KUALA LUMPUR: The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) expects to buy 18 Littoral Mission Ships (LMS) in its effort to strengthen the country’s maritime security, says Laksamana Datuk Seri Ahmad Kamarulzaman Ahmad Badaruddin.
He added that the LMS would replace the older patrol ships.
“It is cheaper to buy new ships than to maintain the old ones that are already 30 to 40 years old. Although the LMS is smaller, it is capable of doing a lot of missions.
“The LMS will not only carry out surveillance work, but also provide humanitarian aid and disaster relief,” he said
Ahmad Kamarulzaman said six new Littoral Combat Ships (LCS), which is bigger and faster, would also be received by the RMN between 2019 and 2023.
The ships were acquired under the 11th and 12th Malaysia Plans and built by Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd.
“With the new ships in place, the RMN will be able to beef up its armada combat capabilities as the number of combat vessels would be 10, instead of four previously,” he added.
It was reported that the six ships, estimated to be worth RM9bil, would be equipped with superior four-dimensional warfare capabilities for electronic, air, surface and underwater threats integrated with state-of-the-art systems.
It also has stealth capability which reduces radar reflection to minimise visibility and detection and it is also capable of rapid launch and recovery of boats.
Ahmad Kamarulzaman said the RMN was also set to consolidate all its naval units from 15 classes to five in an effort to strengthen the country’s maritime security.
“This is part of the RMN’s transformation programme to strengthen its armada and also to be cost effective,” he added.
“According to Kamarulzaman, the LMS will be smaller, less capable and more importantly, less expensive than the LCS. It will be multi-mission ship capable of conducting patrols and other duties. Both the LMS and MRSS and the rest of the future armada will be locally built to reduce the procurement and maintenance costs.” Posted March 12, 2016 @malaysiandefence.com
Main image is NOT actual ship just for reference @aeronewstv.com
This is Why West Turns a Blind Eye to Saudis’ Misdeeds in Yemen
21:16 21.04.2016(updated 13:31 22.04.2016)
Saudi Arabia is planning to build a canal that will connect the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea bypassing the Strait of Hormuz controlled by the Iranians. Since the canal would pass the Shia territories in Yemen, Riyadh needs to take the country under full military control, Craig Murray notes.
Regardless of vocal opposition from the EU Parliament and major human rights groups, the US government plans to continue high-tech weapons deliveries to Saudi Arabia which uses it against defenseless Yemeni civilians, Craig Murray, human rights activist, author and former British Ambassador to Uzbekistan, writes on his blog.
Embarrassingly for London, “UK special forces are operating inside Yemen in support of the onslaught,” he notes.
“But where the West gets involved in conflict, it is almost always at base either about oil resources (e.g. Kuwait, Libya, Syria, Iraq) or oil routes (e.g. Afghanistan, Georgia, Balkans). It turns out that Britain’s unflinching military support of Saudi Arabian aggression in Yemen is about oil routes,” Murray elaborates.
The truth of the matter is that last year Riyadh announced a plan to build a 950 kilometer canal, dubbed Salman Canal, connecting the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea.
But what lies at the root of the plan?
It is expected that the canal will allow ships to reduce their trip through the Strait of Hormuz almost by half. What is more important, Iran is keeping an eye on the strait. By bypassing Hormuz, Saudi Arabia hopes to overcome this “obstacle.”
“Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE could export their oil through this canal up to the Arabian Sea, thus avoiding the Strait of Hormuz,” Gulf News reported in September 2015.
In accordance with the plan, 630 kilometers of the canal will be built in Saudi Arabia and 320 kilometers… in Yemen.
“The canal will add 1,200km of clean and splendid coasts in the Empty Quarter and will have 20 tunnels for cars and pedestrians on the Saudi side, while it will add 700km of waterfront to Yemen and revive the desert areas in the east of the country,” Saad Bin Omar of the Riyadh-based Arab Century Centre for Studies said, as quoted by the media outlet.
However bright the prospects are in the eyes of Riyadh, it does not mean that Yemen will enthusiastically embrace the project.
To complicate matters further, “the eastern Yemeni regions through which it would pass are predominantly Shia, this is a major problem for the Saudis,” Murray stresses.
“There would need to be a Yemeni government not only willing to agree, but both able and willing to enforce security on the canal,” he explains.
And it means Riyadh needs not only to establish a government loyal to the Saudis in Yemen but also to maintain effective military control of the country.
Remarkably, Washington and London are backing Riyadh and its military adventure, while American thought leaders admit that Saudi Arabia’s activities in Yemen and Syria undermine the regions’ stability.
“Iranian control of the Strait of Hormuz has long been the nightmare of the American right,” Murray notes, adding that “Western elite support for the appalling Saudi regime is a given, because Saudi cash pumps primarily into banking, armaments and high end property, the three areas most dear to the interests of the 1%.”
“The United Kingdom is supporting yet another war for oil. But don’t worry about it, the corporate media is full of the Queen’s birthday! Stop thinking and shout hurrah!” Murray remarks.
NORTH KOREA is ready to put a stop to its nuclear tests – but only if the U.S. agrees to cease its annual military exercises with South Korea.
In his first interview with a Western news organization, North Korean foreign minister Ri Su Yong spoke with the Associated Press, defending his country’s right to maintain a nuclear deterrent, adding that North Korea would not bow to international pressure.
Pyongyang has long claimed that it was the U.S. that drove the nation to develop nuclear weapons.
“Stop the nuclear war exercises in the Korean Peninsula, then we should also cease our nuclear tests,” he said.
Ri also hinted that the suspension of the military exercises would likely reduce tensions between North and South Korea.
On Sunday, North Korea announced that it had successfully test-fired a ballistic missile from a submarine the day before, and that it has bolstered its nuclear attack capabilities.
The state-owned Korean Central News Agency reported that its leader Kim Jong Un had observed the firing of the missile from a test facility.
While South Korean weapons experts said it is unlikely that North Korea currently possesses an operational submarine that can fire multiple missiles, they do accede that the North is making progress on such technology.
Such a development is raising alarm bells, as missiles fired from submarines are harder to detect prior to launch compared to land-based ones.
In response to the missile test, the U.S. said it is restricting foreign minister Ri’s movement, as he is currently in New York to attend U.N. functions.
U.S. State Department spokesman John Kirby said due to the recent missile firing, the U.S. has decided that it was necessary to limit the travel of Ri and his delegation to only those places necessary for them to conduct their duties.
N. Korea appears to have fired submarine-launched missile: Seoul’s Defense Ministry
Published on Apr 23, 2016
北, 신포 동북방 동해상에서 ‘잠수함 미사일’ 1발 발사 South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff says the projectile,… presumed to a submarine-launched ballistic missile, was fired from near Shinpo, Hamgyeongnam-do province, on Saturday evening at 6:30 p.m, South Korea time. The South Korean military is currently assessing whether the launch was a success. The projectile was fired from a two-thousand ton submarine and South Korean military officials believe the missile’s rocket booster did ignite, but it was only in the air for a short time. The Joint Chiefs of Staff in Seoul say they are keeping a close eye on North Korea’s movements, and maintaining a high state of readiness. North Korea conducted a failed SLBM launch in November of last year and another, possibly successful, launch around six months before that. Experts have noted that SLBMs need to be tested numerous times in order to refine the launches, especially given the complexity of the technology involved. This latest launch comes amid mounting speculation North Korea could conduct a fifth nuclear test ahead of a rare party congress early next month. Kim Hyun-bin, Arirang News.
Charles Forrester, London – IHS Jane’s Defence Industry
21 April 2016
French company Sagem announced on 19 April that it had signed a joint venture (JV) with Indian company OIS Advanced Technology (OIS-AT) that will allow the manufacture of components for the AASM Hammer precision-guided munition in India.
The agreement will have OIS-AT manufacturing bomb guidance and glide kits for the system in India, as part of the Indian government’s ‘Make In India’ campaign to promote defence equipment manufacturing in India.
Sagem added in a statement that the guidance and glide kits would be “customised to specifically meet Indian Air Force requirements”.
