Russia received its first 6 Su-35S fighter aircraft

The Russian Air Force has received its first 6 Su-35S fighter aircraft from the Sukhoi Corporation. Russia intends to acquire 90 Su-35S, which will form the backbone of the Russian fighter fleet.

The Su-35S was also known as the Su-35BM during development and is different from the original Su-35 / Su-27M, which never entered service. Unlike the original Su-35, the Su-35S does not have any canards.

The Su-35S is currently the most advanced version of the original Su-27 Flanker family to have entered serial production. The aircraft has been redesigned from the ground up, including:

• stronger airframe increases aircraft life to 6000 hours
• reduced radar signature
• improved radar
• capable of supercruise
• digital fly-by-wire
• new avionics

The Su-35S specifications are:

• a length of 21.9 m
• a wingspan of 15.3 m
• a height of 5.9 m
• a maximum payload of 8000 kg on 12 hardpoints
• an empty weight of 18400 kg
• a maximum takeoff weight of 34500 kg
• a maximum speed of Mach 2.25
• a ferry range of 4500 km

The Su-35S is powered by 2 thrust-vectoring 117S turbofan engines, each delivering 14500 kgf (142 kN) thrust in afterburner.


http://en.rian.ru/military_news/20121228/178456323/Russian_Air_Force_Gets_First_Six_Su-35S.html

By Doomych (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

India Receives the Fifth Talwar Class Frigate From Russia

The INS Tarkash has arrived in Mumbai after leaving Russia on November 17.  It is the second Talwar class out of 3 that are to be delivered as part of a $1.6 billion contract signed in 2006.

This contract was preceded by a first batch of 3 similar frigates consisting of the INS Talwar, INS Trishul and INS Tabar. The Talwar class is based on the Krivak III class frigate.

The Indian Navy received its predecessor, INS Teq, on April 27. The third, the Trikand, is currently undergoing trials in the Baltic Sea and will be delivered to India in the summer of 2013.

This Talwar class is equipped with:

• eight supersonic Brahmos (second batch) or Klub (first batch) anti-ship cruise missiles
• a 100 mm A-190 dual purpose gun
• the Shtil-1 air defense system with 24 surface-to-air missiles
• two Kashtan Close-In Weapon Systems (first batch) or AK-630 (second batch)
• two dual 533 mm torpedo launchers
• a single Ka-28 anti-submarine warfare helicopter

The second batch is expected to be fitted with the Barak missile defense system once they arrive in India.


http://en.rian.ru/military_news/20121230/178497380/India_Receives_Second_Russia-Built.html

India received 4 MiG-29K fighter aircraft from Russia

The Indian Navy received 4 MiG-29K/KUB shipborne fighter aircraft from the Russian aircraft maker MiG to bring its total inventory of such aircraft to 20. These aircraft were delivered as part of a $1.5 billion contract for 29 MiG-29K/KUB, signed in 2010 between Russia and India.

A previous contract signed in 2004 for the delivery of 12 single-seat MiG-29K and 4 two-seat MiG-29KUB was completed in 2011. The contracts for MiG-29 aircraft also include:

• pilot training
• aircraft maintenance
• delivery of flight simulators
• interactive ground and sea-based training systems.

The MiG-29K/KUB aircraft are intended for the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, the former Admiral Gorshkov. However due to delays, the MiG-29 squadron, the Black Panthers, will be based at an airfield in Goa. The INS Vikramaditya is due for delivery in 2013 after problems encountered with its boilers have been rectified.

The MiG-29K is a naval variant of the original land-based MiG-29 with the addition of:

• folding wings 
• an arrester tail-hook
• strengthened airframe
• multirole capability
• compatibility with a wide variety of air-to-air and air-to-surface weaponry

http://en.rian.ru/military_news/20121229/178478220/Russia_Delivers_Four_MiG-29K_Fighters.html

By Doomych (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

US Navy orders 2 Virginia class submarines and starts work on Ohio class SSBN replacement

The Unites States Navy awarded a 5 year contract worth up to $1.99 billion for research and development work on a new submarine class to succeed the current Ohio class. The Navy plans to purchase 12 new submarines from 2021 on to replace the current fleet of Ohio-class submarines.

The Pentagon said the contract includes:

• design work on the new submarine class
• continued work on a new common missile compartment being developed by the US Navy and the United Kingdom
• cost reduction initiatives
• full scale prototype manufacturing and assembly

The Unites States Navy also awarded another $2.5 billion contract for continued construction of 2 Virginia-class nuclear attack submarines, split between General Dynamics Corp and Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Specifications Virginia class

Type: Attack Submarine, Nulclear-powered (SSN)
Length: 377 ft / 115 m
Beam: 34 ft / 10.4 m
Displacement: 7800 long tons / 7900 ton
Payload: 40 weapons, special operations forces, unmanned undersea vehicles, Advanced SEAL Delivery System (ASDS)
Propulsion: S9G nuclear reactor
Maximum diving depth: greater than 800 ft / 240 m
Speed: greater than 25 knots (46 km/h or 29 mph)
Crew: 120 enlisted and 14 officers
Armament: 12-cell Vertical Launch System and four torpedo tubes, capable of launching Mark 48 torpedoes, UGM-109 Tactical Tomahawks and Harpoon missiles

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/general-dynamics-huntington-ingalls-win-212721612.html

By U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steven Myers [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

By US Navy, [Public Domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Philippines purchases 3 AW109 AgustaWestland helicopters and 72 vehicles from South Korea

The Philippines has signed a contract with the Anglo-Italian company AgustaWestland for the delivery of 3 AW109 naval helicopters in a deal worth 1.34 billion Philippine Pesos or roughly $33.5 million dollar.

