SP's Aviation November 2014 by SP Guide Publications Pvt Ltd

table of contents

50 Years Journey of SP’s Messages from 14 Prime Minister’s Office 16 Arun Jaitley

From the Message Board during Defexpo 2014 23 Admiral R.K. Dhowan

T ribute to 26 the Founder 27 Our Logo

Vice Admiral P.K. Chatterji

19 Anandiben Patel

Lt General V.K. Narula (Retd)

20 General Dalbir Singh

Lt General V.K. Saxena

20 Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha

Lt General P.R. Kumar

21 Admiral D.K. Joshi (Retd)

Air Marshal S.B. Deo

21 Air Marshal R.K. Sharma

Air Marshal M. Matheswaran (Retd)

32 SP Guide Publications –

Robert C. Koch

17 Manohar Parrikar 18 Haribhai P. Chaudhary

Air Marshal S. Sukumar 22

22 Vice Admiral Anurag G Thapliyal - www.sps-aviation.com

Over the Decades 28 The Golden Age is

Before Us, Not Behind Us 31 Statement from

Chairman & Managing Director Over the Years

ISSUE 11 • 2014

Back cover_emBraer aD

table of contents

vol 17 ISSUE 11 • November • 2014

Cover IMAGE: 2014 marks half-a-century of SP Guide Publications and we pay homage to the memory of the Late Shri Sukhdeo Prasad Baranwal, Founder of the Publishing house.

Page 53

Cover image by: SP’s Design

SP’S EXCLUSIVEs

OEM

46 GE Aviation, South Asia

New Defence Minister

Defence Minister Parrikar ‘Deals’ A New Mantra

10 Procurements

IAF Floats Tender for 32,000 Assault Rifles

11 Indo-US Relations

Obama Coming, Indo-US Copter Deals Imminent?

Military 36 Interview

Programmes on the Roll

38 IAF Anniversary

Triggering Global Airlifter Competition

Engines 44 CFM President & CEO

60 Focus India 61 NewsDigest

Regional Aviation 48 Air Costa

64 LastWord

Ambitious Air Costa

Policy Sans Power

Civil 50 Regional Aviation

Way Ahead of Competition

Nbaa 2014 56 Show Report

Runaway Success

The Indian Air Force Turns 82

42 Transport

Bizav Buzz in MENA

59 Hall of Fame André-Jacques Garnerin (1769-1823)

Manufacturing in Aerospace: Taking to the Skies

Meba 2014 / Show Preview

We are not Talking We are Acting, We are Doing

www.sps-aviation.com

regular Departments 6 A Word from Editor-in-Chief

Applied for

12 News with Views Women May Soon Fly Fighter Aircraft in the IAF

NEXT ISSUE Annual Round-Up

ISSUE 11 • 2014

table of contents 42

Triggering Global Airlifter Competition

Publisher And Editor-in-Chief Jayant Baranwal senior Editor Air Marshal B.K. Pandey (Retd) Assistant Group editor R. Chandrakanth Senior Technical Group Editor Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd) Contributors India Group Captain A.K. Sachdev (Retd) Group Captain Joseph Noronha (Retd) Europe Alan Peaford USA & Canada LeRoy Cook Chairman & Managing Director Jayant Baranwal

Ambitious Air Costa

Planning & Business Development Executive Vice President: Rohit Goel ADMIN & COORDINATION Bharti Sharma design Holistic Directions: Jayant Baranwal Creative Director: Anoop Kamath Designers: Vimlesh Kumar Yadav, Sonu Singh Bisht Research Assistant: Graphics Survi Massey DIRECTOR: SALES & MARKETING Neetu Dhulia SALES & MARKETING General Manager Sales: Rajeev Chugh

SP’s websites Sr Web Developer: Shailendra P. Ashish Web Developer: Ugrashen Vishwakarma © SP Guide Publications, 2014 Subscription/ Circulation Annual Inland: `1200 • Foreign: US$ 320 E-mail: subscribe@spguidepublications.com subscribe@sps-aviation.com LETTER TO EDITOR editor@sps-aviation.com expert@sps-aviation.com FOR Advertising details, contact: neetu@spguidepublications.com rajeev.chugh@spguidepublications.com SP GUIDE PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD A-133 Arjun Nagar, (Opposite Defence Colony) New Delhi 110 003, India. Tel: +91 (11) 24644693, 24644763, 24620130 Fax: +91 (11) 24647093 E-mail: info@spguidepublications.com Representative Office BENGALURU, INDIA 204, Jal Vayu Vihar, Kalyan Nagar Bengaluru 560043, India. Tel: +91 (80) 23682204 MOSCOW, RUSSIA LAGUK Co., Ltd., (Yuri Laskin) Krasnokholmskaya, Nab., 11/15, app. 132, Moscow 115172, Russia. Tel: +7 (495) 911 2762 Fax: +7 (495) 912 1260

Member of:

Show Report: Runaway Success

Owned, published and printed by Jayant Baranwal, printed at Kala Jyothi Process Pvt Ltd and published at A-133, Arjun Nagar (Opposite Defence Colony), New Delhi 110 003, India. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, photocopying, recording, electronic, or otherwise without prior written permission of the Publishers.

www.spguidepublications.com 4

ISSUE 11 • 2014

www.sps-aviation.com

A word from editor-in-chief It is a matter of immense pride and joy that SP Guide Publications has scored ‘half a century’ and is on firm ground to scale the century peak. I take this opportunity for paying tribute, first to our founder Late Sukhdeo Prasad Baranwal, and to our readers, armed forces, industry and not to forget the SP’s team, in facilitating our journey through 50 glorious Golden years.

The year 2014 is indeed special for us. Firstly, we look back at our journey, the highs and the lows, and secondly, we look ahead with greater clarity, intense focus, unflinching adherence to quality, enhanced investments in magazine development, all intended to spread knowledge. It is in our DNA and we believe that we will continue to be in the forefront of this quest of spreading knowledge. The crucial objective laid down by our Founder Shri Sukhdeo Prasad Baranwal was to spread knowledge, spread awareness of unreported facts and causes, concerns of our armed forces and we are on course. I am taking this opportunity to mention that SP Guide Publications is a pioneer and in the realm of defence and aerospace, no other publication in the region has touched a similar milestone. The accolades we have received from various quarters, including the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, is very humbling and inspirational for us to strive to continuously improve. I would like to recall the Prime Minister’s message here: “In a country like India with limited support from the industry and market, initiating 50 years ago publishing magazines relating to Army, Navy and Aviation sectors without any interruption is a commendable job on the part of SP Guide Publications.” We are in fact elated that we have a strong leader in Narendra Modi who has opened up the economy further, liberalised policies and given a sense of direction not just to the economy, but the nation per se. It has enthused us all to do more for the nation and our publications are all committed to the cause of our country. Besides the Prime Minister, we have messages from Arun Jaitley, the Finance Minister who till recently also held the defence portfolio, Manohar Parrikar the new Defence Minister, Haribhai P. Chaudhary, Minister of State for Home Affairs and Anandiben Patel, the Chief Minister of the State of Gujarat. There are also encouraging messages from the top echelons of the armed forces which motivate us to do better. We are certainly not going to sit on our laurels. In fact, the 50-year milestone becomes a starting point for us to embark upon a journey of excellence. We have some of the best minds writing for us, we have invested in packaging the product as per international standards, and we have a strong marketing team, all of which we hope will help us make enormous strides in reaching out to a larger reader base. We would like to fill in

ISSUE 11 • 2014

whatever information void that may exist between the aerospace and defence industry and the armed forces personnel. I would like to assure you all that SP Guide Publications will continue to strive for excellence in the media publications business which is evolving rapidly with technology infusions. We have already connected you all through various social media and online media and we will consolidate on that. Also we will expand our activities of networking with the industry by organising seminar, conferences, sponsoring events, etc. We have been key official media partners of mega events such as Aero India, India Aviation, Defexpo and the like. It gives me great pleasure in stating that all our publications have a global reach and we actively participate in shows such as the Farnborough International Airshow, Paris Airshow, Dubai International Airshow, Singapore Airshow besides others. We are contemplating enhanced participation in some of the shows, either by bringing out special editions or show dailies, only to stay abreast of the times. Our websites are all updated on a daily basis as we understand the importance of flow of information. We continue on the journey of benchmarking in this niche segment and we believe that your continued support will make our mutual journey fulfilling. We are partners in progress. Happy reading!

Jayant Baranwal Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

www.sps-aviation.com

SP’S EXCLUSIVEs new defence minister

Defence Minister Parrikar ‘Deals’ A New Mantra

Photograph: PIB

 By SP’s Special Correspondent Transparency, efficiency and accountability are the stated touchstones for defence procurement under India’s new Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar. But those are not new paradigms. Virtually every Raksha Mantri over the years has spoken out about the need to overhaul the unpredictable, complex and mostly opaque manner in which India contracts for new weapons. But there is reason to believe that the Parrikar MoD (Ministry of Defence) could be in a position to put its money where its mouth is on dusting off the debris from procurement disasters of the past and formulating a fresh, practical and most importantly contemporary set of policies that will make weapons contracting in India simple, swift and disaster-proof. If that’s a tall order, word on Raisina Hill is that Parrikar already has his mission profile. To get things rolling, the new Defence Minister has decided to order an expert committee, that will draw from within the MoD and other departments, to evolve fresh policy changes on two specific processes that India is all too familiar with: the business of defence company agents (described as everything from ‘middlemen’ to ‘representatives’ to ‘lobbyists’), and the act of blacklisting companies under a cloud of corruption charges. It is an irony missed by few that India’s approach to both so far has an effect opposite to the intended one: it has done nothing to eradicate or dissuade the payment of illegal commissions to swing lucrative armament contracts. Top sources tell SP’s that Parrikar will be revisiting India’s blacklisting protocol, continuing from where his predecessor Arun Jaitley left off. Jaitley, who divided his time between Defence and Finance Ministries had set the ball rolling on evolving a more practical approach by deciding not to blacklist Finmeccanica or AgustaWestland in the aftermath of the cancelled VVIP helicopter contract, instead issuing a set of fresh guidelines that permitted the firms to continue in competitions they already were part of, but limiting India’s

ISSUE 11 • 2014

Parrikar To Revamp How DAC Works

he MoD’s apex Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), usually the last MoD stop proposals or deals pass through before clearance by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), could function very differently in the future. Chairing his first meeting of the DAC on November 22, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar has called for more frequent meetings (the current default is once a month or less) with more focused agenda items, which would allow the council more time to discuss each item before according necessary approvals. DAC meetings range from being fairly light to hugely overburdened with as many as 20 agenda items in some notable recent cases, leaving very little time for each item to be discussed. Sources said Parrikar wishes to personally scrutinise all proposals and deals before they are dispatched from the MoD for higher government approvals at the CCS level (Parrikar is, of course, part of the CCS too). With the DAC likely to meet more than once a month in future, the acquisition process could finally receive a level of transparency and predictability, a more defined structure in terms of prioritised clearances and a neater framework for approvals. The Defence Secretary’s office has been instructed to evolve a fresh schedule for the DAC that will take into account the fresh requirements as stated by the Defence Minister. As has become standard practice now, while no official communication on the DAC decisions are released, journalists are officially briefed by the MoD on the decisions for onward dissemination. A decision may also be taken to issue official statements on these decisions, depending on sensitivity and consent from requisite agencies.

•

www.sps-aviation.com

SP’S EXCLUSIVEs minister / Procurements future exposure to them, pending resolution of attendant legal processes. Parrikar will be looking to take that process forward by refining the parameters and modalities of punitive action by the MoD against companies found to be indulging in illegal practices. Significantly, the modalities will include a definitive and specific flow-chart of when a yet-to-be-decided graduated series of punitive measures kick in, and what recourse the government can take to impose them. These guidelines will dovetail with the existing Defence Procurement Procedure, but also be part of powers the MoD can exercise in emergent circumstances. On the issue of agents or lobbyists, the Parrikar MoD is likely to invite views from industry and experts, including from the Law Ministry. Exercises of this nature have been conducted before, but the Minister has already spoken his mind, providing indications of where the problems lie. The Minister recently stated that defence deals had been hamstrung due to lobbying, kickbacks and commissions, and that he planned to clear pending deals based on a priority list to be provided to him by the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) via the Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC). While Arun Jaitley is known to have begun the process of defining company representation and differentiating it from the murky world of ‘agents’, Parrikar plans to take such documents forward to making them more specific on the roles of company representatives, what they can and cannot engage in (beyond the obvious, of course), the standard operating procedure in terms of interfacing with government officials, and a manual of sorts of company representatives. The end result, a top MoD official tells SP’s, is to wind up the unseen, unheard, murky world of defence agents, and legitimise the presence of representatives and intermediaries who actually serve a purpose in the complex conversation that takes place between acquisition managers, armed forces and original

equipment manufacturers (OEM) over the course of an acquisition process. These two, however, will only be a fraction of what the intended scope of the ‘clean-up’ is intended to be. Parrikar, sources say, wishes to revisit stuck deals on a war-footing and get them moving as soon as possible. Deals on the table at present waiting for forward movement include, of course, the 126 MMRCA (medium multi-role combat aircraft) deal, but also a plethora of procurements of helicopters, transport aircraft, submarines, mine countermeasure vessels (the floundering deal with South Korea could be the first real test for Parrikar), infantry and special forces modernisation. The Modi Government already has two former Armymen in its council of Ministers: former Army chief General V.K. Singh (Retd), and Olympic silver medallist Colonel Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore (Retd). While neither of them is in any way associated with the Defence Ministry, their inclusion in government perhaps demonstrates that Prime Minister Modi recognises the capabilities and acumen of armed forces men and women. With Parrikar hitting the ground running by speaking openly about how defence deals have been derailed as a result of corruption, and these have directly affected the armed forces, he has spoken perhaps in the voice of his boss, the Prime Minister. The armed forces will also be looking for Parrikar to bite the bullet on delivering quick decisions, sans the red tape and ad hocism that has plagued decision-making for many years at the South Block. “Whatever will be there will be transparent and fast-processed,” Parrikar told journalists minutes after taking over as Defence Minister at his first flood office in South Block. A country that has seen the business of war preparedness endlessly politicised and sacrificed at the altar of anti-corruption impulses awaits a brave new India that speaks clearly, transparently and powerfully on those who would seek to derail its interests. SP

IAF floats tender for 32,000 assault rifles

Photograph: DPR Defence

 By SP’s Special Correspondent The Indian Air Force (IAF) has floated a tender for the procurement of 32,000 assault rifles under the ‘Buy & Make (Indian)’ route using an Indian partner. The IAF has stipulated that the assault rifles should be compact, foldable, easy to carry, handle, operate, simple to maintain and with high effective range. The new RFI is only the latest in a spate of efforts by the IAF to arm its Garud commando units as well as other personnel with new modular weapons as part of a more extensive modernisation thrust. The new weapons will be for units guarding airfields and other assets round the year, and especially in hostile environments, the new weapons will be required for units that may operate in hostile territory as part of cover operations in conjunction with the special forces of the Army and Navy. The Army special forces and certain infantry units are armed with the Israeli TAR-21 assault rifle that would presumably fit the bill for the IAF too, though the process will be a competitive bid. The quantity of rifles required by the IAF alone, when tagged to the numbers still required by the Army make it a test case for the ‘Buy & Make (Indian)’ procurement route. The Ministry of Defence sources suggest the new assault rifle procurement

ISSUE 11 • 2014

could be testing ground for manufacture of infantry weapons by private sector firms too in a shift beyond the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). SP

www.sps-aviation.com

SP’S EXCLUSIVEs indo-us relations

Obama Coming, Indo-US Copter Deals Imminent?

Photograph: PIB

 By SP’s Special Correspondent US President Barack Obama’s consent to be chief guest at India’s Republic Day 2015 celebrations has sparked word that some pending Indo-US defence deals could be cleared before his arrival in New Delhi. An indication that key decisions could be afoot in the coming days was visible in the White House statement on President Obama’s forthcoming visit to India, where it said, “The President will meet with the Prime Minister and Indian officials to strengthen and expand the US-India strategic partnership.” Finalised deals currently pending include contracts for 22 Boeing AH-64D Apache Block III attack helicopters and 15 Boeing CH-47F Chinook heavy-lift helicopters. Other deals on the table include contracts for additional Boeing C-17 Globemaster III aircraft as a follow-on to the 10 already under delivery, and the proposed acquisition of 145 BAE Systems M777 ultra-light howitzers, an effort that reportedly is active once again. While deals are usually never signed during highlevel visits, both sides will be looking to conclude them before President Obama’s visit as a sweetener once he lands in Delhi to take discussions on strategic partnership forward. The IAF has indicated that it has waited long on these two acquisitions

www.sps-aviation.com

and requires an early contract signature in order to receive the aircraft on time. SP

ISSUE 11 • 2014

News

with views NEWS: Women may soon fly fighter aircraft in the IAF Induction of women officers into combat roles in the Indian Air Force (IAF) appears to be now becoming a reality. Thus far, flying of fighter planes in the IAF has been the exclusive preserve of male pilots. However, as indicated by Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, Chief of the Air Staff, there is a strong possibility that women pilots would be inducted into the fighter

stream of the IAF in the near future. The IAF has already opened all branches for induction of women as Short Service Commission officers, except in the fighter stream and those in ground duty branches are also eligible for permanent commission. The IAF has already been training women pilots to fly transport aircraft as well as helicopters.

Photograph: IAF

VIEWS: This is indeed an encouraging piece of news for those who advocate ‘Women’s Lib’. Within the three services, this issue has off and on been coming to the fore only to be set aside. Both the military and the civilian leadership in the country have been stoutly opposed to the idea of women being assigned combat roles. A.K. Antony, the erstwhile Minister of Defence, had told the Parliament that two high level tri-service committees constituted in 2006 and in 2011 had rejected the concept. The reservations expressed from time to time by senior functionaries have not been totally unjustified. Some opine that the Indian society is not yet sufficiently matured to accept women being assigned combat roles. A major concern is of women in uniform falling into enemy hands during war. Another school of thought focuses on the commercial aspect of the proposal. It takes `13 crore to train a fighter pilot to fully operational status. A pregnancy after training would render the investment completely unproductive as the individual may have to be grounded for up to two years. Once back in flying, the lady fighter pilot would have to be put through refresher training entailing additional expenditure. Considering that a young women fighter pilot on an average would go through two pregnancy cycles in her early career, it is felt that investment in the training of women as fighter pilots would not be wise. The above considerations apart, a woman trained as a fighter pilot does not have to go though the levels of physical stress that her counterpart in the Army would be confronted with in peace or in war. A fighter aircraft responds to control inputs which a female pilot would be as competent if not more, to provide. Flying an aircraft requires a high level of mental fitness and the soft touch. In any case women have been flying transport aircraft and helicopters in the IAF since the mid-1990s and have proved to be as proficient as their male counterparts. They have regularly operated transport aircraft at advanced landing grounds and helicopters from tricky helipads located in the snowy mountains of Ladakh. They have also taken part with elan in disaster management alongside their male counterparts. While there may be diffidence amongst the decision-makers over the major shift in policy to induct women into the

ISSUE 11 • 2014

rank of fighter pilots, a ground-breaking step in this direction, though not publicised, was taken within the IAF two years ago. Women have generally been flying helicopters in noncombat roles. However, in October 2012, two women pilots were selected to be trained on the twin-engine Mi-8, a utility and assault helicopter, also referred to as the ‘armed helicopter’. The two women pilots were trained in bombing, rocket attack, combat search and rescue and special heliborne operations. They were subjected to the same training programme as their male counterparts and performed equally well. While they were not inducted on to fighter aircraft, even helicopters too are now potent combat platforms employed in the tactical battle area and have roles and responsibilities that in many ways are similar to those of fixed-wing combat aircraft. Also, the hazards that combat helicopters face while operating over the battlefield are similar to or even a degree worse that those faced by fighter aircraft operating in a similar environment. Unlike fighter aircraft that are likely to be involved in operational flying only during a frontal war with the enemy, an armed helicopter can be employed in a variety of operational tasks related to internal security and anti-insurgency. For the two women pilots who were the first to be inducted for combat role on helicopters, the experience was exhilarating. A brief look at the situation in other parts of the world would be of interest. While most of the air forces inducted females into fighter flying only after 1990, Turkey had its first lady fighter pilot Sabiha Gokcen in 1936. During World War II, the USSR had several female fighter pilots among whom Lilya Litvvak was the top scoring woman ace with 12 kills to her credit with Katya Budanova following with 11. The Israel Air Force has had fighter pilots for a long time and even permits pregnant women to fly combat missions. China inducted the first batch of six female fighter pilots in 2013 and even Pakistan Air Force boasts of one with Ayesha Farooq qualifying in 2013 on the Chinese made F-7PG fighter jet. Should the IAF continue to lag behind? SP —By Air Marshal B.K. Pandey (Retd)

www.sps-aviation.com

5 50 Years Journey of SP's

50 Years of SP’s F r o m P r i m e M i n i s t e r ’ s O f f i c e

ISSUE 11 • 2014

www.sps-aviation.com

Prime Minister’s Office India

he Hon’ble Prime Minister is happy to learn that SP Guide Publications is celebrating Golden Jubilee of its publication.