According to IHS Jane’s Air Launched Weapons, Sagem is understood to have been negotiating an AASM contract with India to supply weapons for Indian Air Force Sukhoi Su-30MKIs, upgraded Mirage 2000Hs, and upgraded SEPECAT Jaguar IS/IBs. Indian sources also stated that the AASM would be integrated on Indian Navy MiG-29Ks.
The AASM Hammer is a modular kit that adds a guidance/seeker assembly to the existing ‘dumb’ general-purpose aerial bomb, along with pop-out airfoils to increase the bomb’s gliding range. Additionally, a rocket booster further extends the bomb’s stand-off capability.
The baseline version of the system for use by the French military and for existing export variants is for use on a 250 kg (500 lb) bomb. Initial testing was conducted on a Dassault Mirage 2000N, with later tests taking place on a Dassault Rafale. It is currently cleared for use on the Lockheed Martin F-16 and Dassault Rafale, with Sagem having evaluated compatibility with larger platforms such as the Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules, Lockheed Martin P-3 Orion, and the Dassault Atlantique 2 maritime patrol aircraft.
The 250 kg variant has a maximum range of 15-60 km, depending on the attack profile, and can use either a GPS, an inertial navigation system (INS) with imaging infrared seeker, or a laser seeker.
Armement Air-Sol Modulaire (AASM) HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) is a new generation medium-range modular air-to-ground weapon designed and manufactured by Sagem (Safran group), for the French Air Force and Navy.
The AASM weapon system has a length of 3m and weight of 330kg, and has a range of over 60km at high altitudes and 15km at low altitudes. It has fire and forget capability, and an extended stand-off capacity.
The interoperable missile has the ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously. It can also strike fixed or moving targets with high precision. The missile is maintenance-free and has low lifecycle costs.
The missile uses single, double or triple store adaptors and uses Sagem’s Hemispheric Resonating Gyro, inertial / GPS hybridisation and strap-down infrared imagers and associated algorithms for conventional deep strike missions.
The AASM HAMMER missile consists of a guidance kit and a range extension kit. The kits are fitted with Mk82 warheads including Smart Bomb Unit (SBU)-38, SBU-64 and SBU-54. The easy to use missile supports operations with 125kg, 250kg, 500kg and 1,000kg bomb bodies, and can be reprogrammed during the flight.
The basic version SBU-38 HAMMER is provided with hybrid INS/GPS guidance, while the SBU-54 version is equipped with INS/GPS/IR (infrared) guidance. The latest version SBU-64 uses INS/GPS/laser guidance.
AASM INS/GPS
The hybrid inertial/GPS layout is the standard guidance mode for coordinates. Once the coordinates have been entered in the weapon, the inertial guidance system enable it to hit the target without requiring a GPS signal, if it is unavailable. This version is designated the SBU-38 Hammer (Smart Bomb Unit).
The AASM’s modularity allows it to be used on 125, 250, 500 and 1000kg bomb bodies. Its engine provides it with range greater than 50km, meaning it can be fired at a standoff distance. Autonomous after it has been dropped, it can be used at low altitudes, cross hilly terrain or veer sharply from the firing aircraft.
AASM INS/GPS IR
The inertial/GPS/IR kit adds an infrared imager for terminal guidance. With a simplified model of the scene around the target first being uploaded to the weapon, this imager allows the AASM to recalculate its trajectory during the last few seconds prior to impact, using image recognition algorithms. This allows the AASM to hit its target with the highest possible accuracy, even if GPS coordinates are incorrect, or the GPS signal is unavailable. This version is called the SBU-64 Hammer.
The AASM’s modularity allows it to be used on 125, 250, 500 and 1000kg bomb bodies. Its engine provides it with range greater than 50km, meaning it can be fired at a standoff distance. Autonomous after it has been dropped, it can be used at low altitudes, cross hilly terrain or veer sharply from the firing aircraft.
AASM INS/GPS Laser
The inertial/GPS/laser kit adds terminal laser guidance to engage agile, moving land or naval targets, illuminated by a ground or airborne laser designator. It will be deployed by French armed forces starting in 2012. This version is designated the SBU-54 Hammer (Smart Bomb Unit).
The AASM’s modularity allows it to be used on 125, 250, 500 and 1000kg bomb bodies. Its engine provides it with range greater than 50km, meaning it can be fired at a standoff distance. Autonomous after it has been dropped, it can be used at low altitudes, cross hilly terrain or veer sharply from the firing aircraft. Source sagem.com
The laser terminal guidance version can be deployed to engage moving targets, while the infrared terminal guidance version minimises target coordinate errors.
The combat proven missile can operate in all weather conditions during the day and night. It has vertical strike capability and can support deep strikes, close air support, air interdiction, and SEAD-type or anti-ship combat missions.
The propulsion system is fitted at the rear of the missile and consists of a solid rocket motor and four winglets for flight control. Source airforce-technology
GMB Scotland yesterday said BAE Systems, who run the Scotstoun and Govan yards, had warned them there could be major job cuts if the Ministry of Defence order fewer than eight of the Type 26 ships.
Gary Smith, the union’s Scotland Secretary, said a “worst case scenario” could see 800 redundancies.
He added: “This would be a total betrayal of the workforce by a desperate Tory Government trying to shift the goalposts in the face of their failing economic stewardship.”
Smith said the number of frigates had already been cut from 13 to eight last year. He said it would be a “total betrayal” of the workers if the original order of 13 ships was not guaranteed in full.
BAE systems said they were working with the MoD to agree a “revised baseline” for the new ships.
Labour Shadow Defence Secretary Emily Thornberry and Glasgow South West SNP MP Chris Stephens told the Tories to honour their promises to the yards.
The MoD said they were committed to the Clyde and the Type 26 programme, and two new offshore patrol vessels would be built on the Clyde before work on the frigates began.
By Carlo Muñoz – The Washington Times – Thursday, April 21, 2016
President Obama’s pick to command all U.S. forces in Europe said Thursday that all options — including military force — should be considered as Washington weighs its response to recent Russian aggression against American forces operating in eastern Europe.
Army Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti’s testimony to the Senate Armed Services Committee came barely a week after Russian fighter jets and attack helicopters repeatedly buzzed the USS Donald Cook, a Navy destroyer on patrol in the Baltic Sea. For two days, Russian pilots “made numerous, close-range and low-altitude passes” above the vessel, Navy officials said, a move condemned by the Pentagon and NATO as “unsafe and unprofessional.”
If U.S. forces in Europe are put in harm’s way owing to Russia’s recent behavior, they will not hesitate to respond in kind, Gen. Scaparrotti told lawmakers at his confirmation hearing. He added that recent Russian moves, from the flybys and increased submarine patrols to support for Ukrainian separatists, suggest Russian President Vladimir Putin “is deliberately trying to break up NATO.”
Mr. Obama tapped Gen. Scaparrotti, currently commander of American forces in Korea, in March to replace Air Force Gen. Philip Breedlove as the head of U.S. European Command.
Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John McCain, Arizona Republican, and other members pressed the four-star general on whether military action would actually be considered should Russian saber-rattling cross the line.
“Should [the United States] make an announcement to the Russians that if they place the lives of our men and women on board Navy ships in danger, that we will take appropriate action?” Mr. McCain asked.
“Sir, I think that should be [made] known,” the four-star general replied.
The general also said he supported proposals to increase the size of the Army’s permanent deployment in Europe beyond the current two brigades, to enhance U.S. credibility in the face of rising Russian pressure.
Gen. Scaparrotti said U.S. forces will not relinquish their right to operate in international waters in the face of ongoing Russian challenges, telling Sen. Tom Cotton, Arkansas Republican, that U.S. military leaders “should keep everything on the table,” including military action, as a potential response.
The general’s testimony could inflame tensions in the already frayed ties between Washington and Moscow.
Russian officials have denied the USS Donald Cook incident was meant as a provocation, but the Navy destroyer would have been justified in firing on the Russian aircraft, Secretary of State John F. Kerry said Monday. However, Mr. Obama did not raise the issue during a Monday phone call with Mr. Putin dealing with other security issues.
The increased presence of Russia’s attack submarine fleet is emerging as another flash point in the troubled U.S.-Russian relationship. The number of Russian submarine patrols in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea has increased by 50 percent over the last year.