Another contract worth 300.78 Philippine Pesos or $7.5 million dollar was signed with the Korean KIA Motors Corp. for 60 ambulances and 12 five-ton trucks to be used by the army.

All are part of a military modernisation programme on the part of the Philippines, which in recent times has been involved in an ongoing territorial dispute with the People's Republic of China.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/12/27/890578/dnd-signs-p1.6-b-purchase-deal-choppers-ambulances

By Duch.seb (Own work) [GFDL], via Wikimedia Commons

Chinese Type 98 / PF98 120 mm recoilless rocket launcher from NORINCO

The 120 mm PF98 / Type 98 rocket launcher was developed by China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) as a replacement for the Type 78 and Type 65 recoilless rifles. The weapon can be used against tanks and other armoured vehicles, hardened bunkers and other fortifications.

The PF98 fires with very little recoil both High Explosive Incendiary (HEI) and High Explosive Anti Tank (HEAT) rounds with tandem warheads, either shoulder-launched or from a tripod. The PF98 comes in 2 versions:

• the battalion version comes with a fire-control consisting of an optical sight with a 500 m range night vision channel, a laser rangefinder, a fire-control computer and a LED display. The system calculates the target range and ballistics and displays the information on the LED to reduce reaction time and increase accuracy. 
• the company version comes with an additional optical telescope sight with 4x magnification.

The PF98 launch tube is reusable and weighs less than 10 kg. The PF98 has been exported to Bangladesh and Zimbabwe.

PF98 / Type 98 Specifications

Caliber: 120 mm
Launcher length: 1191 mm
Range: 800 m (HEAT) or 1,800 m (HEI)
Maximum Rate of fire: 6 rounds per minute
Projectile weight: 6.3kg (HEAT) or 7.5kg (HE)

Russia postpones building 2 Mistral class amphibious assault ships locally

Russia is postponing building 2 Mistral class amphibious assault ships under French license from 2013 to 2016. The ships were to be 80 percent Russian and 20 percent french.

The reason for the delay is to reassess the ships performance, role and status within the Russian navy. Modifications to the ship design according to Russian needs may also be necessary.

The other 2 Mistral class ships from France, all part of the $1.2 billion contract signed between Russia and France in 2011, will proceed as planned.

The first ship , the Vladivostok, is scheduled to be delivered in 2014 and is being built at a DCNS shipyard in Saint-Nazaire. The second ship, the Sevastopol, is scheduled for delivery one year later. Both are expected to join Russia's Pacific Fleet.

The Mistral-class ship can carry 16 helicopters, four landing vessels, 70 armored vehicles, and 450 personnel.

http://en.rian.ru/business/20121221/178312682.html

By U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Corbin Shea [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

India purchases 42 Su-30MKI fighter aircraft and 71 Mi-17 helicopters from Russia

India has ordered 42 Su-30MKI fighter aircraft from Russia to bring the total number of aircraft contracted to be assembled by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to 103. Another 119 have already been assembled by HAL. Around 50 were purchased directly from Russia to bring the total number to 272 Su-30MKI fighter aircraft.

The Su-30MKI is a two-seat, supersonic, multi-role fighter aircraft for day and night operations in all weather conditions. The aircraft is fitted with Russian AL-31FP engines and advanced avionics from Russian, Western and indigenous sources.

The license building of SU-30MKI aircraft has enabled HAL to acquire new aircraft manufacturing techniques like machining, forming, welding, assembly, testing and aircraft system checks, while creating hundreds of jobs locally.

Over 157 vendors in India provide 13350 components to the Su-30MKI project, while HAL itself manufactures 19450 components. The work is divided as follow:

• aircraft airframes are made at Nasik
• engines are assembled Koraput
• aircraft communication and navigation accessories at Hyderabad
• hydraulic, pneumatic and fuel aggregates and instruments at Lucknow
• avionic displays and INGPS at Korwa
• overhauling and repairs of Su-30 MKI at Nasik

The SU-30MKI contract for 42 aircraft is valued at $1.6 billion. Another 71 medium-lift Mi-17 V5 helicopters will also be acquired at a cost of $1.3 billion.

http://www.hal-india.com/SU-30_MKI_Contract_24-12-12.asp

By U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Keith Brown [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

NORINCO VN1 APC / ZBL09 IFV / PLL09 / ZTL09 Type 09 8 x 8 Family

Following in the foot steps of the worldwide trend away from 6 x 6 wheeled vehicles and towards larger vehicles such as the Stryker or Piranha, China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) developed its own wheeled 8 x 8 chassis, the Type 09. The new vehicles are expected to replace the 6 x 6 ZSL92 / WZ551 series.