In a country like India with limited support from the industry and market, initiating 50 years ago publishing magazines relating to Army, Navy and Aviation sectors without any interruption is a commendable job on the part of SP Guide Publications. By this, SP Guide Publications has established the fact that continuing quality work in any field would result in success. On this occasion, the Prime Minister conveys best wishes to publishers, associates and the readers.

www.sps-aviation.com

ISSUE 11 • 2014

50 Years of SP’s Finance Minister (& Former Defence Minister)

•

Minister of Defence India

hank you for your letter dated 06th Oct, 2014 sending therewith a copy of recent issue of one of your magazines. I am happy to know that SP Guide Publications will be completing 50 years this year. SP Publications over the years has created a niche for itself on matters relating to aviation, defence and security among the stakeholders. I take this opportunity to convey my best wishes to the Chairman and Editorial Board of the magazine for their sincere endeavours and wish them all success. I wish you all success.

(Arun Jaitley)

(Arun Jaitley is currently the Minister of Finance, Minister of Corporate Affairs and the Minister of Information and Broadcasting of India)

ISSUE 11 • 2014

www.sps-aviation.com

50 Years of SP’s Defence Minister

•

Minister of Defence India

am glad to know that SP Guide Publications, New Delhi with its six publications mainly catering to different facets of defence and aerospace, is completing 50 years of service as Publication House.

I take this opportunity in extending my hearty greetings to the Editor and staff of SP Publications and wish them all success. “JAI HIND”

(Manohar Parrikar)

www.sps-aviation.com

ISSUE 11 • 2014

50 Years of SP’s Minister of State for Home Affairs

•

Minister of State for Home Affairs

thank you for your letter dated 20.11.2014. I convey my good wishes on the completion of 50 years of SP Guide Publications which is indeed interesting and informative. With regards,

(Haribhai P. Chaudhary)

ISSUE 11 • 2014

www.sps-aviation.com

50 Years of SP’s Chief Minister of Gujarat

•

Chief Minister Gujarat State

rmed forces are the integral part of our National Security. It is about the collective strength of the entire country working to create and sustain a homeland that is safe and secure, in which national interest, aspirations and way of life can thrive. It is a matter of pride that “SP Guide Publications” is working since 50 years in the field of aerospace and defence sectors, serving and highlighting the people of the same sector. I extend my best wishes to the associates and readers of the publications and hope that, publication house will keep up the good work and will encourage more and more youth to join our defence forces and serve our mother country India.

(Anandiben Patel)

www.sps-aviation.com

ISSUE 11 • 2014

50 Years of SP’s

General Singh & Air Chief Marshal Raha

FROM CHIEF OF THE ARMY STAFF (Message dated January 9, 2014, as VCOAS)

•

Lt General Dalbir singh uysm, avsm, vsm, adc

Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha pvsm, avsm, vm, adc

Vice Chief of the Army Staff

Chief of the Air Staff

hank you for sending me a copy of SP’s Golden Jubilee Publication. SP Guide Publications, ever since inception, has been providing quality articles on Armed Forces and the Defence Industry to the readers. My compliments to you, the Editorial Team and all those who contributed to make this publication a success. I also thank you for your greetings and best wishes on the occasion of New Year which we heartily reciprocate. Wishing you the very best and success in all your future endeavours.

t is indeed heartening to note that SP Guide Publications is completing 50 years of an inspiring journey. SP Guide Publications has played an instrumental role in promoting public awareness about the Indian Armed Forces through a vast array of well researched and insightful publications. SP’s Aviation and the SP’s Military Yearbook in particular are known for their credible and authentic reportage and this has helped SP Guide Publications to carve a special niche for itself amongst the other publication houses. My best wishes to the SP’s team as well as all your readers on this landmark occasion.

With warm regards

(Dalbir Singh) Lt General

•

ISSUE 11 • 2014

(Arup Raha) Air Chief Marshal

www.sps-aviation.com

50 Years of SP’s

•

Admiral Joshi & Air Marshal Sharma

Admiral DK Joshi pvsm, avsm, ysm, nm, vsm, adc

Air marshal R K Sharma pvsm, avsm, vm, adc

Chief of the Naval Staff

Vice Chief of the Air Staff

am pleased to learn that the SP Guide Publications will complete fifty years in 2014. In these five decades the SP Guide Publications have emerged as an useful repository of information, views and perspectives on matters related to the Armed Forces of India, including contemporary issues of technology, procurement, defence industry, etc. The SP Guide Publications thus provides relevant and substantive inputs to all those interested in security matters. I wish the publications continued success in their efforts.

•

t is a pleasure to know that the prestigious SP Guide Publications is completing 50 years of exploring the global aviation arena. Your publications have been of immense value in knowledge of aerospace and defence sectors. This speaks highly of the hard work and dedication put in by your team members. My heartiest congratulations for providing high quality reading material. I wish SP Guide Publications all success.

Shano Varuna. (R K Sharma) Air Marshal (Letter dated February 6, 2014)

www.sps-aviation.com

(DK Joshi) Admiral

ISSUE 11 • 2014

50 Years of SP’s

Air Marshal Sukumar & Vice Admiral Thapliyal

AIR MARSHAL S SUKUMAR avsm, vm Deputy Chief of Air Staff

•

t the outset, I want to congratulate you and your team for successfully completing 50 glorious years in the field of Military Publications. Military and Aerospace technology is a highly specialised field where information more often than not is always classified. However, your publications with their zeal and professionalism, have time and again provided in-depth analysis on critical issues and resulted in being a major contributor in enhancing the overall awareness of operators and the public at large. The high standard of your articles read avidly by all stakeholders has resulted in the SP’s group publications becoming the lead interface between the industry and the Armed Forces and contributing to their synergistic growth. It is commendable that SP’s group publications have also contributed immensely as the official media partners of important events like Aero India, Def Expo India etc. I congratulate SP Guide Publications for their yeoman service of more than 50 years and wish them greater glory in the years to come.

VICE ADMIRAL ANURAG G THAPLIYAL avsm & bar DG Indian Coast Guard

•

o learn that SP Guide Publications is completing 50 years in the current year is a matter of great pleasure and pride. For an Indian enterprise to have survived and flourished in the highly competitive and vastly global Defence Publishing business speaks volumes about the quality of its product and dedication of its staff. Clearly, the publications’ contents as also the presentation and your eye to details have been savoured well by your loyal customers over the past five decades. This Golden Jubilee is therefore a reflection of years of hard work coupled with professionalism and perseverance of the entire team and its leadership. I am sure that all the Service formations across India and a considerable numbers abroad in addition to defense enthusiasts across the globe are keenly tuned in to your publications and have gained substantially from its pages. We at the Indian Coast Guard take this opportunity to congratulate SP Guide Publications on this singular achievement. We further wish you and your team years of continued excellence and success. With warm regards,

(Letter dated January 30, 2014)

ISSUE 11 • 2014

(S Sukumar) Air Marshal

(Anurag G Thapliyal) Director General Indian Coast Guard

www.sps-aviation.com

50 Years of SP’s

From the Message Board

Messages received during Defexpo 2014

An enriching reading well done, keep it up. — Vice Admiral R.K. Dhowan, Vice Chief of Naval Staff (He took over as Chief of Naval Staff on April 17, 2014)

Good Work, keep it up. — Vice Admiral P.K. Chatterji, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff

Congratulation on the well deserved “Golden Jubilee”. — Lt General V.K. Narula, Director General, Artillery

My abundant best wishes to SP Publications on your glorious journey of 50 years. May you grow from strength to strength in times to come. This I pray. — Lt General V.K. Saxena, Director General, Army Air Defence

www.sps-aviation.com

Felicitations from the entire Army Aviation fraternity to our extremely informative professional ‘Media house’. Happy Landings. — Lt General P.R. Kumar, Director General, Army Aviation and Colonel Commandant Regiment of Artillery

Congratulations! You are always a good read for a military professional. Keep it up. — Air Marshal S.B. Deo, Director General Air (Operations)

Congratulations! Keep up the good work. Best wishes. — Air Marshal M. Matheswaran, DCIDS (PP and FD)

Congratulations on 50 years. Great partnership over the years. — Robert C. Koch, Vice President, Corporate Communication, Raytheon

ISSUE 11 • 2014

50 Years of SP’s The Journey

TRIBUTE TO

the FOUNDER

FOUNDER EDITOR & FOUNDER PUBLISHER SHRI SUKHDEO PRASAD BARANWAL

journalistic excellence and the leadership: (Top Left) The founder with Dr Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India; (Top right) the founder presenting one of his books to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India; (above left) pandit nehru glancing through the book; (above right) accompanied by mrs v. baranwal, the founder With mrs Indira Gandhi, Prime Minister of India.

ISSUE 11 • 2014

www.sps-aviation.com

50 Years of SP’s The Journey Journalist and author Shri Sukhdeo Prasad Baranwal—popularly known to all as S.P. Baranwal—was born in Bihar 1930, a period which was filled with national fervour wanting to throw out the British rule. At a tender age itself Shri Baranwal was involved in the nationalist non-violent movement, inspired by the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. A fierce nationalist, he took active part in the Quit India Movement in 1942 and was incarcerated for a day in police custody at the age of 12. As India gained independence, Shri Baranwal went to Patna University where besides studies he was deeply entrenched in the student political movement. He was leader of the students’ Congress. He also took part in RSS Satyagraha Movement in 1948 and later joined the Indian National Congress. Known for his literary skills, Shri Baranwal took to writing and prolifically contributed numerous articles and features to various English and Hindi magazines. He served as Zonal Organiser of the Vivekananda Memorial Committee (Commemoration Volume) for the North-Western Zone in India and actively worked with Dr Raghu Vira in sponsoring the All India Languages Convention in Delhi. He was not just a keen student of military science, political science and economics, but was also a lauded football player, a well-rounded person. An abiding interest in military matters coupled with a deep desire to render some service to the armed forces prompted him

to publish the Military Yearbook in 1965, birth of the first ever comprehensive book on military information with specific reference to an emergent India. The endeavour met with high acclaim from all quarters as it fulfilled a long felt need in the area of defence. The Yearbook was received warmly by the then Prime Minister Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri who commented, “The Guide Publications of New Delhi have brought out the Military Yearbook. It is useful to have suitably compiled information in one volume. I commend the efforts of the Publishers.” Over the decades, SP’s Military Yearbook—as it was deferentially renamed by his successor Mr Jayant Baranwal—has been acknowledged as an indispensable reference document with comprehensive details of the armed forces of nearly 40 countries in Asia and Africa. Not one to rest on his laurels, Shri Baranwal also published treatise and texts on several subjects besides the armed forces. These include Measures of Civil Defence in India, India Faces War, Heroic Deeds in Free India, Guide Almanac and Yearbook, Guide to Indian Banking in English, Vishwa Gyan Sagar, Swatantra Bharat Ki Veergatha, Prasiddha Avishkaron Ki Kahani and Eent Ka Jawab. Shri S.P. Baranwal passed away in 1990, leaving behind a rich legacy imbued with his integrity, principles and unflinching adherence to truth that continue to inspire SP Guide Publications. We salute our beloved Founder for his vision, commitment, determination, steadfastness and the goals he had set for SP Guide Publications and we continue on the path of growth and expansion. SP

Our Logo over the decades

Our logo in 1960s

Our logo in 1980s

Our logo in 1990s

Our core values are reflected through the company’s logo. Like the North Star we are constant and yet changing with times. Our logo reflects strong character, brilliance and light. From darkness lead us to light, through knowledge. Our core is ‘Spreading Knowledge’ and we will constantly endeavour to outperform ourselves.

www.sps-aviation.com

ISSUE 11 • 2014

50 Years of SP’s The Journey

The Golden Age

is Before Us, Not Behind Us by R. Chandrakanth

As we celebrate the Golden Jubilee of SP Guide Publications, paying tribute to our founder Shri Sukhdeo Prasad Baranwal, we are looking forward to the years ahead, benchmarking ourselves along the way. In this part of the world, SP Guide Publications is the one and only media house in the realm of defence and aviation which has thrived for the past 50 years. They have been glorious years with all the vicissitudes of publishing. It certainly is no mean achievement. SP Guide Publications singularly stands out for its trailblazing efforts.

Nationalist movement

The seeds of such an endeavour were sown during the nationalist movement. Inspired by the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi the youth was an energised lot. Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violent movement had a lasting impact on the youth. Shri Sukhdeo Prasad Baranwal, popularly known to all as S.P. Baranwal, who was born in 1930, became part of the Quit India Movement at a very young age of 12 and he was incarcerated for a day in police custody. As India gained independence in 1947, the task ahead of the nationalists was to rebuild the nation on its own terms. In an independent India, Shri Baranwal went to Patna University where besides studies he was deeply entrenched in the student political movement. He was leader of the students’ Congress. He also took part in RSS Satyagraha Movement in 1948 and later joined the Indian National Congress, drawn by the movement of nation building. Shri Baranwal had deep respect for the armed forces as he

SP Guide Publications CMD and Editor-in-Chief Jayant Baranwal along with mrs monika baranwal presenting a copy of Sp’s Military yearbook 2005-2006 to president of india Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (2006)

was aware of the sacrifices that soldiers make and how important they were in the security of the young nation. It was then that he came up with this idea of connecting the armed forces personnel with the society at large, the requirements of the armed forces personnel in terms of equipment and other support, etc. At that point of time, there was no source of information from where one could draw.

Jayant Baranwal welcoming former chairman of Tata Group Ratan N. Tata to SP’s Booth during defexpo 2014; Ratan N. Tata congratulating with his best wishes on Sp’s 50 years celebration message board; Phil Shaw, Chief Executive of Lockheed Martin India, conveys his best wishes on Sp’s 50 years celebration message board.

ISSUE 11 • 2014

www.sps-aviation.com

50 Years of SP’s The Journey

president Dr Kalam (2006) conveyed his appreciation on the content structure and the regional coverage of the yearbook. And conveyed his best wishes to sp’s team for future efforts

Flagship launched

In 1964, that is 50 years back, Shri Baranwal came up with this brilliant idea of starting a publication which would throw light on matters military. Thus was born Guide Publications (later rechristened by Mr. Jayant Baranwal) as SP Guide Publications as a tribute to the founding father. Those days there was no defence publication on Indian military per se, forget about the Internet, to refer to. A journalist to the core, he dug up information, connecting with armed forces personnel and other experts and came up with the first ever Military Yearbook in 1965 (which was renamed as SP’s Military Yearbook in 2003). It is the most comprehensive book on military information with specific reference to an emergent India. The endeavour met with high acclaim from all quarters as it fulfilled a long felt need in the area of defence. Over the decades, it has been acknowledged as an indispensable reference document with comprehensive details of the armed forces of nearly 40 countries in Asia and Africa.

The baton passes on

In 1990, Shri Baranwal passed away, leaving behind a rich legacy imbued with his integrity, principles and unflinching adherence to truth that continue to inspire SP Guide Publications. Mr.

Jayant Baranwal with THE defence minister of india pranab mukherjee (2005), currently the president of india

Jayant Baranwal came to the helm of affairs early on in life and he has steered the company to greater heights. Growing organically, the group has, at regular intervals, come out with niche magazines which have addressed the needs of the domain. Along with the flagship product SP’s Military Yearbook, the group now has six other publications – SP’s Aviation, SP’s AirBuz, SP’s Land Forces, SP’s Naval Forces, SP’s M.A.I., and SP’s ShowNews. The bouquet of publications has made the group a comprehensive domain-specific media house, unmatched by any other group. The global reach of all its publications are a testimony to its growing presence and its publications are internationally audited. The magazines are driven by high quality content, thanks to its panel of editorial staff, some of whom have held high posts in the military and in the industry. Former Generals such as V.P. Malik, N.C. Vij, former Air and Naval Chiefs such as P. V. Naik, S. Krishnaswamy and Sureesh Mehta, Arun Prakash are regular contributors to the group publications.

SP’s AVIATION Takes Off

Dr K. Tamilmani from DRDO congratulating with his best wishes on Sp’s 50 years celebration message board; Vice Admiral R.K. Dhowan, THE THEN Vice Chief AND NOW CHIEF OF NAVAL STAFF, indian navy, notes his best wishes on the message board; Lt General V.K. Narula, THE THEN DG Artillery, indian army, also notes his best wishes on the message board

www.sps-aviation.com

ISSUE 11 • 2014

50 Years of SP’s The Journey

Jayant Baranwal with defence minister george fernandes during defexpo (2004); Jayant baranwal presents a copy of SP’s military yearbook to defence minister a.k. antony (2010)

beneficial to the sector. The mantra has been to provide ‘sharp content for sharp audience’. In these 16 years, it has continuously evolved in every which way – editorial, distribution, networking, etc. It is the only magazine to give the ‘right mix’ of military and civil aviation, all written by acclaimed experts and seasoned journalists.

SP’s LAND FORCES comes into reckoning

In 2004, the group became the first entity to bring out an exclusive publication—SP’s Land Forces—for the army. SP’s Land Forces is a bimonthly magazine exclusively dedicated to land forces. It provides a comprehensive scenario of the armed forces not just in India, but also the Asia-Pacific region. It has the distinction of being the first truly army journal in the world.

SP’s NAVAL FORCES sets sail

Adding to its portfolio of magazines, SP Guide Publications launched in 2006 the SP’s Naval Forces which is the one and only magazine dedicated to the navies of the world from the region. On a bimonthly basis, it endeavours to provide a sea of information on naval trends, technologies, markets and analysis.

SP’s AIRBUZ creates a buzz in civil aviation

To give a clear focus on the developments, trends and news about civil aviation, not just in India but also around the world, SP Guide Publications launched in 2008 SP’s AirBuz. It is a forward-looking and resource-rich magazine on civil aviation sector, further opening up the potential for growth not just in India but across Asia.

SP’s M.A.I. gives insight into defence and Security

With changing security scenario globally and the importance of homeland security becoming accentuated, Mr. Jayant Baranwal launched in 2011, SP’s M.A.I. (military, aerospace and internal security). SP’s M.A.I. makes the group complete and focused media house in defence, aerospace and security realm. It is a fortnightly which provides quick updates and analysis on securing a nation. On a fortnightly basis, besides quick news, the magazine offers incisive viewpoints by acclaimed experts in the field.

ISSUE 11 • 2014

SP’s SHOWNEWS for ringside view

SP Guide Publications brings out SP’s ShowNews at key aviation and military events in India and elsewhere, thus giving a ringside view to the professional on the move. SP’s ShowNews are sought after show dailies at Aero India, Defexpo and India Aviation. We now intend moving beyond borders and offer SP’s ShowNews at other international events.

In step with the industry

The visionary leadership of Mr. Jayant Baranwal has seen that the group has gone beyond publication. It is a very active partner with the industry and industry organisations. As a responsible publication group, SP Guide Publications has been partnering with the industry and the military in organising events, conferences and other related activities which go to enhance the thinking process. SP Guide Publications has created a record of sorts by being the one and only publication to become the ‘Key Official Media Partner’ for successive events such as Aero India, India Aviation, Defexpo, among others.

Proactive Industry Player

As a proactive industry player, SP Guide Publications is a member of several organisations such as the NBAA (National Business Aviation Association) of USA, the Business Aircraft Operators Association (BAOA) of India, etc. On a regular basis, in coordination with various industry bodies, SP Guide Publications is conducting seminars, international conferences and other networking events, thus glued to industry needs and creating platforms for furthering knowledge and business.

CSR our humble contribution

As a responsible media house the group is involved in various corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities directly and indirectly. The group has organised blood donation camps and other voluntary services in the interest of society at large. The group is a strong votary of environmental practices which are reflected in the magazine. It is a never-ending journey and SP Guide Publications continues to push itself to the limits of excellence and beyond. All this has happened, thanks to the support of the readers, the armed forces, the industry, the government and professionals. We have scored 50 and look forward to a century and beyond. SP

www.sps-aviation.com

50 Years of SP’s Statement from CMD

Jayant Baranwal Chairman & managing Director SP Guide Publications (pvt) Ltd

ehind the foundation of Guide Publications which is SP Guide Publications today, there was a crucial objective as laid down by the Founder Shri Sukhdeo Prasad Baranwal. The crucial objective was to spread knowledge, spread awareness on aspects of armed forces, report unreported facts and raise issues concerning our armed forces.