“We’re back to the great powers competition,” Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John M. Richardson told the New York Times Thursday. “I don’t think many people understand the visceral way Russia views NATO and the European Union as an existential threat.”
Gen. Scaparrotti told lawmakers that the U.S. submarine fleet needed more money in order to stem Moscow’s efforts.
“I believe that it’s critical,” he told New Hampshire Republican Sen. Kelly Ayotte. “We presently have dominance undersea. And … we should maintain that dominance.”
Absurd! Incredible! No words can describe this type of attitude! USA goes half the world from home for military exercise 70 miles from a large Russian naval base than complain when Russia shows there dissatisfaction! Now USA wants to declare war???? It’s this type of mindset from the USA that will start WW 3!
This is not just an isolated case to the Baltic’s it is also the same in the other side of the globe in SC Sea the same issue USA is having!
Yeah sure try shooting the Russian jets the USA ship won’t make it home!
Russian military forces deployed to Syria reportedly fired upon Israeli aircraft on at least two occasions over the past six months leading to the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seeking to enhance coordination mechanisms between his country and the Kremlin to avoid any potentially dangerous clashes.
This is according to a story in the Israeli Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper on Friday. The story does not, however, make clear who its sources were nor which dates the alleged incidents took place.
Israeli jets have flown numerous airstrikes against Russian-made missiles in the Syrian military arsenal it does not want the Hezbollah militia to get its hands on, some of these strikes appear to have taken place after the Russian deployment which began last September 30.
Turkey infamously shot down a Russian warplane over its border with Syria on November 24 which saw hitherto cordial relations between Ankara and Moscow severely strained. Israel maintains a communication mechanism with Moscow shortly after Russia’s intervention.
A Russian warplane briefly flew over Israeli-controlled airspace in the Golan Heights region last November 29 without incident.
Russian forces in Syria have fired at least twice on Israeli military aircraft, prompting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to seek improved operational coordination with Moscow, Israel’s top-selling newspaper said on Friday.
Source: Reuters
22 Apr 2016 – 5:06 PM UPDATED 2 HOURS AGO
The unsourced report in Yedioth Ahronoth gave no dates or locations for the incidents nor any indication Israeli planes were hit. Russia mounted its military intervention in Syria in September to shore Damascus up amid a now 5-year-old rebellion.
Separately, Israel’s Channel 10 TV said a Russian warplane approached an Israeli warplane off the Mediterranean coast of Syria last week but that there was no contact between them.
An Israeli military spokesman declined comment. Netanyahu’s office and the Russian embassy in Israel did not immediately respond.
Israel, which has repeatedly bombed Syria to foil suspected arms handovers to Lebanese Hezbollah guerrillas, was quick to set up an operational hotline with Moscow designed to avoid accidentally trading fire with Russian interventionary forces.
Visiting Moscow on Thursday, Netanyahu told Russian President Vladimir Putin in televised remarks: “I came here with one main goal – to strengthen the security coordination between us so as to avoid mishaps, misunderstandings and unnecessary confrontations.”
In an apparent allusion to Syria, Putin said: “I think there are understandable reasons for these intensive contacts (with Israel), given the complicated situation in the region.”
According to Yedioth, the reported Russian fire on Israeli planes was first raised with Putin by Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, who visited Moscow on March 15. At the time, Putin responded that he was unaware of the incidents, Yedioth said.
The Kai Shan – 1 (KS-1) (凯山一号) is the first Chinese surface-to-air missile to adopt a phased array radar
Design
The KS-1 missile was developed for the PLA as a replacement for the HQ-2, itself a reverse-engineered copy of the Soviet S-75 Dvina and used the same command guidance and SJ-202 Fan Song engagement radar along with what appears to be a HQ-2 single-rail launcher adapted to twin rails for the more compact KS-1 missile. This launcher could be mounted on a 6×6 truck to increase system mobility or be emplaced in the standard fashion.
KS-1A @cnnb.com.cn
The single stage solid propellant KS-1A missile itself compares best to the RIM-66 SM-1/2 in general layout, but with a very short span delta wing design more akin the the US Hawk. The rail launchers are conceptually similar to the underslung SM-1 rail launcher. Missile performance is cited at a maximum range of 27 nautical miles, maximum altitude of 80 kft, and a maximum load factor of 20G with capability against 4-5 G targets. The nearest equivalent US missile is the RIM-66 SM-1 and SM-2 series, the KS-1 falls between the SM-1 and SM-2 in performance, and it is about 20 percent larger and 40 percent heavier at launch. Source ausairpower.net
KS-1A is the updated version, roughly the Chinese equivalent of the American MIM-23 HAWK, except it was designed to engage missiles as well as aircraft. This unique design feature means that it is the first Chinese SAM to adopt an indigenous planar passive phased array engagement radar, designated the H-200, which can simultaneously track multiple targets 100+ km away, it can guide six missiles to three targets at the same time (two missiles at each target). The new radars substantially improve the systems performance over the original KS-1
H-200 passive phased array engagement radar
Chinese sources claim early KS-1 variants used the HQ-2 radar package, but since then the H-200 phased array engagement radar has been disclosed as the primary radar component of the KS-1A system. This phased array compares closely in configuration to the US MPQ-53 Patriot and Russian 30N6E series engagement radars, and is available either as a static relocatable installation, or a fully road mobile design on a 6×6 truck. Chinese sources claim a high resistance to jamming, which is credible given the phased array design technique used. Source ausairpower.net
Development
The first successful test-firing of the missile was in 1989; KS-1 development was complete in 1994. The missile was first publicized in 1998 at the Zhuhai airshow. An improved version, the KS-1A, which greatly enhanced its minimum altitude and range, has already been developed and first appeared at the sixth Zhuhai airshow in 2006. It was rumored that this improvement also increased its ability to engage targets maneuvering at a higher g force.
Deployment
Standard deployment of a KS-1A SAM battery typically includes:
KS-1C SAM missile in 2014 Zhuhai Air Show KS-1C SAM missile in 2014 Zhuhai Air ShowKS-1C SAM missile in 2014 Zhuhai Air Show
Variants
KS-1: The initial version with a SJ-202 engagement radar, which adopts a simple horn instead of a lens arrangement, the missile seeker has a traditional parabolic antenna, and can guide up to two missiles against one target. Range is in excess of 40 km. The KS-1 resembles the US SM-1 or SM-2 Standard.
KS-1A: A KS-1 development, with a Cassegrain antenna for the seeker, and the option of the towed H-200 planar array PPAR or mobile SJ-231 planar array PPAR, which can guide up to eight missiles against four targets (two missiles for each target) simultaneously.The SJ-231 radar adopts a more complex lens arrangement like that of the MPQ-53 radar of the MIM-104 Patriot. The delay in the development caused the earlier production KS-1A units to be deployed with the earlier H-200 radar used by the KS-1. Range is increased to more than 50 km. The KS-1 has been upgraded by more advanced subsystems of its successor the KS-2, such as the radar of latter.
KS-2: The latest and last of the KS series, did not enter mass production due to the availability of a more advanced SAM, but its subsystems are used to upgrade earlier models. The missile seeker has a planar slotted-array antenna, the radar is HT-233 PPAR used by the HQ-9.
HQ-12: A derivative of the KS series that utilizes the SJ-202/212 radar. The original SJ-202 is the radar used by the HQ-2 series SAM and its successor; the SJ-212 is a fully solid-state version which is also completely digitized, although both radars look very similar externally. In comparison to the KS-1/1A, the fire control radar of the HQ-12 allows the SAM to have the option of engaging either three targets with a pair of missiles for each target, or alternatively, engaging six targets with a single missile for each.
FK-3: New variant with enhanced range to 100 km, and altitude from 50 m to 27 km. Launching rail is replaced by launching/transportation tubes, with firepower doubled from two to four. FK-3 has a dual mode command & control guidance system to counter electronic jamming, and it first appears in KSA 2014
A-Darter, also known as V3E Agile Darter, is a fifth-generation short range, air-to-air missile (SRAAM) developed in South Africa. The AAM is designed to meet the challenges which may come from conflict against future air combat fighters.
The missile system completed several successful test launches in January 2012. It entered the final qualification phase in March 2012 and is expected to be ready for production by 2013.