The crew consists of a driver, the commander to his right and the gunner. There is room for up to seven infantry, which leave the vehicle through roof hatches or through the rear exit. The Type 09 is fully amphibious and comes with 2 water propellers at the rear.

The standard hull armor provides:

• protection at the front against 12.7 mm AP rounds up to 100 m
• protection at the sides against 7.62 mm AP rounds up to 100 m
• protection at the rear against 7.62 mm rounds

Additional armor can be bolted on as needed to increase protection. 
The first Type 09 variant to enter service in China was as an Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) with the designation ZBL09. The Type 09 chassis has since been used on a wide range of combat vehicles.

• the basic ZSL09 Armored Personnel Carrier (APC)
• the ZBL09 IFV version with a turret armed with a 30x165 mm gun, coaxial 7.62x54R mm gun and HJ-73 / HJ-8 anti-tank missiles
• the PLL09 Self-Propelled Gun Howitzer version armed with a 122 mm howitzer
• the ZTL09 Assault Gun version armed with a 105 mm gun

Other special variants include communications, command and engineering types such as bridge laying and mine clearing. The Type 09 chassis family continues to be developed into new variants, such as an air defense version with a 35 mm gun and another with a breech-loading 120 mm mortar.

The APC variant is marketed for export as the VN1 with the following specifications:
Crew: 3 + 7
Weight: 21 tons
Length: 8 m
Width: 3 m
Height: 2.1 m
Ground clearance: 0.45 m
Maximum road speed: 100 km/hr
Maximum water speed: 8 km/hr
Range: 800 km

Credit original poster, via Chinese Internet

Belgium receives first 2 NH90 TTH helicopters from NHIndustries

Belgium has received the first 2 NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopter (TTH) from NHIndustries. This brings the number of NH90 delivered to more than 130 NH90s to 13 countries.

They are to be followed by an additional 2 NH90 TTH for army transport missions and 4 NH90 NFH for naval missions.

The 11 ton helicopter is configured to perform tactical transport misisons in all environments by day or night, including:

• internal/external load transport
• Heliborne Operations
• Special Operations
• Search and Rescue 
• Casualties Evacuation
• Training missions

The NH90 helicopter has provision for a number of role equipment to enable mission flexibility and effectiveness coupled with a high level of safety and survivability.

• high level of system integration built around a dual bus Core Avionic System
• full glass cockpit with Multifunction Displays
• Fly-by-wire controls with 4-axis Automatic Flight Control System
• Piloting Forward Looking Infrared system
• Helmet Mounted Sight and Display
• Electronic Warfare System
• Tactical Control and Tactical Communication System
• Weather Radar
• Digital Map Generator
• on-board Monitoring and Diagnostic System

The twin-engine, medium-size NH90 is powered by two Rolls-Royce/Turbomeca RTM322 engines and features a fully composite crashworthy fuselage fitted with a rear ramp which allows the transport of a light tactical vehicle.

The consortium NHIndustries is owned by AgustaWestland (32%), Eurocopter (62.5%), and Stork Fokker (5.5%).

http://www.nhindustries.com/publications/en/ref/DELIVERY-OF-THE-FIRST-BELGIAN-NH90_395.html

By KrisfromGermany (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Oman Purchases 12 Typhoon Fighter and 8 Hawk Trainer Aircraft

BAE Systems has signed a contract for the delivery of 12 Typhoon fighter aircraft and 8 Hawk trainer aircraft to Oman in 2017.

This makes Oman the seventh country to order the Typhoon after the UK, Germany, Italy, Spain, Austria and Saudi Arabia.

The order was a much needed win for BAE Systems after it was eliminated from India's Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) competition to acquire 126 fighter aircraft, which was won by the French Dassault Rafale.

The Typhoon is also competing against Boeing F-15 Silent Eagle and Lockheed Martin F-35 to supply South Korea with 60 aircraft for its F-X III program.

Negotiations with Saudi Arabia to adjust contract prices from the 2007 deal have yet to make any progress after 2 years. Only 24 of the 72 Typhoon aircraft contracted have so far been delivered.

The 8 aircraft to Oman brings the total number of Hawk aircraft sold or on order to 998.


http://www.baesystems.com/article/BAES_155046/we-welcome-oman-order-for-typhoon-and-hawk-aircraft

By Dmitry A. Mottl [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

NORINCO PLZ04 / PLZ05 Self Propelled Gun / Howitzer artillery system

The PLZ05 is the latest tracked Self-Propelled Gun / Howitzer from China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) to enter service with the Chinese armed forces and the first with a 54 caliber 155 mm gun.

Two versions of the same 155 mm howitzer were initially developed. The PLZ05 with a 54 caliber and the PLZ04 with a more standard 52 caliber. The PLZ05 was deemed to offer superior performance and adopted into Chinese service. The PLZ04 is now intended for the export market.

The PLZ05 superseded the 45 caliber 155 mm PLZ-91 / PLZ-45, which only entered service in limited numbers with a single training battalion. It will eventually replace the PLZ83 152 mm Self-Propelled Gun / Howitzer in Chinese service, a role first intended for the PLZ91.