The humble beginning of Guide Publications concentrated on these issues pertaining to the security of our motherland. I, as the person now responsible to take this journey ahead, learnt some important lessons from the Founder, which are: • Integrity and Honesty are key to success; • Quality of any effort can never be compromised; • Setting benchmarks should be part of our aims and objectives; • Not just lead, but also to instill pride and confidence in people surrounding you; • Present the strongest image of the country in front of the world; and • Do always think of the motherland first, rest follows. These tenets form the core values of the company today and are the foundation of our vision for the future! Our Star Logo The beautiful logo of our company conceptualised by our Founder reflects strong character, brilliance and light. It means “Humankind pleading to Almighty God to lead them from darkness to light”. The very process of spreading the right information by our company with the right perspective strive to contribute towards the enlightening of minds and enabling constructive thoughts in the greater good of the community, the society and our motherland.

www.sps-aviation.com

ISSUE 11 • 2014

50 Years of SP’s The Journey

SP GUIDE PUBLICATIONS – over the years

First seeds sown The first seeds were sown in 1964 by Shri Sukhdeo Prasad Baranwal when he founded Guide Publications. He worked hard and untiringly with one focused goal of bringing out a publication for the armed forces.

The Baton Passes On In 1990, Shri S.P. Baranwal passed away at the age of 60, leaving behind a rich legacy. The baton passed on to his illustrious son Mr. Jayant Baranwal who has steered SP Guide Publications to greater heights through his dogged determination to excel, exceed expectations, reach out globally and expand every which way.

1964

1990

1965

Birth of Military Year book

SP’s

Military

Yearbook

Shri Sukhdeo Prasad Baranwal launched the Military Year Book, a truly pioneering publication in the realm of defence information and analysis in 1965. The Military Year Book was the first-ever effort by a non-military person to look into aspects of military and compile the information for the benefit of not just the armed forces but the global audience. Year-on-year the Military Yearbook expanded its reach not only in content but distribution too and has been lauded for its efforts by statesmen and former Prime Ministers like Lal Bahadur Shastri, Indira Gandhi and others. The list is endless.

Military

20142015

Yearbook s

2014-

2015 42nd

is sue

Finmeccanica and India: in the spirit of partnership.

42 n d is s ue

editor-in-chief

jayant baranwal

Price: `8,275.00 SP military yearbook 110x181_11.indd 1 SP's MYB Cover 2014-2015_Final_Indian.indd 1

heritage_220-275_2013-10-11.indd 1

27/06/12 10.39

11/10/13 10:36

19/05/14 2:01 PM

Current issue of SP’s Military Yearbook 2014-2015

ISSUE 11 • 2014

www.sps-aviation.com

50 Years of SP’s The Journey

guide publications Rechristened as Sp Guide Publications In 2003, Guide Publications is rechristened as SP Guide Publications as a tribute to the Founder.

1998

2004

2003 SP’s AVIATION Takes Off

SP’s LAND FORCES comes into reckoning

Developing on its core business, Mr. Jayant Baranwal launched SP’s Aviation in 1998, again a first in the Indian media industry. SP’s Aviation focuses on both military and civil aviation. It offers information and analysis that is cutting-edge and highly beneficial to the sector. The mantra has been to provide ‘sharp content for sharp audience’. In these 16 years, it has continuously evolved in every which way—editorial, distribution, networking, etc. It is the only magazine to give the ‘right mix’ of military and civil aviation, all written by acclaimed experts and seasoned journalists.

In 2004, SP’s Land Forces emerges from the stable of SP Guide Publications. SP’s Land Forces is a bimonthly magazine exclusively dedicated to land forces. It provides a comprehensive scenario of the armed forces not just in India, but also the Asia-Pacific region. It has the distinction of being the first truly army journal in the region. L FVol 1 No 1.qxd:L FVol 1 No 1.qxd 24/11/14 12:55 PM Page 1

October-November 2014

`100.00 (INdIa-baSEd bUyEr oNly)

See page 12

SP’s

Aviation An SP Guide PublicAtion

Current issue of SP’s Aviation

E B R AT I N

SPECIAL ISSuE

VOL 1 NO 1

ROuNDuP

www.SPSLandForceS.coM

P AR’S OF S

Page 11 night into day with night Vision devices Instant situational awareness of the area of operations is a do or die necessity for a soldier Lt General naresh chand (retd)

RNI NUMBER: DELENG/2008/24199

Plus Prime Minister Modi in the United nations General V.P. Malik (retd)

our Golden years have

just BeGun

SP's Aviation Cover 11-2014_Final.indd 1

Prime Minister Modi in USa General V.P. Malik (retd) Prime Minister keen on developing ‘digital armed Force’ r. chandrakanth

Current issue of SP’s land forces

International Seminar on “digitisation of Battlefield”, october 27, 2014, new delhi SP’s exclusives news in Brief

7 9

phoTogrAphs: Us Army

The Indian Army constitutes more than three fourths of the country’s armed forces but surprisingly, there is no commercial magazine or journal in the country that exclusively focuses on its operational and other related aspects. Guide Publications has taken up the challenge to fill this void by launching a new magazine, SP’s Land Forces. As the editor of this magazine, I have great pleasure in presenting to our readers the first issue which will henceforth be published once every two months.

An Indonesian armed forces private provides security for his fellow soldiers while they identify a potential threat as part of C-IED training, the focus of the field training exercise during Exercise Garuda Shield

Modernisation of Indonesian defence Forces military modernisation occurs in geo-strategic, political and economic contexts and is driven not only by technological factors and indigenous defence industry’s capabilities but also by a social and cultural context  Brigadier Vinod anand (retd)

modern military is an important tool for a nation to pursue its foreign and security policies which get impacted by a number of contextual factors. not only the militaries have to guard against the ever changing combination of internal and external security threats and challenges, the politico-military establishment of the countries have to also prepare

in advance for likely wars and conflicts of the future which are always in a state of flux. military modernisation occurs in geostrategic, political and economic contexts and is not only driven by technological factors and indigenous defence industry’s capabilities but also there is a social and cultural context.

Indonesia’s Geostrategic Situation indonesia’s geostrategic situation is unique in that it comprises 17,500 islands with an

area of nearly 2 million square kilometres. it has coastline of over 54,000 kilometres to protect against a wide variety of security threats. in addition, it has land borders with malaysia, Papua new Guinea and timor-leste. indonesia also sits astride the sea lines of communications that link the indian and Pacific oceans. While malacca strait’s significance as an international waterway cannot be over emphasised; lombok, macassar and sundae straits in the indonesian archipelago are also signifi-

The future of Army Attack Aviation Helicopters have played a major role in support of land forces. Much of their role in future may be taken over by UCARs

The Indian Army’s Cutting Edge The army plans to spend $1 billion to modernise its infantry.

Joint Operations India could learn much about the conduct of joint operations from the war in Iraq.

Applied for

Deciding on the type of articles to be published in the first issue is always difficult, as the Editor has yet to get a feel of what his readers want; experience can be his only guide. After much thought, we have selected some subjects that are either topical or are likely to be of professional interest to the Army; we hope they would also be of interest to the other defence services and the defence industry. Among these is an article on Israel’s concept and organization for fighting terrorism. There are two articles on aviation, underlining the growing importance of air power in land operations. Another deals with the lessons learnt by the South African Army in its recent reorganization that could be of help to the Indian Army and the defence services in any future restructuring. The Infantry’s detailed modernization plan given in another piece should be of interest to the industry.

SP’s Land ForceS

Israel has organised its security forces specifically to counter terrorist attacks by d a v i d e s h e l , h o d h a s h a r o n , i s r a e l

ince its establishment in 1948, the state of Israel has been forced almost constantly to cope with waves of terror attacks, ranging from sporadic roadside shootings to airliner hijacking and suicide bombers. These ever-growing threats have necessitated a continued high priority national effort to develop sophisticated technology means and combat concepts to respond to counter terrorism warfare conditions. Many years of painful experience in dealing with terrorist activities in all shapes and sizes has crystallized into a highly effective and comprehensive, though not always perfect, counter-terrorist (CT) strategy and tactics.

Components of C ounter terrori st warfar e There are three main components of modern

counter-terrorist warfare: n Offensive Oriented Activity- This is directed against terrorist targets, its leadership and infrastructure bases, to disrupt or pre-empt attacks while still in their planning stage. n Defensive Oriented Activity- Initially to place obstacles in the way of terrorist elements already en-route to their targets and at a later stage, to disrupt the actual attack by active and passive means. n Punitive Measures- To deter future attacks by legal activity against leading terrorists, their supporters and ideological inciters.

C hallenges Faci ng int elli gence operations in Low intensit y C onflict warfar e A friction-free interface between the operational force and its tactical intelligence assets is a cru-

When the Founder of Guide Publications, Shri S P Baranwal, launched the Military Yearbook (now SP’s Military Yearbook) in 1965, there was a dearth of publications on the armed forces. The publication received a warm response from the readers including India’s second Prime Minister Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri. Impelled by the growing importance of military and civil aviation around the world, Guide Publications launched SP’s Aviation (a quarterly feature) in 1998. This journal too evoked an equally warm response. Our readers however pointed out that even though the Army constituted the largest segment of India’s armed forces and was operationally deployed even during peacetime, there was no publication specifically dedicated to the land forces. In keeping with the wishes of our readers therefore, the editorial committee of Guide Publications has decided to publish SP’s Land Forces, a magazine with a different layout and flavour. Lt General P K Pahwa, former Director General Air Defence Artillery and Senior Editorial Adviser to SP’s Military Yearbook, has taken up the editorial control of this publication. We at Guide Publications hope that SP’s Land Forces will meet the aspirations of the readers in the Army and the associated industries. Indeed, in view of the joint nature of warfare these days, we hope the other services too will find the inputs of the magazine interesting and useful. The first issue of the magazine has been timed to coincide with Defexpo 2004, the third in the series of Land & Naval Systems exibition to mark occasion. We also take this opportunity to congratulate the organisers, CII and MoD, for putting India on the global map of world class military shows.

This issue also contains the first part of a well researched feature on the historical evolution of weapons of war, to be serialized over the next few issues. It will help to break the monotony of continuous drab professional reading.

Wishing everyone a happy reading,

Senior commanders and staff of the defence services remain busy with multifarious responsibilities and have little time for reading. SP’s Land Forces has therefore adopted a singular design and layout which makes it easy to handle, simple to access and comfortable to read. This is however not the last word. We look forward to receiving feedback from our readers to make further improvements in the subsequent issues. We hope our readers will consider this their own magazine, enjoy reading it, and send us their frank comments.

Lt GeneraL (retd) Pran Pahwa

5/2014

Wa r o n Te r r o r

Israeli Counter-Terror Concepts and Operations

Takeover exercise with the IAF Bell 212 helicopters for special counter terrorist infiltrations into suspected safe houses for terrorists.

Jayant Baran waL Ma na GinG edito r & PuBL ish er

ed itor

F E B R U A RY 2 0 0 4 S P ’ S L A N D F O R C E S

02/12/14 11:27 AM 1-13_SP's Land Forces 5-2014_final.indd 1

www.sps-aviation.com

P U B L I C AT I O N

S E E U S AT D E F E X P O 2 0 0 4 AT H A L L 1 1 , S TA N D 2 2

INAUGURAL ISSUE

Fo r e w o r d

Editorial

13 14 15

A GUIDE

LandForces

In This Issue

>> regional / south east asia

Page 10

The Indo-Pakistan ceasefire Scenario India would have to remain alert on the border/LoC without closing its window(s) for purposeful negotiations or allowing the dilution of its revised policy. It would have to remain prepared for increased contingencies along the LoC and cross border terrorism. General V.P. Malik (retd)

FEBRUARY 2004

SP’s

`100.00 (India-Based Buyer Only)

PUBLICATION

Page 8 Border & Perimeter Security Beyond the immediate, we are facing a future where security challenges will be less predictable; situations will evolve and change swiftly; and, technological changes will make responses more difficult to keep pace with. The threats may be known, but the enemy may be invisible. Lt General P.c. Katoch (retd)

’S

AN SP GUIDE

The ONlY magaziNe iN asia-Pacific DeDicaTeD TO laND fORces

In ThIs Issue Page 5 India and china – Future Trajectory As long as China does not indulge in more incursions especially with signing of the Border Defence Cooperation Agreement, ample scope exists for the bilateral relationship to be taken to new heights concurrent to peaceful resolution of the border Lt General P.c. Katoch (retd)

vol 17 ISSUE 11 • NovEmbEr • 2014

Volume 11 No. 5

www.spsmilitaryyearbook.com

Sharp Content for Sharp Audience

www.sps-aviation.com

SP’s

ISSUE 11 • 2014

01/11/14 2:52 PM

50 Years of SP’s The Journey

over the years... Continued SP'sShowNews_1.qxd

1/27/06

7:58 PM

Page 1 14

See you at

P U B L I C AT I O N

SP’s

S o l e o F F I C I A l M e D I A PA R T N e R D e F e x P o 2 0 1 4 PUBLIS HERS OF SP’S MILItaRy yEaRBOOk, SP’S avIatIOn, SP’S aIRBUZ, SP’S Land FORcES, SP’S navaL FORcES & SP'S MaI

Inside India Partner for Boeing. In a frank interview with SP Guide Publications, Mr Chris Chadwick, Vice President, Integrated Defence Systems of Boeing, expressed his optimism about future Indo-US relations and said that Boeing saw India not just as a potential market but also as a strategic supplier and partner. He reflected on the strengths of his company, the products it could offer to the Indian armed forces and the competition it could face. P7 India to Export Missiles. India is planning to export a series of indigenously developed missiles, including the supersonic cruise BrahMos developed in a joint venture with Russia. P6 Northrop & HAL. Northrop Grumman Corporation has signed an agreement with India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL), to work together to identify projects would result in involving HAL in Northrop Grumman’s E-2C Hawkeye programme by way of sourcing aircraft assemblies and components, digitization and other related service from HAL. P8 UAV Set to Boom. With the proliferation of UAVs and technological advancements, the market for UAV remote sensors, which help to enhance battlefield situational awareness, is all set to boom. The European, Asian and Middle East market is expected to be worth about US$ 1.8 billion by 2014 with China, India, Japan, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Australia and South Korea accounting to over 70% of the revenues. P6

Tu e s d a y, J a n u a r y 3 1 2 0 0 6

It is again time for Defence Exposition 2006 in India. The Defexpo 06 is held every alternative year at Delhi, India and showcases equipment mainly related to the army and the navy. The first Defexpo was held in 1999 with about 200 companies taking part. This year the response had been overwhelming with about 400 companies taking part. Companies from USA, Europe, Israel and Russia etc are making their presence felt by displaying a large inventory of army and naval equipment. Apart from displaying their products, companies will also

Mr Pranab Mukherjee.

firms in defence capability building. Pursue offsets policy to bring in technology and investment. Explore synergies amongst private sector, DPSUs, Ordnance Factories and DRDO to promote high technology capabilities.

aerospace

Unmanned vehicles

aerospace

Major programmes

T-90 BATTLE TAnK

Ian Elliott, 16 Interview: Vice President, Defence Capability Marketing,

The Defexpo 06 will be inaugurated by Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, Defence Minister of India, on January 31, 2006.

DEfExPO INDIA 2014 OPENS TODAy

Airbus Defence and Space

By SP'S SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT

Interview: Yedida Yaari, 20 CEO, Rafael Interview: Kanji Ishimaru, 22 Managing Director ShinMaywa Industries

Emerging issues and policy proposals

Interview: S.K. Sharma, 30 Chairman and Managing Director, BEL

The Committee has adopted a long-term approach to prepare a policy regime that would encourage India’s best firms to enter in defence production. To promote innovation, efficiency and cost cutting, the Committee has adopted a strategic perspective in formulating proposals towards acquisition policy reforms.

VISIT US AT HALL 9 AT DEFEXPO 2014.

SP’s ShowNews 1

www.baesystems.com

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK SECURITY BREACHES

MILITARY 3 22

Agenda for the new Raksha Mantri

OEMSPEAK

Developments

Updates

Unmanned

News

Corporate

Technology

18/11/14 5:21 PM

To give a clear focus on the developments, trends and news about civil aviation, not just in India but also around the world, SP Guide Publications launched in 2008, SP’s AirBuz. It is a forward-looking and resource-rich magazine on civil aviation sector, further opening up the potential for growth not just in India, but across Asia.

October-November 2014

See page 10

page 8

Military

SP’s

Yearbook

Military Yearbook s

20142015

Inaugural Issue

201442 n d

i s s u e

www.spsmilitaryyearbook.com

2 0 0 6

V o l

N o

07/05/14 2:46 PM

The only naval magazine for navies across asia-Pacific

A n E x c l u s i v e M a g a z i n e o n C i v i l Av i a t i o n f r o m I n d i a

is sue

Price: Inland Rs 8,275.00; Foreign (Surface Mail): Stg. £ 436.00; US$ 776.00

editor-in-chief Page 5 jayant baranwal Prime Minister Modi’s Visit to USA SP military yearbook 110x181_11.indd 1

heritage_220-275_2013-10-11.indd 1

SP's MYB Cover 2014-2015_Final.indd 1

11/10/13 10:36

27/06/12 10.39

Narendra Modi had, obviously, charted, before assuming office, a well-planned strategy to deal with some critical foreign policy issues before domestic events crowded his political horizon Admiral Arun Prakash (Retd)

SP’s has always been known for the new beginnings as the Founder Publisher Shri S P Baranwal introduced Military Yearbook in 1965, continuing with the same SP’s introduced SP’s Aviation in 1998; then SP’s Land Forces (1st journal of its kind from the whole of Asia) in 2004. Following the tradition of introducing focused platforms thus aiming to fill the void in the market, SP’s now offers SP’s Naval Forces to India’s state-of-the-art Navy.

Page 6 Major Weapon Requirements of Indian Navy

VOLUME 7 • ISSUE 5

DeaDly 18/04/14 11:12 AM

WWW.SPSAIRBUZ.COM

Submarines -

PhOtOgraPh: BaE Systems

Page 8 Indonesian Navy on the Threshold of Modernisation

Indonesia has a coastline of 54,716 km and maritime claims include exclusive economic zone of 200 nm (about 374 km) and 12 nm (about 22 km) of territorial sea when measured from claimed archipelagic straight baselines Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd)

that illustrates evolution of naval aviation. Indian Navy has been the most inter-operable service from India which duly reflects in the series of joint exercises that have been taking place with countries like France, United States, Russia and so on. The journal makes an attempt to cover such interactive gestures in an illustrative manner. This issue also touches upon the upcoming mega event i.e. President’s Review to be held in February this year.

economic growth in asia and the Middle east is driving demand in those regions and increasing the importance attached to maritime matters Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd)

Indian Navy has been known for its key role towards disaster management in the country and in the region. The journal has covered a seminar held recently which was chaired by Indian Defence Minister, Mr Pranab Mukherjee, Chief of the Naval Staff and various heads of Disaster Management Committee. Also covered are the evolution of the Indian Navy and its initiatives towards its relationship with various countries and the Indian Coast Guard’s relentless efforts to meet the Marine environmental security needs, etc.

Page 13 50 Glorious Years of Indigenous Warship Design: Seminar Report

SP Guide Pubns

The layout of the journal has been designed keeping the aspirations of Navy in mind and the blue water ambitions of this forceful service. We do hope that our readers would enjoy reading.

“

So, my main thrust areas have been - networking, transformation, foreign co-operation and indigenisation. I hope that they will be sustained over the coming years to the benefit of our service and our country...

”

The Indian Navy and its design organisation has successfully converted the stumbling blocks into stepping stones and went on to augment the strength of the Navy’s Designers in this glorious journey of 50 years, now being the largest pool of Naval architects in the country Rear Admiral Sushil Ramsay (Retd)

PlUS

SP’s Exclusives

News in Brief

1/2006

Applied for

P 27

C-130 FORAYS INTO CIVIL CARGO

BRIGHT?

BAE Systems’ Astute submarine in wet dock quay

n R. ChandRakanth

he global submarine markeT is expected to value $19 billion in 2014, and increase at a Cagr of 5.19 per cent during the forecast period, to reach $31.5 billion by 2024. The market consists of three categories of submarines: ssn (ship subsurface), ssbn (ship subsurface ballistic nuclear), and ssk (ship subsurface killer). There is heightened activity with regard to the submarine market, particu-

larly from the Asia-Pacific region. In Asia, there are several countries which are on a submarine buying spree and the next two decades is going to witness substantial acquisitions in the region. new submarine buyers are emerging on the scene and they include malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand. Japanese defence writer kyle mizokami has pointed out that this trend reflects the desire of asian countries to protect their recently acquired wealth and enduring economic interests. much of asia is dependent on open sea lanes to keep export-driven economies humming, and recognition of

the importance of sea power is driving a general naval expansion throughout the region. another, more ominous driver is the recent uptick in territorial disputes in asian littorals, particularly those driven by China. india is another major maritime power and recently the ministry of Defence has cleared the decks for the `53,000-crore Project 75 india (P75-i). The recent decision is that all six submarines will be built in india on the lines of the predecessor P75 scorpene production line at the mazagon Dock limited (mDl), mumbai. bids will be invited from indian shipyards to build the

• PILOTS TRAINING • BUDGET ANALYSIS & MUCH MORE...

www.spsairbuz.net

AN SP GUIDE PUBLICATION

Continued on page 3...

SP’s NAVAL FORCES

AMBITIOUS AIR COSTA

AIRBUZ P 16

Analysing the true picture of Indian aviation

Page 11 Asia and Middle East Driving Demand for Ships

An article on Scorpene Construction Programme by Vice Admiral (r) P Jaitly discusses the relevant implications of 6 submarines’ contract that has been signed between India and France, as to how it will enable the sustainability of expertise with defence public sectors and also offer a range of opportunities to private sectors in India.

...WE ARE ACTING WE ARE DOING

A N E X C L U S I V E M A G A Z I N E O N C I V I L AV I AT I O N F R O M I N D I A

Deceptively

in asia, there are several countries which are on a submarine buying spree and the next two decades is going to witness substantial acquisitions in the region It can be appreciated that with ‘Make in India’ thrust there is every possibility that the best of weapon OeMs would come to India for production of advanced weapon systems for use by the Indian armed forces as well as for sale to other countries Rear Admiral Dr S. Kulshrestha (Retd)

The inaugural issue includes an exhaustive interview that has been conducted with the CNS. It includes a variety of perceptions, views coming from the Admiral, therefore an educative piece for its valuable readers. The journal with pleasure includes a very exhaustive and interesting article on Air Operations at Sea by the CNS,

OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2014

`100.00 (INDIA-BASED BUYER ONLY)

subMarINes

Global Programmes

Admiral Arun Prakash, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) and his office have been very supportive towards this new endeavour and SP’s feel duly honoured and rather committed due to such response.

This is a beginning... and we intend to consistently evolve and therefore request our readers to send us their views, comments and suggestions. So the anchor has been weighed and we are over the waters to sail.

ROUNDUP

www.spsnavalforces.com

SP's MYB 1415 ADVERT.indd 1

I s s u e

ADDRESSING ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS P 13

SP’s

2015

42nd

India’s Evolving Maritime Profile and Strategy page 12

`100.00 (India-Based Buyer Only)

Reference

Finmeccanica and India: in the spirit of partnership.

A Quote “We have a vital stake in the security of the sea-lanes to our East and West. The Indian Navy therefore must expand its capability to protect the sea-lanes.” Dr Manmohan Singh Prime Minister of India

Volume 9 No. 5

Indispensable

INAUGURAL ISSUE

Scorpene Construction Programme page 4

RNI NUMBER: DELENG/2008/24198

Air Operations at Sea

Editorial

02/02/11 3:15 PM

Page 1

In This Issue

5/2014

1 1-13_SP's Naval Forces 05-2014_final_2.indd 1

12/11/14 5:27 PM

Current issue of SP’s naval forces

1_SP's MAI Cover.indd 1

SP’s AIRBUZ creates a buzz in civil aviation

SP’s NAVAL FORCES sets sail

JAYANT BARANWAL

us aerospace ‘n’ killware goliath northrop Grumman’s most advanced robot aircraft in the world, the X-47B unmanned combat air system (ucas) is intended to operate from the flight deck of us navy aircraft carriers, carrying out entire missions including air-to-air refuelling without pilot input

2011

2008

MANAGING EDITOR & PUBLISHER

SP’s M.A.I. makes the group complete and focused media house in defence, aerospace and security realm. Launched in 2011, SP’s M.A.I. (military, aerospace and internal security) is a fortnightly which provides quick updates and analysis on securing a nation. On a fortnightly basis, besides quick news, the magazine offers incisive viewpoints by acclaimed experts in the field.

2006

SP’s team with CNS on 18th November, 2005 after the interview.

inTerVieW

In an interview with SP’s MAI, haL Chairman ashok nayak talks about haL’s plans of restructuring the company as defence aviation requirements are expected to surge exponentially.

SP’s M.A.I.

10:19 AM

03/02/14 11:20 PM

SP’s SHOWNEWS in sync with industry events

1/3/06

15 16

inTernal securiTy Latest cyber updates

MiliTary aerospace inTernal securiTy

Terminator

PAGE 5

PLUS

INTERNAL SECURITY

AEROSPACE

Report Report

1_SP's MAI Cover 22-2014.indd 1 1-12_SP's ShowNews Day 1.indd 1

SP's NavalForces1_06.qxd

PAGE 10

Prime Minister’s Myanmar visit

Current issue of SP’s M.A.I.

BUILT BY INSPIRATION.

Continued on page 2...

January 31 2006

ernise is alive and well, and that international interest in the Indian defence market is as healthy as ever. This year’s event has big shoes to fill: Two years ago, Defexpo 2012 recorded unprecedented growth in foreign as well as domestic participation over all of its previous editions. An impressive 232 foreign companies from 32 countries participated in the 2012 show along with 15 country pavilions. The event was attended by the largest number of official delegations with 63 delegations from 58 countries gracing the occasion. A number of international seminars and conferences were also conducted on the sidelines of the show. This year, things remain on even keel, responding to the unmissable, all-pervasive atmosphere. Consider the following: the strongest tang in the air is political. With national elections just weeks away, the country's psychology, machinery and resources are geared towards the turbulence of transition. The air of

s Defexpo 2014 opens, the atmosphere in Delhi's early spring air is unmissable. In a country that has had a difficult relationship with military procurement, these are particularly testing times. It’s as if the entire modernisation system, and all stakeholders concerned, have been committed to an exercise to test several parameters: patience, endurance, agility and, yes, influence. The euphemism most commonly encountered in the Indian defence contracting space over the last 12 months has been ‘cautious optimism’. A raft of important contracts lie virtually ready to be signed. But a combination of disparate circumstances make these some of the most incredibly uncertain times for pretty much anything. Certainly for big-ticket defence expenditure. But the arrival of Defexpo itself ought to be a breath of fresh air. An indication that the will to mod-

Interview: R.K. Tyagi, 26 Director, Chairman and Managing HAL

Create an environment for quantum jump in export of defence equipment and services.

Manohar Parrikar takes over as the new Defence Minister PAGE 13

ONLY FOrtNightLY ON

February 1-15 • 2011

MiliTary/Viewpoint

aerospace

India

The proposals focus on the following key issues:

www.spsmai.com

dogfight! India’s medium multirole combat aircraft decision

Interview: Emmanuel Nabet, 14 Chief Marketing Officer, Photonis France

ugural ina issue

mai An SP Guide PublicAtion

C4I2SR: Key to the Forces

Indian Submarine Arm in 8 Endless Dive Interview: Phil Shaw, 12 Lockheed Chief Executive of Martin India

Executive Summary

Encourage involvement of country’s best

MILITARY AEROSPACE INTERNAL SECURITY

Vol: 4 Issue 22 ❚ November 16-30 • 2014

[ inside ]

dwell on defence related new technologies. There will also be seminars on various subjects like India’s offset policy, and joint ventures and defence co-operation with various countries like USA and UK.

Dr Vijay Kelkar Report April 2005 The thrust of this report is “Towards strengthening self-reliance in defence preparedness.” This report takes into account increased capabilities of Indian industry and growing globalisation of defence industry.

ONLY FORTNIGHTLY ON

[Lt GeneRaL (Retd) P.C. KatoCh]

Defexpo-06 Set to Start January 31 to February 3, 2006

mai www.spsmai.com

DELENG/2010/34651

Visit us at DEFEXPO ‘06 , Jan 31 to Feb 3, Hall No. 13, Booth No. 6

dEFEXPO aRRIvES, WItH caUtIOUS OPtIMISM

SP’s

AN SP GUIDE PUBLICATION

rs. 55.00 (IndIa-based buyer only)

ShownewS

see us in hall e, booth 22 at aero india 2011

SP’S EXCLUSIVE : MINISTER PARRIKAR ‘DEALS’ A NEW MANTRA PAGE 4

latest issue of SP’s showNews

Thursday, February 6, 2014

AN SP GUIDE PUBLICATION

delenG/2010/34651

A SP GUIDE

Day-1

SP’s

`55.00 (INDIA-BASED BUYER ONLY)

Hall 14 BootH 14.3

P U B L I S H E R S O F S P ’ s M I L I TA R Y Y E A R B O O K , S P ’ s A V I AT I O N , S P ’ s L A N D F O R C E S & S P ’ s N A VA L F O R C E S

ISSUE 11 • 2014

SP's Airbuz_Cover.indd 1

AN SP GUIDE PUBLICATION

4/26/08 1:49:09 PM

SP's Airbuz Cover 05-2014.indd 1

15/11/14 6:06 PM

Current issue of SP’s airbuz

www.sps-aviation.com

50 Years of SP’s The Journey International Seminar on

Digitisation of BattlefielD extending network-Centricity to the last Mile in the tactical Battle area

Our Partners

PARTNERING THE INDUSTRY As a responsible publication group, SP Guide Publications has been partnering with the industry and the military in organising events, conferences and other related activities which go to enhance the thinking process. SP Guide Publications has created a record of sorts by being the one and only publication to become the ‘Key Official Media Partner’ for successive events such as Aero India, India Aviation, Defexpo, among others.

2014

2011

2015

CSR, our humble contribution SP Guide Publications is a responsible media house and is involved in various corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities directly and indirectly. The group has organised blood donation camps and other voluntary services in the interest of society at large. The group is a strong votary of environmental practices which are reflected in the magazine.

PROACTIVE INDUSTRY PLAYER As a proactive industry player, SP Guide Publications is a member of several organisations such as the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) of USA, the Business Aircraft Operators Association (BAOA) of India, etc. On a regular basis, in coordination with various industry bodies, SP Guide Publications is conducting seminars, international conferences and other networking events, thus glued to industry needs and creating platforms for furthering knowledge and business.

OUR JOURNEY CONTINUES....THANKS TO YOU ALL !!

www.sps-aviation.com

ISSUE 11 • 2014

Military

Interview

Air Marshal S.B.P. Sinha AVSM VM, a subtle and candid Air Marshal who took over as the Deputy Chief of Air Staff at Air Headquarters on April 30, 2014, spoke to SP’s Aviation, on the occasion of the 82nd anniversary of the Indian Air Force on a wide range of procurements underway and future plans

Photograph: PIB

PROGAMMES ON THE ROLL SP’s Aviation (SP’s): What is the status of the project related to the induction of the medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA) for which the Rafale was identified as the preferred platform over two-and-a-half years ago? Deputy Chief of Air Staff (DCAS): MMRCA induction is an urgent requirement of the IAF for which contract negotiations with Dassault Aviation are in progress. Three Contract Negotiations Sub-Committees on ‘Maintenance’, ‘Offset’ and ‘Transfer of Technology’ have completed negotiations and submitted their reports to the Contract Negotiations Committee (CNC). The Contract Sub-Committee has completed most of the contractual aspects with the representatives of Dassault Aviation and the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The IAF hopes that the CNC will expeditiously close all aspects of the negotiations and initiate the process to obtain the approval of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), after which the contract will be signed. SP’s: Can you give us an idea of the progress so far in the Indo-Russian project to develop the fifth-generation fighter

ISSUE 11 • 2014

aircraft (FGFA)? In what time frame can the nation expect the IAF to transit into the next-generation? DCAS: An Inter-Governmental Agreement was signed between India and Russia on October 18, 2007, for joint development and production of FGFA. The preliminary design phase was completed in June 2013. Presently, the contract negotiations for research and development phase are in progress. FGFA is a huge project with numerous complexities related to design, technical parameters, work share and costs. The CNC is discussing all these aspects with the Russian side. The research and development phase is expected to run for over eight years and since the discussions on the project are still in progress, it is not possible to provide a definitive induction timeline for this developmental project. SP’s: What are the induction plans for the 40 Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA) Mk I ordered with HAL? DCAS: Grant of initial operational clearance (IOC) to the LCA in December last year was a major achievement. The IAF is now waiting for HAL to deliver the series production LCA in

www.sps-aviation.com

Military Interview IOC configuration for inducting them in the first LCA squadron. The first series production LCA is undergoing ground tests. Many other aspects related to pilot publications, maintenance manuals and ground support and test equipment mandatory for LCA induction are nearing completion. The full complement of aircraft for the first LCA squadron is likely to be delivered by 2017 by HAL as per the production schedule. The IAF, the Aeronautics Development Agency (ADA) and HAL are together trying to expedite resolution of outstanding issues and expedite the induction of LCA in IAF. LCA is planned to achieve FOC in December 2014 but it is unlikely before second half of 2015, the production will commence thereafter. The need to arrest any further delay in FOC and the necessity to ramp up HAL’s production capacity are being followed up at the highest level.

draw the RFP for 197 reconnaissance and scout helicopters (RSH) issued as ‘Buy Global’. The light utility helicopter being developed by HAL is still not available. It is now proposed to include the total requirement of the Indian Army and the IAF for this class of helicopters under one ‘Buy & Make (Indian)’ project wherein few helicopters will be bought from a foreign OEM and the balance manufactured in India. This project will provide another unique opportunity for Indian industries to enter the aerospace manufacturing sector that offer great prospects. SP’s: What is the status of the project to re-engine the Jaguar fleet of the IAF? DCAS: The project to re-engine Jaguar fleet is in final stages of technical offset evaluation after which the contract negotiations will commence.

SP’s: What are plans for the development of the Tejas Mk II and in what way will it be different from the Mk I? DCAS: LCA Mk II is at the preliminary design stage. Several SP’s: What has been the response from the private sector of lessons learnt during the development and flight testing of LCA the Indian aerospace industry to the proposed replacement Mk-I are being incorporated to achieve better performance of the Avro fleet of the IAF? from LCA Mk II. The LCA Mk II is being designed to bridge the DCAS: The proposal was initiated primarily with a view to gap between performance shortfall of the LCA Mk I vis-à-vis promote private sector participation in defence production in the Air Staff Requirements, wherein it will be equipped with pursuance of our Defence Production Policy. It aims to provide a more powerful engine and the aircraft designed with lesser an opportunity to private sector to enter the field of transport weight and drag profile. In addition, the design of LCA Mk II aircraft manufacturing. The guiding factor for this decision was that it would reinforce the nation’s will resolve many outstanding issues reresolve towards self-reliance by Indian lated to the maintainability of the aircraft. private sector graduating into aircraft The Preliminary design review of LCA Mk manufacturing. The Indian private sector II is in progress and many systems have The inclusion of DCAS on enterprises have expressed their wholealready been reviewed. hearted support and commitment to the HAL’s Board of Directors Avro replacement programme and conSP’s: Is the IAF going ahead with the is a welcome move sider it as a programme of national siginduction of additional Pilatus PC-7 Mk nificance and a game changer for military II from Pilatus Aircraft of Switzerland that will undoubtedly and civilian aerospace industry in India. and if so, what are the numbers proenhance the synergy Response has been received from Tata posed to be acquired? between the IAF and HAL. Advanced Systems jointly with Airbus for DCAS: The IAF’s proposal to procure 106 the manufacture of the replacement of the PC-7 Mk II aircraft under the ‘Buy & Make Avro aircraft. (Indian)’ category is under consideration of the government for approval. SP’s: Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) are set to play a greater role in the conduct of warfare in the future. What SP’s: If the report in the media that the intermediate jet are plans of the IAF to foray into the domain of UAS? trainer (IJT) Sitara will have to be redesigned is true, DCAS: The IAF is already exploiting the potential offered by what options does the IAF have to replace the obsolescent unmanned aerial systems. The IAF has already inducted UAVs Kiran fleet? DCAS: Many prototype aircraft undergo design changes as and IAF’s perspective plans include a mix of all classes of UAVs. part of the design and development process. Several re-de- However, certain niche UAV technologies are limited to very signs have already been carried out on the IJT and more are few countries and inherently classified. Hence, we are pursucontinuing. There are issues with the aircraft in flight profiles ing indigenous development of UAV for self-reliance in the derelated to Stall and Spin and HAL is attempting to resolve sign, manufacture and exploitation through our indigenous UAV these by incorporating various aerodynamic fixes with the industry. However, till such time indigenous UAVs of different help of BAE Systems. The Kiran aircraft can be retained in classes are productionised, we may have to procure some from service till 2019 with life extension. We are closely monitor- the foreign market. ing the IJT project and are also in the process of considering alternative options to find a solution for intermediate stage SP’s: Now that the DCAS is on the board of HAL, what plans do you have to inspire this Indian aerospace major to begin flying training in IAF. to deliver? DCAS: The inclusion of DCAS on HAL’s Board of Directors is a SP’s: As the tender for the procurement of 197 helicopters welcome move that will undoubtedly enhance the synergy befor the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force seems to have tween the IAF and HAL. The presence of the representative of run aground, what is the possibility of the HAL filling the the prime customer of HAL in their corporate decision making void with the light utility helicopter that is reported to be chain would promote HAL’s efficiency and better responsiveunder development? DCAS: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) decided to with- ness to the users. SP

www.sps-aviation.com

ISSUE 11 • 2014

Military

iaf anniversary

THE INDIAN AIR FORCE TURNS 82 The IAF always cherishes core values of Mission, Integrity and Excellence By Air Marshal B.K. Pandey (retd)

Photograph: Indian Air Force

Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha and Lily Raha, President AFWWA, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Air Force Day celebration at the Air House

Formally established on October 8, 1932, the Indian Air Force (IAF) turned 82 on October 8, this year. Beginning with just four Wapiti aircraft and six pilots, over the last 82 years, the IAF has been completely transformed and has grown to be the fourth largest air force in the world. While the occasion was celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervour at all bases and establishments of the IAF across the country, the event at Delhi surpassed all others in scale and grandeur. As has been the practice for the last several years, this year too, the Air Force Day parade organised by Air Headquarters was held at Air Force Station, Hindon, on the outskirts of Delhi. The shift of venue from Palam to Hindon effected a few years ago, was considered necessary to avoid prolonged disruption to the ever-increasing civil air traffic at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi as the final event is preceded by rehearsals invariably for seven days. The event this year had acquired special significance as the IAF was also celebrating the Golden Jubilee of the Indo-Pak War of 1965 to pay homage to the martyrs who had made the supreme sacrifice to lay down their lives in the line of duty.

ISSUE 11 • 2014

The event for which invitees began to congregate soon after dawn was a parade-cum-investiture ceremony. The latest inductions such as the C-17 Globemaster III strategic airlift aircraft, the C-130J Super Hercules Special Operations and tactical transport aircraft, the Hawk and the Pilatus PC-III Mk 2 trainer aircraft provided an impressive backdrop. Amongst the spectators were a large number of military and civilian dignitaries, foreign diplomatic staff in uniform, a number of former Chiefs of the Air Staff and the serving Chiefs of the Indian Army and the Indian Navy. The renowned Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar was also present attired in Air Force uniform sporting the stripes of Group Captain on his shoulders. Sachin Tendulkar is the first sports person to be conferred the honour four years ago of the honorary rank of Group Captain in the IAF. Accompanied by his wife Anjali, he was seated along with the serving Chiefs from the Indian Army and the Indian Navy, a double honour bestowed on him. The parade was reviewed by Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, PVSM AVSM VM ADC, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) and Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee who was the Chief Guest. Three

www.sps-aviation.com

Military IAF Anniversary

(clockwise from top) Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha arriving AT AIR FORCE STATION at HINDoN hercules formation consisting of three C-130J flying in vic formation enthralling the viewers IAF’s vintage 1930s Tiger Moth aircraft flying past during the 82Nd Air Force Day celebrations

Photographs: Anoop Kamath, Indian Air Force

IAF AIR WARRIOR DRILL TEAM (AWDT) DISPLAYING THEIR ALLURING SKILLS DURING AIR FORCE DAY PARADE HELD AT AIR FORCE STATION, HINDoN

ISSUE 11 • 2014

www.sps-aviation.com

Military IAF Anniversary

(clockwise from left) Honorary group captain sachin tendulkar of IAF with three service chiefs and their wives during the AIR FORCE DAY PARADE HELD AT AIR FORCE STATION at HINDoN IAF’s SU-30MKI ESCORTING C-17 GLOBEMASTER III DURING FLY PAST CARRIED OUT DURING AIR FORCE DAY PARADE IAF SARANG HELICOPTERS CARRYING OUT a MANOEUVRE DURING AIR FORCE DAY PARADE

MI-17 V5 helicopters of the IAF flew past the spectators in vic formation trailing the IAF Ensign as soon as the chief guest arrived. As part for the investiture parade, the CAS conferred Presidential Awards on the winners in recognition of services rendered. The awards included a total of 18 Vayu Sena Medals (VM) of which three were given posthumously and 31 Vishisht Sena Medals (VSM). In his brief but an inspiring address, the CAS said that there has been a paradigm shift in the security environment in the region that pose new challenges to the nation. He said that the IAF was in the process of modernisation, inducting the latest technologies and upgrading the quality of human resource to discharge its responsibilities in the changing environment. He expressed gratitude to the nation for the immense faith and trust reposed in the service and assured the nation that the IAF would always be prepared to face any challenge to national security. The service, he said, will always be ready to provide swift response whether to confront external threats or in aid to civil authority for disaster management and internal security. He recounted the effort the IAF had devoted during the floods in Uttarakhand as well as in the state of Jammu and Kashmir that was devastated by floods in the recent past. He informed the nation that the IAF always cherished core values of Mission, Integrity and Excellence. The Air Warriors Drill Team of the IAF presented a display

www.sps-aviation.com

that was an epitome of coordination, precision and discipline that are perquisites for successful teamwork in the service. The parade was followed by a spectacular air show by a variety of aircraft of the IAF flying in close formation. The helicopter and transport aircraft participating included the Mi-35 attack helicopters, three C-130J Super Hercules, An 32 tactical transport aircraft and the C-17 Globemaster III. The combat fleet participating included the MiG-21 Bison, MiG-29 air superiority fighter, the Jaguar deep penetration strike aircraft, the Sukhoi-30 MKI multi-role air dominance fighter and the Mirage 2000. There was an impressive display by the Sarang, a four-helicopter team that performed a series of manoeuvres in close formation. The Sarang has been participating in air shows both within the country and abroad and has literally been the ambassador for the IAF. At the end of the air display, an 80-year-old, single piston engine biplane, the famous Tiger Moth aircraft painted in a bright orange colour, flew above the parade ground at low level manoeuvring before the spectators for several minutes winning their hearts. The air show left the spectators spellbound. But perhaps the most inspiring message that the IAF received on the occasion on its 82nd anniversary was from Prime Minister Narendra Modi who said: “On Air Force Day, I salute our Air Force personnel. They are our pride and their bravery, commitment and dedication continues to inspire.” SP

ISSUE 11 • 2014

military

transport

triggering global airlifter competition With the launch of the multinational KC-390 programme, Embraer has signalled to the world that it is a formidable force in the air transport segment

Photograph: Embraer

by R. Chandrakanth

Brazil’s aerospace and defence behemoth Embraer Defense & Security recently rolled out the first prototype of the KC-390 programme, thus heating up global competition in the 20-tonne transport category. With the launch of the multinational programme, Embraer has signalled to the world that it is a formidable competitor in the air transport segment. Embraer KC-390 is a tactical transport aircraft designed to set new standards in its category, while presenting the lowest life-cycle cost of the market. It can perform a variety of missions, such as cargo and troop transport, troop and cargo air delivery, aerial refuelling, search and rescue and forest firefighting. It is the heaviest aircraft the company is making.

