SP's Naval Forces June-July 2014

June-July 2014

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Volume 9 No. 3

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Page 4 Modernising the Philippine Navy Initially the Philippines wants to build its military to a point where it has a ