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BUSINESS AVIATION
IAF Personnel Commence Training on Apache
Middle East Scenario 6 Reasons Why it Benefits All
Indian Naval Aviation Arm – A Force Multiplier
ANA BA Division Takes Off
Modernisation of Coastal Aviation
LAST WORD
SPACE
Eye in the Sky “Needed”
GSLV Mk III-D2 Successfully Launches GSAT-29
+++
RNI NUMBER: DELENG/2008/24199
Gregory Hayes:
Exciting Times: Alpha Bravo Collins PAGE 8
He retains his position of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of United Technologies. He will oversee the transition that includes creation of Collins Aerospace Systems in addition to the long-established engine and propulsion unit Pratt & Whitney, and also the divestment of the two non-aerospace business units thereby positioning UTC group as an absolute aerospace entity.
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table of CONTENTS
senior Editor Air Marshal B.K. Pandey (Retd) Deputy Managing Editor Neetu Dhulia
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IAF Personnel Commence Training on Apache
Middle East Scenario 6 Reasons Why it Benefits All
Indian Naval Aviation Arm – A Force Multiplier
The acquisition of Rockwell Collins by UTC group, creating Collins Aerospace Systems is aimed towards its unique positioning as an absolute aerospace entity. Gregory Hayes remains Chairman & CEO.
ANA BA Division Takes Off
Modernisation of Coastal Aviation
LAST WORD
SPACE
Eye in the Sky “Needed”
GSLV Mk III-D2 Successfully Launches GSAT-29
+++ Gregory Hayes:
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EXCITING TIMES: ALPHA BRAVO COLLINS PAGE 8
He retains his position of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of United Technologies. He will oversee the transition that includes creation of Collins Aerospace Systems in addition to the long-established engine and propulsion unit Pratt & Whitney, and also the divestment of the two non-aerospace business units thereby positioning UTC group as an absolute aerospace entity.
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Space
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Successfully Launched
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Italian Premier Visit
A Word from Editor-in-Chief
Training on Apache Helicopters
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Acquisition
Exciting Times: Alpha Bravo Collins
Business Aviation 12 Region
Evolving Middle East
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6 Reasons Why it Benefits All
18 Operations
ANA BA Division Takes Off
Military 20 Naval Aviation
Awards 2017
Force Multiplier
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Modernisation of Aviation Wing
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ISSUE 11 • 2018
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Collins Aerospace Systems will combine the strengths of two giants in the US aerospace industry with unmatched expertise in developing electrical, mechanical and software solutions.
A major event in the recent past in the global aerospace industry has been the acquisition of Rockwell Collins by UTC Aerospace Systems to form a new entity called Collins Aerospace Systems. This new company will combine the strengths of two giants in the US aerospace industry with unmatched expertise in developing electrical, mechanical and software solutions. A report on this event of significance has been included in this issue of the magazine. In the middle of November this year, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the GSLV Mk III-D2, their most powerful space vehicle carrying the 3,423 kg GSAT-29 satellite and inserting it into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The success of this mission flagged an important milestone in the Indian space programme towards achieving self-reliance in launching heavy satellites. A report on this achievement by ISRO is included in this issue of the magazine. On the civil aviation front, one issue that has drawn the attention of the Ministry of Civil Aviation in the recent past is the proposal to allow aircraft management companies to take over the management of business aircraft that are operated for private use or by charter companies for public use. This practice is prevalent worldwide, but is yet to be introduced in India. In this issue of SP’s Aviation, there is a detailed analysis of the various aspects of this novel idea by Sudhir S. Rajeshirke, Vice President, Sales, at Arrow Aircraft. With several countries in the Middle East that are endowed with economic prosperity, the conditions in the region are favourable for healthy growth of the civil aviation industry including the business aviation segment. However, the positive signs notwithstanding, there are a number of impediments to the sustained high rate of growth of business aviation segment in the region. These are increasing congestion at airports and in the airspace as the major airlines expand their operations. Thus if the civil aviation industry in the Middle East is to main-
tain a respectable growth trajectory and reach its full potential in the future, it will have to find solutions to the problems that are proving to be impediments. A detailed report on the state of business aviation in the Middle East region by Air Marshal B.K. Pandey (Retd) has been included in this issue of the magazine. In order to cope with the ever-increasing and daunting security challenges in the Indian Ocean, the Indian Navy has plans to build a truly blue water force. In the pursuit of this objective, the Indian Navy is embarked on a drive for the modernisation of its Fleet Air Arm through the induction of new platforms to substantially enhance its operational potential. Also, the operational preparedness and coastal security mechanism of the Indian Coast Guard was reviewed by Defence Minister and she stressed on its modernisation by 2022 through the Definitive Action Programme of the Ministry of Defence. This issue of SP’s Aviation carries comprehensive reports on these subjects by Rear Admiral Sushil Ramsay (Retd). All this and more in this issue of SP’s Aviation. Welcome aboard and wish you happy landings! Jai Hind!
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NEWS IAF Personnel Commence Training on Apache Helicopters Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel have begun their training in the United States (US) on the AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. The AH-64E Apache produced by Boeing, the leading aerospace and defence major of the US, is a twin-turboshaft engine attack helicopter with a tandem-seat cockpit for two crew members and a tail wheel-type landing gear. In July this year, the Ministry of Defence cleared a proposal for the procurement of six Apache attack helicopters for the Indian Army as well at a cost of `4,168 crore. The IAF will receive the most advanced version of the AH-64E Apache, officials said, adding that this will be its first fleet of American attack helicopters. These helicopters are set for delivery next year.
Photograph: IAf / Twitter
viewS So far, the IAF has been operating the Mi-25 and Mi-35 attack helicopters that are of Russian origin. The Mi-25 fleet has already been retired from service and the Mi-35 will follow suit in not too distant a future. Currently, only two squadrons remain in service. Even though the government has decided that in the future, attack helicopters will be inducted into the Indian Army as well, this platform will continue to be relevant for the IAF. As such, as a replacement for the Mi-25 and to augment the fleet of Mi-35 till it remains in service, the AH-64E Apache attack helicopter produced by Boeing of the US, was selected in 2012 in a competition against the Russian attack helicopter Mi-28. Thus it was that in September 2015, Boeing was awarded a $1.4 billion contract to supply 22 of these helicopter gunships for the IAF. The AH-64E Apache is the world’s most advanced, multirole combat helicopter. It has the capability to operate in any kind of weather and can operate by night as well. It is currently in use by the armed forces of a large number of nations across the globe including those of the US. The US Army inducted the first AH-64A Apache into service in January 1984 and since then, the fleet has accumulated around five million flight hours. The first helicopter of the batch of 22 of this iconic combat platform ordered for the IAF, has completed its maiden test flight in the recent past. Delivery of this machine is expected to commence in March 2019 and all 22 on order are scheduled to be delivered to the IAF before the end of 2022. A noteworthy feature is that the fuselage of the Apache attack helicopter is now being made in India for the global market, by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) located in Hyderabad. The AH-64E Apache attack helicopter will come fitted with the highly advanced AN/APG-78 Longbow fire control radar that gives this platform a fearsome reputation for being able to sneak up on the targets, launch attacks from stand-off ranges with devastating precision and successfully counter threats from the ground while operating over enemy territory. Apart from the anti-tank laser-guided Hellfire precision strike missiles and a 30mm chin-mounted chain gun that is cued by
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the pilot’s helmet system, the Apache attack helicopters to be inducted into the IAF will also carry anti-aircraft Stinger missiles, a requirement specifically projected by the service. The cockpit of the Apache will be far more sophisticated than what IAF helicopters pilots would have seen in their service so far. The platform has large multi-function displays, sensor fusion over networked architecture with other aircraft and digitally shared graphics that enable the Apaches plugging into a system that has for long been dominated by Russian systems that have not achieved the sort of networked environment required in a modern battlefield. The IAF is likely to deploy the Apache attack helicopters at the airbase in Pathankot on the Western border with Pakistan and in Jorhat in Assam on the Eastern front against China. Together with the Apache attack helicopters that are expected to be inducted into the Indian Army, the total fleet strength with the two services is expected to be around 60. While this new platform is undoubtedly an excellent choice and will meet the requirements of both political and military domains, one of the most challenging tasks before the IAF is to prepare the manpower required to operate and maintain the fleet for its optimum operational performance. To achieve this aim, the IAF has deputed to the US, a group of personnel consisting of a number of specially selected helicopter pilots, ground engineers and a fairly large number of technicians. The selected personnel are already undergoing professional training with the agencies responsible for the training of personnel of the US armed forces. The duration of training is specific for each discipline and varies from three months to a year. With thorough professional grounding in the US, this team of selected personnel will help establish a proper training facility in India to support the Apache fleet. This new combat platform to be inducted in the near future, will go a long way to enhance the operational capability of the IAF in the rotary wing segment deployed in offensive role. There is no doubt that this fleet is going to be a game-changers for the IAF. SP
—By Air Marshal B.K. Pandey (Retd)
ISSUE 11 • 2018
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Space GSAT-29
Successfully Launched
Photograph: Isro
The success of GSLV Mk III-D2 marks an important milestone in the Indian space programme towards achieving self-reliance in launching heavier satellites
The Indian GSAT-29 communication satellite was successfully launched by the second developmental flight of Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk IIID2) on November 14 this year from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. The GSLV Mk III is a three-stage heavy lift launch vehicle developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). For this mission, the GSLV Mk III-D2 lifted off from the Second Launch Pad of SDSC SHAR at 17:08 hours Indian Standard Time, carrying the 3423 kg GSAT-29 satellite. About 17 minutes after the launch, the launch vehicle injected the GSAT-29 satellite into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) as planned. After injection, ISRO’s Master Control Facility at Hassan took over control of the satellite. In the coming days, three orbit raising manoeuvres will be executed to position the satellite in the Geostationary Orbit at its designated location. In the GSLV Mk III-D2, two massive boosters with solid propellant constitute the first stage, the core with liquid propellant form the second stage and the cryogenic engine make up the final stage. The GSAT-29 is a multiband, multi-beam communication satellite, intended to serve as a test bed for several new and critical technologies. Its Ku-band and Ka-band payloads are configured to cater to the communication requirements of users including those in the remote areas especially from Jammu & Kashmir and the North-Eastern regions of India. In addition, the Q/V-Band communication payload onboard is intended to demonstrate the future high throughput satellite system technologies. Geo High Resolution Camera will carry out high resolution imaging. Optical Communication Payload will demonstrate data transmission at a very high rate through optical communication link. After the successful launch, ISRO Chairman Dr K. Sivan said, “India has achieved a significant milestone with our heaviest launcher lifting off the heaviest satellite from Indian soil. The launch vehicle has placed the satellite with precision in its intended orbit. I congratulate entire team of ISRO involved in this project for this achievement.” Declaring the GSLV Mk III operational, Dr K. Sivan announced that Chandrayaan-2 lunar mission and the human space flight mission Gaganyaan will be launched by the GSLV Mk III-D2 heavy-lifter. Jayakumar B, Mission Director, GSLV Mark III, said that it was the guidance by the Mentors at ISRO that helped the team to march ahead and overcome all obstacles. “The industry partners too played a key role in the success of this mission,” he said. K. Pankaj Damodar, Project Director, GSAT-29 said the launch will help to bridge the digital divide. He also said that several next generation payload technologies will be demonstrated with this mission soon.