The missile will enter service with the South African Air Force (SAAF) and Brazilian Air Force (FAB) in 2014.
The SAAF is planning to equip the missile on its 26 Saab Gripen fighter jets and 24 Hawk Mk120 fleet. The FAB is expected to integrate it on Northrop’s F-5E/F Tiger II, F-5A/B Freedom Fighter and future F-X2 fighters.
High explosive (HE) warhead and systems of the A-Darter SRAAM
The A-Darter is 2.98m (9.78ft) long and 0.16m (0.52ft) in diameter. It has four fixed delta control fins at the rear and two strakes along the sides. The missile weighs 90kg.
It carries a high explosive (HE) warhead and has a range of ten kilometres. It is powered by a solid propulsion system. The missile has a track rate of 120°/s and a seeker angle of 180° for countermeasure resistance. It also features lock-on after launch and memory tracking for higher range intercepts, and is compatible with Sidewinder stations.
The tail-controlled AAM is powered by a boost-sustain rocket motor and uses thrust vector flight control. Its wingless airframe and low drag enable the A-Darter to have a higher range than the traditional SRAAMs. The missile system is designed with a highly agile airframe for close combat in electronic countermeasures (ECM) environments.
It is guided by two-colour thermal imaging infrared homing with laser fuse. It features a multimode electronic counter countermeasures (ECCM) suite for higher view angles.
The SiIMU02, an inertial measurement unit (IMU) from Atlantic Inertial Systems (formerly BAE Systems), provides the mid-course guidance for the missile. Solid-state technology of the IMU provides accurate measurement of angular rate and acceleration range of up to ±9,000°/s, ±500°/s and ±500°/s in R, P and Y-axes respectively. It has a linear acceleration range of up to ±30g.
When integrated, the missile can interface with the aircraft using LAU-7 type launcher mechanical rails and MIL-STD-1760 / 1553 avionics bus system. It can be designated to a target using autonomous scan feature of the missile, helmet sight or aircraft’s radar. Source airforce-technology.com
SiIMU02, an inertial measurement unit (IMU)
SiIMU02 is a miniature hermetically sealed and fully screened IMU module offering an angular rate measurement range of up to ±9,000°/s (R-axis) / ±500°/s (P,Y-axes) and a linear acceleration measurement ranges of up to ±30g, with a range of optional digital interfaces.
Uses the renowned VSG-3 MEMS angular rate sensors combined with high performance MEMS accelerometers in a modular configuration allowing either angular rate only or full rate and acceleration measurement. The gyros are controlled using digital electronics enabling them to be factory programmed to operate in ‘rate’ or ‘angle’ modes to optimize performance for the application.
Designed to survive up to 20,000g shock SiIMU02 is the world’s most rugged inertial measurement unit.
The IMU has a sealed metal housing, affording a high degree of environmental protection and electrical screening to give a high MTBF and long life in harsh operating conditions.
Using sophisticated internal compensation SiIMU02 achieves excellent bias repeatability, bias stability and angular random walk performance for precision applications in stabilisation, guidance and navigation.
SiIMU02 was developed, and is manufactured and distributed by, Silicon Sensing’s co-parent company Atlantic Inertial Systems in the UK. Source findmems.com
The Hobart Class air warfare destroyers (AWD) are being built by AWD Alliance for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). The air warfare destroyer programme, known as SEA 4000, will deliver three advanced multirole warships to replace the FFGs of the RAN.
The three AWDs will be named HMAS Hobart, HMAS Brisbane and HMAS Sydney. The first AWD is expected to be delivered in December 2014, and the second and third warships are slated for early 2016 and mid-2017 respectively.
The $8bn AWD project is the largest Defence procurement project ever undertaken in Australia. It is expected to create 3,000 jobs in Australia and also benefit thousands of companies based in the nation.
Air warfare destroyer programme
The Hobart Class AWD programme is intended to deliver an affordable, effective, flexible and sustainable air warfare destroyer platform to the RAN. The requirement for modern warships was established by the Kinnaird Review in 2003. Gibbs & Cox and Navantia submitted warship designs to the Commonwealth Government.
The Australian Government selected ASC as the shipbuilder for the programme in May 2005. In June 2007, the existing design of Navantia was selected as a platform for the AWD programme. ASC entered into an alliance-based contract with the Defence Materiel Organisation and Raytheon Australia. The project has passed critical design review in January 2010.
Hobart Class AWD design
The AWD platform is based on the Navantia-designed F100 frigate, which is in service with the Spanish Navy. The baseline design has been slightly modified for Australian use, including the displacement of the AWD being increased to 7,000t, and the hangar modified to accommodate a range of helicopters.
The range now includes powerful diesel engines combined with improved fuel tank arrangements. The design also incorporates a bow thruster to provide better manoeuvrability.
The AWD Alliance subcontracted the FORGACS group and NQEA Australia as the preferred suppliers to build 70% of the blocks. In June 2009, the work allotted to the NQEA was transferred to BAE Systems Australia due to financial obligations.
The ships are being built using a modular construction method. The hull blocks of three destroyers are being constructed at three shipyards, including ASC in Osborne, BAE Systems in Melbourne and Forgacs in Newcastle. The assembling, outfitting, equipment and systems installation and trial activities will be carried out at the newly opened ASC Osborne shipyard.
A total of 31 blocks are being constructed for each ship, of which 70% are built by BAE Systems and Forgacs, and the remaining by ASC. ASC’s facility located northwest of Adelaide’s CBD will fabricate nine blocks for each ship. Work is currently underway on six blocks including decking and superstructure components.
Work is in progress on seven of the 12 main keel blocks fabricated for each ship at Melbourne and Victoria facilities of BAE Systems. Forgacs will fabricate 10 blocks for each ship in Newcastle. Work is underway on five central blocks, including the superstructure. Accommodation modules for all the ships are being built by Taylor Brothers in Hobart.
In June 2010, AWD Alliance has signed a $25m contract with Toll North to transport 66 hull blocks from Newcastle and Melbourne to Osborne Shipyard for assembly. BlueScope Steel has been contracted to supply 3,000t of steel required for the ship construction.
Hobart Class AWD missions
The Hobart Class will provide air defence for vessels, land-based forces and infrastructure in coastal lines. It will also defend and destroy missiles and aircraft within a range of 150km. The destroyers can also be deployed in law enforcement operations, defence aid to the civil community, collection of environmental data, rescue operations and diplomatic roles.
The Hobart Class will be equipped with advanced sonar systems, decoys and surface-launched torpedoes for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations.
Hobart Class AWD weapon systems
Picture: Russell Millard – Image theleadsouthaustralia.com.au
The Hobart Class AWDs will be the first RAN warships to be equipped with the Aegis combat system. Aegis includes a SPY-1D(V) radar, Mk 41 vertical launch system (VLS), SM-2 standard missile and an open architecture (OA) combat system.
AN/SPY-1D(V) for Hobart Class destroyers
AN/SPY-1D(V) for Hobart Class destroyers
Minister for Defence Materiel Jason Clare announced the arrival in Adelaide of the first two state of the art ‘SPY’ radar array faces that will be installed on the Air Warfare Destroyers (AWDs).
“The multi-function SPY radar is capable of search, automatic detection, tracking of air and surface targets and missile engagement support,” Mr Clare said.
“It works to distinguish signals from stationary or moving targets and to identify and reject ‘clutter’ such as clouds and flocks of birds.”
The AN/SPY-1D(V) phased array radar will provide the Hobart Class destroyers with comprehensive surveillance around the ship.
The SPY radar is the main sensor for the Aegis Weapon System and is readily recognisable by the four octagonal-shaped array faces that are located on the superstructure of the ship.
The four array faces send out beams of electromagnetic energy in all directions, providing a continuous search and tracking capability for hundreds of targets.
The SPY radar, combined with the SPQ-9B horizon search radar, will ensure each of the AWDs go into service with state-of-the-art radar packages.
“Work on the future HMAS Hobart and HMAS Brisbane is well underway at Techport Australia, and work on the future HMAS Sydney will commence later this year,” Mr Clare said.