The PLZ05 turret can traverse 360 degrees and comes with a gun using the French 155 mm standard, abandoning the Russian 152 mm standard used previously by the Chinese. This gives it greater commonality with artillery systems and ammunition used worldwide. It is compatible with all standard 155 mm rounds, including:

• ERFB/HE
• ERFB-BB/HE
• ERFB-BB/Cargo
• ERFB/Smoke
• ERFB/ILL
• ERFB/WP

Unlike the semi-automatic gun loader of the PLZ91, the PLZ05 features a fully automatic gun loader giving it a maximum firing rate of 10 rounds per minute. It also comes with a 12.7 mm anti-aircraft gun and two four-barrelled grenade launchers.

PLZ04 specifications
Weight: 45 tons
Length: 11 m
Width: 3.3 m
Crew: 4
Engine: diesel 800 hp

NORINCO PLZ91 / PLZ45 Self Propelled Gun / Howitzer artillery system

The PLZ45 is the export designation of the PLZ91 tracked Self-Propelled Gun / Howitzer  and developed by China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) as a replacement for the 152 mm PLZ83. It was the first to adopt the French 155 mm gun standard, which is more compatible with the international arms market, instead of the previous Russian 152 mm standard.

The PLZ45 comes equipped with the same 45 caliber 155 mm gun found in the Type 89 or PLL01 towed gun / howitzer. The gun has a maximum rate of fire of 5 rounds per minute and is compatible with all standard 155 mm NATO rounds, including:

• ERFB/HE
• ERFB-BB/HE
• ERFB-BB/Cargo
• ERFB/Smoke
• ERFB/ILL
• ERFB/WP

The PLZ45 carries 30 rounds with 30 charges of ammunition. The turret can traverse 360 degrees and comes with a semi-automatic loader. It also carries a 12.7 mm anti-aircraft gun and two sets of four-barrel grenade launchers.

The PLZ45 has been exported to Bangladesh, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. However, except for limited numbers in a single battalion for training purposes, the PLZ91 has not been adopted by the Chinese army. Its role has been superseded in China by the more powerful PLZ-05 with a longer 54 caliber 155 mm gun.

PLZ45 specifications

Crew: 5
Weight: 33 tons
Length: 10.15 m
Width: 3.23 m
Height: 3.42 m
Ground Clearance: 0.45 m

Engine: air-cooled diesel 525 hp
Operational range on road: 450 km
Fuel tank capacity: 320 litre
Maximum Speed: 55 km/hr
Average Speed on road: 40 km/hr
Average Speed cross country: 30 km/hr

Swiss Pilots Test Fly Saab JAS 39 Gripen F / NG Demonstrator in Sweden

Swiss pilots have successfully test flown in Sweden a Saab JAS 39 Gripen F two-seat demonstrator aircraft, equipped with a new Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar.

The radar is a test version, manufactured by Selex Galileo from the United Kingdom, to help verify the following features:

• Assembly 
• Radar cooling
• Electrical power supply
• Data exchange between the radar and the mission computer

The Gripen aircraft used is derived from a modified Gripen D airframe and an intermediate version between the Gripen C/D currently in service and the future Gripen E/F or Gripen NG.

The demonstrator is used to test subsystems of the Gripen E/F and made its first flight on May 27, 2008, and has accumulated over 250 flight hours. It is powered by a General Electric (GE) F414G engine from the United States.

The Gripen E/F will feature the following improvements over the Gripen C/D:

• More powerful engine, the F414G
• Greater payload and internal fuel capacity 
• Two additional under-fuselage hard-points 
• New landing gear 
• New AESA radar
• Passive Infrared search and tracking sensor 
• New cockpit and avionics
• New electronic warfare (EW) suite

Specifications of the Gripen C/D:

Crew: 1 (2 for JAS 39D)
Payload: 5,300 kg
Length: 14.1 m, two-seater: 14.8 m
Wingspan: 8.4 m
Height: 4.5 m
Wing area: 30.0 m²
Empty weight: 6,800 kg
Loaded weight: 8,500 kg
Maximum takeoff weight: 14,000 kg

Engine: 1 × Volvo Aero RM12 afterburning turbofan derived from GE F404
Dry thrust: 54 kN (12,100 lbf)
Thrust with afterburner: 80.5 kN (18,100 lbf)
Maximum speed: Mach 2 (2,204 km/h) at altitude
Combat radius: 800 km
Ferry range: 3,200 km with drop tanks
Service ceiling: 15,240 m
Wing loading: 283 kg/m²
Thrust/weight: 0.97

http://www.saabgroup.com/en/About-Saab/Newsroom/Press-releases--News/2012---12/Swiss-Test-Fly-Gripen-in-Sweden/

 By Chief Master Sgt. Gary Emery [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Harbin AVIC Y-12F turboprop light transport aircraft

At Zhuhai Airshow 2012 the Y-12F, the latest version of the widely exported Harbin Y-12 light utility aircraft performed flight demonstrations for the public.

The Y-12F turboprop aircraft is designed by Harbin Aircraft Industry Group (HAIG), part of Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), for regional use with a spacious cabin that can accommodate 19 passengers or 3 LD3 containers.

The Harbin Y-12F features APEX avionics from Honeywell in the United States, PT6A-65B turbopropeller supplied by Pratt & Whitney in Canada and HC-B5MA-3/M10876AN low-noise, five-bladed propellers supplied by Hartzell in the United States.

The versatile Y-12F can be used for:

• transportation of passengers
• airdrop of supplies
• maritime surveillance
• aerial telemetry and photography
• remote sensing and geological prospecting

Harbin Y-12F specifications:

Aircraft length: 16.47 m
Aircraft height: 6.04 m
Wing span: 19.88 m
Wing aspect ratio: 10.02
Max. Speed: 480km/h
Cruise Speed: 430km/h
Service Ceiling: 7000m
Take-off Run Distance: 540m
Landing Run Distance: 420m

Max. Ramp Weight: 8450kg　
Max. Take-off Weight: 8400kg
Max. Landing Weight: 8000kg
Max. Zero Fuel Weight: 7750kg
Max. Payload: 3000kg
Max. Usable Fuel: 2500kg

Range (passenger version: 45min+200nm fuel reserve - Cargo version: 45min fuel reserve)
Passenger version	with 19 passengers	1540km
-	with max fuel	1930km
Cargo Version	with 19 passengers	950km
-	with max fuel	2300km
-	-	-

http://www.y-12.com.cn/y-12/home/index.do?cmd=goToChannel&language=US&cid=466

Israel orders 6900 JDAM kits in $647 million deal with US

Israel has placed a $647 million order of Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) tail kits and associated parts with the United States. The package includes:

• 3,450 JDAM anti-jam KMU-556 (GBU-31) for MK-84 warheads
• 1,725 KMU-557 (GBU-31) for BLU-109 warheads
• 1,725 KMU-572 (GBU-38) for MK-82 warheads
• 3,450 MK-84 2,000lb general purpose bombs
• 1,725 MK-82 500lb general purpose bombs
• 1,725 BLU-109 bombs
• 3,450 GBU-39 small diameter bombs
• 11,500 FMU-139, FMU-143 and FMU-152 fuses

The provision of spare and repair parts, support equipment, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical documentation, as well as other related elements of programme support is also included in the contract.

Manufactured by Boeing and Lockheed, the JDAM is a low-cost guidance kit designed to convert existing 500lb, 1,000lb and 2,000lb unguided free-fall bombs into precision guided smart munitions.

The kit consists of adjustable tail fins and an inertial navigation system / global positioning system control unit, capable of accurately delivering bombs from very low to very high altitude in all-weather conditions.


http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/u-s-to-sell-israel-munitions-to-renew-stock-after-operation-pillar-of-defense.premium-1.484114

By USAF [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

By USAF [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

By US Navy [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Arlington, the eight San Antonio class Landing Platform Dock delivered by Huntington Ingalls Industries

The Arlington, the eight San Antonio class Landing Platform Dock (LPD) and launched in November 2010, has been delivered to the United States Navy by Huntington Ingalls Inductries (HII) after completing trials.

The San Antonio class is designed to support amphibious assaults, special operations and expeditionary warfare missions. It will replace more than 41 ships currently in service, including the Austin class, Anchorage class, Charleston class and Newport class.

The 684 ft long ship is powered by 4 Colt-Pielstick 2.5 STC diesel engines to give it a speed of 22 kn. It can carry 800 people and has a displacement of 24900 tons. It can transport conventional or air cushion landing craft, helicopters and the Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft.

The Arlington has been equipped with:

• the AN/SLQ-25A Nixie towed decoy system
• the mk53 Nulka decoy launching system
• the AN/SPS-48E three-dimensional air search radar
• the AN/APQ-9B surface surveillance and tracking radar
• the AN/SPS-64(V)9 navigation radar
• two Norden Systems AN/SPS-73 surface search radars
• two mk31 mod 0 Raytheon RAM launchers
• two mk46 mod 2 30mm guns for close-in self-defense
• two mk26 mod 18 50-calibre machine guns

http://ir.huntingtoningalls.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=243052&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1765511&highlight=

By U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Cayman Santoro [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

First flight for fourth Russian T-50 stealth fighter

The fourth T-50 or PAK-FA prototype fighter aircraft flew for the first time at the Gagarin factory in Komsomolsk-on-Amur. The T-50 fighter had made its first flight ever on January 29, 2010.

The T-50 fighter is a fifth generation, multi-role aircraft with low-observable stealth, super-maneuverability, supercruise and an active phased-array radar. The first 60 production standard aircraft will enter service after 2015 to be preceded by the purchase of 10 evaluation aircraft.

The Novosibirsk aircraft factory (NAPO) will also soon deliver another 10 Su-34 strike aircraft to the Russian Air Force. The first Su-34 squadron was established at the end of 2011. The Su-34 can carry a payload of 8000 kg at a range of up to 4000 km.

http://en.rian.ru/military_news/20121212/178100717.html

UK awards £1.2 billion contract for HMS Audacious, fourth Astute class submarine

The United Kingdom has awarded a £1.2 billion contract to BAE Systems for the fourth Astute class nuclear attack submarine, the Audacious. She is preceded by the Astute and Ambush, which are currently undergoing trials and Artful, which is currently under construction at Barrow shipyard.

In addition, another £1.5 billion has been committed to the next 3 Astute class submarines, which has allowed early build work to start on the next submarine to be named Anson.

The Astute has successfully conducted deep dive trials and launched Tomahawk land attack cruise missiles and Spearfish torpedoes.

All 7 Astute class submarine for the Royal Navy are 97 m in length, have a beam of 11.2 m and have a displacement of 7400 ton. The Astute class will not need refueling during her entire 25 service life.

http://www.baesystems.com/article/BAES_155041/12bn-contract-for-audacious-submarine

Brian Burnell [CC-BY-SA-3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

China upgrades tracked SPAAG from PGZ04 to PGZ07 for short-range air defense

China has introduced an upgraded tracked Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Gun (SPAAG) Air Defense System, the PGZ07 alongside its existing PGZ04A / PGZ95. The system is designed to provide short-range air defense to armoured formations.

Similar to the wheeled CS/SA1, the turret of the PGZ07 comes with dual PG99 35 mm guns, which can each fire 550 rounds per minute at a range of 5500 m. Various compatible rounds have been developed by China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO).

• High Explosive Incendiary (HEI)
• Semi Armour Piercing High Explosive Incendiary (SAPHEI)
• Frangible Armour Piercing Discarding Sabot (FAPDS)
• Programmable Time Fuze Pre-fragmented (PTFP), which are similar to AHEAD rounds from RheinMetall.

The PGZ07 comes with its own dedicated tracking and search radar. The PGZ04A electro-optic director (EOD), consisting of television / infrared tracking cameras and a laser rangefinder, was retained in the PGZ07. The PGZ07 can be upgraded with the addition of 2 x 2 FL-3000 / HQ-10 missiles with a maximum range of 9000 m, although currently operational PGZ07 units have guns only.

The PGZ04A SPAAG is armed with 2 x 2 PG87 25 mm guns, which can each fire 600 rounds per minute. Range is 3200 m and a ceiling of 2500 m. The PGZ04A also has 2 x 2 QW-2 or FN-6 infrared missiles in later variants. The FN-6 missile has a range of 5500 m and a ceiling of 4000 m.

Compared to the PGZ04, the PGZ07 can engage targets much faster. The 35 mm guns can have a muzzle velocity of 1175 m/s depending on the type of round used. The muzzle velocity of the 25 mm rounds in the PGZ04A is 1050 m/s and the FN-6 missiles have a maximum speed of 600 m/s.

The 35 mm guns beats the 25 mm guns in range and effectiveness and can be used with anti-missile PTFP rounds. Against the PGZ04A missiles, the 35 mm rounds are faster with similar range and ceiling, while also providing protection against missiles.

Guns are much more resistant to jamming or spoofing than missiles. They are also harder to detect due to the absence of any missile plume. The larger 35 mm rounds are very effective against exposed troop copncentrations and lighly armoured vehicles.


The PGZ07 has been much improved compared to the old PGZ04A:

• the PGZ07 comes with its own tracking and search radar. PGZ04A only has a search radar and optical tracking, which limits performance in all-weather conditions.
• the 35 x 228 mm rounds of the PGZ07 can engage a wider range of targets faster than the 25 x 183B rounds / FN-6 missiles combo of the PGZ04A.
• The PGZ07 can provide effective protection to armoured units against missile attack.
• The 35 mm explosive and armour piercing rounds are much more effective against ground targets.

India received first 3 upgraded MiG-29UPG aircraft from Russia

The first 3 MiG-29UPG fighter aircraft have been delivered to India on board an AN-124 transport aircraft. These aircraft were the first of 69 aircraft to be upgraded as part of a $900 million contract.

The upgraded MiG-29 aircraft will have an extended service life of 40 years. Air-to-air refueling ability will be incorporated and beyond visual range combat ability will be improved. A new avionics kit will be installed and the existing N-109 radar is to be replaced by the Phazotron Zhuk-M radar.

Another 3 MiG-29 aircraft are to be upgraded in Russia and the remaining by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India. HAL is also licensed to produce 120 RD-33 Series 3 engines for MiG-29 aircraft as part of the upgrade.

http://en.rian.ru/military_news/20121211/178064533.html

Chinese FN-6 / FN-16 MANPADS

Developed by China National Precision Machinery Import and Export Corporation (CPMIEC), the FN-6 is a fire-and-forget, Man Portable Air Defense System (MANPADS). The FN-6 is designed to be easy to use and maintain, reliable, upgradable and resistant to jamming.

The FN-6 can be mounted on vehicles, small vessels and helicopters and can be used to engage aircraft, helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. The latest version is designated FN-16. Performance has been improved with an extended range of 6000 m and an imaging infrared seeker.

FN-6 specifications
Seeker: multi-color infrared
Range: 500 - 5500 m
Altitude: 15 - 3800 m
Speed: 600 m/s
Length: 1495 mm
Diameter: 71 mm
Missile Weight: 10.77 kg
Total Weight: 17 kg

Credit original poster, via Chinese Internet

Chinese Long March series of rocket launch vehicles

The Long March series of rocket launch vehicles are developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology. All vehicles carry the CZ designation, which becomes LM for foreign audiences.