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ISRO’s GSLV Mk III-D2 takes off from Sriharikota
The success of GSLV Mk III-D2 marks an important milestone in the Indian space programme towards achieving self-reliance in launching heavier satellites. The success of this flight also signifies the completion of the experimental phase of GSLV Mark III. The first successful mission of GSLV Mark III was an experimental suborbital flight in 2014. Subsequently, GSLV Mark III-D1 launched GSAT-19, a high throughput communication satellite, with a lift-off mass of 3150 kg, into GTO on June 5, 2017. SP —By SP’s Correspondent
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MULTI-ROLE COMBAT-PROVEN BUILT FOR THE FUTURE
As the most advanced and lowest-cost fighter per flight hour, the F/A-18 Super Hornet will deliver next-gen superiority and survivability to India. By assembling, testing and certifying this aircraft at a state-of-the-art Factory of the Future in India, Boeing will help grow the country’s aerospace ecosystem. And with a plan for growth, the F/A-18 Super Hornet will continue to outpace threats—and make India stronger.
viewpoint Bilateral Relations
india-italy partnership: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Prime Minister of Italy Giuseppe Conte in New Delhi on October 30, 2018
Italian premier Visit Prime Minister of Italy, Giuseppe Conte and Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed the full range of the India-Italy partnership and discussed ways of advancing cooperation in trade, technology and culture
Photograph: pib
By Air Marshal B.K. Pandey (Retd) In response to the invitation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of Italy, Giuseppe Conte, paid a oneday official visit to India on October 30 this year. The visit was a part of the ongoing celebrations to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Italy. This was the very first visit to India by the Italian Prime Minister after he assumed charge in June this year. The Technology Summit Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte was accompanied by a high level business delegation as his visit was also linked with the
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24th edition of the Technology Summit in New Delhi, co-hosted by India and Italy. This event was organised by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The two leaders held extensive bilateral talks as well as delivered their valedictory addresses in the final session of the Technology Summit. This 24th edition of the Technology Summit focussed on a wide range of subjects namely, clean technology, renewable energy, information and communication technology (ICT), health care, aerospace, education and cultural heritage. The objective of the Technology Summit was to facilitate tech-
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Bilateral Relations
nology transfer, joint ventures, R&D and promote interaction between industry and research institutions in India and Italy. The Technology Summit was attended by representatives of the government, industry, academia, research institutes, scientific community and related agencies from both India and Italy. A number of experts from both the nations spoke at the Technology Summit on a variety of subjects ranging from astrophysics, gravitational waves, mobile network, Internet of Things (IOT), e-infrastructure and bio-robotics, among others. Valedictory Address by Prime Minister Modi In his address at the Technology Summit, Prime Minister Modi announced the launch of the next phase of the India-Italy Industrial Research and Development Cooperation programme which will enable the Indian industry and research institutes to develop new products. Talking about the importance of technology, Prime Minister Modi said that India has made technology a medium for attaining social justice, empowerment, inclusion and transparency. He went on to say that the Government of India was focussing on developing technological temperament along with scientific temperament among the citizens. Highlighting achievements of the Indian Space Programme, Prime Minister Modi said that it is an example of innovation with quality and that India is now able to successfully launch space satellites belonging to several nations including those from Italy. India’s record of success in space exploration showcases the nation’s capability of creating innovative solutions at low cost. Prime Minister Modi also expressed happiness at the enhanced level of cooperation between India and Italy in the field of Life Style Accessories Design (LAD). He added that special focus will be given on the Leather Sector as well as Transportation & Automobile Design (TAD).
Italy are based on shared principles and values of democracy, freedom, rule of law, respect for human rights and territorial integrity of the two nations. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen mutual understanding and expand the range of bilateral engagement to promote peace, stability, economic progress and prosperity of the two countries. The two leaders agreed to launch the next phase of the bilateral India-Italy Industrial Research & Development Cooperation Programme that will enable industries, enterprises and research institutions of both countries to partner seamlessly in co-developing new products, prototypes, processes by converting “know-how” into “show-how” in areas covering advanced materials; smart manufacturing; clean and green technologies as well as technologies for cultural heritage. Cooperation in the Regime of Defence In the regime of defence cooperation, the leaders accepted the need for regular defence exchanges between the defence organisations of the two nations. They took note of the ninth IndiaItaly Joint Defence Committee meeting which took place in Rome on May 16 this year as also the recently concluded IndiaItaly ninth Military Cooperation Group meeting in Rome in the second week of October, again this year. These meetings saw the two sides agreeing to the bilateral cooperation plan for the year 2019. Both sides recognised the need to broad base defence ties and make them enduring and mutually beneficial. India invited Italian defence equipment manufacturing companies to invest in India under the ‘Make in India’ programme of the Government of India and to collaborate with Indian companies for design and construction of military hardware. The two leaders strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The leaders asserted that strong measures and deterrent action need to be taken against terrorists, terrorist organisations and all those who encourage, support and finance such nefarious activities. They condemned all kinds of state support to terrorists including cross border terrorism and providing safe haven to terrorists and their network. The two leaders agreed to strengthen their cooperation to counter terrorism through multilateral fora and called upon all member countries of the United Nations (UN) to effectively implement the UN Global Counter Terrorism Strategy, UNSC Resolution 1267 and other relevant UNSC resolutions relating to prevention and suppression of terrorism and terrorist financing. The two leaders also agreed to work together for implementation of The Hamburg G20 Leaders’ Statement on Countering Terrorism and to further cooperate in this regard at the upcoming G20 Summit in Buenos Aires. The Indian side proposed to host the second India-Italy Joint Working Group on Combating Terrorism in New Delhi at a mutually convenient date in the first half of 2019. The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen global non-proliferation efforts. Prime Minister Conte congratulated India on its entry into the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), The Hague Code of Conduct, Wassenaar Arrangement and the Australia Group. He reiterated Italy’s support to India’s intensified engagement with the Nuclear Suppliers’ Group (NSG) which strengthens global non-proliferation efforts. SP
The two leaders strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and recommended strong measures and deterrent action
Strengthening of Ties Amongst the nations of the European Union, Italy is India’s fifth largest trading partner today with annual bilateral trade turnover in the financial year 2017-18 that stood at $10.4 billion. India is currently host to 600 Italian companies and investments by Indian companies in Italy have been on the rise, thus strengthening the economic links between the two nations. Visit of the Prime Minister of Italy to India is expected to further strengthen ties between the two nations as well as enhance collaboration in the future. During their meeting, the two Prime Ministers reiterated that ties between India and Italy are based on shared principles and values of democracy, freedom, rule of law, respect for human rights and territorial integrity of States. They reviewed the full range of the India-Italy partnership and discussed ways and means of advancing cooperation in trade, technology and culture. As for enhancing economic cooperation between India and Italy, it was decided by the two leaders to set up a CEO forum guided by a Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation. In order to increase two-way investments, the decision arrived at was to create a fast-track mechanism and boost ties in key sectors such as lifestyle accessories design, transportation and automobile design, energy and life sciences. Both the nations are working on deepening bilateral cooperation in a range of sectors including investment, trade and aerospace. The two leaders reiterated that ties between India and
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ISSUE 11 • 2018
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illustration: anoop kamath
OEM Acquisition
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OEM Acquisition
Exciting Times: Alpha Bravo Collins United Technologies’ acquisition of Rockwell Collins is one of the largest acquisitions and mergers in the history of aerospace world. This acquisition brings together Rockwell Collins alongwith UTC Aerospace Systems to create Collins Aerospace Systems. By Jayant Baranwal
“Collins Aerospace brings together two great companies with unmatched expertise in developing electrical, mechanical and software solutions,” said Gregory Hayes, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of UTC group. “We will have a laser focus on developing innovative solutions for customers and generating strong returns for shareowners,” he adds. GREGORY HAYES, CHAIRMAN & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, UTC GROUP
World of aerospace is full of surprises and Systems, the group has also decided to divest its non-aerospace unpredictably mega events. Technology, and refinements are units, Otis and Carrier. These two units will now be indepenthe integral parts of aerospace world. Acquisitions and merg- dent companies leaving UTC group as a pure aerospace entity. “Our decision to separate United ers have also been factored in the Technologies (from non-aeroprocess time and again. space activities: Carrier and Otis) On November 26th, a much is a pivotal moment in our histalked about acquisition of RockNow, with Collins Aerospace tory and will best position each well Collins by United Technoloand Pratt & Whitney units, independent company to drive gies has finally been concluded. sustained growth, lead its indusThis brings a host of complimentUnited Technologies will try in innovation and customer ing range of aerospace expertise be able to focus far more focus, and maximise value creto UTC group such as avionics, ation,” said United Technologies electronics, and interiors. United effectively on its leadership Chairman and Chief Executive Technologies has now decided to in the aerospace world, as Officer Gregory Hayes on the emerge as an absolute aerospace it reclaims its position back divestment plan. giant offering the entire range of Gregory Hayes retains his aerospace systems solutions. which had some void after position of the Chairman and While the group has invested the divestment of Sikorsky Chief Executive Officer in United an amount of US$30 billion to Technologies, having the comacquire Rockwell Collins creating unit to Lockheed Martin bined power of two key aeroa new brand Collins Aerospace
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ISSUE 11 • 2018
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OEM Acquisition
Photograph: Collins Aerospace
Collins Aerospace, With a comprehensive portfolio, extensive capabilities and broad expertise, represents the best in aerospace innovation and technology
space units, Pratt & Whitney and Collins Aerospace. United Technologies’ acquisition of Rockwell Collins is one of the largest acquisitions and mergers in the history of aerospace world. This acquisition brings together Rockwell Collins alongwith UTC Aerospace Systems to create Collins Aerospace Systems, an industry leader with a global presence of 70,000 employees in 300 sites, 16,000 engineering work force and US$23 billion in annual sales on a 2017 pro forma basis. “Collins Aerospace brings together two great companies with unmatched expertise in developing electrical, mechanical and software solutions,” said Gregory Hayes on the creation of the brand. “We will have a laser focus on developing innovative solutions for customers and generating strong returns for shareowners,” he added. Collins Aerospace Systems will specifically have 6 business units: • aerostructures, • avionics, • interiors, • mechanical systems, • mission systems, & • power and controls
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“I’m convinced that Collins Aerospace is a very special organisation that will redefine the aerospace industry,” comments Kelly Ortberg, CEO of Collins Aerospace
Collins Aerospace is poised to serve the following segments: • Commercial Aviation • Business Aviation • Military & Defence • Helicopters • Space • Airports • Other industries With Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney units, United Technologies will be able to focus far more effectively on its leadership in the aerospace world, as it reclaims its position back which had some void after the divestment of Sikorsky unit to Lockheed Martin. The sales portfolio of Collins Aerospace includes 75% revenue from commercial market while the remaining 25% from the military market. The R&D investment of the new entity is close to US$3.1 billion. Kelly Ortberg takes charge of Collins Aerospace as Chief Executive Officer. Prior to this, Kelly has been the Chairman, President and CEO of Rockwell Collins. He seems to be quite upbeat about the new brand. “I’m convinced that Collins Aerospace is a very special organisation that will redefine the aerospace industry”, he commented. SP
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Business Aviation region Emirates’ Phenom 100E aircraft
evolving Middle East Boosted by wealth concentrated in some of the countries in the Middle East, the aviation industry in the region including the business aviation segment, has generally been a success story
Photograph: Emirates
By Air Marshal B.K. Pandey (Retd) The Middle East is a transcontinental region that is made up of 16 countries, a majority of these Islamic and some endowed with enormous wealth largely attributable to oil reserves. The Middle East region has been an important market for business aviation ever since this segment of the global civil aviation industry was established. Yet in some of the countries such as Yemen, Syria and Libya business aviation is still almost non-existent. Initially, business aviation in the Middle East was an exclusive privilege for royal families and heads of state. However, over the last decade or so, there has seen a clear shift of business aviation towards corporate travel.