“All three AWDs will be armed with a 48 cell Vertical Launch System, Mk 45 5″ gun, phalanx close-in weapon system, torpedoes, anti-ship harpoon missiles, Nulka missile decoy system and hull mounted sonar, as well as variable depth sonar for detection and defence against enemy submarines and torpedoes.”
“This gives each destroyer an air defence, anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare capability as well as the ability to embark a helicopter at sea.”
The AWDs will provide greater protection for Australian Defence Force personnel by providing air defence for accompanying ships as well as land forces and infrastructure on nearby coastal areas. The AWDs will also provide self-protection against attacking missiles and aircraft.
The AN/SPY-1D (V) radar was supplied by United States company Lockheed Martin and acquired by the Australian Government through the Foreign Military Sales program. Source pojokmiliter.blogspot.com
Each ship’s main weapon is a 48-cell Mark 41 Vertical Launch System. The cells are capable of firing the RIM-66 Standard 2 anti-aircraft missile or the quad-packed RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow point-defence missile. The Force 2030 white paper indicates that the Hobart’s Mark 41 launchers are likely to be equipped (either at construction or through later modification) to fire the RIM-174 Standard 6 anti-aircraft missile and the Tomahawk cruise missile. Source gutenberg.us
MK 41 VLS
SM-2 standard missile
The Standard Missile-2 (SM-2) is the Navy’s primary surface-to-air fleet defense weapon. The currently deployed SM-2 Block II/III/IIIA configurations are all-weather, ship-launched medium-range fleet air defense missiles derived from the SM-1 (RIM-GGB), which is still in the fleet. SM-2 employs an electronic countermeasures-resistant monopulse receiver for semi-active radar terminal guidance and inertial midcourse guidance capable of receiving midcourse command updates from the shipboard fire control system. SM-2 is launched from the Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS) and the Mk 26 Guided Missile Launching System (GMLS). SM-2 continues to evolve to counter expanding threat capabilities, and improvements in advanced high and low-altitude threat interception, particularly in stressing electronic countermeasures (ECM) environments, are being implemented through modular changes to the missile sections.
The Standard Missile was produced in two major types, the SM-1 MR/SM-2 (medium range) and the SM-2 (extended range). It is one of the most reliable in the Navy’s inventory. Used against missiles, aircraft and ships, it first came into the fleet more than a decade ago. It replaced Terrier and Tartar missiles and is part of the weapons suit of more than 100 Navy ships.
The SM-2 is a solid propellant-fueled, tail-controlled, surface to air missile fired by surface ships. Designed to counter high-speed, high-altitude anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCMs) in an advanced ECM environment, its primary mode of target engagement uses mid-course guidance with radar illumination of the target by the ship for missile homing during the terminal phase. The SM-2 can also be used against surface targets. SM-2 Blocks II through IV are long-range interceptors that provide protection against aircraft and antiship missiles, thereby expanding the battlespace.
SM-2 standard missile RIM-66 Standard 2 – Image: seaforces.org
RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow
RIM-162 ESSM was developed by the U.S. Navy in cooperation with an international consortium of other NATO partners plus Australia. ESSM is a short-range, semi-active homing missile that makes flight corrections via radar and midcourse data uplinks. The missile provides reliable ship self-defense capability against agile, high-speed, low-altitude anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCMs), low velocity air threats (LVATs), such as helicopters, and high-speed, maneuverable surface threats. ESSM is integrated with a variety of U.S. and international launchers and combat systems across more than 10 different navies.
ESSM has an 8-inch diameter forebody that tapers to a 10-inch diameter rocket motor. The forebody includes a guidance section uses a radome-protected antenna for semi-active homing and attaches to an improved warhead section. A high-thrust, solid-propellant 10-inch diameter rocket motor provides high thrust for maneuverability with tail control via a Thrust Vector Controller (TVC).
ESSM’s effective tracking performance and agile kinematics result from S- and X-band midcourse uplinks, high average velocity and tail control, increased firepower through a vertical “quad pack” launcher (Mk-41 VLS), and greater lethality with a warhead designed for defeating hardened ASCMs.
Primary Function: Surface-To-Air and Surface-To-Surface radar-guided missile. Contractor: Raytheon Missile Systems, Tuscson, Ariz. Date Deployed: 2004 Unit Cost: $787000 – $972000 depending on configuration Propulsion: NAMMO-Raufoss, Alliant (solid fuel rocket) Length: 12 feet (3,64 meters) Diameter: 8 inches (20,3 cm) – 10 inches (25,4 cm) Weight: 622 pounds (280 kilograms) Speed: Mach 4+ Range: more than 27 nmi (more than 50 km) Guidance System: Raytheon semi-active on continuous wave or interrupted continuous wave illumination Warhead: Annular blast fragmentation warhead, 90 pounds (40,5 kg)
The Mk 25 Quad Pack canister has been designed to be fit in a Mk 41 VLS cell. Each Mk 25 canister can accommodate up to 4 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles (ESSMs).
The Mk 25 canister will be adapted by many navies of the world which aim to replace their current Sea Sparrow missiles with state-of-the-art ESSMs. In addition, the Mk 25 provides additional time-critical benefits through replacing steered canisters by the vertical launch system. Source deagel.com
Image: Mk 25 Quad Pack
The AWD will also be armed with the SM-6 long-range anti-aircraft missile, the Harpoon anti-ship missile system and Mk32 Mod9 surface vessel torpedo tubes (SVTT) for MU90 torpedoes.
RIM-174 Standard ERAM or Standard Missile 6 (SM-6)
RIM-174 Standard Extended Range Active Missile(ERAM), or Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) – Image: seaforces.org
The SM-6 provides extended range protection against fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles. The interceptor combines the airframe and propulsion of legacy Standard Missiles with the advanced signal processing and guidance control capabilities of the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM). Source defencetalk.com
The RIM-174 Standard Extended Range Active Missile(ERAM), or Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) is a missile in current production for the United States Navy. It was designed for extended range anti-air warfare (ER-AAW) purposes providing capability against fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, and anti-ship cruise missiles in flight, both over sea and land. The missile uses the airframe of the earlier SM-2ER Block IV (RIM-156A) missile, adding the active radar homing seeker from the AIM-120C AMRAAM in place of the semi-active seeker of the previous design. This will improve the capability of the Standard missile against highly agile targets, and targets beyond the effective range of the launching vessels’ target illumination radars. Initial operating capability was planned for 2013 and has been successfully achieved on November 27, 2013.The SM-6 is not meant to replace the SM-2 series of missiles, alongside which it will serve, but does give extended range and increased firepower. Source wikiwand.com
The big difference we can talk about is that it adds a GPS capability,” Raytheon said.
The SM-6 is designed to take out aircraft and cruise missile — and in limited scenarios ballistic missiles — which requires a smaller warhead class than the 500-pound class warhead found on the current Harpoons. It’s unclear if the missile will need warhead modifications.
Another lingering question is if the anti-surface mode of the SM-6 will be a networked weapon like the anti-air warfare mode in the Naval Integrated Fire Control Counter-Air (NIFC-CA) concept.
NIFC-CA can combine the targeting data from a Northrop Grumman E-2D Advanced Hawkeye and send targeting information to a SM-6 to intercept an air target beyond the range of the cruiser or destroyer firing the weapon.
“Does that mean an E-2 can guide a SM-6 to a bunch of swarming surface craft at long distances?” asked Wertheim.
SM-6 is a key component in the U.S. Navy’s Naval Integrated Fire Control – Counter Air (NIFC-CA), providing the surface Navy with an increased battlespace against over-the-horizon anti-air warfare threats.
The system’s operational modes include semi-active homing and active homing to provide highly accurate target engagement.
Vertically launched from a MK 41 VLS canister, SM-6 is compatible with existing AEGIS cruisers and destroyers and future cruisers and destroyers. Source raytheon.com
Tomahawk cruise missile
Tomahawk is an all-weather submarine or ship-launched land-attack cruise missile. After launch, a solid propellant propels the missile until a small turbofan engine takes over for the cruise portion of flight. Tomahawk is a highly survivable weapon. Radar detection is difficult because of the missile’s small cross-section, low altitude flight. Similarly, infrared detection is difficult because the turbofan engine emits little heat. Systems include Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver; an upgrade of the optical Digital Scene Matching Area Correlation (DSMAC) system; Time of Arrival (TOA) control, and improved 402 turbo engines.