ISSUE 11 • 2014

Brazilian Air Force backing It is a project of the Brazilian Air Force (FA). In 2009, FAB hired Embraer to perform the aircraft development. Under the programme, industrial partnerships were also established with Argentina, Portugal and the Czech Republic. Currently, the programme is in the testing phase prior to the first flight, scheduled to take place in late 2014. After the first flight, Embraer will begin the development and certification flight test campaign. The first delivery of the KC-390 is scheduled for the second half of 2016. In May 2014, Embraer opened the hangar where the final assembly of the KC-390 military transport jet was installed, in Gavião Peixoto. On the occasion, Embraer and the

www.sps-aviation.com

military transport Brazilian Air Force signed the contract for serial production of the KC-390, which provides for the acquisition of 28 aircraft, marking the beginning of a new phase of the project. Besides the order by the Brazilian Air Force, there are currently intentions to purchase 32 aircraft by Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Portugal and the Czech Republic. Equipped with two V2500 turbofan engines produced by International Aero Engines, next-generation avionics, rear ramp and an advanced cargo handling and aerial delivery system, the KC-390 will have an excellent operational productivity. The aircraft will be produced at the plant in Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo state, in facilities of over 30,000 square metres of hangars to house parts, components and assembly lines of the KC-390. The development of the KC-390 project takes place in Eugênio de Melo, a district of São José dos Campos, and about 1,500 Embraer employees are directly involved in the programme, which also means the creation of approximately 7,500 indirect jobs. When series production has stabilised, the KC-390 programme will generate another 1,100 direct jobs and 5,500 indirect jobs. More than 50 Brazilian companies are participating in the development and production of the KC-390. The KC-390 is capable of carrying up to 26 tonnes of cargo at a maximum speed of 470 knots (870 kmph), with ability to operate in austere environments, including unpaved or damaged runways. The fuselage can accommodate large loads, with access through a rear ramp. The modern cargo handling system allows to quickly reconfigure the aircraft using retractable rollers for moving cargo on pallets or flat floor for transporting troops or vehicles. Different types of loads can be transported, such as pallets, vehicles, helicopters, troops (up to 80 equipped troops), paratroops (up to 66 equipped paratroops, which can jump using the lateral doors or the rear ramp), stretchers for medical evacuation (up 74 standard NATO stretchers) or mixed configurations. The aircraft can further be used as a tanker using two removable inner tanks, and has great flexibility to refuel both helicopters at low altitudes and speeds as high performance fighter aircraft at high altitudes and speeds. Piloting the aircraft is facilitated by a modern integrated avionics system and a flyby-wire control system, which reduces the workload of pilots and increases mission efficiency. Replacement market of C-130 Embraer has estimated that the replacement market of the C-130 to be around 700 and that it was well placed with the KC-390 to take on the likes of the C-130J of Lockheed Martin, A400M of Airbus, An-12 of Russia and the MRTA project of

Technical specifications: KC-390 Manufacturer:

Embraer S.A.

Wingspan:

35.05 m

Length:

35.20 m

Height:

11.84 m

Maximum cruising speed:

470 knots (870 kmph)

Maximum altitude:

36,000 feet (11,000 m)

Range (w/23 tonnes of load):

1,380 nautical miles (2,556 km)

Source: Embraer

www.sps-aviation.com

Irkut and the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). “This significant milestone of the KC-390 programme demonstrates Embraer’s ability to manage such a complex and high-technology project and to perform it on track,” said Jackson Schneider, President and CEO, Embraer Defense & Security. “It paves the way for the beginning of the ground tests to prepare for the first flight.” “The KC-390 will be the backbone of the FAB’s air transportation network. It will be able to operate in both the Amazon and Antarctica. The jet engines give the aircraft enormous agility in fulfilling all of its missions, faster and better,” stated Aeronautics Commander, Lieutenant-Brigadier General Juniti Saito. Replacement of about 700 units It was in 2006 that Embraer started looking at military tactical transport design of size similar to the C-130 Hercules and the following year it announced a medium-size airlifter with the designation C-390. The aircraft is said to incorporate many of the technological solutions from the Embraer E-Jets series. It features a rear ramp for loading and unloading a wide range of cargo. The unit price is estimated to be around $50 million, while the competition sells similar models up to $62 million. The Vice President of Embraer, Luís Carlos Aguilar, said that according to their estimates, some 695 military transport aircraft in the world will need to be replaced during the next decade, and that there is potential market for this kind of plane. Potential powerplant options have been studied in the 75.6 to 98 kN (17,000–22,000 lb) thrust range, including engines such as Pratt & Whitney’s PW6000 and Rolls-Royce’s BR715. Partnerships and manufacturing The multinational programme has announced partnerships with Argentina, Chile, Colombia and Portugal, besides Boeing sharing technical knowledge and market information. Several multinational companies are part of the programme and they include Czech company Aero Vodochody which was selected to build the rear fuselage section, etc; Argenitina’s Fabrica Argentina de Aviones the spoilers, nose landing gear doors, ramp floors, etc; DRS Defense Solutions the tanker/transport’s cargo handling and aerial delivery system; Rockwell Collins the Pro Line Fusion Avionics Systems; Esterline Corporation supplying the autothrottle system; Messier Bugatti Dowty (Safran Group) the wheels, carbon brakes, etc; Liebherr Aerospace the environmental and cabin pressure control system; BAE Systems the hardware, embedded software, system design and integration support of the flight control electronics; Goodrich Corporation the contract to design and produce a fully integrated fly-by-wire primary flight control system, etc; Selex Galileo’s Gabbiano Tactical radar; Elbit System’s subsidiary AEL to develop the selfprotection suite, etc; Hispano Suiza (Safran Group) to supply electrical power distribution systems; LMI Aerospace to build the complete wing slat system; Eaton Corporation to supply airframe fuel system components; Cobham plc to supply refuelling receiver probes; Hamilton Sundstrand to supply electric power generating system and the auxiliary power unit; Thales Group to provide inertial navigation system; Sagem (Safran Group) the actuator system; L-3 Avionics systems to supply GH-3900 electronic standby instrument system; Honeywell Aerospace to provide eNfusion AMT-3800 inmarsat high gain antenna system; Northrop Grumman to supply hybrid global positioning system, etc; and IAE V2500-E5 turbofan engine for the KC-390. SP

ISSUE 11 • 2014

engines

cfm president & ceo

“Regarding environmental challenges, we are not talking. We are acting. We are doing. Our focus is on the future we will leave to our children,” says Jean-Paul Ebanga President & CEO, CFM International

WE ARE NOT TALKING WE ARE ACTING WE ARE DOiNG PHOTOGRAPHs: CFM

The CFM56 defines the industry standard in terms of the lowest emissions level of an engine in the single-aisle market by Jean-Paul Ebanga

ISSUE 11 • 2014

www.sps-aviation.com

engines cfm president & ceo

“Greener engines” is a subject which terms of the lowest emissions level of an has been part of the conversation at CFM engine in the single-aisle International since the inception of the In 50 years, we, as the market. With the CFM56 company. From the very beginning designengine industry, have again, we have been at ing more environmentally responsible reduced the fuel burn the forefront with Airbus to demonstrate engines was part of the most important the viability of the biofuel solution. objectives of our company. This matter of our engines and the And the trend continues. In 2008, goes far beyond CFM or any other manuCO2 emissions by 50 CFM decided to engage in an unprecfacturer individually. The environmental edented level of investment in order to challenge is not about market share, it is per cent and the noise develop the next-generation of engines, about what the future we leave our chilfootprint by 75 per cent the LEAP, which will bring another amazdren and what contribution we are able to without compromising ing step change in terms of environmenmake towards achieving that goal. tally-friendly engines. The LEAP engine In that perspective, our industry has the economics. will reduce fuel burn and the associated done a phenomenal job. In 50 years, we, CO2 emission by 15 per cent compared as the engine industry, have reduced the fuel burn of our engines and the CO2 emisto today’s best CFM56 engine, which is already the best in the industry. sions by 50 per cent (70 per cent engines The point is that environmental concern is part of our DNA. plus aircraft) and the noise footprint by 75 per cent without We have in the past and we will continue in the future to invest compromising the economics. To have an appreciation for the CFM commitment on envi- in technology to put more efficient and more eco-friendly prodronmental matters, let me share few figures. When the CFM56 ucts on the market. We can be even a little bit more granular in order to better was introduced early in the 1980s, we were able to improve CO2 emissions by 25 per cent versus the previous generation of understand what this means. Let us do simple math. In 2013, engines. Over the next 30 years of production, the CFM56 has 705 million tonnes of CO2 were produced by the all aircraft been continuously improved and refined. flying in the world. That translates to roughly 27,200 tonnes It continues to define today of CO2 per aircraft and per year. If an aged aircraft is replaced the industry stan- with a brand-new one, powered by our advanced LEAP engine, CFM56-5B dard in we could achieve between 15 and 40 per cent reduction in fuel Engine burn and CO2 emissions, depending on the age of the engines being replaced. If we take a 25 per cent improvement as an average, it means, for each older aircraft replaced, we are going to eliminate around 6,800 tonnes of CO2 per year. That is the bottom line result of contribution of the engine industry. Regarding environmental challenges, we are not talking. We are acting. We are doing. Our focus is on the future we will leave to our children. From a broader industry perspective, we are very pleased by the current momentum around sustainable aviation and are proud to be part of it. We are in full support of the initiative by the Air Transport Action Group (ATAG). The ATAG is a fully respected notfor-profit association that represents all the sectors of the air transport industry and which aims to coordinate industry positions related to strategic environmental and infrastructure issues. From that perspective, we are committed to meeting our commitment to help fulfill the 2020 and 2050 objectives for CO2 emissions reductions, as well as to share our expertise in achieving results through global partnership. SP

www.sps-aviation.com

ISSUE 11 • 2014

OEM

GE aviation, south asia

MANUFACTURING IN AEROSPACE: TAKING TO THE SKIES

The ‘Make in India’ campaign is a significant and timely step by the government to raise the manufacturing workforce overall, and the engineering workforce in particular.

As the new Indian government is engaged in efforts to transform the Indian economy from services-led to a manufacturing plus services economy, we know that it is not really a question of ‘why’ but ‘how’. Without the shift, the menace of growth sans job creation will stifle our economic progress within the next decade. To address the ‘how’, the ‘Make in India’ campaign is a significant and timely step by the government to raise the manufacturing workforce overall, and the engineering workforce in particular. There again, while China’s growth rate may be waning, there are other economies that are competing fiercely for a larger share of global manufacturing investment, from ASEAN countries like Vietnam, Indonesia etc to Latin America to even countries in Middle East. The landscape is very competitive as each country is trying to leverage its strengths to attract investment in manufacturing. So we are not just competing with China but also with the rest of the developing world. We all know that in a free market, capital flows to places which provide the best returns on investment.

By Nalin Jain President & CEO, GE Aviation & Transportation, South Asia

Why the Emphasis on Aerospace Manufacturing The context of manufacturing in aerospace is multifold. It not only helps generate employment, but also helps countries achieve technological superiority and increase indigenous capability to become self-reliant. Since the entry barriers are so high, once the aerospace industry matures, the country’s global competitiveness improves and exports grow. Besides, for a country that is projected to be the third largest aviation market by 2020, can we afford not to focus on aerospace manufacturing? China is a case in point as it has been focused on aerospace manufacturing right since the 1970s, initially as a supplier of parts to the global industry; but now launching its own aircraft manufacturing programmes after having achieved success in civil aviation and defence aerospace. Since the new government came to power nearly six months ago, there has been a renewed focus on manufacturing in aerospace through policy interventions like raising FDI caps to 49 per cent and decisions of converting procurement programmes like the light utility helicopter (LUH) into ‘Make in India’ programmes. These are welcome steps as India can only realise its dream of becoming a credible aerospace player by first relying on the large domestic modernisation demand and then on maturity pushing exports growth. However, to realise the dream, India needs to overcome significant competitive disadvantages like skilled labour, high cost of power, high cost of capital, lack of scale, infrastructure bottlenecks and lack of core technology all of which impact the viability of aerospace manufacturing in India. Growth Model The key drivers for globalisation of the aerospace industry are growth through new geographies as home market demand stagnates, increasing competiveness

ISSUE 11 • 2014

www.sps-aviation.com

OEM GE aviation, south asia

HAL’s light utility helicopter (LUH)

Photograph: Anoop Kamath

and strategic alignments. For growth to happen, market access is critical while competitiveness is driven by lowering costs of production. As for strategic alignments, aerospace is a very technology and capital intensive industry. To manage growth and bring new programmes to life, global aerospace companies typically create risk sharing partnerships and leverage each other’s technology strengths as building all the capability within one company is not viable. India as the world’s largest defence and aerospace importer, does offer significant growth opportunities to global aerospace companies combined with some cost advantages which can be realised over the long term. Given the current levels of maturity of the Indian aerospace industry, risk sharing models may take some more time. Getting the Ecosystem in Place For success in manufacturing in aerospace in India, the industry needs to work on multiple fronts, viz develop a strong supplier ecosystem, innovate and develop new technologies and acquire expertise by partnering with global companies. The supplier ecosystem will develop when the Indian supply base scales up its supplies of components and parts to global companies. To become Tier-1 and Tier-2 suppliers to global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), Indian suppliers will have to compete on a global level against countries like China and Tai-

www.sps-aviation.com

wan. Policy interventions like offsets are already driving growth in this area. Further, to become programme integrators, Indian companies will have to partner with global OEMs and bid for upcoming ‘Make in India’ defence programmes like the LUH. The benefit of this model is the faster ramp up due to shorter new product introduction cycles thus improving viability of the investments. However, one key success factor for such alignments will be commitment on the part of the government to procurement both in terms of volume and timelines as well as how these investments are managed beyond the tendered procurement. The Indian aerospace industry is going through an exciting phase of steep learning and growth. The new government’s push on ‘Make in India’ is providing it the right tailwinds from a demand standpoint. The government policy is evolving in the right direction; but a lot needs to be done on both fiscal and infrastructure front to improve competitiveness. On the Indian industry front, things have progressed with some significant investments in recent years based on some of the models discussed above. With the world keenly watching India, the opportunity is clearly ours to leverage. The key is to have a long-term vision and create a policy environment which motivates the private sector to act as a catalyst for growth. SP

ISSUE 11 • 2014

Regional Aviation

Air Costa

AMBITIOUS AIR COSTA Ramesh Lingamaneni is hopeful that the present government at the Centre would carry out the necessary reforms in the aviation sector. Vijayawada-based Air Costa, a regional airline, on its first anniversary, announced plans of going national/international with a mix of aircraft. Air Costa Chairman Ramesh Lingamaneni and CFO Vivek Choudhary divulge the further details of their future plans.

Air Costa Chairman l. Ramesh addressing the press

Photograph: Air Costa

By R. Chandrakanth

The only exclusive regional airline in India Air Costa is planning to become a scheduled airline soon with pan-India connectivity and it has applied to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for the change in their status. Delving into details of their plans, the Chairman of Air Costa, Ramesh Lingamaneni told SP’s Aviation that the process may take about three months. In the meantime, in the period February-March 2015, Air Costa will take on lease another two Embraer aircraft followed by another two in July-August, taking the total aircraft with the airline to eight. Air Costa completed one year of existence as of October 15 this year and the company is celebrating its first anniversary with ambitious plans in the pipeline. Ramesh Lingamaneni said that as and when the 5/20 rule

ISSUE 11 • 2014

(five years operation and 20 aircraft) that applies to start-up airlines, is relaxed, Air Costa would go international either on its own or with an international partner, both options being open at the moment. However, he was categorical that for domestic operations, it would firmly stick with Embraer aircraft and for international operations it would look at suitable aircraft. He mentioned that some international players had evinced interest in the airline, but “Air Costa is in no hurry. We have planned our moves carefully. We want to go slow and steady.” The airline, he said, would be achieving operational breakeven this month and is expected to achieve total break-even by March 2015, thanks to the ‘good passenger load factors’ the airline is recording. The average passenger load factor is at 71 per