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Business Jets in the Middle East Since the year 2004, the market for business aviation aircraft in the Middle East had been growing at compounded annual growth rate of seven per cent. However, at the end of the year 2017, the strength of the fleet of business aviation aircraft stood at 620, a figure that was two per cent lower than that for the previous year. The reduction by 12 business jets in the Saudi Arabian fleet in 2017 was the largest in the region representing a drop by 7.2 per cent. Other countries in the region where the reduction was smaller were Bahrain, Cyprus, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait and Lebanon. On the other hand there were countries in the region namely
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Business Aviation
region
in the Middle East with the former comEgypt, Jordon, Qatar, Turkey and the manding a market share of 19.4 per cent UAE that registered marginal growth in The two global and the latter marginally lower at 18.3 the size of the fleet of business jets. The original equipment per cent. The most widely used business largest increase in fleet strength was jet platforms in 2017 were Bombarrecorded by UAE that added six aircraft manufacturers dier Challenger 605 and the Gulfstream to its existing fleet registering a growth (OEM) namely G550. These are now being replaced or rate of six per cent for the year. Bombardier augmented by the Challenger 650 and The average age of the aircraft in the Gulfstream G650. Apart from the the fleet stood at 14.6 years, an increase and Gulfstream, platforms from the two major global from 14.2 years in 2016. Data also dominate the OEMs, there are the Cessna Citation CJ reveals that in the last five years i.e. and the Falcon 2000EX business jets in the period 2012 to 2017, the fleet of business aviation being operated by some of the countries business aircraft in the Middle East has market in the Middle in the Middle East region, albeit in small grown by just under five per cent. As East numbers. per some analysts, the fleet of business Another global OEM making inroads aircraft in the Middle East is expected into the market for business aviation to reduce by one to three per cent priaircraft in the Middle East region is marily on account of business aviation Embraer of Brazil. Business aviation aircompanies opting for off-shore registration. In fact, migration by owners to foreign registries, makes craft from Embraer available to customers in the Middle East it difficult to arrive at an accurate figure of the total number of region are the top end of the company’s line, including the Legacy business aviation aircraft owned and operated by private own- 600/650 and Lineage 1000 and shuttle variants. Among the Phenoms delivered to the nations of the Middle East region, Etihad ers and other agencies in the Middle East. has taken the first two Phenom 100Es with two more aircraft slated to come next year. For this company, the Middle East is OEMs in the Middle East Five countries in the Middle East that have the largest fleets of an important market. So far the company has sold just over 50 business aviation aircraft are Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the UAE, business aviation aircraft to the region, majority of these that is Israel and Egypt. These five nations own around 76 per cent of 20 have gone to customers in the UAE and 12 to Saudi Arabia. As the total assets in this class in the region with the first two com- per Embraer, demand for business aviation aircraft in the Middle manding ownership of around 48 per cent of the fleet. The two East region is expected to rise in 2019 and beyond and the Braglobal original equipment manufacturers (OEM) namely Bom- zilian aerospace major sees a potential market for 200 business bardier and Gulfstream, dominate the business aviation market jets in the years to come. To support the existing fleet of Embraer
Photograph: Qatar Airways
SCHEDULED AND NON-SCHEDULED IN SYNERGY: Qatar Airways’ Gulfstream G650ER under the banner of Qatar Executive
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Business Aviation
region
Photograph: Qatar Executive
business jets, the company has set up two authorised centres in the Middle East region. These are ExecuJet located in Dubai and Falcon Aviation Services in Abu Dhabi.
support aviation, that is regarded as the best in the world. The country in the Middle East region that has the best infrastructure available to support business aviation is the UAE.
Types of Business Aviation Aircraft Saudi Arabia – the Leader According to MEBAA, currently up to 70 per cent of flights per- At the end of last year, the country in the Middle East that posformed by private jets within the Middle East region are for busi- sessed the largest number of business jets, was Saudi Arabia. ness purposes, while luxury travel accounts for the remaining 30 The strength of the fleet of business jets on the inventory of per cent. Nevertheless, high net-worth individuals are still the key Saudi Arabia stood at 154, down from 166 at the end of the predrivers of the business aviation growth in the region. Many of the vious year. Saudi Arabia is the second largest economy in the nations in the Middle East are populated by ultra high net-worth Middle East region coming after Turkey that has 144 business individuals who have clear preference of large size business jets. jets. Unlike some other countries in the region, in Saudi Arabia, The business jet market in the Middle East thus is primarily a the ratio between large and small aircraft is heavily weighted market for large cabin aircraft with the range long enough to fly in favour of large aircraft. While a number of old airliners have nonstop from Dubai to London. The Middle East is situated half- been converted to Bizliners, in addition there are a large numway between Europe and Asia and the business tycoons prefer to ber of Boeing Business Jets (BBJ) as also Airbus Corporate Jets fly to the major business centres in both Europe and Asia in the (ACJ) operating in the country. However, in recent times, the shortest possible time flying directly to destinations. The largest long standing ratio between large and small business aviation fleet of business aviation aircraft in the Middle East is located in aircraft has shown some signs of change. Apart from owners of Saudi Arabia where the ratio between large cabin and long range private jets, the BBJ operators are downsizing to Gulfstream. In business jets to small size business aviation aircraft, is high. Also, turn, Gulfstream owners are downsizing to mid-size business the business aviation fleets jets and small size or lightinclude airliners converted weight jet owners are selling for business travellers. These off their assets and opting to are referred to as “Bizliners”. fly by commercial airlines Percentage wise, the fleet of instead. business aviation aircraft in the Middle East has a mix of The Future different sizes of aircraft with Boosted by wealth concenthe large size business jets trated in some of the counconstituting 61.9 per cent, tries in the Middle East, medium size at 27.3 per cent the aviation industry in the and small size light-weight region including the busibusiness jets at a measly 10.7 ness aviation segment, has per cent. Apart from Bomgenerally been a success bardier and Gulfstream, the story. Given the steady ecotwo global aerospace majors nomic growth in the counthat dominate the business tries in the region, the busiaviation aircraft market in ness aviation market in the the Middle East, Airbus and Middle East will continue to GLOBAL 5000 ALSO FORMS PART OF THE QATAR EXECUTIVE JET FLEET Boeing too have made their be lucrative. This is clearly contribution by way of their evident in the innovative airliners converted to VIP version business aircraft and consti- steps taken by the leading carriers in the region wherein they tute 16.4 per cent of the fleet. have launched their business aviation subsidiaries. Qatar Airways has launched its business aviation venture called Qatar Executive, Emirates has introduced its Emirates Executive and State of Development of Business Aviation A criteria for assessment of the state of the development of busi- Saudi Airlines has commissioned Saudia Private Aviation. However, despite the positive signs, there are impediments ness aviation in a country, is the level and quality of infrastructure available for operations by business aviation aircraft. Another to the sustained high rate of growth of business aviation in the index of the state of business aviation is the ratio between the Middle East such as increasing congestion at airports and in the airspace as the major carriers expand number of people in the country and the their operations. Besides, the military number of business aviation aircraft held controls substantial parts of the airon the inventory of the operators. The space which is not available for use by UAE is the only country in the region that civil aircraft. Removal of these impedihas one business aviation aircraft for a ments would help boost growth of the population of every 100,000 residents. civil aviation industry in the Middle East This population figure includes both the including the business aviation segcitizens of the UAE as well as immigrant ment. Thus if the civil aviation indusworkers. While in some of the countries try in the Middle East is to maintain a in the Middle East, business aviation respectable growth trajectory and reach practically is still in the developing stage its full potential in the future, it will have as apparent in the inadequacy of infrato find solutions to the problems that structure, some of the other countries in are impediments to growth. SP the region possess the infrastructure to
Despite the positive signs, there are impediments to the sustained high rate of growth of business aviation in the Middle East
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Business aviation Aircraft management
the proposed relief to aircraft management is a great news for private and charter operators
6 reasons why it benefitS ALL An aircraft is a complicated asset to operate and maintain and requires a solid team of domain expert professionals to manage it.
Photograph: SP Guide Pubns
By Sudhir S. Rajeshirke The Ministry of Civil Aviation has been recently working on a proposal to allow aircraft management companies to manage aircraft which can be operated for private or for charter. Aircraft management is a popular service availed by aircraft owners worldwide, but not implemented in India so far. Per DGCA, the aircraft owner should be responsible for its operation and cannot outsource it to any third party professional
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firm. The existing thought process is that this structure creates more accountability with the aircraft owner. However, I think otherwise. Aircraft ownership is unlike car ownership. An aircraft is a complicated asset to operate and maintain and requires a solid team of domain expert professionals to manage it. Very few aircraft owners can establish such a team. Hence allowing professional aircraft managers
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Aircraft management
regulatory compliances pertaining to the asset would be the responsibility of the aircraft management company and not directly of the aircraft owner. As the aircraft owner is saved of all the operational hassles of maintaining an NSOP, which is not its core business anyway, then majority of the aircraft owners would opt to outsource their operational Background data responsibilities to professional aircraft management firms. Due to highly fragmented nature of the business, governing Doing this would significantly reduce the number of compageneral aviation industry in most countries is highly challengnies that DGCA would have to audit and monitor on regular ing for the aviation regulators. The situation is same in India as basis. This will tremendously reduce DGCA’s work load and well. Per DGCA data, there are 109 registered Non-Scheduled lead to better regulatory oversight of few companies managOperator Permit (NSOP) holding companies which operate 346 ing large number of aircraft on behalf of their owners. airplanes and helicopters in India. Thus India has an average of three aircraft per NSOP company. If we exclude large helicopter • Ease of compliance: Managing compliances such as liaising with regulator, managing third party contracts, ensuring operators (fleet size of more than 25) such as Pawan Hans and timely maintenance and preparing up-to-date documentation Global Vectra, this average falls down to 2.5 aircraft per NSOP. is a huge task for any aircraft owner and not its core experThe number is less than two for aircraft registered under pritise. Whereas aircraft manvate category. This creates agement firms have a core a huge problem for the expertise in managing comDGCA to oversee and reguplex aircraft operations and late the maintenance and maintenance management. safety activities of more They invest in training and than 100 operators as the compliances. Such firms organisation is already have internal processes and stretched for manpower team of experienced profesand resources. sionals who can manage On the other hand, multitude of aircraft types apart from a handful of and meet their operational charter operators, most of and maintenance requirethe NSOP companies are ments. Management firms owned by large corporate are experienced and well companies. Establishing networked in the industry and operating an NSOP and understand the techniwith its own team of induscalities and nuances when try experts for one to two dealing with the regulatory aircraft is not a preferred agency and various service method of operating an providers. aircraft for the companies Further, say an OEM due to extensive regulatory has issued an advisory or compliances and organa mandated action, the isational set up. However, aircraft manager can plan they do this because of and schedule it’s comtaxation, which is another pliance on its managed topic of discussion. fleet and the DGCA will only have to monitor one Result agency to ensure compliAs a result, DGCA is INDIA’S BUSINESS AVIATION SECTOR IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING ances on several aircraft. required to monitor and FOR BETTER Thus it is easy for an audit more 100+ organaircraft owner to manage isations which consumes compliances when its asset is managed by a reputed and significant resources, which the regulator lacks. Moreover, only experience aircraft manager. few NSOP companies are managed in the most professional and organised manner. There is a lack of experienced and profes- • Efficiency of scale and resource light solution: There are several companies which operate similar type of aircraft. sional accountable managers who can maintain the NSOP comCurrently all companies have teams which use different types panies to the highest compliance levels. The parent corporate of operational, management and financial systems. Now say companies don’t always prefer spending resources behind hiring five companies use one Gulfstream model aircraft and each and managing an able team of professionals. Therefore in many company has its own set of flight crew sets, maintenance companies safety oversight could occur and quality of services engineers (if not outsourced), procurement and quality conto the aircraft owner is not always at the most desirable levels. trol and administration staff. An option for all the aircraft Therefore following are six reasons why outsourcing of airowners could be to outsource their aircraft to aircraft mancraft management could improve industry standards in India. agement company. The aircraft owners need not hire pilots, • Better regulatory oversight: In case an existing NSOP procurement, quality control and administration staff. With holding company, private owner or a new aircraft owner right contractual framework and KPIs (aircraft availability), chooses to outsource its aircraft operation to a professional the aircraft manager would be responsible for hiring qualiaircraft management company then all operational and
Photograph: SP Guide Pubns
to manage private aircraft can only benefit all stakeholders – DGCA, aircraft management companies, aviation professionals as well as the aircraft owners and following are my arguments. But first, I’ll cover some background.