The Tomahawk land-attack cruise missile has been used to attack a variety of fixed targets, including air defense and communications sites, often in high-threat environments. The land attack version of Tomahawk has inertial and terrain contour matching (TERCOM) radar guidance. The TERCOM radar uses a stored map reference to compare with the actual terrain to determine the missile’s position. If necessary, a course correction is then made to place the missile on course to the target. Terminal guidance in the target area is provided by the optical Digital Scene Matching Area Correlation (DSMAC) system, which compares a stored image of target with the actual target image.
Image: fas.org
Primary Function:
Long-range subsonic cruise missile for attacking land targets.
Contractor:
Hughes Missile Systems Co., Tucson, Ariz.
Power Plant:
Williams International F107-WR-402 cruise turbo-fan engine; solid-fuel booster
2,650 pounds (1192.5 kg); 3,200 pounds (1440 kg) with booster
Diameter:
20.4 inches (51.81 cm)
Wing Span:
8 feet 9 inches (2.67 meters)
Range:
Land attack, conventional warhead: 600 nautical miles (690 statute miles, 1104 km)
Speed:
Subsonic – about 550 mph (880 km/h)
Guidance System:
Inertial and TERCOM
Warheads:
Conventional: 1,000 pounds Bullpup, or
Conventional submunitions dispenser with combined effect bomblets, or
WDU-36 warhead w/ PBXN-107 explosive & FMU-148 fuze, or
200 kt. W-80 nuclear device
Date Deployed:
1983
The missiles are supplemented by two four-canister launchers for Harpoon anti-ship missiles, and a BAE Systems Mark 45 Mod 4 5-inch gun with a 62-calibre barrel. The 5-inch gun has a maximum range of 23.6 kilometres (14.7 mi). Two Babcock Mark 32 Mod 9 two-tube torpedo launchers will be carried, and used to fire Eurotorp MU90 torpedoes at submarines. For close-in defence, the ships will carry an aft-facing Phalanx CIWS system, plus two M242 Bushmaster autocannons in Typhoon mounts sited on the bridge wings. Source gutenberg.us
Harpoon anti-ship missiles
Harpoon anti-ship missiles
The Harpoon missile provides the Navy and the Air Force with a common missile for air, ship, and submarine launches. The weapon system uses mid-course guidance with a radar seeker to attack surface ships. Its low-level, sea-skimming cruise trajectory, active radar guidance and warhead design assure high survivability and effectiveness. The Harpoon missile and its launch control equipment provide the warfighter capability to interdict ships at ranges well beyond those of other aircraft.
The Harpoon missile was designed to sink warships in an open-ocean environment. Other weapons (such as the Standard and Tomahawk missiles) can be used against ships, but Harpoon and Penguin are the only missiles used by the United States military with anti-ship warfare as the primary mission. Once targeting information is obtained and sent to the Harpoon missile, it is fired. Once fired, the missile flys to the target location, turns on its seeker, locates the target and strikes it without further action from the firing platform. This allows the firing platform to engage other threats instead of concentrating on one at a time.
The Guidance Section consists of an active radar seeker and radome, Missile Guidance Unit (MGU), radar altimeter and antennas, and power converter. The MGU consists of a three-axis attitude reference assembly (ARA) and a digital computer/power supply (DC/PS). Prior to launch, the DC/PS is initialized with data by the Command Launch System. After launch, the DC/PS uses the missile acceleration data from the ARA and altitude data from the radar altimeter to maintain the missile on the programmed flight profile. After seeker target acquisition, the DC/PS uses seeker data to guide the missile to the target.
The Warhead Section consists of a target-penetrating, load-carrying steel structure containing 215 pounds of high explosive (DESTEX) and a safe-and-arm/contact fuze assembly. The safe-and-arm/contact fuze assembly ensures the warhead will not explode until after the missile is launched. It is designed to explode the warhead after impacting the target. The warhead section can be replaced by an exercise section which transmits missile performance data for collection and analysis.
The Sustainer Section consists of a fuel tank with JP-10 fuel, air inlet duct, and a jet engine. This provides the thrust to power the missile during sustained flight. The Sustainer Section has four fixed fins which provide lift.
The Control Section consists of four electromechanical actuators which use signals from the Guidance Section to turn four fins which control missile motion.
The Booster Section consists of a solid fuel rocket and arming and firing device. Surface and submarine platforms use a booster to launch Harpoon and propel it to a speed at which sustained flight can be achieved. The Booster Section separates from the missile before sustained flight begins.
The Harpoon Block II is an upgrade program to improve the baseline capabilities to attack targets in congested littoral environments. The upgrade is based on the current Harpoon. Harpoon Block II will provide accurate long-range guidance for coastal, littoral and blue water ship targets by incorporating the low cost integrated Global Positioning System/Inertial Navigation System (GPS/INS) from the Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) program currently under development by Boeing. GPS antennae and software from Boeing’s Standoff Land Attack Missile (SLAM) and SLAM Expanded Response (SLAM ER) will be integrated into the guidance section. The improved littoral capabilities will enable Harpoon Block II to impact a designated GPS target point. The existing 500 pound blast warhead will deliver lethal firepower against targets which include coastal anti-surface missile sites and ships in port. For the anti-ship mission, the GPS/INS provides improved missile guidance to the target area. The accurate navigation solution allows target ship discrimination from a nearby land mass using shoreline data provided by the launch platform. These Block II improvements will maintain Harpoon’s high hit probability while offering a 90% improvement in the separation distance between the hostile threat and local shorelines. Harpoon Block II will be capable of deployment from all platforms which currently have the Harpoon Missile system by using existing command and launch equipment. Source fas.org
BAE Systems Mk 45 5″ 62 calibre gun
BAE Systems Mk 45 5″ 62 calibre gun
Major upgrades of the Mk 45 Mod 4 include a 62-caliber barrel, strengthened gun and mount subsystems, advanced control system enhancement, and a reduced signature, low maintenance gun shield.
The Mk 45 Mod 4 provides NSFS range of more than 20 nautical miles (36 km) with the Navy’s new 5-inch Cargo projectile and an improved propelling charge.
Operation and performance of extended-range munitions are tailored for optimal effect and range in unison with the major subsystem upgrades of the Mk 45 Mod 4 Naval Gun. Source baesystems.com
Phalanx Block 1B close-in weapons system (CIWS)
Phalanx Block 1B close-in weapons system (CIWS)
MK 15 Phalanx Close-In Weapons System (CIWS) – The MK 15 Phalanx Close-In Weapons System (CIWS – pronounced “sea-whiz”) is a fast-reaction, rapid-fire 20-millimeter gun system that provides US Navy ships with a terminal defense against anti-ship missiles that have penetrated other fleet defenses. Designed to engage anti-ship cruise missiles and fixed-wing aircraft at short range, Phalanx automatically engages functions usually performed by separate, independent systems such as search, detection, threat evaluation, acquisition, track, firing, target destruction, kill assessment and cease fire.
Phalanx is a point-defense, total-weapon system consisting of two 20mm gun mounts that provide a terminal defense against incoming air targets. CIWS, without assistance from other shipboard systems, will automatically engage incoming anti-ship missiles and high-speed, low-level aircraft that have penetrated the ship primary defense envelope. As a unitized system, CIWS automatically performs search, detecting, tracking, threat evaluation, firing, and kill assessments of targets while providing for manual override. Each gun mount houses a fire control assembly and a gun subsystem. The fire control assembly is composed of a search radar for surveillance and detection of hostile targets and a track radar for aiming the gun while tracking a target. The unique closed-loop fire control system that tracks both the incoming target and the stream of outgoing projectiles (by monitoring their incoming noise signature) gives CIWS the capability to correct its aim to hit fast-moving targets, including ASMs.
The gun subsystem employs a gatling gun consisting of a rotating cluster of six barrels. The gatling gun fires a 20mm subcaliber sabot projectile using a heavy-metal (either tungsten or depleted uranium) 15mm penetrator surrounded by a plastic sabot and a light-weight metal pusher. The gatling gun fires 20mm ammunition at either 3,000 or 4,500 rounds-per-minute with a burst length of continuous, 60, or 100 rounds.