www.sps-aviation.com

Regional Aviation Air Costa cent. In May this year it flew over 50,000 Happy with E-Jets passengers and the average utilisation Air Costa’s E190-E2s will of the aircraft was about nine-and-a-half be configured with six busiRamesh Lingamaneni hours. The two Embraer E190 aircraft with ness class and 92 economy was full of praise seating capacity of 112, are clocking a utiliclass seats. The larger for the present State sation rate of 14.5 hours while the two E170 E195-E2 will have 12 business class and 106 aircraft for short haul are flying 7.5 hours economy class seats. The airline is confident Government for its a day. Ramesh Lingamaneni said that the about the future of regional aviation in India initiatives towards airline industry was fraught with challenges given its impressive performance since it was and Air Costa was ready to overcome these, launched four months ago. The carrier is fillfacilitating business whether it was capital infusion or regulatory ing an average of 74 per cent of the seats on activity in the provisions. Of the promoters stake of $100 every flight on the two E170s it is currently aviation sector. million,, about $65 million has been used, flying to six cities. Two E190s are scheduled giving the airline sufficient buffer before it for delivery this month with another aircraft thinks of external borrowings. He is hopeful arriving every quarter through 2018 when the that the present government at the Centre first E190-E2 arrives. would carry out the necessary reforms in the aviation sector The E2s are fourth generation with full fly-by-wire (FBW) that and that the Minister for Civil Aviation Ashok Gajapathi Raju enhances handling qualities and maximises fuel efficiency. The E2 has a positive approach to this issue and there has been some will take advantage of the FBW expertise developed by Embraer forward movement. for the E-Jets, Legacy 500 and the KC-390. E2 three-axis closed Talking about pan-India connectivity, the CEO of Air Costa loop system improves aircraft stability during turbulence and said that the airline would ‘play to its core strength’ that of con- provides complete envelope protection in all phases of flight. The necting Tier-II and Tier-III cities to the major metros. “We are closed loop configuration allows the E2 empennages to be smaller here to connect underserved and virgin destinations and we thus reducing in-flight drag and weight of the aircraft. see potential.” The phase I of the airline operations (2013-14) E2’s advanced integrated avionics system provides excepwas to focus on the Southern region and phase II (2015-17) is tional situational awareness enhanced by large landscape disto connect pan-India. Phase III (2018-2022) will factor in inter- plays and reduced pilot workload. Innovative technologies such national operations. as synthetic vision and advanced flight management, support more fuel-efficient direct approaches to airports. Cockpit commonality with current-generation E-Jets allows for a smooth Demerger The Chief Financial Officer, Vivek Choudhary told SP’s Aviation transition by pilots to the new E2 platform. The E2s sport high-aspect ratio wings with swept wing-tips that Air Costa, which is part of the LEPL Group, the holding company which is involved in real estate, infrastructure, power that, combined with redesigned pylons and other aerodynamic sector etc, would be going in for demerger soon. The new entity improvements, coupled with enhanced fourth-generation full will be called LEPL Airlines Pvt Ltd and in so doing, the com- FBW, achieve double digit lower fuel consumption compared to pany will be able to attract private equity investments to fund its current-generation E-Jets. The wing and engine combination for the E175-E2 and a future expansion plans. The delivery of the 50 Embraer E-Jets which the airline ordered at the Singapore Air Show in 2014, is common larger wing and engine for the E190-E2/E195-E2 are optimised to deliver maximum performance. expected to commence in 2018. Asked about how the airline shifted choice of aircraft from Bombardier to Embraer, Vivek Choudhary said: “We keenly Interior Design for a New-Generation watched SpiceJet and found that there were certain challenges A look inside an E2 jet reveals thoughtful, well-conceived design including maintenance support and as we were going only that has the power to please from all perspectives. A totally new regional, Embraer was the right fit. As regards ATR, you know it environment far exceeds the norm and thoughtfully addresses is not available in the open market.” On its aircraft acquisitions, the varied needs of passengers, crew, airlines and leasing comVivek Choudhary clarified that the 50 E-Jets on order, would be panies alike. on the basis of ‘sale and lease back’ options and all acquisitions As within a fashionable hotel or restaurant, a prevailing sense before 2018 would be on lease. of quality begins with the welcoming atmosphere at the boarding Ramesh Lingamaneni said that two acres of land had been point and continues with such elements as style and tone of lightacquired in Vijayawada for locating the proposed maintenance, ing, contemporary materials, quality fabrics, and glass partitions. repair and overhaul (MRO) facility to handle up to C-checks. Within these surroundings passengers enjoy their own physiRamesh Lingamaneni was full of praise for the present cal and emotional “space within a space”, their “personal terriState Government for its initiatives towards facilitating busi- tory.” This “bubble” with control is achieved through the coming ness activity in the aviation sector. It had reduced sales tax on together of small things that deliver a larger benefit, elements aviation turbine fuel (ATF) to one per cent from 16 per cent such as clarity of seat signage, individual PSUs, seat back screens and this is a good incentive. The State of Tamil Nadu currently and additional leg room in economy class. has the highest rate of sales tax on ATF which stands at 29 per The passenger-preferred 2x2 configuration gives a perception cent. With regard to regulatory issues, Captain Babu, pilot in Air of wider aisles while simplifying movement through the cabin. The Costa, mentioned that the government has been having regular position of bin doors when open, coupled with dramatic ceiling meetings of CEOs of airlines where issues are taken up. illumination, creates a sense of height and space above the aisle. Air Costa as of date connects nine cities, i.e. Vijayawada, Premium seating further conveys a feeling of openness. Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Tiru- Overall, the E2 interior generates a smoothing-out effect on the pati, Coimbatore and Ahmedabad, operating a total of 38 flights passenger journey experience, reducing the traditional stress on a daily basis. points of boarding, in flight activity and disembarking. SP

www.sps-aviation.com

ISSUE 11 • 2014

Civil

Regional Aviation

WAY AHEAD OF COMPETITION

Embraer has notched up over 1,000 deliveries of E-Jets since inception and is going strong, dominating the market for regional jets

Photograph: Embraer

By R. Chandrakanth

While there is a see-saw competition between the two big airframers – Airbus and Boeing—as regards regional jets, there is a clear leader and that is Brazil’s Embraer. The aircraft manufacturer has given new meaning to regional aviation by offering aircraft which are not only comfortable and efficient but also giving an airline the ‘right’ aircraft to serve regional markets. The Brazilian company this year passed an important milestone of having delivered 1,000 aircraft since inception, further consolidating its position as market leader. Embraer has had 8.2 per cent year-on-year increase of its E-Jets family and to keep that lead, it has reworked its strategy by reducing the family of four to three. The new-look E2 Jets are going to be game-changers. As the company embarks upon these changes, its Canadian rival Bombardier has fair gains with a hike of nearly 7.5 per cent in the CRJ700/900/1000 fleet, notching up sales of about 650 aircraft. Unlike Embraer, Bombardier also offers Dash 8 Q-400

ISSUE 11 • 2014

turboprop regional aircraft. The other two major regional jet players—Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ) and Sukhoi Superjet 100 International—are new entrants in the market and are slowly gaining foothold. The other key regional player is a turboprop aircraft manufacturer – ATR that has a short haul market of its own. The fleet of ATR72 has registered 14.6 per cent growth to tally 581 aircraft. The fleet of Russian aircraft such as Ilyushin II-76, Tupolev Tu-154 and Yakovlev Yak-40 are witnessing a slow decline as new aircraft are emerging within Russia and elsewhere. Even as these new players, mostly from Asia-Pacific, make their forays, Embraer has established a strong lead. Embraer’s Success Story On initiative by the Brazilian Government, the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer came into being on July 29, 1969, as a culmination to the country’s aviation ambition. The General Command

www.sps-aviation.com

Civil Regional Aviation

for Aviation Technology (CTA – Centro Tecnico Aeroespacial), a unit of the Brazilian Air Force, coordinated all technical and scientific activities related to aerospace. Over the years, CTA commissioned several defence projects. In 1965, CTA research wing IPD embarked upon a project known as IPD-6504, a turboprop aircraft, which was later named Bandeirante which flew for the first time in 1968. And in 1969, the government established Embraer to take up commercial production of Bandeirante. Since then, there has been no looking back and its growth metamorphosis has been amazing to say the least. From 500 employees at inception it now has almost 20,000 on its rolls. Embraer’s initial target was to build two Bandeirante aircraft a month and the first of the aircraft were delivered to the Brazilian Air Force in 1973, the year it recorded its first commercial sale to TransBrasil.

Buoyed by this success, Embraer explored the export market and by 1990 when Bandeirante ceased production, it had already notched up sales of 500 in about 35 countries. Importantly, this phase put Embraer on the global aviation map. In the 1970s, it developed the Brasilia, a turboprop regional plane with a capacity of 30 to 40 passengers. It was certified in May 1985 and the first aircraft was sold to the US-based Atlantic Southeast Airlines. Brasilia was said to be the fastest and lightest aircraft in the 30- to 40-seat capacity category. However, around the same time Embraer ran into financial difficulties, attributed to its government control, lack of business orientation and out of sync with market needs. In the early 1990s, Embraer drastically cut costs and laid-off over 50 per cent of its employees, numbers dropping from nearly 13,000 in 1990 to about 6,100 in 1994. In 1994 fiscal, Embraer posted $250 million in revenue and $330 million in loss.

EMBRAER’S ORDER BOOK AS ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2014

Turnaround It was these cascading effects that made the government privatise Embraer in 1994. However, the government retained veto power on sale of shares to foreign investors, employee relationships and the terms of sale of aircraft to the military. Control over the company was acquired by a syndicate of Brazilian investors, consisting of the Bozano Group and two of Brazil’s largest government-owned pension funds, Previ and Sistel. Each of these investors held 20 per cent of the voting capital of

Aircraft

Firm Orders

Options

Deliveries

Firm Orders

E-Jets E2 Family

210

220

210

E-Jets Family

1,326

529

1,060

266

Total

1,536

749

1,060

476

www.sps-aviation.com

ISSUE 11 • 2014

Civil Regional Aviation the company. Mauricio Botelho, the former Executive Director of the Bozano Group, became the new President and CEO of Embraer. Though he had no experience in the aviation industry, the Embraer board had confidence in his ability to revive the company. Within two months of taking charge, he unveiled a strategic turnaround plan of concentrating in the first two years to improving productivity and regaining solvency. For this he put in place a strategy of job layoffs and wage cuts, though it was difficult to push through these reforms with a belligerent union. He however convinced them of his plan and they bought it. Focus on Regional Jets Embraer was running behind schedule on many projects and new product development initiatives were in shambles. Consequently, Embraer had few products that showed commercial potential. An exception was the ERJ-145 project which had been launched in 1989. The ERJ-145 was a 50-seat regional passenger jet which was being designed to compete against Bombardier’s comparable CRJ-200. Botelho cancelled all other projects and staked Embraer’s future on the ERJ-145, a highly risky move for Embraer as Bombardier clearly dominated the market for regional jets at that time. Besides, Embraer had little experience in manufacturing jet passenger aircraft. The company had considerable experience in designing and manufacturing turboprop aircraft. Although these were cheaper to build, but were not very popular with passengers and airlines as they were noisy and the ride bumpy. Botelho believed that regional jet planes were a better option for the company. Subsequently, the development of the ERJ-145 was carried out in a very systematic manner. Embraer studied the regional jet market carefully to understand the needs and requirements of airlines that used regional jets. Funds to develop the ERJ-145, however, were not easy to come by. Embraer took a $98-million loan from the Brazilian Government to fund the project, with more money being provided by Embraer’s new owners – the Bonazo Group, Previ and Sistel. In addition to this, Embraer also entered into partnerships and technical alliances with companies such as Parker Hannifin Corporation, Allison Engine Company and Honeywell Space and Aviation Control, who collaborated on producing the parts for the plane. First Flight of the ERJ-145 The ERJ-145 flew for the first in August 1995 and Embraer made the first delivery of the aircraft in December 1996 to Express Jet Airlines,the regional division of US-based Continental Airlines. More orders followed soon and the ERJ-145 went on to become a major commercial success during the second half of the 1990s as the market for regional jets expanded. The success of the ERJ-145 prompted the company to focus on making regional jets to take advantage of the expanding market. In the late 1990s, Embraer added new models to the ERJ-145 family, launching the ERJ-135 and the ERJ-140, which were modified versions of the ERJ-145. By the end of the 1990s, a total of 192 aircraft from the ERJ-145 family were delivered to various commercial airlines. The E-Jet Era The success of the ERJ-145 demonstrated the potential for regional jets and prompted Embraer to consider manufacturing a full range of regional jets to tap more segments of the market. For a better understanding of the regional jet market, Embraer surveyed more than 60 airlines around the world. The survey indicated that the segment for mid-sized regional jets was largely under-served.

ISSUE 11 • 2014

Bombardier was the leader in the 50-seat jet segment, while Boeing and Airbus competed in the130-seat segment. However, there were no aircraft available in the 70-, to 110-seat segment. This also seemed to be the segment with the maximum potential. According to estimates by analysts, more than 60 per cent of all flights in the US had been operating with passenger headcounts in this range. Although some of the smaller Boeing and Airbus aircraft could be and were being used to serve this segment, analysts said that these planes came with the same avionics and engineering as the larger planes and hence were not cost effective. “Airlines are operating with the wrong aircraft and they’re making a loss,” said Botelho. Embraer therefore opted to concentrate on this segment. It was decided that the new Embraer planes would fill the gap between 50- and 70-seat regional jets and the larger jets. The project was announced at the Paris Air Show in 1999. Embraer said that it would introduce four aircraft in what was to be known as the Embraer Jet or more commonly, the ‘E-Jet’ family. The four new planes, the E170, E175, E190 and E195, were to span the 70/110-seat market. The aircraft shared several features, with only minor differences. For instance, the wings and engines of the E170 and E175 were the same, and they only differed in fuselage length and maximum take-off weight. The same applied to the E190 and E195. Reportedly, the four aircraft had 89 per cent commonality. The price tag of this hamily of aircraft were to start from $20 million apiece. On March 8, 2004, LOT Polish Airlines and US Airways each received an E170. US Airways was the launch customer of the E-Jet in the United States. LOT was the first airline to operate a commercial E-Jet flight between Warsaw and Vienna on March 17, 2004. “E-Jets revolutionised the market for medium-sized jets by incorporating a more spacious cabin for greater passenger comfort and by making it versatile for operators to optimally manage their fleets,” said Paulo Cesar Silva, President & CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation. “Over these ten years, we have continuously worked to improve the E-Jet family by perfecting its performance and reducing operating costs. This ensures that our customers have the best product in the up to 130-seat jet category and some of the best operational support services in the industry.” Embraer is the only manufacturer to have developed a family of four modern airplanes specifically for the 70- to 130-seat capacity segment. Since the formal launch of the programme in 1999, Embraer E-Jets have redefined the traditional concept of regional aircraft by operating in other business segments as well. Today, E-Jets are flying with mainline carriers, low-cost and regional airlines and with scheduled tour operators. In September 2013, Embraer delivered its 1,000th E-Jet, an E175 that was acquired by Republic Airlines, a subsidiary of Republic Airways Holdings Inc of the USA. That same year, the worldwide E-Jets fleet surpassed ten million flight hours and carried some 540 million passengers. Besides their proven reliability established by the average mission completion rate of 99.9 per cent, the global E-Jets fleet has logged more than seven million flight cycles. Operators of E-Jets have access to a strategically located worldwide customer support and network of 37 maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) centres, 12 of which are company authorised and 25 that are independent. Embraer E-Jets command a 50 per cent share of orders, a 62 per cent share of deliveries in the 70- to 130-seat jet segment and are operating in the fleets of 65 airline companies from 45 countries. In June 2013, Embraer launched E-Jets E2, the second generation of the E-Jets family. The first E2 is scheduled for customer delivery in 2018. Embraer has come a long way indeed in the history of regional aviation. SP

www.sps-aviation.com

MEBA 2014

Show PREVIEW a class of its owN: Falcon 7X flying over abu dhabi, one of the premium offerings of dassault falcon

Photograph: Dassault Aviation

Bizav Buzz in MEnA As we head to Middle East Business Aviation 2014 (MEBA) to be held at Dubai World Central from December 8 to 10, it is encouraging to note that the business jet activity is growing strongly in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) countries, despite some political turmoils in some parts by R. Chandrakanth

www.sps-aviation.com

ISSUE 11 • 2014

MEBA 2014 Show PREVIEW In 2014, business jet movement is reportedly up 12 per cent over 2013 data. Ali Al Naqbi, the founding Chairman of the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA), said “There is more traffic to and from Asia, some from Africa and surprisingly, a lot of activity coming to our part of the world from Europe.” MEBA is going to reflect the industry trends and the event is gaining substantial traction in terms of trade visitors and exhibitors. In 2012, the trade visitors were 7,549, a jump of 20 per cent and the total exhibitors increased by 14 per cent (385). The 2014 edition will see 50 aircraft on static display and more than 400 exhibitors, including some of the world’s most influential business aviation players. Now in its sixth edition, the largest business aviation event in the region is expected to attract more than 8,000 visitors. MEBA is held by the Middle East Business Aviation Association and held under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group. “To understand the importance of MEBA, you only need to look back at the previous show in 2012 and see how it has helped guide our association,” says Ali Al Naqbi. He continues: “At the show, we listened carefully to the concerns of our members and therefore made significant progress with government and aviation authorities who are beginning to cooperate with one another to implement initiatives such as uniform maintenance approvals.” Furthermore, the show has continued to promote guidelines and raise awareness to promote the welfare of MEBAA members through training and safety schemes. Most notably, MEBAA and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) have announced a joint initiative to help transform the regulatory environment. Likewise MEBAA has partnered with Kenyon to improve emergency response capabilities that will culminate in a guidance manual for Middle East and North African operators. Addressing illegal charters At the same time MEBAA has been lobbying the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) to prioritise and address illegal charter. So MEBA is a show of incredible importance. It provides the regional industry with a platform to address the issues affecting business aviation in the Middle East and North Africa. And the association is always taking note, networking and making the most of the opportunity to integrate with the industry and its stakeholders. Meanwhile, US private and business aviation companies will be looking to benefit from access to the growing Middle East and North Africa (MENA) market at the show. In a culture where face-to-face meetings mean everything, leading companies including Boeing Business Jets, Gulfstream, Bell Helicopter and Pratt & Whitney are attending the event, being held in the purpose-built venue at DWC, the new aviation city already being dubbed a global aviation industry hub. Large US Pavilion There is also a designated US Pavilion, at the heart of the show. The US Pavilion at this year’s edition has nearly doubled in size since the last edition with a wide range of sectors represented. American exhibitors – over 75 per cent of whom are new to the show – will display a wide variety of offerings for the business jet industry. The US Pavilion will showcase everything from catering services to in-seat massage technology and ground support equipment in almost 350 sq metres of dedicated space on the show floor. These exhibitors are in good company, with a host of US big names already marking their stand space, such as Avpro, Textron Aviation (Beechcraft), JSSI (Jet Support Services Inc) and Rockwell Collins.

ISSUE 11 • 2014

The region is a growing market for US aviation companies, with Boeing Business Jets publicly acknowledging that the Middle East accounts for 30 per cent of its business jet sales. “Companies in the know understand this region has one of the world’s fastest growing private and business aviation sectors,” says Ali Al Naqbi. $1.3 billion regional market “Statistics for the region’s business aviation sector in 2020 reveal a regional market worth $1.3 billion; 1,75,000 aircraft movements in the region and some 1,200 business aircraft registered across MENA. This is also why, for the second time, the IBAC board meeting will be held the day after the show in Dubai. The message is clear – you need to do business in the region.” Michele van Akelijen, Managing Director of F&E Aerospace, which organises the event on behalf of MEBA, says: “The US has always had a special relationship with many nations in the region, and the show this year is a chance to further build relationships, meet with your peers and create new relationships. The regional business aviation sector has never seemed so exciting and there is a myriad of opportunities here for the taking.” She continues: “With hospitality a key facet of any business transaction in the Middle East, corporate hospitality packages in our pavilion are also still available, representing a chance to sit with both regional and global movers and shakers and get down to business in an ideal environment for networking. This exclusive, relaxed, fully-catered area also offers uninterrupted views of the static display.” Regional players Regional organisations including first-time exhibitor Alpha Star, an aircraft management and aviation consulting service provider from Saudi Arabia, are taking up nearly 30 per cent of the expanded exhibition space this year. Also from Saudi Arabia is Saudia Private Aviation (SPA), headquartered in Jeddah, which will be showcasing its top-tier international luxury flight services. Execujet ME, based in the UAE, provides aircraft management, charter, FBO, maintenance and completions consulting; both Avjet and Execujet are prime examples of international aviation service companies which have developed a strong local presence. World Fuel Services, based in Dubai, will bring its global fuel logistics expertise to MEBA, offering a full range of aviation fuel, trade credit availability, fuel price risk management, logistical support, fuel quality control and fuel management. Another exhibitor representing the strong local presence is Cedar Jet Center, part of Middle East Airlines Ground Handling (MEAG). The company is focused on providing the business and general aviation industry with a full range of services, based out of the new General Aviation Terminal at Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport, where it occupies the largest VIP lounge and a 1,800-sq-metre hangar. Van Akelijen says: “MEBA is looking forward to welcoming a number of new exhibitors as well as familiar faces. We will see some of the world’s largest aviation companies alongside local participants. It is this mix that promises to make MEBA 2014 fascinating and will serve to further drive home the message that we are truly at the heart of the global aviation industry.” Airbus ACJ The Airbus ACJ319 will be a highlight at the show. Airbus ACJ319 has the widest and tallest cabin of any business jet, meant for VVIP charter. It features lounge areas at the front, a bedroom with ensuite bathroom and shower in the middle, and business-

www.sps-aviation.com

MEBA 2014 Show PREVIEW class seating in the rear, and is certificated for 19 passengers. “More space in the cabin is desirable for many reasons other than the greater comfort and freedom of movement that it brings,” explains Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, John Leahy. The desire for a large cabin is one of the findings of Airbus’ ACJ Billionaire Study, announced earlier this year, which highlighted the wish of high net-worth individuals to take with them when they travel, those that look after them at work and at home.

and lightweight composite propellers, delivering improved runway performance, range, speed and enhanced climb. Passengers travel in quintessential King Air comfort, easily moving about in the spacious square-oval cabin over long-distance journeys. The King Air 250 further defines mission reliability with a ram air recovery system that maintains peak performance when the anti-icing system is activated, resulting in a high-performance, all-weather aircraft.

Gulfstream Trevor Esling, Senior Vice President, Europe, Middle East and Africa, has said that MEBA will be a precursor to some of the exciting events happening at Gulfstream in 2015. One of them is the first flight of the Gulfstream G500, one of two all-new aircraft Gulfstream announced on October 14, 2014 (the other was the Gulfstream G600). The G500 flight-test programme will involve four flight-test aircraft as well as a production demonstrator that it will use to test the interior and assist in the supplemental type certificates for the interior. The G500 is slated to enter service in 2018 followed by the G600 in 2019. We’re also looking forward to the G650ER being in service. The G650ER provides customers with greater mission flexibility and the longest range of any business jet. G650ER owners in Dubai, for example, will be able to reach most of the contiguous United States. The aircraft was certified by the Federal Aviation Administration on October 8, 2014, ahead of schedule, which means the aircraft will enter service later this year.