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Business aviation
Aircraft management
they have industry defined operational, management and fied staff to support five similar type of airplanes and make documentation systems which assure that maintenance is the airplane available to the owner whenever she/he needs carried out at pre-defined intervals, airplane documentation to use it. In such cases, the number of flight crew could be status is up-to-date and quality of service provided is per optimised to service five airplanes, just like in an airline. expectation by aligning all service providers. Hence when The same set of quality and administration teams could serthe asset is transferred, the new owner or lessor is certain vice five airplanes instead of each team supporting just one. of the quality of documentation and asset quality when it Further, most aircraft management companies receive disis maintained by a firm which has reputation of providing counts on fuel, training, maintenance, and insurances which above par aircraft management service. leverage the volume of multiple clients and can be passed on to the clients. Finally, as aircraft management companies need to have CAMO organisation, the maintenance can Owner concerns and their mitigating actions be coordinated across its network of maintenance agencies • A concern that is put forward by one of the key stakeholdthereby leveraging availability of maintenance slots. ers is there may be few professional aircraft management The aircraft manager would be able to provide better fixed companies, their management fees may be disproportionate monthly pricing to the owner which would be lower than to the level of services provided. maintaining an exclusive team of its own. This is how the airHowever, this concern could be easily alleviated by the craft management companies provide efficiencies of scale and fact that aircraft management companies will compete with provide a resource light solution for the aircraft owners. each other for undertaking aircraft under their manage• Transfer of knowledge and best practices: Typically large ment. In fact, my argument is that the quality of services will aircraft managers operate similar fleet as well as various increase and pricing will decrease. This is because aircraft other types of aircraft. As a result, they come across several management companies will also earn some portion of the operational and maintenance issues, which increase their revenue from aircraft charters to third parties. knowledge base and experience of solving various types • Second concern is over the control of aircraft. Aircraft owners of problems. Say a firm notices a are often advised that once the aircraft particular technical or operational is managed by an aircraft manager the problem on a Cessna aircraft which owner loses control over the operation impacts dispatch reliability. The of the asset. This advice is not correct. Aircraft owners firm can take proactive actions such The account manager at the aircraft as storing a replacement part or takmanagement company is essentially should do a thorough ing specific troubleshooting actions someone who reports to the aircraft due diligence on the when they start seeing similar probowner and is responsible for making it lem on other similar model Cessna available whenever the owner needs it quality of aircraft aircraft in its managed fleet. Thus and ensuring coordination of operations management firms the knowledge transfers from one and maintenance when due. Further, before they hand airplane to the rest which currently the right contractual framework puts cannot happen in case of individual responsibility on the aircraft manager to over their asset to owner operators. deliver to the owner’s expectations. the firm. • Opportunity to charter: One of the key capabilities of aircraft manageNote of caution ment firms is that they are also air• In some cases Aircraft management craft charter brokers and are well firms are also aircraft sales consultants. networked within the air charter This could be disadvantageous to the aircommunity. Such firms can market the aircraft for third craft buyer as the firm may be biased in selling aircraft of the party charters when the aircraft owner is not using it. This type that it already manages. The key motivation would be creates revenue opportunity for aircraft owner and helps that when the aircraft is bought, the management firm would to cover some portion of the fixed costs such as insurance, get to operate it as it already operates the type in its managed pilot salaries (if the crew is on the owner’s payroll), finance fleet. Hence aircraft buyers should have an independent sales costs etc. consultant during the procurement process at least to vet the • Better maintenance of asset quality: An aircraft owner aircraft management company’s recommendations. expects that the aircraft be available to her/him whenever However, if the aircraft buyer is looking for an aircraft it is required, the in-flight service is top notch, the overpurely for functional use and is comfortable about the airhead costs are controlled and when the time comes to sell craft’s capacity, mission suitability, price and operating costs the asset or return it to the lessor, the asset resale value and is convinced about the value proposition of the aircraft is high or the deductions are minimal during lease return. manager, then this could be a suitable option for hassle-free Fulfilling these expectations mean that the asset should well operations. maintained, documents should be well updated and indus- • Aircraft owners should do a thorough due diligence on the try defined top standards are followed. quality of aircraft management firms before they trust and Some NSOP companies do a very good job of maintainhandover their expensive asset to the firm. Owners should ing their aviation assets to the highest quality. However, not check the operational history of the firm, qualifications and every NSOP company has the capability or the motivation to experience of the staff and quality of internal systems and prodo so, partly due to hesitation from the owner to dedicate cesses before deciding whether handing over the aircraft to resources and partly due to lack of experience of the team. the firm is the best option or to simply manage it by oneself. SP The core job of reputed professional aircraft managers is to meet the above expectations of aircraft owners. Thus Writer is Vice President – Sales at Arrow Aircraft
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Business Aviation Operations
HA-420 HondaJet light-weight twin-engine business jet will provide air connectivity for high end business executives
Ana BA division Takes Off On October 30 this year, the leading Japanese carrier All Nippon Airways (ANA), inaugurated its Business Aviation arm with the launch of a pair of business jets, the HA-420 HondaJet
Photographs: Honda Aircraft
By Air Marshal B.K. Pandey (Retd) All Nippon Airways (ANA), the international carrier of Japan, was founded in 1952 with just two helicopters. Today, it is the largest airline in Japan on the basis of fleet size, revenue and number of passengers carried. On October 30 this year, the leading Japanese carrier inaugurated its Business Aviation arm with the launch of a pair of business jets, the HA-420 HondaJet. Initially, this light-weight twin-engine business jet will provide air connectivity for high end business executives who are the privileged customers of ANA, to fly from Tokyo to Chicago O’Hare and Los Angeles International Airports in the United States (US). Before the end of the current year, the company
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plans to add another city in the US in the network. Also, ANA has plans to add a third HA-420 HondaJet in 2019 to expand the size of the fleet, albeit to a limited extent. Business Aviation Wing of ANA On March 28 this year, ANA and Honda Aircraft Company announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a strategic partnership to support the expansion of the business jet market around the world with the help of the HondaJet. ANA will introduce current business jet users and its commercial flight customers to the HondaJet by maximising the
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Business Aviation
Operations
By then, the platform had accumulated utilisation of the aircraft in its charter 2500 hours in test flying alone. The iniand feeder flights connecting them to the A business model tial plan to obtain FAA certification for existing broad network at major travel wherein a prosperous the HA-420 was by the end of 2010; hubs in North America and Europe. but the aircraft could be awarded only Honda Aircraft Company will support airline also takes a provisional certification in March working with global charter operators to up operation of 2015 and finally the type certification in provide exceptional coverage for ANA’s business jets to meet December 2015. This finally cleared the customers and establishing a framework way for delivery to customers. The Honfor ground support functions at a variety with specific travel daJet HA-420 received European Aviaof ANA’s transit locations. needs of its premier tion Safety Agency (EASA) certification The concept of the establishment in May 2016. Thereafter, the platform of a Business Jet wing by a well to do clientele, is one was certified by regulatory agencies of airline, was first adopted by the Middle with considerable other nations such as Mexico, Canada East carrier Qatar Airways. The plan potential and promise and Brazil. to set up a corporate jet subsidiary was first announced by Qatar Airways at the Air Show in Paris in 2009. This A Business Model That Holds new venture was brand named as Qatar Promise Executive and it commenced operations in June the same year. A business model wherein a prosperous airline with enormous Nearly nine years later, ANA has followed in the footsteps of resources at its command and large clientele from affluent secQatar Airways. tions of the society, apart from a large fleet of airliners, also takes up operation of business jets to meet with specific travel needs of its premier clientele, is one with considerable potential The HondaJet HA-420 The HondaJet HA-420 is the first aircraft developed by Honda and promise. Operation of business jets by private owners or Aircraft Company. This business jet was designed in Japan, but as air charters is fraught with difficulties. To begin with, priwas then developed and manufactured in Greensboro, North vate operators including air charter companies are generally Caroline in the US. It is a technologically advanced platform in ventures of small size with just a few business jets which leads its category and is the fastest, highest-flying, quietest and most to the very basic issue of poor economy of scale which in turn, fuel-efficient business jet in its class. This platform incorporates impinges on the financial viability of the venture. On the other several technological innovations in aviation design, including hand, operating an Air Charter Company as a subsidiary of an the unique Over-The-Wing Engine Mount (OTWEM) configura- large and well established airline, would significantly enhance tion that dramatically improves performance and fuel efficiency the market potential in the business aviation venture as the parby reducing aerodynamic drag. The aircraft is equipped with the ent airline will be able provide much stronger financial supmost sophisticated glass cockpit available in any light business jet, port. With much higher levels of resources at its command, the a Honda-customised Garmin G3000. This is the first commercial parent airline will be able to make much larger investments, aircraft designed by Honda Aircraft Company and lives up to the have larger fleets of business jets, provide easier and more efficompany’s reputation for superior performance, efficiency, quality cient marketing, will have access to wider clientele, can provide better maintenance supand value. port worldwide, encounter However, development fewer problems related to of this business jet has not infrastructure and will be been without its share of able to arrange for easier problems leading to inorand better ground handinate delays. The first dling for the business jets. proof-of-concept version The management of the which was not productionparent airline will also be ready, flew for the first in far better position to time on December 3, 2003, cope with regulatory chalin its factory location in the lenges across the globe. It US. Commercial developwill no longer be a case ment of the platform was of business aviation fendapproved in 2004 and the ing for itself and remain HondaJet made its global engaged in a perpetual debut on July 28, 2005, at struggle against a host of the air show at Oshkosh. challenges that confront The first HondaJet built small time and indepenin accordance with FAA dent air charter operators. specifications and rules, ANA has indeed undertook its maiden embarked upon a potenflight on December 20, tially rewarding business 2010. The first production model with the launch of model took to the air on its air charter subsidiary June 27, 2014 and was on operating the HondaJet display again at Oshkosh ANA HOLDINGS INC. President and CEO Shinya Katanozaka and Honda HA-420. SP the same year on July 28. Aircraft Company President and CEO Michimasa Fujino