Block 1B Phalanx Surface Mode (PSUM) incorporates a side mounted Forward Looking Infrared Radar (FLIR) which enables CIWS to engage low slow or hovering aircraft and surface craft. Additionally, the FLIR assists the radar in engaging some ASCM’s bringing a greater chance of ship survivability. Block 1B uses a thermal imager Automatic Acquisition Video Tracker (AAVT) and stablilization system that provide surface mode and electro-optic (EO) angle track. These Block 1B enhancements will allow day/night detection capability and enable the CIWS to engage small surface targets, slow-moving air targets, and helicopters. Sourcefas.org
Primary Function
Anti-ship missile defense
Contractor
Raytheon Systems Company
(formerly Hughes Missile Systems Company and purchased from General Dynamics Pomona Division in 1992)
Weight
12,500 pounds (5,625 kg)
Later models 13,600 pounds (6,120 kg)
Range
Classified
Gun Type
M-61A1 Gatling
Type of Fire
3,000 rounds per minute
– Later models 4,500 rounds/min
(starting 1988 production, Pneumatic Gun Drive)
Two Babcock Mark 32 Mod 9 two-tube torpedo launchers will be carried, and used to fire Eurotorp MU90 torpedoes at submarines.
Eurotorp MU90 torpedoes
The MU90/IMPACT Advanced Lightweight Torpedo is the leader of the 3rd generation of LWTs. Designed and built with the most advanced technology, the weapon is of fire-and-forget type conceived to cope with any-task any-environment capability requirements and meet the ASW operational needs of the 21st century.
The weapon has been designed to counter any type of nuclear or conventional submarine, acoustically coated, deep and fast-evasive, deploying active or passive anti-torpedo effectors.
The MU90 is “the” EUROPEAN lightweight torpedo.
The MU90 torpedo has reached performance, efficiency and safety far beyond any competitor.
The torpedo can be deployed by any type of platform such as vessels, fixed and rotary wing aircraft, submarines, missile and continental shelf mine. A specific MU90 Hard-Kill version anti-torpedo-torpedo has also been developed.Source eurotorp.com
Main Dynamic Features
Linearly Variable speed
……………………
29 to >> 50 kts**
Range
……………………
>10,000 m at max. speed**
> 23,000m at min. speed**
Minimum depth for launching
……………………
< 25 m
Max. operating depth
……………………
>> 1000 m**
Agility and manoeuvrability
…………………….
Extreme
Diameter (NATO Standard)
……………………
323,7 mm
Length
……………………
2850 mm
Weight
……………………
304 kg
Main Acoustic Features
Operational bandwidth
……………………
>>10KHz
Acoustic coverage
……………………
120°H x 70°V
Simultaneous targets
……………………
Up to 10
Main Counter-Counter Measures
Stationary target detection capability
Decoy classification
Anti-Jammer tactics
AWD helicopter system
The Hobart Class will feature a flight deck and a hangar to allow the operations of helicopters and UAVs. The existing hangar design will be modified to carry a wide range of helicopters.
Hobart Class countermeasures
The destroyer will be equipped with a ES-3701 tactical radar electronic support measures (ESM) and surveillance system. In December 2008, the AWD Alliance awarded a contract for the supply of a decoy launching system to Terma. Four deck-mounted MK-137 130mm decoy launchers can fire decoys to deceive incoming anti-ship missiles. Other countermeasures include Nulka active missile decoy launchers and ASW torpedo decoys.
Electronic warfare sensors consist of the ITT EDO Reconnaissance and Surveillance Systems ES-3701 electronic support measures (ESM) radar, a SwRI MBS-567A communications ESM system, an Ultra Electronics Avalon Systems multipurpose digital receiver, and a Jenkins Engineering Defence Systems low-band receiver.Countermeasures include four launchers for Nulka decoy missiles, plus four six-tube launchers for radio frequency, infrared, and underwater acoustic decoys.
ES-3701 Tactical Radar ESM and Surveillance System
This radar surveillance and precision mono-pulse DF system is an ideal ESM system for submarines, surface ships and land-based applications. The ES-3701 provides Situation Awareness, Targeting, Self-protection and Surveillance and utilizes a Windows HMI for graphical analysis and emitter display. The HMI can also be run on multifunction console.
ES-3701 Tactical Radar ESM and Surveillance System – Image: Exelis inc
KEY SYSTEM CAPABILITIES
>>100% POI with interfering signal rejection
>>2-18 GHz standard instantaneous frequency coverage
>>360° instantaneous azimuth coverage
>>Provides precision long range over-the-horizon targeting
>>Processes modern complex radar signals
>>Multi-mode radar report merging
>>Multi-path and reflection processing
>>2-18 GHz receiver calibration and BITE
>>Built-in Training Simulator
SIGNAL PROCESSING PERFORMANCE
>>1 million Pulse Per Second (PPS) signal environments
>>>10,000 emitter mode threat library capacity
>>Tracks 500 signals simultaneously
>>PDW preprocessing for high duty cycle signal environments
>>Tunable 2-18 GHz CW notch filters for OMNI and DF channels
RF PERFORMANCE OVER 360°
>> -65 dBm automatic processing sensitivity
>> -70 dBm tangential signal sensitivity
>> 60 dB instantaneous processing dynamic range
>> 2° RMS DF accuracy over the entire dynamic range
>> 3 MHz frequency measurement accuracy
>> 50 nsec minimum pulsewidth measurement
The Nulka active missile decoy is the most sophisticated soft-kill anti-ship missile defence system available for the protection of surface warships. It is currently deployed on over 150 Australian, US and Canadian warships.
The system is the result of a collaborative development between Australia and the US, and brings together advanced flight vehicle guidance and control techniques, and sophisticated RF electronic technologies. Fully autonomous after launch, the unique flight vehicle design allows the decoy’s flight-path to be maintained with a high degree of precision over a wide range of environmental conditions, resulting in extremely high levels of mission effectiveness against modern anti-ship missiles.
BAE Systems Australia is prime contractor and System Design Agent. Nulka is Australia’s largest regular defence export program and pre-planned product improvement activities are ongoing to enhance the performance of the system.
Benefit to customer: The customer benefits by having sustainment, repair, resupply and capability upgrade support across the Navy fleets for the ongoing availability of the Nulka system. Source baesystems.com
Terma DL-12T decoy launcher dispenses infrared, radar and acoustic decoys
Terma DL-12T decoy launcher – Image: terma.comTerma DL-12T decoy launcher dispenses infrared, radar and acoustic decoys
Communications equipment includes HF, VHF, and UHF radios, Link 11 and Link 16 tactical data exchange uplinks, ASTIS MCE (Advanced SATCOM Terrestrial Infrastructure System Maritime Communications Elements) terminals, and Inmarsat equipment. Source gutenberg.us
AWD sensors
The AWD’s sensor suite will include AN/SPY-1D(V) phased array radar, horizon search radar, SAM Electronics X-band navigation radar, integrated hull-mounted and towed array sonar system, and VAMPIR infrared search and track (IRST) system.
