfrontasi, or confrontation, between Indonesia and Malaysia which began in 1962.
Thailand
RTAF F-16 MLU Roll Out Ceremony Defense Studies 31st Jan 2014
On 24 January Thai Aviation Industry Company Ltd. or TAI and Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Air Force and Air Force Thailand held Ceremony launches first F-16AM/BM 2 of 18 machines through the Mid-Life Upgrade MLU at the Technical Services Department of TAI Office. In the ceremony, the ACM Sarit Pong Kota gladness Deputy Air Commander as Represented the Chief of Air of Thailand, HE Kristie Kenney U.S. Ambassador to Thailand as representatives from the U.S., Air Vice Rochard C. Johnston, Assistant Deputy Minister of the Air Force (Assistant Deputy Under Secretary of The Air Force) is representatives of the U.S. Air Force, The TAI and Lockheed Martin company officials, including officers of the Air Force attended the ceremony. Inside the ceremony, Ambassador Kristie Kenney said, "I feel proud that the United States has partnered with Lockheed Martin and TAI by improvements made F-16 Air Force Thailand to step up to world level and meets the top fighter of the ASEAN countries, NATO and the U.S. Air Force. This is an exciting partnership and increase the ability to work together with the U.S. in all areas throughout the world to make people's lives more secure, whether in Asia or in other areas around the world, this is what we are proud to".
Vietnam
Vietnam in Talks Over Camcopter S-100 Purchase Defense Studies 12th Feb 2014
Schiebel is in talks with the Vietnam People's Navy (VPN) to supply its Camcopter S-100 rotary-wing unmanned aerial vehicle, company officials confirmed at the Singapore Airshow. Andrew Byrne, regional sales director for Asia-Pacific at the Austrian firm, told IHS Jane's that the company had briefed Vietnam about the S-100 and was planning to hold a multinational demonstration of the system's capabilities in the region later in 2014. "Every southeast Asian country is informed" of the S-100, Byrne said, adding that as well as Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam had shown interest in the platform. Australia and New Zealand were also examining the system, with the latter's navy taking part in a demonstration for New Zealand power company Transpower in September 2013.
T-54/55 MBT of the Vietnamese People's Army Defense Studies 3rd Feb 2014
Few people know that the Vietnam T-54/55 tanks can be fired anti-tank missiles, laser guided down the barrel. Currently, the main battle tank T-54 and T-55 is considered the "backbone" force increased - armored Vietnam. The T-54B is equipped with a 100mm main gun D-10T2S, stable system with two center longitudinal axis flavor - STP-2 Tsyklon horizontal, effectively has a range of 1,000 meters straight. T-54 and T-55 is called a generation tanks manufactured in the Soviet Union and equip its troops from 1947 to 1962. This form is the most produced tank with a total of 95,000 vehicles shipped. The layout of the T-54 tank-style convention, with the main weapon consists of a helical grooved 100mm gun. T-54 is used more than any other tank since the Second World War. T-55 include a high speed gun with a long barrel unusual. T-55 crawler, wheel chasis year with a short body and circular turret. Army increased - armored military Vietnam is still using a large number T54/55 tanks. This is the generation tanks have proven effective in the war against the U.S., Specifications features, weight, design pretty much consistent with the mountainous terrain, narrow roads or muddy fields as in Vietnam.
The Second Export Submarine "Ho Chi Minh" Left "Admiralty Shipyards" and Sent to Vietnam Defense Studies 1st Feb 2014
The second export submarine HQ-183 "Ho Chi Minh" project 636.1 left "Admiralty Shipyards" and sent to Vietnam aboard a chartered Dutch freighter. This ARMS-Tass said the representative of the Russian military-industrial complex (MIC). According to him, to transport submarine naval base Cam Ranh will take 45 days and will end in March this year. Freighter aboard the submarine was escorted responsible deliverer "Admiralty Shipyards" with a team of six men and six crew members. Their mission is to support its operational mechanisms, as well as recharging the batteries. After delivery to the customer will make test the submarine out to sea. To ensure it arrives in Vietnam warranty enterprise group consisting of 14 persons. Total under contract from 2009 worth $ 2.1 billion for the Vietnamese Navy will be built six Kilo submarines Project 636.1. Currently, the "Admiralty Shipyards" in various stages of readiness are three other similar boats - the third, fourth and fifth. Transfer to third boat HQ-185 "Haiphong" the customer will be held in November 2014, fourth to be launched in March, and in December will be docked fifth compartments.Bookmark sixth boat is planned for July this year.
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