Long March LM-2C / CZ-2C rocket series

The LM-2C series comes in two and three stage versions. It has a total length of 43 m and a core stage diameter of 3.35 m. The fairing is 8 m long and 3.35 m in diameter. Liftoff mass is 245 ton and liftoff thrust is 2962 kn. Low Earth Orbit (LEO) payload capacity is 3850 kg. The LM-2C/CTS has a Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO) payload capacity of 1900 kg (600 km) and a Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) payload capacity of 1200 kg. The LM-2C series has been used to launch recoverable satellites, ocean satellites and Iridum satellites.

Long March LM-2D / CZ-2D rocket series

The LM-2D series is used for LEO and SSO payloads and has a total length of 41.056 m, a diameter of 3.35 m for both stages and fairing, a liftoff mass of about 250 ton and a liftoff thrust of 2962 kn. The LM-2D series has been used for recoverable scientific and experimental technological satellites, SJ series experimental scientific satellites and remote sensing satellites and other piggybacked small and micro satellites.

Long March LM-2F / CZ-2F rocket series

The LM-2F series comes in two versions for manned space launch and target vehicle. It has a length of 58 m for manned launches and 52 m for target vehicles. It has a core stage diameter of 3.35 m, a booster diameter of 2.25 m, a liftoff mass of 498 ton, a liftoff thrust of 5923 kn and a LEO payload capacity of 8100 kg for manned vehicles and 8600 kg for target vehicles. The LM-2F series has been used for 10 launch missions, including 5 unmanned missions, 4 manned missions and 1 Tiangong target vehicle.

Long March LM-3A / CZ-3A rocket series

The LM-3A series has a total length of 52.5 m, a core stage diameter of 3.35 m, a fairing diameter of 3.35 m, a liftoff mass of 241 ton, a liftoff thrust of 2962 kn and a  GTO payload capacity of 2600 kg. The LM-3A series is used for GSO payloads such as FY meteorological satellites, Beidou navigation satellites and Chang'e-1 lunar probe.

Long March LM-3B / CZ-3B rocket series

The LM-3B series has a total length of 56.3 m, a core stage diameter of 3.35 m, four strap-on boosters of 2.25 m in diameter, a fairing diameter of 4 m or 4.2 m,  a liftoff mass of 456 ton, a liftoff thrust of 5923 kn and a GTO payload capacity of 5500 kg. The LM-3B series is mainly used for GSO payloads and is the main launch vehicle for international commercial launch services. The LM-3B series has been used for 20 foreign and domestic communication satellites such as  VeneSat-1, PakSat-1R, NigcomSat-1R, W3C and Apstar-7.

Long March LM-4C / CZ-4C rocket series

The LM-4B/LM-4C series has a total length of 46.949 m, a diameter of 3.35 m for the first 2 stages and a diameter of 2.9 m for the 3rd stage, a fairing diameter of 2.9 m / 3.35 m / 3.8 m, a liftoff mass of about 250 ton and a liftoff thrust of 2962 kn. The LM-4B/LM-4C series are mainly used for SSO payloads and have been used for the ZY satellite series, Brazilian experimental scientific satellites, HY satellite series, SJ satellite series, Yaogan satellite series and other piggybacked small / micro satellites.

Long March LM-5 / CZ-5 rocket series

The LM-5 series has a total length of 57 m, a core stage diameter of 5 m, a booster diameter of 3.35 m and a fairing diameter of 5.2 m. The basic version is a 2.5 stage liquid launch vehicle with 4 strap-on boosters and has a liftoff mass of 867 ton, a liftoff thrust of 10565 kn,  a GTO payload capacity of 14 ton and a LEO payload capacity of 25 ton. The LM-5 series can be used to launch various kinds of spacecraft such as LEO and GTO satellites, space stations and lunar probes.

FK-1000 and ZBL-09 30 mm SPAAG Air Defense Systems at Zhuhai Airshow 2012

At the 2012 Zhuhai Airshow, two previously unknown Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Gun (SPAAG) Air Defense Systems were revealed to the public.

The FK-1000 appeared only in model form and strongly resembles Russia's Pantsir SPAAG. The system can be used in all-weather conditions and at mid-to-short range and mid-to-low altitude. Guns and missiles are combined to defend against aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles and air-to-ground missiles.

The second system mounts a turret with 2 x 2 FN-6 short-range missiles and a six barrel 30mm gatling gun on a Type 09 / ZBL-09 chassis.

Both systems perform a role in an already heavily crowded field. Neither system has entered service with the Chinese armed forces, which already features the already in operational service LD-2000 and PGZ07 SPAAG.

Indian plans for second indigenous aircraft carrier IAC-2

The Indian Navy is making plans for a second indigenous aircraft carrier (IAC-2), as a follow-up to the first indigenous aircraft carrier (IAC-1). The IAC-1 is a 36,000 ton ship currently being build in the Kochi shipyard and is similar in size to the INS Vikramaditya, the former Admiral Gorshkov from Russia.

The IAC-2 will be larger and have a displacement of about 60,000 ton. The ship will enter service in 10 to 15 years and will likely have either steam or electro-magnetic catapults installed.

The addition of catapults to IAC-2 would offer the following benefits:

• operate heavier aircraft such as fixed-wing Airborne Early Warning (AEW), including the Northop Grumman E-2D Hawkeye. Fixed-wing aircraft offer superior situational awareness compared to helicopter-borne aircraft such as the Ka-31 currently being used.
• catapults reduce the amount of deck space required to launch aircraft, while also allowing increased fuel and payload during takeoff.
• aircraft such as the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and the Dassault Rafale are only compatible with catapults. The Rafale was recently selected as winner of the Indian Air Force's Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) competition.

India plans to have 3 aircraft carriers available after the retirement of the Viraat. This would allow one carrier to be stationed on each coast, while the third undergoes training or maintenance.

The delivery of the INS Vikramaditya from Russia has been delayed until the second half of 2013 at the earliest after problems with the propulsion systems. Meanwhile, Russian pilots have successfully conducted flight tests from the ship using the MiG-29K/KUB aircraft.

http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/india-nears-catapult-decision-for-second-indigenous-carrier-379825/

By Capt. 1st rank Anatoly Romanko [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

India chooses Boeing Chinook helicopter over Russian Mi-26

Russia's Mi-26T2 helicopter has lost the tender for delivery of 15 helicopters to the Indian Air Force in a statement issued by the Indian Defense Ministry last Wednesday.

Both the Mi-26T2 and Ch-47F had qualified in the technical trials and their financial bids, which covered both the initial acquisition costs as well as the life cycle costs.

According to Indian media reports, the Boeing Chinook CH-47F was selected as the preferred candidate for the Heavy Lift Helicopter requirements based on cost effectiveness and after-sales service.

The Indian Defense Ministry stated that the Boeing CH-47F had been found compliant will all the stated Air Staff Qualitative Requirements (ASQR) during Field Evaluation Trials.

Russia's losing tender continues the decline in its previously dominant market position in India due to strong competition with American and European companies. Earlier Russia's Mi-28 attack helicopter lost to the AH-64D Apache attack helicopter from the United States.

The Russian Mi-35 fighter aircraft also did not make it to the final rounds during the Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) competition, which was eventually won by the French Rafale aircraft over the European Typhoon.

http://en.rian.ru/military_news/20121205/177940820.html

By DoD photo by Spc. Russell J. Good [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Malaysia receives first 2 EC725 helicopters from Eurocopter

During a ceremony held in Kuala Lumpur, the first two EC725 helicopters were handed over to the Royal Malaysian Air Force by Eurocopter.

The first two EC725 helicopters, with the first delivered on time and the second three months ahead of schedule, are to be followed up with another ten EC725 helicopters.

By 2014, all twelve of the medium-lift, twin-engine EC725 helicopters are to have been delivered. The helicopters will be used for search & rescue and other utility missions.

http://www.eurocopter.com/site/en/press/Eurocopter-delivers-the-first-two-Royal-Malaysian-Air-Force-EC725s-from-an-order-for-12-medium-lift-twin-engine-helicopters_995.html

MilborneOne [CC-BY-SA-3.0], from Wikimedia Commons

Chinese Type 052C and 052D Class Destroyers Compared During Construction

Photos taken confirm the 052D class destroyer has roughly the same hull dimensions and layout of the 052C class destroyer. The new destroyer class does have some new improvements and other changes that can already be observed.

The 052D features a new 130 mm H/PJ38 naval gun replacing the 052C's H/PJ87 100 mm gun, which is based on the French Creusot-Loire T100C gun. The new gun is based on the Russian AK-130 130 mm gun and is able to fire new long-range, precision-guided shells not previously available.

New universal 8 x 8 Vertical Launch System (VLS) on the 052D class, which can fire both cold and hot-launched missiles against air, sea, ground and submerged targets, replaces the cylindrical 8 x 6 cold-launched VLS on the 052C class. In addition, the new VLS cells can each fire 1 to 4 rounds or quad-packed rounds.

The H/PJ12 gun-based Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) at the stern atop the hangar on the 052C class has been deleted, presumably to be replaced by the missile-based HHQ-10 CIWS as found on the Type 056 class corvette.

If HHQ-10 is installed, 30 mm stabilized gun mounts such as those found on Type 056 class corvette will likely also be installed on port and starboard to defend against small and highly maneuverable attackers such as speedboats.

The 2 x 4 YJ-62 anti-ship missiles as found on the 052C class have been removed. Their role is now incorporated into the VLS of the 052D class, which can fire anti-ship missiles.

New radars are larger than before with the same overall layout for 360 degree coverage. The active phased array radars seem to require less elaborate cooling than before.

Propulsion remains Combined Diesel Or Gas (CODOG), but the Ukrainian DA80 / DN80 gas turbines have been replaced by domestic QC-280 turbines based on Ukrainian technology with higher output.

Hangar has been moved to the center with the removal of the H/PJ12 CIWS, which required significant deck penetration.

The boat / raft launching systems are now both fully enclosed and moved alongside the hangar as found on the Type 054A class frigate.