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Military Naval Aviation versatile platform: Acquisition of P-8I (seen here during rimpac exercise), LRMR&ASW aircraft has substantially augmented the long range and endurance capability to remain on task for surveillance and reconnaissance missions
Force Multiplier Acquisition of P-8I, LRMR&ASW aircraft has substantially augmented the long range and long endurance capability to remain on task for surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
Photograph: Indian navy
By Rear Admiral Sushil Ramsay (Retd) Recognising the imperatives of a well-balanced and credible naval air arm’s significant role in building a true-blue water capability, Indian Navy’s Maritime Doctrine has rightly incorporated comprehensive modernisation plan for its Fleet Air Arm through a two-pronged approach. The mid-life upgrades and the process of modernisation of existing aircraft, and through the acquisition of state-of-the-art and versatile top-end technology-based aircraft and incumbent capabilities. The critical staff requirements for the acquisition of sophisticated platforms include; state of the art sensors, communications and weapons, advanced avionics, aero frames and aero engines. This strategy has realised rich dividends as is evident through big-ticket deal of acquiring P-8I, Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance & AntiSubmarine Warfare (LRMR&ASW) aircraft from Boeing through
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direst Foreign Military Sales from the USA. Post the initial order of eight aircraft Indian Navy has exercised the option clause and ordered four more P-8I, totalling to an inventory of 12. Acquisition of P-8I, LRMR&ASW aircraft has substantially augmented the long range and long endurance capability to remain on task for surveillance and reconnaissance missions. This versatile platform has emerged as real game changer and substantially contributed during operational deployments of Indian Navy fleet, be that own operational work-up, bi-lateral and multi-lateral exercises with foreign. During Humanitarian and Disaster Relief missions, P-8I has rendered yeoman service. Submarine deployments from hostile countries are most effectively tracked right from the time of entry in to Indian Ocean. P-8I has been deployed way beyond the conventional
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Naval Aviation
Photograph: US navy
reach and has earned accolades when deployed to operate from Indo-Pacific Fleet Headquarters, Australia, Japan, etc. Encouraged by the global response in offering the advanced technology that is unmatched in the Long-Range MR aircraft segment, a global RFI was floated for Medium Range Maritime Reconnaissance (MRMR) aircraft to replace the fleet of 10 Islanders. The Defence Acquisition Council of the Ministry of Defence has accepted the necessity for procuring nine MRMR aircraft for the Indian Navy. This project, however, appears to be in limbo. Carrier Borne Fighters Short Take-off But Arrested Recovery (STOBAR) scheme was approved both for the Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk is the sole contender for Indian Navy’s MRH requirement Indigenous Aircraft Carrier, IAC-1, Vikrant and the modCurrently, six aircraft are compatible, namely; Dassault’s ernised and refurbished INS Vikramaditya. Accordingly, MiG29K fighter aircraft was selected for the two carriers. The induc- Rafale, Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet, Russian MiG-29K, Locktion of MiG-29K, multi-role fighter aircraft with air combat, heed Martin F-35B and F-35C, and Gripen from Saab, Sweden. ground attack and maritime strike capabilities has proved to While F/A-18, Super Hornet, Rafale and MiG-29K are twin engine be a potent combatant for the Carrier Battle Group (CBG). The jets, the remaining three have single engine. Responses received aircraft with its air-to-air ‘Infra Red’ and ‘Beyond Visual Range’ to RFI are under an internal evaluation to arrive at the best option. missiles, guided and unguided bombs, anti-ship missiles, data- RFP is expected to be promulgated shortly. Those in the reckonlink capability, a credible EW suite and buddy tanking, makes ing could be Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet, Lockheed Martin’s it a versatile and potent fighter aircraft. MiG-29K has stabilised F-35 and the Dassault’s Rafale both possessing the naval versions as frontline fighter aircraft of Indian Navy and its operational which operate in the CATOBAR mode. Responses from the vendors have been comprehensive and are presently under examinaavailability has steadily improved. The 40,000-tonne IAC-1, Vikrant which is presently under tion. The aircraft selected would be such that changes required to construction at Cochin Shipyard Ltd. And expected to be the existing aircraft carriers to operate the aircraft, if any, would inducted by 2020, will deploy about 30 combat aircraft mix of be minimal. The RFP for 57 MRCBF is likely to be issued in 2019. MiG-29K and LCA (Navy) in Short Take-Off But Assisted Recovery (STOBAR) configuration. Considering the inordinate slip- Indigenous Aircraft Carrier – 2 pages in the development process and serious technical glitches The second Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC-2) expected to be relating to weight to power ratio, Indian Navy has ruled out LCA an electric propelled, 65,000 tons CATOBAR Carrier. At present, (Navy) for IAC-1, Vikrant. the case is being examined and deliberated in MoD with referConsequently, Indian Navy has begun a search for a Multi- ence to the overall financial implications of the Project vis-àRole Carrier Borne Fighters (MRCBF) for IAC-1 and its follow- vis Indian Navy’s long-term budget availability. After receiving on. The RFI for 57 MRCBF had elicited response from all leading the ‘Acceptance of Necessity’ (AoN), the design feasibility study global MRCBF manufacturers to answer queries on technical will be undertaken in-house for which the Navy will seek conparameters, budgetary estimates, likely sultancy from a reputed design house. level of indigenisation, transfer of techThe exact scope of work and timelines nology and schedule of deliveries after for execution of IAC-2 can only be done a contract is inked. RFI required details after AoN is received and design feasiwhether the aircraft is single or twinbility study is complete. seat (or available as both), and if it has IAC-2 is being designed to meet one or two engines; whether it can the requirements of Indian Navy in the perform STOBAR or Catapult Assisted challenging future strategic environTake-off But Arrested Recovery (CATOment. The carrier will provide critical BAR) operations, or both; whether the capabilities to the future naval force, aircraft is already in operational use or which would be central to Indian not; whether helmet-mounted displays Navy’s operational philosophy to secure and large-area displays are integrated national maritime interest in the future. and fitted; is auto-landing an option; and whether or not an Active ElectroniRotary Wing cally Scanned Array radar is fitted. The acquisition of Kamov 31 AEW
The Kamov 31 AEW helicopter from Russia has proved a versatile platform in the segment of airborne early warning to beef up surveillance at sea
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Military
Naval Aviation
Finally, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on August 26, 2018 has approved procurement of 24 MRH. Availability of MRH with the Navy would plug the existing capability gap which is the most critical need of Indian Navy. This contract when fructifies will be another direct Government-to-Government (G2G) deal, also known as Direct Foreign Military Sale (FMS) with the US and worth approximately $1.8 billion. MH60R helicopters are also designated as Seahawk multi-mission helicopters, capable of ASW and anti-surface warfare roles. Consequent to approval of the Government a “Letter of Request” was issued on November 15, 2018, to the US Government to acquire 24 Naval Inventory of Kamov Ka 31 AEW helicopter is being augmented gradually Multi-Role, MH-60 ‘Romeo’ Helicopters at a cost of `13,500 helicopter from Russia has proved a versatile platform in the crore (approximately $1.8 billion). The request for the helisegment of airborne early warning to beef up surveillance copters is made as an “Urgent Requirement”. The MH-60R, at sea. Encouraged by its established capability and perfor- Seahawk considered the world’s most advanced maritime helimance at sea, additional units of Kamov 31 helicopters are copter will be armed for the ASW and anti-surface warfare role being acquired. However, the rotary wing based capability is and will be duly fitted with missiles and torpedoes. The acquisition of 24 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters opens restricted by limited endurance of the platform at sea. What Indian Navy really requires is the intrinsic AEW capability new vistas for the Indian Navy’s long-term requirements for through fixed wing aircraft to meet the long term require- 123 Naval Multi-Role Helicopters (NMRH) and 111 twin-engine ments of power projection, dominating the littorals if and when armed Naval Utility Helicopters (NUH) programmes under the required, and to influence the land battle. Indian Navy does not ‘Make in India’ initiative and in partnership with the indigeseem to have a choice for an intrinsic carrier borne fixed wing nous Private Sector under Strategic Partnership Model. The response to RFIs for both projects has been very encourAEW aircraft. The Sea King 42B and Kamov 28 helicopters, in ASW and aging. Several OEMs have shown interest towards manufacturanti-ship strike roles and integral to ships have also aged and ing these helicopters in India. The NUH is the basic ship borne need to be replaced with Multi-Role Helicopters (MRH). The utility armed, twin-engine helicopter with relatively lesser procurement of adequate number of MRH is essential for the complexities, which are likely to be inducted in a phased manner commencing 2024. The NMRH is a complex platform with growth of Rotary Wing Fleet. More than a decade ago, the Indian Navy began the pro- sophisticated weapons and sensors. Therefore, the induction of cess of finding a suitable replacement for the Seaking helicop- NMRH may take one or two years more than the NUH. The most significant aspect of the Strategic Partters by floating a global tender for 16 nership is that it will facilitate the Indian helicopters with an option clause for industry in imbibing niche technoloanother eight, in 2008 for its warships gies in helicopter manufacturing which and for upgrading diminishing ASW would benefit the industry as well as the capabilities of her fleet. In the open The acquisition of 24 Indian Armed Forces in the long run. bidding process, the US firm Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk was selected in December 2014. Sikorhelicopters opens sky emerged as the sole successful bidConclusion der, after the Italian firm FinmeccaThe coming decades certainly hold enornew vistas for Indian nica (now Leonardo) was ruled out of mous promise for substantial growth Navy’s long-term the competition due to the allegations and empowerment of the Indian Navy’s of scam in VIP helicopters deal by the requirements for Fleet Air Arm. With the kind of capabiliGovernment of India. Seahawk S-70B ties on the anvil, it would emerge as a 123 Naval Multiwas selected for its advanced ASW and credible force to tackle multi-dimenRole Helicopters anti-surface warfare capabilities to sional challenges of the future and play take on the underwater and over the its part in making Indian Navy, a truly and 111 twin-engine surface threats. However, MoD foreBlue Water Navy with extended reach armed Naval Utility closed the procurement of 16 S-70B and prowess to meet strategic tasks Seahawk helicopters from Sikorsky for in consonance with national maritime Helicopters various reasons. security imperatives. SP
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ISSUE 11 • 2018
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Military Coastal Surveillance
to be upgraded soon: Indian navy’s Dornier mapping the sea
Modernisation of Aviation Wing Whilst the recast 11th development plan on a 15 years long perspective was fast tracked for approval of the Government, the consequential acquisition and procurement processes have been quite tardy which may be detrimental to the envisaged capability build plan for the nation’s coastal security.
Photograph: Indian Navy
By Rear Admiral Sushil Ramsay (Retd) The operational preparedness and coastal security mechanism of the Indian Coast Guard was reviewed by Defence Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman on November 17, 2018. While doing so, the Defence Minister stressed on its modernisation by 2022 through the Definitive Action Programme of the Ministry of Defence which envisaged acquisition of 43 ships, 20 aircraft and other facilities. The Review Meeting of the Defence Ministry’s Consultative Committee was attended by Minister of State for Defence, Dr Subhash Bhamre, MPs from Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, Indian Coast Guard Director General Rajendra Singh along with senior officials of MoD.
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Defence Minister Sitharaman reiterated that the Indian Coast Guard continues to discharge a silent but invaluable service to the nation and she lauded the efforts of all personnel of Coast Guard for its multiple successful search and rescue missions, humanitarian aid, assistance to fishermen and increased surveillance capability. Historical Perspective The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is the principal agency for enforcement of provisions of all national enactment in force in the Maritime Zones of India (MZI) and provides following ser-
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Military
Coastal Surveillance
Photograph: PIB
replacement awaited?: chetak helicopter single engine helicopter
vices to the nation and marine community: • Ensuring safety and protection of the artificial islands, offshore installations and other structures in India’s maritime zones. • Providing protection to fishermen and assistance to them at sea while in distress. • Preservation and protection of maritime environment including prevention and control of maritime pollution. • Assistance to the Department of Customs and other authorities in anti-smuggling operations. • Enforcement of MZI Acts. • Initiating measures for the safety of life and property at sea. The need for a full-fledged Air Wing for Indian Coast Guard (ICG) was felt right from the time of its inception. The first ICG aviation unit to be commissioned was 800 SQN on May 22, 1982, with two Chetak helicopters at Goa. The first fixed wing squadron of Indian Coast Guard was commissioned with two Fokker Friendship (F-27) aircraft on July 30, 1983. These aircraft were taken on dry-lease from Indian Airlines. These aircraft did a yeomen service to ICG through their tireless operations from Dum Dum Airport in maritime surveillance and search and rescue roles covering the entire Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The first planned induction included 12 fixed wing aircraft for coastal surveillance and six single engine helicopters to support ships at sea. The first Dornier squadron was commissioned as 750 Squadron (ICG) at Daman in January 1987. The first full-fledged Air Station was commissioned at Daman on October 29, 1987. Since then the following air squadrons/flights have been inducted into the service and are located as shown in the box. The primary role of these squadrons includes search and rescue and embarkation on board helicopter operating ships to
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undertake the following missions: • Logistics and operational cover for the ICG ships at sea. • Pollution response. • Casualty evacuation. • VIP commitments. • Reconnaissance and shadow. • Security patrol of offshore installations/oil rigs. Modernisation of ICG – Aviation Wing The present force levels of the Aviation Wing of ICG comprises 39 Dornier, Do-228 coastal surveillance aircraft, four twinengine Dhruv Advanced Light helicopters and 19 Chetak singleengine helicopters. As per its assessed requirement in 2007-08, ICG had projected a requirement of 154 ships and 93 boats. Since the formation of Aviation Wing in May 1982 and nearly two decades later, in a comprehensive Long-Term Perspective Plan 2002-12, the Coast Guard envisioned its aviation assets to be enhanced to 100 aircraft. Post Mumbai 26/11 and in a major revamp of the country’s coastal surveillance and security apparatus, ICG had projected a force-level of 268 vessels, including 173 small patrol craft, 113 aircraft, 18 Nishant unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and aerostat and Over the Horizon (OTH) radars by 2017. The aviation component of the projected force levels comprised; 60 helicopters, 35 Dornier, Do-228 aircraft for coastal surveillance, an increase in the inventory then existing of 24 aircraft and 11 Medium Range, Maritime Reconnaissance (MRMR) aircraft. The plan also encompassed commensurate increase in the manpower strength to man the augmented aviation assets of ICG. As a short-term measure, Cabinet Committee on Security on February 26, 2010 accorded sanction for the acquisition of 60 surface platforms and 42 aircraft which was to be processed
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Military
Coastal Surveillance
Photograph: PIB
INDIAN Coast Guard’s Dornier Aircraft in action
with stringent timelines. However, as long-term measure, the 11th development plan for 2007-12 was recast on a 15-year perspective spanning from 2007-2022. The approved modernisation plans for ICG Aviation, broadly included 42 aircraft, prominent among them being six MRMR aircraft. The ICG version of MRMR aircraft being Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft (MMA). In response to RFP for six MMA only two leading aircraft manufacturers, the Russian Irkut’s Beriev Be-200 and the American Bombardier Q400, whose bids were conforming to the RFP, were shortlisted for trials. However, both aircraft failed to qualify the stringent field evaluation tests. Considering the strategic importance of MMA, ICG is pursuing MoD for expeditious issue of fresh RFP for six MMA. RFP for eight helicopters for coastal surveillance and search and rescue (SAR), two each to be based at Chennai, Kochi, Daman and Port Blair were issued. The tender envisaged initial lease period of two years, extendable to two more years. Initially, RFP was issued to four major helicopter manufacturers, i.e. French Eurocopter, British-Italian Agusta Westland and two American Companies Kaman and Sikorsky. However, towards the end 2009 the same was cancelled for technical reasons. To elicit response from a larger segment of helicopter manufacturers and the operators, both of Indian and foreign origins, a fresh RFP was issued in early 2011 to as many as 16 vendors. In response, only Sikorsky and Agusta Westland responded to the tender. While the present status of the dry-lease programme is not known, however, it is understood that there is no headway being made. In addition, a $200 million RFP for 16 twin-engine light helicopters to be deployed on ICG ships to augment aerial patrol and surveillance, as also the SAR capabilities has been approved by the MoD. The RFP was issued to four leading helicopter manufacturing companies, namely Eurocopter, Agusta Westland, Sikorsky and the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL). Since none of the vendors qualified during the technical evaluation, fresh RFI has been issued. Considering the urgent requirement for ship borne flights this programme deserves to be fast-tracked. Further, there are reports to suggest that RFP for procurement of additional 14 twin-engine shore-based helicopters for ICG is at final stage for approval by the Government.
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The modernisation plan for ICG Aviation is an integral part of the major revamp of coastal security apparatus prompted by the events of Mumbai 26/11. Whilst the recast 11th development plan on a 15 years long term perspective was fast tracked for approval of the Government, the consequential acquisition and procurement processes have been quite tardy which may be detrimental to envisaged capability build plan for the nation’s coastal security. Source: SP’s MAI, Issue No. 14; July 16-31, 2012 - Indian Coast Guard – Aviation. Present Status The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), recently chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has accorded approval for the Mid Life Upgrade of 17 Dornier Aircraft of ICG at an approximate cost of `950 crore. The upgrades will be carried out by HAL. In order to enhance the capabilities of the fixed wing surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft, DAC has accorded approval for upgradation of Dornier Do-228 with the state-ofthe-art technology, spares, Special Maintenance Tools (SMT) and Special Test Equipment (STE). The DAC also approved equipping of three aircraft with Pollution Surveillance Systems. A decade after the Mumbai 26/11 terror strikes, the Coast Guard’s long-delayed modernisation plans are finally beginning to take wings. ICG plans to augment its force levels to a 190-ship and 100-aircraft by 2023. To take the modernisation plans forward ICG has projected an outlay of `2.09 lakh crore spread over the next 15 years. However pragmatic or ambitious the perspectives might appear, it remains to be seen what ICG eventually gets through the 2017-2022 – Long-term Perspective Plan! It may be a mute question since over the years the annual defence budget has witnessed either no growth or has increased very marginally. MoD last year has approved a `36,068 crore “Definitive Action Programme (2017-2022)” for the Coast Guard to bolster its all-round capabilities to undertake coastal security, EEZ surveillance, anti-piracy, anti-smuggling, oil-spill and pollutioncontrol operations. It is hoped that the honoured commitments will be kept, ensuring that the committed programmes will be efficiently executed. SP
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MARKETING
FEATURE
Rosoboronexport breaks historic records On November 4, 2018, Rosoboronexport, which is part of the Rostec State Corporation, celebrates the 18th anniversary of its founding. The Company was established in 2000 by decree of the President of the Russian Federation. “For 18 years, Rosoboronexport has become a world leader in the supply of weapons and military equipment and reached record levels. Today, Russia assuredly ranks second in the world in terms of the scope of military-technical cooperation. The Company’s order book stands well above $50 billion, while the total value of deliveries has exceeded $150 billion over the years. We continuously improve and offer foreign customers more and more new models of military equipment, often the best in the world in performance and competitive in terms of price and quality. More than 200 Rosoboronexport employees have been awarded state and departmental awards for their great contribution to the development of military-technical cooperation with foreign countries,” said Rostec’s Director General Sergey Chemezov. In 2018, the Company was actively engaged in efforts to promote and exhibit their products. Rosoboronexport took part in 16 international exhibitions and forums, and 6 are yet to come before the end of the year. The Eurasian Air Show in Antalya, Turkey, the International Far Eastern Maritime Show in Vladivostok and ADAS 2018 in the Philippines were debut exhibitions for the Company. Rosoboronexport is expected to participate in yet another new exhibition, EDEX 2018 in Egypt, to be held late this year. “Despite unprecedented competition, Rosoboronexport continues to strengthen its position in the global market. Just recently, we signed the biggest-ever contract in company history to supply India with the S-400 Triumph anti-aircraft missile systems. In 2018, we delivered weapons and military equipment to more than 40 countries of the world. At the same time, over 1,100 contract documents worth about $19 billion were signed, almost a quarter more in the whole last year. That statistics suggest that the quality of Russian weapons and their proven performance are a determining factor for our partners,” said Rosoboronexport’s Director General Alexander Mikheev. Rosoboronexport has expanded its catalog of military prod-
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Il-76MD-90A(E) military transport aircraft
Il-78MK-90A tanker aircraft
ucts over the year and is actively promoting a number of new pieces of military hardware on the world arms market, including the Buk-M3 Viking and Tor-E2 SAM systems, the SprutSDM1 light amphibious tank, the ships Karakurt and Sarsar, Il-78MK-90A tanker aircraft, and Il-76MD-90A(E) military transport aircraft. SP
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hall of fame
Dutch Kindelberger (1895-1962) After the War, Dutch Kindelberger turned to aircraft design. In 1925, he joined the Douglas Aircraft Company and within three years, became Vice President of Engineering In 1940, with World War II in full swing, the British approached North American Aviation (NAA) for some urgently needed fighter aircraft for the Royal Air Force (RAF). NAA President James Kindelberger offered to make them a new design. The British agreed on condition it would be ready in four months. Kindelberger’s team went to work and built the revolutionary P-51 Mustang (minus the engine) in just 117 days. The aircraft was an immediate success, outperforming even the legendary Spitfire. It went on to become the most successful piston-engine fighter in history with over 42,000 aircraft built. James “Dutch” Kindelberger was born on May 8, 1895, in Wheeling, West Virginia. His lifelong nickname referred to his descent from German (Deutsch) immigrants. And he certainly imbibed the German values of honest hard work, orderliness and punctuality. He was also a go-getter and an extrovert. At age 16, he dropped out of high school and took up a job as a steel mill apprentice, but soon realised the work was not for him. So he did a two-year correspondence course and joined the US Army as a civilian draftsman. When he witnessed a spectacular air show in 1913, he was hit by aviation fever. However, it was not until 1917 that he entered the Aviation Section of the Signal Corps. During World War I, he served as a pilot instructor. After the War, Dutch Kindelberger turned to aircraft design. In 1925, he joined the Douglas Aircraft Company and within three years, became Vice President of Engineering. This was one of his most creative periods and he designed scores of aircraft for military and civilian use. The most noteworthy was the Douglas DC-3, a propeller-driven airliner, which revolutionised air transport in the 1930s and 1940s. More than 16,000 DC-3s were built for military and civilian users, including the Indian Air Force (IAF) till 1987. Douglas was also where Kindelberger formed a lifelong association with JL “Lee” Atwood. The two spotted an emerging winner in NAA and joined the company in 1934, with Kindelberger being named as President and General Manager and Atwood as Chief Engineer. Over the next 30 years, they turned NAA (now part of Boeing) into the most successful aircraft company of the mid-20th century. NAA built more military aircraft than any other manufacturer in American history. Among the more notable aircraft developed under Kindelberger’s direction were the B-25 Mitchell II, the T-6G Texan and the P-51 Mustang.