Cessna Demonstrating its rank as the maker of the fastest civil aircraft in the world, Cessna Aircraft Company has said that the recently certified Citation X+ has set several city-to-city speed records for its weight class including Seattle to Miami, making the 2,375 nautical mile trip in 4 hours, 52 minutes. Cessna is a subsidiary of Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company. “Today’s news provides yet another example of how the Citation X+ meets customers’ need for speed,” says Scott Ernest, President and CEO of Textron Aviation. “Maximising the hours in the day is what business aviation is all about. When you have the opportunity to spend less time in the air and more time in front of your customers, you’re making the choice to invest in winning the market, and the X+ is the perfect aircraft to meet that mission.” Cessna will be showcasing some of its highly proven aircraft to the Middle East market which is growing rapidly.

Dassault Falcon With its heritage of designing and building sophisticated military fighters, Dassault applied its engineering smarts to the fly-by-wire 7X, the world’s first non-airliner-derived dedicated business jet to feature such envelope-pushing technology. Now other manufacturers are following the lead of Dassault, which was first to demonstrate that a business aviation market exists for the benefits offered by fly-by-wire flight controls. Dassault Falcon will be showcasing its latest capabilities. BEECHCRAFT Beechcraft Corporation, a subsidiary of Textron Aviation Inc., has announced that customers now can order a new Beechcraft King Air 250 with a factory-installed modification that increases the maximum takeoff weight from 12,500 pounds to 13,420 pounds, providing 1,025 pounds of payload with full fuel. “This is an important upgrade that many of our King Air 250 owners have been asking for, especially our special mission operators who want more capacity to carry heavy equipment or operators who want more range with increased passengers and baggage,” said Christi Tannahill, Senior Vice President, Turboprop Aircraft. “Having the option to fill the King Air 250 with full fuel and still get more than 1,000 pounds of payload is a great addition to an airplane that has been exceptionally popular in every corner of the world.” The modification, developed with CenTex Aerospace Inc. of Waco, Texas, also is an aftermarket option for in-service King Air 250 aircraft and available through Textron Aviation’s factory-owned service centers. Beechcraft this year celebrates the 50th anniversary of the King Air series as the best-selling business aircraft family in the world. Since 1964, Beechcraft has delivered nearly 7,200 King Airs with the worldwide fleet recently surpassing 60 million flight hours. Building on a reputation of proven performance, the next-generation King Air 250 features composite winglets

www.sps-aviation.com

Embraer The significance of Embraer’s rise into the business jet market, first with the airliner-derived Legacy 600, then with the clean-sheet Phenom 100 and 300, is not just that Embraer found niches unfilled by other manufacturers. What Embraer did was force other jet-makers into realising that it was attacking their markets, and now they are fighting back with interesting new models. Meanwhile, Embraer is moving into the super-midsize category with the in-development Legacy 450 and 500, both featuring fly-by-wire flight controls and the latest cockpit and cabin amenities. Embraer has a significant presence in the Middle East. Bombardier The Canadian aerospace company is bringing to MEBA 2014 the Challenger 350 and 605, while its customers will be displaying the Global Express BD700 (Amac Aerospace); Challenger 604 (Boutsen Aviation); and the Global 5000 (Qatar Airways; Royal Jet and Comlux Aviation Group). In a world satisfied by the status quo, Bombardier’s Challenger aircraft family has a history of challenging the expected. The backbone of countless corporate fleets, Challenger aircraft stand for the power of intellect and experience, with a willingness to step out in front of the pack to lead in its class. Honeywell celebrates 100 years of innovation This year marks a significant milestone in the history of Honeywell Aerospace as it celebrates 100 years of innovation, dedication and excellence. At MEBA it is highlighting milestones in this journey. “We invite all our customers and partners to help us celebrate this milestone by sending your favourite aviation images to complete our Centenary Instagram Mosaic. Instaprint Mosaics turn event goer’s instagrams into billboard-sized art, all in real-time. Simply tag your aviation images with #AERO100 and #MEBA then visit our special 100 Years Mosaic Display at MEBA to collect your printed photo.” SP

ISSUE 11 • 2014

NBAA 2014

Show Report

A view of the static display at NBAA 2014

Runaway Success Clearly, in a host of ways, NBAA’s 2014 convention is one for the record books, Ed Bolen NBAA President and CEO said

Photograph: NBAA

By R. Chandrakanth

Orlando in Florida is better known by its sobriquet ‘The Theme Park Capital of the World’ and attracts tourists from all over the world. It is also one of the busiest American cities for conferences and conventions. And this year the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) held the 2014 Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition in this ‘City Beautiful’ and the business aviation industry got extremely busy. “This year’s show was an enormous success, filled with announcements and product introductions,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “The exhibit floor and aircraft displays had lots of activity and excitement. The education sessions were informative and well attended. The event once again showcased the industry’s size, diversity and significance. Perhaps most important, the show provided many reminders that ours is an industry characterised by passion and professionalism.”

ISSUE 11 • 2014

NBAA 2014 which took place from October 21 to 23, featured about 1,100 exhibitors. Additionally, over 100 aircraft were displayed in several locations at a sold-out static display at Orlando Executive Airport, at an indoor display inside the convention centre and at various exhibitor booths on the show floor. More than 26,000 people attended the show, which included representatives from 49 US states and 95 countries around the world. Also at the session, International Jet Aviation Services received NBAA’s 2014 Al Ueltschi Award for Humanitarian Leadership for its work, through Make-A-Wish America, to use business aviation to help kids’ dreams take flight. A new advocacy initiative announced by Bolen during the convention’s Media Kickoff Breakfast, was unveiled, called “Business Leaders on Business Aviation.” The initiative highlights testimonials from dozens of CEOs on the value of busi-

www.sps-aviation.com

NBAA 2014 Show Report

Photograph: Gulfstream, Embraer, beechcraft, NBAA

Clock wise: Gulfstream interiors offer immense level of comfort as part of its latest g500 and g600; Embraer Lagacy 450; Hawker 400XPR; Dassault Falcon 5X on display at the NBAA 2014

ness aviation to their companies and builds on similar testimonials from ten CEOs, introduced at NBAA2013, called the “Top Ten.” This year’s CEOs were featured prominently at NBAA2014 signage displayed throughout the event’s exhibit halls, meeting areas and static aircraft displays, as well as in advertisements appearing in the “Show Daily” publications. A charitable benefit event, co-hosted by NBAA and Corporate Angel Network raised nearly $4,00,000 in support of CAN’s mission to provide life-saving flights to take cancer patients to treatment centres aboard business aircraft. NBAA 2015 in November “Clearly, in a host of ways, NBAA’s 2014 convention is one for the record books,” Bolen said. “We are thrilled by the enthusiasm that marked each of the show’s three days, and we are already making plans for next year’s convention in Las Vegas, Nevada, from November 17 to 19, 2015.” Business Aviation Opportunities with UAS “Make no doubt about it: unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are coming and they will offer amazing opportunities for flight departments to expand their responsibilities and become more relevant to their companies,” said Brad Hayden, President and CEO of Robotic Skies at the convention.

www.sps-aviation.com

As covered in a previous education session, commercial use of UAS is currently prohibited in US airspace. As they always have been, model airplanes flown by hobbyists are allowed, but the industry is waiting for the Federation Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations to permit employment of UAS for business. That business could be anything, from filmmaking to crop dusting, public safety to rural medical services, but panelists said commercial uses for UAS often fall into “the three Ds”, jobs that human beings would find dull, dangerous or dirty. As their cost comes down, UAS will also be able to undertake tasks more cheaply. “The commercial opportunities are not here today,” said Paul McDuffee, Vice President of Government Relations and Strategy for Insitu, a maker of UAS, “but they are beginning to emerge.” With the FAA close to issuing a proposed rule for commercial use of small UAS, McDuffee estimated the UAS market would open up in about three to five years. When it does, there will be many opportunities for flight departments and business aviation professionals.Some of those opportunities include outsourcing aircraft and avionics certification, UAS operator training and maintenance for unmanned aircraft. Just as UAS will create new opportunities in the business aviation industry, it will also make it safer.

ISSUE 11 • 2014

NBAA 2014 Show Report Career Opportunities in Business Aviation Careers in aviation can range from pilot or air traffic controller, to aviation attorney or UAS engineer, a room full of high school and college students learned at NBAA’s convention. “The one central thing is, do what you love to do,” said Steve Brown, Chief Operating Officer of NBAA. “You will probably work about 44 years or about 12,000 days. People in this industry don’t count the days, they have passion for what they do.” Amelia Rose Earhart, a pilot, former traffic and weather reporter and now head of the Fly With Amelia Foundation, encouraged the students to think big and ask questions of people in the industry. “Don’t be nervous and don’t be shy,” she said. “You have so many opportunities in all facets of aviation.” Air traffic control is another career track with many opportunities, the students were told by Trish Gilbert, Executive Vice President of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association. Although the job can be very stressful and has a rigorous training component, the rewards can be great. “Being an air traffic controller is very challenging and gratifying,” said Gilbert, noting that the FAA plans to hire 1,000 controllers per year for the next ten years. Demystifying Cabin Connectivity Technology A cabin technology education session provided an overview of the state of cabin connectivity and offered hope that the capabilities of onboard systems will grow as providers develop more powerful solutions to business passengers’ desires for greater speed and access. Bethany Davis of Gulfstream Aerospace outlined the connectivity systems typically installed in long-range business jets. The three satellite systems are Honeywell Inmarsat Swift Broadband (L band), Honeywell Inmarsat Jetconnex (Ka band) and ViaSat Yonder (Ku band). The fourth system, Gogo Biz, is an air-to-ground system. Christopher Kissinger of the Boeing Company noted that his company conducts half-day flight attendant training sessions twice a year in which written and functional tests are administered. Davis added that when Gulfstream delivers new airplanes, a cabin specialist demonstrates the connectivity and cabin management systems to customers.Meanwhile, cabin connectivity providers are working on multiple ways to enhance the cabin connectivity experience, including obtaining more satellite capacity to boost coverage and data rates. Embraer’s Portfolio on Display Embraer Executive Jets exhibited its full aircraft portfolio at NBAA 2014. This was the first time that the company showcased all seven aircraft on static display, including a prototype of the Legacy 450 mid-light jet, which is expected to be certified in mid-2015. “We are thrilled to bring the Legacy 450 to NBAA alongside the Legacy 500, which was delivered to the first customer last week,” said Marco Túlio Pellegrini, President and CEO, Embraer Executive Jets. “These are revolutionary aircraft, delivering true innovation in their classes.” Gulfstream Full-Size Cabin Mock-Up of G-600 Gulfstream showcased a full-size cabin and cockpit mock-up of the G-600. The G-600 and the slightly smaller G-500 were announced October 14. A G-500 is due for its first flight early 2015. Gulfstream projects it will receive type certification from the FAA and EASA in 2017 and begin deliveries in 2018. The G-600 flight-test programme is expected to begin approximately 12 to 18 months after the G-500’s and entry-into-service is projected to be in 2019.

ISSUE 11 • 2014

Flexjet placed a firm order for six G-500s, plus 10 G-450s and six G-650s with options for 28 additional aircraft. Qatar Executive signed a memorandum of understanding covering a 20-aircraft mix of G-500 and G-650. The G-500 can fly 5,000 nm at Mach 0.85 or 3,800 nm at Mach 0.90. The G-600 is capable of travelling 6,200 nm at Mach 0.85 or 4,800 nm at Mach 0.90. Gulfstream said that the new Savannah production line to be used for the G-500 and G-600 models will represent a “significant” advance over the G-650 production line. The G-650 line already uses 80 per cent fewer fasteners and 50 per cent fewer parts than the G-450/550. Dassault Launches New Customer Support Programme Dassault Falcon Jet launched a new aircraft on ground (AOG) response programme at NBAA. The customer-support programme will use two company-owned Falcon 900 as rapidresponse aircraft, one based at Teterboro (NJ) Airport and the other at Paris Le Bourget. The Falcons will be used to transport Dassault Go Teams of technicians, parts and tools and if necessary, carry customers to their destinations while their aircraft is being serviced. Customers would be billed direct operating costs for these flights, which will be operated for the company by an independent operator under Part 135. In addition to the rapid response aircraft, Dassault is embarking on various other service-related improvements, including a new 77,000 sq ft MRO facility in Bordeaux, France; increasing the number of parts for “right-sizing” price reductions; significantly increasing its spare parts inventories and hiring more service personnel. Dassault currently has a 98.5 per cent parts availability rate. That is the percentage of the time a customer receives parts on the day they are needed and that in most cases parts pack and ship within 30 minutes to one hour of placement of the order. Beechcraft Bags Orders from Guardian Flight Beechcraft Corporation, a subsidiary of Textron Aviation Inc, announced that Guardian Flight has secured six orders for the Hawker 400XPR upgrade package. First deliveries are planned for the first half of 2015. “As the largest air medevac provider in Alaska, this order demonstrates Guardian Flight’s confidence in the added range performance and operating value provided through the Hawker400XPR upgrade,” said Brad Thress, Senior Vice President, Customer Service at Textron Aviation. Guardian Flight’s upgraded Hawker XPR aircraft will feature Genuine Hawker Winglets and the increased power of the Williams International FJ44-4A-32 engines. Combined, these modifications are projected to realize a 33 per cent increase in range along with improvements in runway and hot and high performance. Beechcraft offers the exclusive factory-approved, engineered and supported upgrade package that significantly improves performance, operating cost and resale value of the Beechjet 400A/Hawker 400XP. In addition to engines and winglets, the XPR can include upgrades to the aircraft’s exterior, cabin and avionics. Also during NBAA, Beechcraft announced winglet testing is complete and FAA certification. The Williams International FJ444A-32 engines will enable the Hawker 400XPR to climb directly to FL450 in only 19 minutes at max take-off weight. Based on preliminary performance data, the 400XPR will fly 1,970 nautical miles with four passengers departing a 5,000-foot elevation airport at 30°C. Certification of the new engines is pending. Cessna Aircraft presented its new Citation Latitude, one of four Latitudes currently flying in the company’s flight-test programme. The programme has now logged over 600 flight hours. SP

www.sps-aviation.com

hall of fame The world’s first untethered, free flight of a hot air balloon carrying human passengers, took place on November 21, 1783, in Paris. Although there were many more balloon ascents thereafter, they had an exceedingly small margin of safety and no means of escape for the occupants should the device catch fire or rupture. However, in 1797, André-Jacques Garnerin became the first person to jump out of a balloon in a small detachable gondola and descend safely to Earth. His device was the forerunner of the modern safety parachute that is responsible for saving countless lives. Garnerin was born in Paris on January 31, 1769. During the French Revolution he was captured by British troops and held as a prisoner of war in Buda, Hungary, for three years. Spending many idle hours in captivity, he hit upon the novel idea of using a parachute to leap off the high prison walls and escape to freedom. However, he was unable to put his plan to the test possibly because he could not lay hands on suitable materials. After his release from prison, he began to experiment with early parachute designs and decided to attempt his first parachute descent on October 22, 1797, at Parc Monceau, Paris. He managed to assemble a fairly large crowd to witness the feat. His parachute was made of silk, approximately seven metres in diameter and had a pole running down its centre. A rope running through a tube in the pole connected the parachute to the balloon. In its closed state the contraption resembled a giant furled umbrella. It did not have a safety harness. Garnerin sat in a basket (gondola) attached to the bottom of the parachute during the ascent. At a height of approximately 1,000 metres he severed the rope that connected his parachute to the balloon, thus setting the balloon free to float away. This is how he later described the momentous act: “I was on the point of cutting the cord that suspended me between heaven and Earth and measured with my eye the vast space that separated me from the rest of the human race.” Immediately Garnerin, with his basket and parachute, started falling towards the ground. The gondola oscillated violently from side to side (sometimes a full 90-degree swing) during the brief descent, then bumped on the

www.sps-aviation.com

ground and bounced up again into the air. Garnerin emerged uninjured and triumphant, although he was reportedly violently sick as a consequence of the oscillations during the descent – possibly the first recorded case of aviation motion sickness. He came down about one kilometre North of the park and was quickly conveyed back to his point of departure where he was greeted by the enthusiastic multitude. Somewhere in the large crowd watching André-Jacques Garnerin’s first parachute descent was Jeanne-Genev-

André-Jacques Garnerin (1769-1823) In 1797, André-Jacques Garnerin became the first person to jump out of a balloon in a small detachable gondola and descend safely to Earth

iève Labrosse. She later met Garnerin, signed up as his pupil and flew with him on November 10, 1798. She subsequently became the first woman to ascend solo in a balloon and, on October 12, 1799, the first woman to make a parachute descent (in a gondola) from a height of about 900 metres. She later married Garnerin. The ballooning and parachute jumping habit spread to Garnerin’s niece Elisa as well. Elisa was just 15 when she learned to fly balloons and she went on to make about 40 parachute

jumps between 1815 and 1836. The early parachute descents, which Garnerin repeated several times over the next few years, were unstable and prone to sickening oscillations. It took some years for him to realise that the instability was a result of the air that spilled out uncontrollably around the skirt of the canopy. In 1802 Garnerin’s friend Jérôme de Lalande, the famous astronomer, suggested that a small hole should be cut in the centre of the parachute, in order that the air might escape from it in smooth and regular fashion. This Garnerin tried and the problem was satisfactorily resolved. The apparatus, notwithstanding its immense size, became perfectly manageable. Fame came quickly to Garnerin. He was appointed official aeronaut of France. In 1802 he visited England in his official capacity together with his wife. The couple made a number of demonstration flights. On September 21, 1802, he completed a record jump from 2,500 metres in London. In all, over the next few years he made around 200 jumps in various countries. He also strove to conduct useful experiments during the many longduration balloon flights he made – sometimes alone, sometimes with passengers. He was careful to note the speed of the balloon and the direction of flight. He thought it might be useful to convey military instructions to armies much more rapidly than any system of communication then in use. Among the pure science experiments he attempted, he carried aloft vessels filled with water to a great height, then emptied them and sealed them so as to obtain samples of the air at high altitude. Alexander von Humboldt discovered that the composition of the atmosphere does not change with decreasing pressure and increasing altitude. Ironically, André-Jacques Garnerin’s death did not happen on account of a parachute malfunction but on the ground while he was preparing for a balloon ascent. As he was readying a parachute for take-off on August 18, 1823, a sudden strong gust of wind made the contraption move violently and he suffered a fatal blow on the head from some heavy wooden rigging of the balloon. SP

ISSUE 11 • 2014

— Joseph Noronha

focus india / SP’S SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT LCH TD3 first flight

With the first two technology demonstrators of the indigenous light combat helicopter (LCH) logging about 388 flights and 285 hours, and with the third technology demonstrator taking to the air, the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will be speeding towards getting the TD4 ready. While the project initially envisaged two technology demonstrators, the HAL board had decided to also roll out two additional technology demonstrators at a cost of `150 crore as a risk mitigation exercise in the interests of better planning, execution and monitoring of the project and enhancement in the overall number of flights required to achieve cold weather trials, hot weather trails and weapon firing trials. HAL hopes to achieve initial operational clearance (IOC) on the LCH by September 2015. The latest TD3 flight was piloted by Wg Cdr Unni Pillai and co-piloted by Gp Capt S.H.K. Nair and lasted approximately 20 minutes. The final technology demonstrator is in an advanced state of fabrication at HAL’s Helicopter Division in Bengaluru. Su-30 crash raises fly-by-wire scare again

The crash of a Su-30MKI heavy fighter near the Lohegaon airbase in Pune has once again raised concerns about the aircraft’s fly-by-wire (FBW) system that first came to the attention of the IAF between 2001 and 2012. An ongoing discussion between the IAF, HAL and Sukhoi Design Bureau has resulted in certain minor design changes that have made the FBW power switch necessarily ineffective after take-off, but could there be software problems? In 2012, then Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal N.A.K. Browne

had indicated that there could be problems. Reports suggest that last week’s Su30 crash was also likely due to an FBW “issue”, suggesting that whatever it is that caught the attention of the IAF two-three years ago, is still prevalent in some form. The Court of Inquiry into the crash is underway, while the IAF’s Su-30MKI fleet is under a routine post-accident grounding to ascertain all aspects of hardware and software are safe. The fleet is expected to continue air operations next week. In the interim, the conversation continues with Sukhoi DB about whether deeper changes need to be explored in the flight systems that govern the aircraft. IAF Chief Expresses Faith In Tejas Month After Talking Tough

Flight trials for GAGAN-aided Take-off/ Landing System The DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) is looking to conduct manned aircraft flight trials of DGPS (differential GPS) for the Rustom I unmanned air system using an assisted take-off/landing system (ATOL) feeding off the GAGAN geo-navaigation system. The taxi and flight trials will be conducted at HAL Airport and Kolar Runway for evaluation of GAGAN DGPS-based ATOL System. The paths to be traced by manned aircraft include runway centre line, surveyed coordinate points either side of the runway, parallel to runway centre line, offset 10 to 15 metres from centre line and xigzag pattern with 3 metre offset from the runway in either direction. The NexNav and GPS XR-6 receiver will be mounted in a jig with the antenna in the aircraft fielded by the winning vendor. The number of flight trials will be maximum 10 within a span of 1 month. More than one hour flight will be required at a time, according to ADE. IAF Mirage 2000 Upgrade Update

A month after mincing no words during a visit to the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) in Bengaluru for a firsthand review of the LCA Tejas project, Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha professed faith that the indigenous jet would soon surmount the considerable hurdles before it. “We are sure that teething problems of LCA will get over soon, and that things will fall in place,” ACM Raha said at the annual Air Force Day press conference in the capital. The first flight of the first series production specimen of the Tejas (SP1) was a boost to the programme last week. However, issues continue to slow progress on the LCA Mk1 that aims for final clearance to enter squadron service by the end of this financial year. As reported earlier by SP’s, that deadline is likely to slip to July-August next year at the very least. In September, according to sources, ACM Raha said that the IAF could not absorb any more delays, and that it was imperative both for the establishment as well as its customer that there was no more bad news from the ADA stable on time overruns. The IAF chief got a chance to try out the LCA Mk1 cockpit in a simulator mockup environment. Reports suggest that there may be fresh issues with the cockpit itself, especially for taller pilots that may have been unforeseen so far. ADA has however clarified that all such issues have been taken care of.