In addition to the main radar, the Hobarts will be fitted with a Northrop Grumman AN/SPQ-9B X-band pulse Doppler horizon search radar, a Raytheon Mark 99 fire-control system with two continuous wave illuminating radars for missile direction, and two L-3 Communications SAM Electronics X-band navigation radars. The ships are fitted with a Ultra Electronics Maritime Systems’ Modular Multistatic Variable Depth Sonar System, which included a hull-mounted sonar, a quad directional active-passive receive array, a passive torpedo detection array, and a high-powered towed sonar source. Other sensors include an Ultra Electronics Series 2500 electro-optical director, a Sagem VAMPIR IR search and track system, and Rafael Toplite stabilised target acquisition sights for each ship’s Typhoons. Source gutenberg.us
The AN/SPQ-9 Surface Surveillance and Tracking Radar, developed by Northrop Grumman Norden Systems, Melville, NY, is a track-while-scan radar used with the MK-86 Gunfire Control system on surface combatants. The AN/SPQ-9B detects sea skimming missiles at the horizon even in heavy clutter while simultaneously providing detection and tracking of surface targets and beacon responses. The AN/SPQ-9B is available as a stand-alone radar or as a replacement for the AN/SPQ-9 in the Mk 86 Gun Fire Control System, which will be integrated into the Mk 1 Ship Self Defense System (SSDS). The Radar Set AN/SPQ-9B is a high resolution, X-band narrow beam radar that provides both air and surface tracking information to standard plan position indicator (PPI) consoles. The AN/SPQ-9B scans the air and surface space near the horizon over 360 degrees in azimuth at 30 Revolutions Per Minute (RPM). Real-time signal and data processing permit detection, acquisition and simultaneous tracking of multiple targets. The AN/SPQ-9B provides raw and clear plot (processed) surface video, processed radar air synthetic video, gate video, beacon video synchro signals indicating antenna relative azimuth, Azimuth Reference Pulses (ARP), and Azimuth Change Pulse (ACP). The radar will maintain its capabilities in the presence of clutter from the sea, rain, land, discrete objects, birds, chaff and jamming. In the Radiate state the AN/SPQ-9B has three modes of operation: the Air mode, Surface mode and Beacon mode. Both Air and Surface modes have a submode for Organic Combat System Operator/Team Training. The AN/SPQ-9B serves as a complement to high-altitude surveillance radars to detect missiles approaching just above the sea surface. The system emits a one-degree beam that, at a range of approximately 10 nautical miles, is capable of detecting missiles at altitudes up to 500 feet. Since the beamwidth expands over distance, the maximum altitude will increase at greater ranges. Source fas.org
Raytheon Mark 99 fire-control system
MK-99 Fire Control System (FCS)@rightwing.sakura.ne.jp
The MK-99 Fire Control System (FCS) is a major component of the AEGIS Combat System. It controls the loading and arming of the selected weapon, launches the weapon, and provides terminal guidance for AAW missiles. FCS controls the continuous wave illuminating radar, providing a very high probability of kill. The Mk-99 Fire Control System (FCS) also controls the target illumination for the terminal guidance of Ship Launched SM-2 Anti-Air Missiles.
2 x MK 81 AN/SPG-62
The AN/SPG-62 is a continuous wave, illumination radar for the Standard SM-2 missile in the Aegis air defense missile system. Three (DDG 51) or four (CG 47) Mk 99 missile control directors trigger the SPG-62′s illumination signal as the Standard missile nears its target, bathing the target in a coded signal that the missile’s semiactive homing seeker tracks until the missile explodes or hits the target.
BAND I/J
AVERAGE POWER 10 kW
ANTENNA DIAMETER 7 ft 6 in (2.29 m)
Source what-when-how.com
Ultra Electronics Maritime Systems’ Modular Multistatic Variable Depth Sonar System
Ultra Electronics Series 2500 electro-optical director
SERIES 2500 Naval EO System
Series 2500 EO Sensor is configured for all system functions to be controlled by one operator, either from a Combat Management Systems multi-function consoles or from a dedicated EOFCS Console. The system is automatic in operation, although the operator can override automatic modes and revert to manual control at any time.
Series 2500
Integrated sensor suite, comprising IR & TV cameras, laser rangefinders and designators
Advanced digital auto-tracker with multiple target detection, acquisition and tracking
Intelligent auto-cueing for threat evaluation and weapon allocation for asymmetric defence
Multiple weapon control with digital gun lead prediction for all surface, air and shore bombardment engagements
Intuitive single operator control of multiple sensor platforms and weapon configurations
Open architecture for integration with any Combat Management System or weapon system
Modular designs for flexible system solution configuration and ease of maintenance
SERIES 2500 comprises two main system modules:
Electro Optical Director (EOD) – the EOD is a precision dual-axis stabilised director fitted with a high resolution thermal imager, colour TV camera and 10Hz eyesafe laser rangefinder
Platform Control Cubicle (PCC)– the PCC is a compact below decks enclosure containing; servo electronics, processors and system interfaces
2500 Capabilities
Primary sensor for single or multiple guns
Long range IR, TV and laser sensors
Positive identification of surface and air targets
Automatic multiple target detection and queuing
Automatic target acquisition
Automatic multi-mode tracking
Accurate stabilisation and position reporting
Computer controlled engagement of air, surface and shore targets
Gun lead-angle prediction including correction for ballistic and meteorological effects
On screen splash marker for line and range spotting
NG is a very long-range infrared search/track system. It provides naval ships with passive panoramic surveillance functions including automatic detection, tracking and reporting of symmetric or asymmetric threats, from sea-skimming anti-ship missiles to Fast Incoming Attack Craft.
Vampir NG offers two operational modes: “ocean” mode allows very large range search at high sea while “littoral” mode allows long-range and large elevation search along the coast. The false alarm rate is very low, even in the littoral environment.
It is the most sensitive system on the market as well as the first one using the ultra-rapid “step-and-stare” principle enabling 360° coverage with a single high-performance IR camera. With unsurpassed performance and reliability, VAMPIR NG is the best selling naval IRST worldwide. Source sagem.com
Rafael Toplite stabilised target acquisition sights for each ship’s Typhoons
2 x 25mm Typhoon is a family of lightweight, stabilized, remote controlled weapon systems for a full range of weapons, including:
Battle proven
Highly accurate in day and night operations
Lightweight
No deck penetration is required
Simple operation with high reliability
Cost effective
Modular design enable future upgrades
Toplite, highly stabilized, multi-role, multi-sensor optronic payload, is a day/night observation and targeting, configured for naval, air and ground surveillance and targeting systems.
Toplite provides the services required for precision guidance for guided weapons, day or night and under adverse weather conditions. Toplite enables observation, target detection, recognition and identification by the use of various sensors including FLIR, CCD and laser rangefinder. Toplite features both manual and automatic target tracking. The system includes the following sub-systems:
FLIR: 3rd GEN (3-5micron) or 8-12micron TDi
CCD camera B/W or color
Eye safe laser rangefinder
Laser designator (optional)
Advanced correlation tracker
Source rafael.co.il
Hobart Class propulsion
Picture: Russell Millard – Image: theleadsouthaustralia.com.au
The AWD will be equipped with a combined diesel and gas (CODAG) propulsion system with two GE LM 2500 gas turbines and two diesel engines. The vessel will also be fitted with a bow thruster for improved manoeuvrability.
Combined diesel and gas (CODAG) propulsion system
5,650 kW/7,577 hp Bravo V16 Propulsion Diesel engine
7LM2500-SA-MLG38 gas turbine
General Electric Marine model 7LM2500-SA-MLG38 gas turbine
2 × General Electric Marine model 7LM2500-SA-MLG38 gas turbines, 17,500 kilowatts (23,500 hp) each and 2 × Caterpillar Bravo 16 V Bravo diesel engines, 5,650 kilowatts (7,580 hp) each and 2 × controllable pitch propellers
@rafalefan.e-monsite.com
A general view of the BAE shipyard in Govan.
KS-1A @cnnb.com.cn
KS-1C SAM missile in 2014 Zhuhai Air Show 
KS-1C SAM missile in 2014 Zhuhai Air Show
KS-1C SAM missile in 2014 Zhuhai Air Show
KS-1C SAM missile 
A-Darter @ausairpower.net
Picture: Russell Millard – Image theleadsouthaustralia.com.au
AN/SPY-1D(V) for Hobart Class destroyers 
MK 41 VLS
SM-2 standard missile RIM-66 Standard 2 – Image: seaforces.org
Image: Mk 25 Quad Pack
RIM-174 Standard Extended Range Active Missile(ERAM), or Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) – Image: seaforces.org
Image: fas.org
Phalanx Block 1B close-in weapons system (CIWS)2_400px.jpg)
ES-3701 Tactical Radar ESM and Surveillance System – Image: Exelis inc
Terma DL-12T decoy launcher – Image: terma.com
Terma DL-12T decoy launcher dispenses infrared, radar and acoustic decoys
MK-99 Fire Control System (FCS)@rightwing.sakura.ne.jp
2 x MK 81 AN/SPG-62
Picture: Russell Millard – Image: theleadsouthaustralia.com.au
Combined diesel and gas (CODAG) propulsion system
General Electric Marine model 7LM2500-SA-MLG38 gas turbine
Thai Military and Asian Region 