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The B-25 Mitchell II, a twin-engine medium bomber, was the first bomber used in all World War II combat theatres. It became famous in the Doolittle Raid. On the April 18, 1942, four months after the bombing of Pearl Harbour, 16 B-25Bs led by Lieutenant Colonel Jimmy Doolittle, struck Japan, driving home to the Japanese the vulnerability of their homeland to aerial attack. The T-6G Texan, a single-engine aircraft (called Harvard by the RAF), was the most famous Allied trainer of the war. Over 15,000 were built and it became one of the most widely-used trainers ever, operated by many of the world’s air forces, including the IAF, till 1975. Strangely enough, the P-51 Mustang was originally ignored by the Americans. It wasn’t until 1942 that the USAAF ordered 310 P-51As and 300 ground attack/bomber A-36A Mustangs. Much later the sordid reason for the delay emerged – Dutch Kindelberger had refused to pay the kickbacks requested by some officials in return for the lucrative contract. Once the Mustang’s potential was realised, the Americans strove to make up for lost time. And with 14,819 Mustangs of all variants built for the US Air Force (USAF), the Mustang eventually sealed American aerial dominance in the War. The most popular P-51D, of which almost 8,000 were produced, was powered by a single Rolls-Royce V-1650 Merlin engine that gave it a top speed of 708 kmph at 25,000 ft. It carried six .50 calibre machine guns with a total of 1,880 rounds. After the war, military aircraft manufacturers worldwide saw their order books decimated and North American was no exception. But under Kindelberger’s guidance, it emerged from the doldrums fairly soon. NAA played a major role in the emerging US Space Programme, even as it continued to build new fighters such as the F-86 Sabre and the F-100 Super Sabre. Dutch Kindelberger retired from North American Aviation in 1960 and died on July 27, 1962, in California. Lee Atwood who took over as NAA’s Chief Executive said of him: “From the first moment that I met Dutch, I knew that he was destined for even greater things in aviation. We who worked with Dutch learned to have high regard for his quickness in detecting important, though minute, details that always seemed to be the determining factor between success and failure. When you are in the air – that is all important!” SP — Joseph Noronha
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MILITARY ASIA PACIFIC
structive bilateral discussions with the Defence Ministers of several countries present.
RAKSHA MANTRI ATTENDS ADMM AT SINGAPORE
DEVELOPMENT TRIALS OF ASTRA BVR-AAM
Raksha Mantri Nirmala Sitharaman attended the 5th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus (ADMM) Plus meet in Singapore on October 20, 2018 which is a forum for Defence Ministers from ten ASEAN and eight ASEAN Plus countries and the highest defence consultative and cooperative mechanism in ASEAN. The theme of this year’s dialogue was ‘Strengthening Cooperation, Building Resilience’. The dialogue adopted two resolutions on ‘Countering the Threat of Terrorism’ and ‘Practical Confidence Building Measures’. She addressed the meeting, excerpts of which are given below. Terrorism. Emphasised India’s concern on the grave challenges to international peace and stability due to the threat of terrorism. She also highlighted that the continued presence of terrorist infrastructure and support to terrorists in the immediate neighbourhood constantly tested India’s patience. Indo-Pacific. Reiterated India’s view on Indo-Pacific, as an open, balanced region, connected by open and secure seas, integrated by balanced trade and shaped by a rules-based order, anchored in ASEAN centrality and conveyed India’s commitment to maintain a sustained focus of its ‘Act East’ policy in terms of economic, cultural and developmental engagement of the region. ADMM as a platform. Complimenting the ADMM Plus for emerging as a credible and effective platform forging practical cooperation among the members of the armed forces, Raksha Mantri informed the partners of India’s active participation in all the ADMM Plus mechanism contributing effectively to their success. International Order. Emphasised India’s commitment to a rules-based international order that was inclusive and democratic. On the side-lines of the ADMM Plus meeting, Raksha Mantri also held con-
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A series of flight trials of Astra Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) was conducted successfully by the Indian Air Force (IAF) from September 26 to October 3, 2018 at Integrated Test Range, Balasore. The trials were a combination of complex tests for engagement of pilotless target in different modes of manoeuvring, off-boresight at medium and long ranges. Astra has been tested six times under different launch conditions and ranges as part of the final development trial. With IAF’s active participation, DRDO has developed the missile and integrated the weapon on Su-30 and other air platforms. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Nasik has been instrumental in the modification of a number of Su-30 aircraft for Astra weapon integration and support during the trials. More than 50 private and public sector companies are involved in the development and production of different sub-systems of the missile. The missile is expected to be inducted into the IAF in 2019. Raksha Mantri Nirmala Sitharaman congratulated DRDO, IAF, HAL and associated industries for successful trials.
MEHAR BABA PRIZE FOR BUILDING A SWARM OF 50 DRONES
The IAF has announced the Mehar Baba Prize – India’s very first competition in the defence sector which intends to select and shepherd participants from conceptualisation to production. The competition’s prize is named in the honour of Late Air Commodore Mehar Singh, DSO MVC, affectionately called Mehar Baba. Commissioned as a Pilot Officer in 1936 at the Royal Air Force College, Cranwell, UK, he was posted to the sole squadron in the Royal Indian Air Force – No. 1 Squadron, then based in the North West Frontier. Post independence, Mehar Baba was the first to land in Srinagar, was the first to land in Poonch in Kashmir, and later the first to land in Leh, Ladakh and Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) – the then highest altitude airstrip in the world. The competition urges individuals, start-ups and other “for profit” entities to compete to build a swarm of 50 drones to lead Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief operations. The winners (up to three) will get up to `10 lakh in prize followed by development fund of up to `10 crore followed by a co-production opportunity with a Base Repair Depot towards a Rs
QuickRoundUp
Aeromarine Intelligent Equipment Company
A new HK-5000G UAV with folding wings and the potential to be deployed on China’s third aircraft carrier, made its debut at Airshow China 2018 in Zhuhai. It was on display at the booth of the Aeromarine Intelligent Equipment Company, a subsidiary of the China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation.
Airbus
The first Airbus A330-800 development aircraft to fly, MSN1888, landed at Toulouse-Blagnac, France after successfully completing its first flight which lasted for four hours and four minutes. The aircraft, the second member of the A330neo Family, is powered by the latest technology Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 turbofans.
Australia
Australia’s Minister for Defence, Christopher Pyne and Minister for Defence Industry, Steven Ciobo, have announced the selection of the General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper variant as the system which best meets the capability requirements for Australia’s first armed remotely piloted aircraft system.
Bahrain and Bell Helicopter
At the Bahrain International Airshow, Bahrain and Bell Helicopter finalised a contract to acquire a dozen AH-1Z attack helicopters. Manama was first approved for the sale of the helicopters in April 2018, when the US State Department announced it had approved the potential sale of a dozen AH-1Zs to Bahrain at an estimated cost of $911.4 million.
CAAA
The Chinese Academy of Aerospace and Aerodynamics (CAAA) under the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp (CASC) has unfurled the CH-10 tilt-rotor UAV. The CH10 is a new unmanned aerial vehicle integrating helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft technology, according to a statement sent exclusively to the Global Times on October 31.
Eurofighter
A Royal Air Force Typhoon has received special markings to mark the global fleet of Eurofighter aircraft passing the 500,000 flying hours mark underscoring the fact that today, the Eurofighter Typhoon is the backbone of NATO’s European air defence.
GE Aviation
General Electric Aviation, Ohio, has been awarded a $273,509,940 firm-fixed-price requirements type contract for Service Life Extension Programme conversion kits to upgrade Egyptian Air Force F-16, F110-GE-100 engines. Work is expected to be completed by October 30, 2023.
Iran
Iran’s state television has said that Iran has begun the
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QuickRoundUp
mass production of a locally designed fighter jet. Iran unveiled its Kowsar fighter jet in August 2018. Iran already has both US-made jet fighters and Russian-made Sukhoi aircraft in service. Defence Minister Amir Hatami said the production line highlights the capabilities of Iranian experts despite “sanctions by enemies.”
Israel Aerospace Industries
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) now offer a next-generation version of its Drone Guard counter-UAV system. Drone guard is able to detect, track and disrupt hostile UAVs. Developed by IAI subsidiary Elta, the Drone Guard consists of 3-Dimensional (3D) radars and Electro-Optical (EO) sensors for detection and identification as well as dedicated Electronic Attack (EA) jamming systems for disrupting drone flights.
Korea Aerospace Industries
Six new T-50IQs advanced trainers were handed over to Iraq on October 28, 2018. This is the third batch of aircraft that are being procured under a $1.1 billion deal signed in 2013 for 24 T-50 Golden Eagle fighter jets from South Korean aerospace firm KAI. Since then, 18 aircraft have been added to Iraq’s fleet, with the first batch delivered in March 2017 and the second delivery earlier this year. Indonesia has signed a contract with South Korea’s Korea Aerospace Industries worth $89.4 million on November 8, 2018 at the Indonesia Defence 2018 Expo. The contract involves the sale of three KT-1B Woongbi aircraft used in the basic trainer role by the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU), as well as upgrade work on the existing TNI-AU stock of T-50i Golden Eagle trainers.
Lockheed Martin
The US Air Force has ordered 50 long range anti-ship missiles (LRASMs) from Lockheed Martin. The Lot 2 production effort is priced at $172 million. The LRSAM programme was launched in 2009 with the goal to develop a new generation of anti-ship weapons, offering longer ranges and better odds against improving air defence systems.
MBDA
MBDA is currently developing a new version of its proven Marte platform. The Marte ER (extended range) is the third generation of the missile system that arms NFH90 and AW101 helicopters flown by the Italian Army. During a recently conducted exercise, the missile flew for about 96 km on a pre-planned trajectory that included the passing of several waypoints and a seaskimming flight.
Pratt & Whitney Canada
Pratt & Whitney Canada, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corporation, has announced that it has recently
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100 crore order for induction of their developed drone swarms into the IAF.
INDIAN GOVERNMENT’S CLAIM ON THE RAFALE DEAL
The government is understood to have told Supreme Court that the present Rafale deal is better in terms of “pricing, delivery and maintenance” than the contract UPA was negotiating and which floundered due to the French company and HAL failing to agree on costs as they could not resolve differences over man hours and therefore costs for production under licence of 108 of 126 fighters. The government has said that efforts to revive negotiations under the terms that were being discussed proved a non-starter and a decision was taken to recast the deal, keeping in mind the depletion of India’s fighter fleet as adversaries added aircraft, missile systems and radars to their war-fighting capacities, via the Inter-Governmental Agreement route.
CHINA BUILDING STRONGER AIR FORCE
The Chinese Air Force on November 11, 2018, announced a roadmap for building a stronger modern air force in three steps. Lieutenant General Xu Anxiang, Deputy Commander of Chinese Air Force, said at a press conference on celebrating the 69th anniversary of the establishment of Chinese Air Force that the building of a stronger modern air force is in line with the overall goal of building national defence and the armed forces. He gave out the Road Map in three steps as follows: Step One. By 2020, build a strategic force that integrates aviation and space power, strike and defence capabilities, in which the fourth generation of equipment serves as backbone and the third generation of equipment as the mainstay. Step Two. Requires the air force to Improve the strategic capabilities and modernise its theory, organisational structure, service personnel and weaponry. The building of a modern and strategic air force will be completed by 2035. Step Three. This step will see the air force fully transformed into a world-class force by mid-21st century.