ISSUE 11 • 2014

By December, HAL will receive two newly upgraded and certified IAF Mirage 2000 jets, the first of nearly fifty aircraft to be souped up as part of a $2.2 billion deal. Starting next year, HAL’s licensed upgrade technology will be in place from Dassault Aviation and Thales Systems to begin upgrading the remaining Mirages to the Dash-5 standard for the eager IAF. With the first two upgraded jets already flying over Saint Cloud in France, the country’s military airworthiness agency will shortly certify them. CEMILAC will follow a formality within India as well once the jets arrive. The Mirage fleet, based out of Gwalior, remains the frontline multi-role capability that the IAF is looking to augment with the MMRCA acquisition. The Mirage 2000-5 aircraft will come with a new radar, avionics, man-machine interface and weapons, including the MICA radar-guided beyond visual range air-to-air missile. • For complete versions log on to: www.sps-aviation.com & www.spsmai.com

www.sps-aviation.com

News Digest Military Asia-Pacific Boeing Delivers Sixth P-8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft to India

newest P-8I will begin flight trials in the coming months.” Based on the company’s next-generation 737 commercial airplane, the P-8I is the Indian Navy variant of the P-8A Poseidon that Boeing builds for the US Navy. The P-8I incorporates not only Indiaunique design features, but also Indianbuilt sub-systems that are tailored to meet the country’s maritime patrol requirements. The P-8I features open systems architecture, advanced sensor and display technologies, and a worldwide base of suppliers, parts and support equipment.

Dwindling Fighter Fleet of the IAF Boeing delivered the sixth P-8I maritime patrol aircraft to India, on schedule, on November 24, arriving at Naval Air Station Rajali to join five others being used by the Indian Navy. The P-8I is part of a contract of eight awarded in 2009. The final two deliveries are scheduled for 2015. “The P-8I’s arrival in India is another key milestone for the programme and marks our final delivery of the year,” said Dennis Swanson, Vice President, Boeing Defense, Space & Security in India. “The Indian Navy is currently conducting missions with the first five aircraft, and this

Show Calendar 18–20 November INTERNATIONAL FIGHTER Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel, London, UK www.international-fighter.com 19–20 November CEPA EXPO Prague Castle, Prague, Czech Republic www.cepaexpo.com 2–3 December MILITARY AIRLIFT: CURRENT MISSIONS AND CAPABILITY Crowne Plaza, Rome, Italy www.smi-online.co.uk/defence/europe/ conference/military-airlift-rapid-reactionoperations 8–10 December MIDDLE EAST BUSINESS AVIATION Dubai World Central, Dubai, UAE www.meba.aero 11–12 December SAFETY IN AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL Kensington Close Hotel, London, UK www.flightglobalevents.com/safetyATC2014

www.sps-aviation.com

In a media interaction on the occasion of the 82nd Anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF), Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, Chief of the Air Staff, said: “Every project, be it acquisition or design and development, is taking longer than it should. We have lost timelines. We have quite a few fleets which are on their last legs.”

Fresh Tender for Hawk AJT

India’s MoD has issued a fresh tender for 20 Hawk AJTs to replace the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team’s aged HJT-16s. This has been delayed for quite some time as the original file related to the tender had gone missing and the process had to be restarted by the MoD. It is understood that MoD has taken this lapse very seriously and an inquiry has been ordered.

Air-Launched BRAHMOS

CEO of BrahMos Aerospace, S.K. Mishra has indicated that they will commence deliveries of the air-launched version of BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system to the Indian Air Force by 2016. Work is in progress on the missile and the first test-firing is expected to take place by either the end of this year or early next year.

India Looking at Replacing HAL for Mk 2 production of Tejas

Defence News has quoted an unnamed source, stating that the Indian Government has been talking to major private sector industrial players about setting up a full production line for up to 250 Tejas Mk2s. That would certainly justify the investment. If carried out, that move would sidestep HAL’s production difficulties by partly or wholly removing Tejas from HAL’s purview, create a full competitor to HAL in the aerospace sector and turn the winner into India’s first major private sector defence firm. It may also double the requirement of the naval version. Since it seems logical that the Indian

QuickRoundUp

Airbus

The first A350-900 which will be delivered to Qatar Airways, has successfully completed its maiden flight. The flight was the first time an A350 XWB, configured for a customers, has taken to the sky. Following the successful flight, Qatar’s A350 XWB will continue its production phase before delivery. This includes cabin completion as well as further ground and flight tests.

Airbus Defence and Space

The first Airbus A400M new-generation airlifter for the German Air Force has begun final tests towards its delivery. The four MSN18 engines on the aircraft were successfully run simultaneously for the first time on September 28. A400M will replace the ageing C-160 Transall fleet of the German Air Force.

Airbus Helicopters

The mission capabilities and cost effectiveness of Airbus Helicopters’ AS565 MBe Panther has been further validated by Indonesia’s order for 11 rotorcraft to be used in naval anti-submarine warfare missions.

Boeing

Boeing and Garuda Indonesia have announced an order for 50 737 MAX 8s, valued at $4.9 billion at current list prices. The flag carrier of Indonesia will purchase 46 737 MAX 8s and will convert existing orders for four next-generation 737-800s to 737 MAX 8s. The order was previously accounted for on Boeing’s Orders and Deliveries Web site, attributed to an unidentified customer. Boeing has announced that it will increase production on the 737 programme to 52 airplanes per month in 2018 in response to strong market demand from customers worldwide. Once the increase is implemented, the 737 programme is expected to build more than 620 airplanes per year, the highest rate ever for the world’s best-selling commercial airplane. Boeing and SMBC Aviation Capital have announced an order for 80 737 MAX 8s, valued at more than $8.5 billion at list prices. This is the largest single order for 737 MAXs from a leasing company and will help SMBC Aviation Capital grow its portfolio of high-demand, fuel-efficient airplanes. Boeing and Monarch Airlines have finalised an order for 30 737 MAX 8s worth more than $3.2 billion at current list prices. The order, originally announced at the Farnborough International Airshow in July, includes options for 15 additional 737 MAX 8s and marks the beginning of the British carrier’s transition to an all-Boeing single-aisle fleet.

CFM

CFM International’s LEAP engine took to the skies for the first time on October 6 on a modified 747 flying test bed

ISSUE 11 • 2014

News Digest QuickRoundUp

at GE Aviation Flight Test Operations in California, launching the next phase of testing for the advanced engine programme. The engine behaved well and completed multiple aero-mechanical test points at various altitudes during the nearly three-hour first flight.

DRDO

The light combat aircraft Tejas project witnessed yet another milestone with the first flight of its trainer PV6. The two-seater aircraft took to the skies and during its 36-minute flight, all systems functioned as expected, according to a release from the Defence Research and Development Organisation office. The aim of the flight was to check the twin cockpit functionality which is similar to series production two-seater aircraft. India’s first indigenously-designed and developed longrange subsonic cruise missile Nirbhay was successfully flighttested on October17, 2014 from the Integrated Test Range, Odisha. The entire mission, from liftoff till the splash-down, was a perfect flight achieving all the mission objectives including a range of 1,000 km with accuracy better than 10 metres.

IAI

The long-range surface-to-air missile (LRSAM) has been successfully flight tested against a flying target in a range in Israel. Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has carried out the test in the presence of India’s DRDO scientists and officials of the Indian armed forces. The LRSAM system is being jointly developed by DRDO and IAI Israel.

Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin Corp has been awarded a $41,31,58,693 definitization to previously awarded undefinitized contract for advance procurement funding action and subsuming the advance procurement effort into full production efforts for the purchase of one HC-130J aircraft and six MC-130J aircraft. Work is expected to be completed by November 30, 2015. Lockheed Martin has received a $90.6 million foreign military sale contract from the US Army to provide Modernised Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor systems to the Qatar Emiri Air Force, who will become the 14th international customer for the system.

MD Helicopters

MD Helicopters Inc Arizona has been was awarded a $3,56,70,600 modification to firm-fixed-price contract to exercise an option to provide 12 rotary wing primary trainer MD 530F aircraft for the Afghan military through foreign military sales funds.

Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), Ltd., and Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation held a rollout ceremony for the Mitsubishi next-generation Regional Jet, on October 18. MHI and Mitsubishi Aircraft are now ready to proceed towards the Regional Jet’s first flight scheduled for the April-June quarter of 2015.

Government would have to fund a new production line for HAL anyway, funding the line elsewhere and reaping the benefits of diversification and competition is a logical policy option which would also evolve into other production avenuess. But at present the private industry neither has the infrastructure or trained manpower for setting up a production line for aircraft. Setting it for a modern fighter aircraft will really be a challenge for any industry.

Indian Air Force’s Avro Replacement Programme

Europe Rafale F3.4 Tested

French Air Force personnel from the Integrated Flight Test Team and the Rafale programme office at the air force operational trials unit evaluated a new release of the Rafale F3 standard from October 6 to 17, 2014. Designated F3.4 +, the new standard being developed by industry under the responsibility of the Directorate General of Armaments, as part of the programme’s continuous improvement process.

Civil Aviation Asia-Pacific Contract Between Rockwell Collins and IGIA

Airbus Defence and Space and Tata Advanced Systems (TASL) have submitted a joint bid to replace the Indian Air Force´s fleet of Avro aircraft with the marketleading Airbus C295 medium transport. The teaming follows a detailed industrial assessment and stringent evaluation of the Indian private aerospace sector by Airbus Defence and Space, which concluded with the selection of TASL as the exclusive Indian production agency. A total of 56 Avro aircraft are to be replaced. As per the proposal, Airbus Defence and Space will supply the first 16 aircraft in ‘fly-away’ condition and the subsequent 40 aircraft will be manufactured and assembled by TASL.

Italian Court Acquits Finmeccanica Executives in India’s VIP Helicopter Deal

An Italian court (Milan) has acquitted senior executives of Finmeccanica of corruption charges in the VVIP helicopter deal with India though it has sentenced former Finmeccanica CEO Giuseppe Orsi and ex-AgustaWestland head Bruno Spagnolini to two years in prison on lesser charges of falsifying invoices in the deal. However, it is reported that this sentence for both the officers is suspended but they have been disqualified from holding public office for one year. They have also been fined. India’s Central Bureau of Investigation maintains that this verdict will not affect their investigation of allegations of kickbacks to swing the deal in favour of the company.

ISSUE 11 • 2014

The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), India’s busiest airport in terms of passenger traffic and the largest airport in South Asia, has signed an agreement to extend use of Rockwell Collins’ ARINC passenger processing technology for six years. Signifying the strength of its relationship with Rockwell Collins, IGIA also recently crowned the company “Best IT Service Provider” for the second year in a row. IGIA will also be working with Rockwell Collins to develop cutting-edge solutions to facilitate passenger processing and reduce congestion, such as deploying mobile and portable check-in devices throughout the airport.

Industry Europe New Radar for Eurofighter

The Eurofighter will be equipped with a new-generation radar which will enhance its capabilities and improve the pilots’ survivability. During a meeting of the defence state secretaries of the Eurofighter nations (Great Britain, Germany, Italy and Spain) held in Edinburgh, representatives of Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH and NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency signed a €1 billion contract to develop a new, electronically scanned radar called “Captor-E”. Airbus Defence and Space is playing a major role in its development. “Together with the Euroradar consortium we are developing the world’s most powerful fighter radar,” said Thomas Müller, Head of the Electronics Business Line at Airbus Defence and Space. •

www.sps-aviation.com

News Digest appointments

MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION

On November 12, 2014, Dr Mahesh Sharma, a Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) from Gautam Budh Nagar constituency in Uttar Pradesh, assumed charge as Minister of State for Civil Aviation.

AIR HEADQUARTERS, NEW DELHI With effect from October 1, 2014, Air Marshal Jagjeet Singh took over as Air Officer-in-Charge, Maintenance (AOM) at Air Headquarters,

New Delhi.

WESTERN AIR COMMAND, IAF

On November 1, 2014, Air Marshal B. Suresh AVSM VSM VM took over as Senior Air Staff Officer of the prestigious Western Air Command of the Indian Air Force.

LUFTHANSA TECHNIK

On November 25, 2014, the Supervisory Board of Lufthansa Technik announced the appointment of Antonio Schulthess (49) as new Chief Executive, Human Resources.

GULFSTREAM

On November 5, 2014, Gulfstream Aerospace formally announced the appointment of Mark Kohler to Vice President, Advanced Aircraft Programmes. Gulfstream Aerospace has also appointed Grant Kennedy as Sales Director, North American Sales, East Division. Gulfstream Aerospace recently promoted Matthew Sandidge to Regional Vice President of Sales for Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States. Gulfstream Aerospace has apointed Brian Jones as Regional Vice President of Sales for Northern Europe. Gulfstream Aerospace has named Cindy Halsey as Vice President, Completion Planning and Design.

www.sps-aviation.com

ROLLS-ROYCE

On November 4, 2014, Rolls-Royce announced the appointment of David Smith as Chief Financial Officer and a Director of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc.

QuickRoundUp

BOC AVIATION

BOC Aviation has appointed David Walton as the new Chief Operating Officer to be based at the headquarters of the company in Singapore.

JET AVIATION SINGAPORE

Jet Aviation Singapore has announced the appointment of Herb Chahal as the company’s new Sales Director for Asia, effective October 1, 2014. The company has also appointed John Riggir as Vice President and General Manager of Jet Aviation Singapore, effective September 1, 2014.

ATR

The ATR Assembly of Members has appointed Laurence Rigolini, 48, as new Corporate Secretary of ATR.

TELEPHONICS CORPORATION

Telephonics Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Griffon Corporation, has appointed Richard Hines as the Chief Technology Officer.

NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION

Northrop Grumman has appointed Peter Beange as Regional Director of Commercial Operations, Europe, in a move aimed at further strengthening the company’s organisation in UK and Europe. Northrop Grumman has also appointed Tom McLemore as Vice President of Legislative Affairs for Cyber Security; Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I) and Space and Tony Marceddo as Head of M5, within Northrop Grumman, Australia.

IAI NORTH AMERICA

Israel Aerospace Industries’ Ltd. (IAI) recently appointed Robert Foglesong as CEO of its US subsidiary IAI North America.

Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation announced that it has signed a definitive agreement with Eastern Air Lines Group, Inc. for the purchase of 20 firm MRJ90 aircraft with purchase rights for an additional 20 MRJ90 aircraft.

Pratt & Whitney

LAI International Inc has signed a 15-year agreement valued at more than $127 million with Pratt & Whitney. Under the agreement, LAI International, Inc will provide parts for Pratt & Whitney’s next generation engine programmes, including the fan blade sheath for the PurePower engines for the Bombardier CSeries aircraft, Airbus A320neo aircraft, and Irkut MC-21 aircraft. At its semi-annual Partner and Supplier Forum, Pratt & Whitney announced that it had signed an additional $6 billion in long-term agreements since May. In total, Pratt & Whitney has signed more than 135 agreements with a projected spend of $16 billion to support the company’s expected production increase. The agreements, which are with key product suppliers from around the world, will help the company increase capacity as it prepares to more than double engine production over the next decade.

Saab

Defence and security company Saab has signed a contract with the Brazilian Federal Government covering the development and production of 36 Gripen NG fighter aircraft for the Brazilian Air Force. The total order value is approximately SEK 39.3 billion (about $5.38 billion).

Sikorsky

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp has been awarded a $9,32,50,000 not-to-exceed, undefinitized contract action to a firm-fixedprice, multi-year contract, for eight ‘uniquely configured’ UH-60M Black Hawk aircraft and other support equipment and services for Mexico’s secretary of national defence under the foreign military sales programme, with an estimated completion date of June 7, 2015.

US State Department

The State Department has made a determination approving a possible foreign military sale to Thailand for nine UH-72A Lakota Helicopters and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $89 million.

US Air Force

The US Air Force has destroyed 16 unused transport planes that were languishing in Kabul International Airport, selling the scrap for six cents a pound, or $32,000, according to a government watchdog. The service had spent at least $486 million for 20 refurbished Italian-made G222 twin-turboprop aircraft for Afghanistan’s Air Force, only to abandon them, citing persistent maintenance issues.

ISSUE 11 • 2014

Last word

Photograph: PIB

POLICY SANS POWER On November 10 this year, after having been in power for improvement in passenger facilitation services. In the regime of five-and-a-half months, the Modi-led NDA Government unveiled Institutional Reforms, the proposal to corporatise the Airports a draft civil aviation policy, something that had been awaited by Authority of India (AAI) and the Pawan Hans Helicopters Limited the stakeholders in the Indian civil aviation industry for over 15 is certainly a positive step as it will help revitalise these organisayears. The erstwhile UPA Government had in fact drafted a policy tions and make them far more efficient than they are now. The unveiling of the draft civil aviation policy did immedion civil aviation but for one reason or another, it remained buried in the files at the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA). This was ately impact market sentiments as was manifest in the surge in attributable perhaps to the policy paralysis the then government the stock market in respect of Indian carriers Jet Airways and was reported to be afflicted with especially during their second SpiceJet. However, the draft policy also drew criticism from difterm. However, the civil aviation policy drafted by the previous ferent quarters. The sentiment in some of the segments of the government has, under directions of the new government, been industry is that the draft civil aviation policy has been formusubjected to a comprehensive review by the MoCA, expanded, lated only in general terms, lacks details and fails to address refined and issued. However, the new policy would be finalised the real issues and problems the Indian civil aviation industry only after consultations and debate with the stakeholders and is is plagued with. Amber Dubey, Partner and India Head of Aeroexpected to be ready for implementation by January next year space and Defense, KPMG, in India opined: “The draft civil aviation policy reads like a feel-good document, devoid of specific after suitable modifications based on inputs received. As per statements from the civil aviation establishment, the policy statements on a number of burning issues.” The Indian civil aviation industry remains strangulated in new policy is aimed at wide ranging reforms in the industry to meet with the challenges of growing passenger traffic and other the vice-like grip of the bureaucracy that prevents organisations rising expectations of the nation. The draft policy, which is a such as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) from four-page document now available in the public domain, covers being an effective facilitator. Apart from corruption that pera number of areas of the Indian civil aviation industry the details vades almost all segments of society, government or business, of which have been tabulated under the broad headings Develop- the Indian civil aviation industry has been weighed down by the ment of Airports, Rationalisation of the Price of Aviation Turbine crushing burden of taxes and levies that stunt its growth. This Fuel (ATF), Development of the Air Cargo Sector, Enhancement has had a debilitating impact especially on the MRO industry. Operators, particularly in the of Regional Connectivity, Instiregime of business and general tutional Reforms, Development aviation, find it less expensive of the Maintenance, Repair and and less problematic to avail of Overhaul (MRO) Industry, ModMRO services outside India. A ernisation of Air Navigation Sersad commentary on the state of vices, Development of Helicopter affairs indeed! Aviation and Implementation of The apprehension that grips e-Governance. some segments of the Indian The thrust of the new policy civil aviation industry is that the appears to be towards enhancnew policy does not appear to ing regional air connectivity, have the strength or character developing six major metro to make a difference and turn airports as international travel into reality the reforms sought and transit hubs of which there by it. The Business Aircraft is none in the country at presOperators Association (BAOA), ent, create additional airports however, is of the view that this through the public-private parinitiative by the government is ticipation (PPP) mode, reduce a step in the right direction. In the cost of ATF through reducthe final analysis, however, the tion of taxes especially by the new civil aviation policy can be states and other levies, promote meaningful and effective only air cargo services both domestic if the MoCA has the will and and international, facilitate the determination to implement its establishment of MRO facilities The new civil aviation policy has been provisions in letter and spirit in and services, adopt measures a respectable time frame. SP such as building heliports and formulated in general terms, lacks details and reduce operating costs to exploit fails to address the real issues and problems the potential of the rotary-wing —By Air Marshal the civil aviation industry is plagued with segment of the industry and B.K. Pandey (Retd)

ISSUE 11 • 2014