Show Calendar 28–30 November Japan Aerospace Tokyo Tokyo Big Sight (Tokyo International Exhibition Centre), Japan www.japanaerospace.jp/en/outline.html 3–5 December EDEX 2018 Egypt International Exhibition Center, Cairo Governorate, Egypt www.egyptdefenceexpo.com 10–12 December MEBAA Show DWC, Airshow Site, Dubai www.mebaa.aero 12–14 February, 2019 CAPA India Aviation Summit Roseate House, Hospitality District, Aerocity, New Delhi, India https://inas19.capaevents.com 26–30 March, 2019 LIMA 2019 MIEC, Langkawi The Resorts World, Langkawi, Malaysia www.limaexhibition.com
spectators by performing numerous dazzling manoeuvers during their 15-minute performance in Zhuhai, South China’s Guangdong Province. The J-20 was first shown in public at the Airshow China in 2016, but only two of them appeared for less than a minute. A J-10B demonstrator fighter aircraft powered by a Chinamade thrust-vectoring WS-10 Taihang engine, also produced a collective “wow” from the air show audience. It made a series of impressive manoeuvers, including Pugachev’s Cobra, a dramatic and demanding manoeuver for which it uses engine thrust to maintain a near constant altitude throughout the entire move. The J-10B is the world’s first single-engine canard wing fighter jet to perform the Pugachev’s Cobra manoeuver.
AMERICAS THE B-21 RAIDER – NEXT-GENERATION STEALTH BOMBER OF THE US
J-20, J10-B JETS DAZZLE SPECTATORS AT CHINA AIRSHOW
A pair of Chinese fighter jets - the J-20 stealth fighter and a thrust-vectoring J10B demonstrator aircraft, put on an impressive demonstration at Airshow China 2018 on November 6, 2018 confirming that the country’s military aviation technology is advancing at a greatly accelerated pace. Three People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force J-20 jets wowed 20,000
The US Air Force’s next-generation stealth bomber B-21 Raider previously
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appointments
AIRBUS
Airbus SE has appointed Michael Schöllhorn, 53, as Chief Operating Officer (COO) for Airbus Commercial Aircraft, effective February 1, 2019. Airbus SE has also appointed Dominik Asam, 49, to succeed Harald Wilhelm, 52, as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) effective April 1, 2019.
AIR HEADQUARTERS
Air Marshal MSG Menon VSM took over as Director General (Wks & Cer) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) with effect from November 1, 2018. Air Marshal Pradeep Padmakar Bapat VSM took over as Air Officer-in Charge Administration (AOA) of the IAF on November 1, 2018.
referred to as the Long-Range Strike Bomber or LRS-B, is expected to be delivered in the mid-2020s. They will be based at Tinker Air Base in Oklahoma and at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The air bases will be responsible to coordinate all maintenance and sustainment efforts of the new aircraft, which includes leading testing and evaluation efforts. This decision comes as the Northrop Grummanmade B-21 is expected to enter its critical design review milestone next month. The US Air Force plans to buy a total of 100 Raiders as replacement of its fleet of B-2s and B-1Bs, which are expected to be retired by 2040.
EUROPE F3-R-STANDARD VARIANT OF THE RAFALE
France’s Defence Procurement Agency, DGA, has accepted the F3-R-standard variant of the Rafale combat aircraft. The F-3R standard was launched in 2013 and features a range of software enhancements that allow for the integration of the Meteor BVRAAM and SBU-64 smart bombs. The enhancements also improve the jet’s Spectra self-defence system provided by Thales and give it a new Friendor-Foe interrogator/transponder with full Mode-5/Mode-S-compatibility. Diagnostic improvements will make maintenance easier and more cost-effective. Dassault will shortly begin development of the F4standard Rafale, having completed initial feasibility studies for the programme
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QuickRoundUp
DASSAULT AIRCRAFT SERVICES
Dassault Aircraft Services has appointed Mitch Dishman as the new General Manager of Dassault Aircraft Services, Wilmington.
collins aerospace (ROCKWELL COLLINS)
On October 30, 2018, the company, announced the appointment of Dave Nieuwsma as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the company’s Interior Systems business based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. LeAnn Ridgeway has been named Vice President and General Manager of Information Management Services, based in Annapolis, Maryland.
FRANCE’S DIRECTORATE GENERAL OF ARMAMENT (DGA) QUALIFIES THE RAFALE F3-R
started delivering PW127G engines to Airbus Defence and Space in support of Canada’s Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue Aircraft Replacement Project. The engines will be installed on specially configured Airbus C295 aircraft, which will be designated the CC-295 in Canada.
Republic of Korea Air Force
The Republic of Korea Air Force is currently inducting its first of four Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft. The aircraft is stationed at Gimhae Air Base in Busan where it is undergoing acceptance trials. The A330200 MRTT is a derivative of the Airbus A330.
Saab
Saab confirms that its Gripen E fighter jet successfully fired a Meteor Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) for the first time. MBDA’s Meteor missile was conceived as a longer-range competitor to popular weapons like the Russian R77/AA-12 and American AIM-120 AMRAAM. Its ramjet propulsion offers the missile a head-on closing range of 120 km and full powered performance at Mach 4+ throughout its flight.
Sierra Nevada
Sierra Nevada Corporation, Maryland, has been awarded a $23,813,528 definitization modification to earlier contract for the Saudi King Air 350 programme. This contract provides for the modification of two King Air 350 extended range aircraft with intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance/synthetic aperture radar capability and work is expected to be completed by May 2020. The French DGA has approved the Rafale’s new F3-R standard, in accordance with the objectives set out in the contract awarded in early 2014 to Dassault Aviation, Thales, MBDA and Safran. A major milestone had already been reached in October 2019 with the launch of the F3-R upgrade projects for all 144 Rafale aircraft currently in service. The first ten Rafale F3-R aircraft, four of which will be delivered before the end of the year, will be used by the French Air Force and the French Navy to perfect their operational implementation, already initiated alongside the test teams of the DGA. In particular, two new capabilities i.e. the combination of the new Meteor very long-range air-to-air missile and the active-antenna RBE2 electronic scanning radar and the new generation TALIOS pod enhances its capabilities in the field of target detection, recognition and identification by day and night for high-precision air-to-ground strikes have been a game changer.
UAC
Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation and the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China Ltd started full-scale development of the CR-929 wide-body jet programme last year for which General Electric and RollsRoyce are the two finalists to supply engines in the interim period till they switch over Sino-Russian engine.
US
Over the last fiscal year, US’ authorised arms exports rose by a total of 13 per cent to $192.3 billion, adding thousands of jobs to the US economy and sustaining many thousands more. These increases have coincided with the process of comprehensive reform and modernisation of the arms transfer process.
Vietjet
Vietnamese carrier Vietjet has placed a firm order with Airbus for an additional 50 A-321neo single-aisle aircraft, finalising an MOU signed at the Farnborough International Airshow during last July. The purchase agreement was signed in Hanoi on November 2, 2018 by Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, Vietjet President and CEO and Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer.
ISSUE 11 • 2018
31
LAST word
Eye in the Sky “Needed”
Illustration: Anoop Kamath
The huge deficiency in the AWACS fleet of the IAF is worrisome as both Pakistan and China are in the process of expanding their fleets of these aerial platforms. The issue of the rapidly dwindling strength of the fleet of combat aircraft in the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the impediments that the service has been confronted with since the beginning of the last decade in its effort to induct modern fourth-generation platforms to restore its operational edge over its adversaries, has been a subject often debated in public domain. But what is not so well known is the deficiency in the IAF in the domain of Force Multipliers that can have an equally debilitating effect on the operational capability of the IAF. Of particular concern is the shortage of Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft that can enhance both offensive and defensive capabilities of combat aircraft on operational missions through early warning followed by extremely accurate guidance and control. The AWACS aircraft is a vital component of the Integrated Air Command and Control System which is a fully-automated air defence network with data links to integrate the wide array of military radars into the system as well as with civilian radars to plug surveillance gaps in Indian airspace. As against an estimated requirement of a minimum of 18 AWACS platforms to cater for operations on both Western and Northern fronts simultaneously, the IAF currently has only three on its inventory. These are basically IL-76 aircraft from Russia fitted with Israel-built Phalcon radar system. Three of these platforms were acquired in the period 2009 to 2011 through a $1.1 billion deal. Efforts to augment this fleet with two additional platforms of the same make, did not fructify as there was a steep escalation in cost to nearly double that was paid for the first lot of three aircraft. In search of an alternative, an AWACS version based on the Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft that was identified by the IAF as the appropriate platform through a global tender, was not approved by the Ministry of Defence in two consecutive tenders, both for reasons of exorbitant cost. The IAF is now looking at the KC-46, an aerial tanker from Boeing. Based on the Boeing 767 airliner platform, the KC-46 aerial tanker is currently under development. Smaller in size compared with the Airbus A330 MRTT and with lower payload capacity, this platform is expected to be available at considerably lower cost. In the meantime the Indian aerospace industry has delivered two Embraer ERJ 145-based Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft called Netra. These platforms have
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ISSUE 11 • 2018
By air marshal b.K. PANDEY (Retd)
much lower level of capability when compared to the AWACS aircraft and can only augment and not serve as their replacement. In a media interview on November 11 this year, Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa, Chief of the Air Staff clearly admitted that “There is cause for concern over the rate of modernisation and induction of new equipment in India’s neighbourhood”. Implicit in his statement is the need for the IAF close the existing gaps including in the domain of Force Multipliers through the enhancement of its AWACS fleet. The huge deficiency in the AWACS fleet is particularly worrisome as both Pakistan and China are in the process of expanding their fleets of these aerial platforms. China already has four of the indigenously developed KJ-2000 AWACS based on the Russian IL-76 aircraft. China has 26 indigenously developed platforms such as the KJ-200 and KJ-500 Airborne Early Warning systems based on Y-8 and Y-9 transport aircraft airframes respectively. It is reported that 11 of the former and 15 of the latter are already in service. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) on the other hand has eight Chinese Karakoram Eagle ZDK-03 AWACS and Swedish Saab 2000 AEW&C aircraft. It is also on course to get additional aircraft from China. Effort by the Indian aerospace industry at indigenous development of a AWACS platform began in the 1980s with an Avro HS-748 twin-turboprop aircraft. Initially meant to be only a technology demonstrator, while on a test flight, the Avro aircraft crashed on January 11, 1999 killing all eight on board. This disaster took place nearly a decade after the project was launched. Consequent to the accident, the programme came to a grinding halt and was later abandoned. However, subsequently, a new project to develop the Netra AEW&C on Embraer ERJ 145 platform was launched in the beginning of the last decade. Thereafter, in 2015, the indigenous AWACS project was also revived with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) taking up an exercise to mount indigenously developed Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar Airbus A330 wide-body jets. Two of these platforms are under development and are expected to be ready by 2025 hopefully. The IAF plans to order six more if the project is successful. Unless the IAF has the right number of AWACS aircraft on its strength that can serve as the proverbial “Eye in the Sky”, the air defence segment of the force will remain afflicted with deficiency in the level of capability required. SP
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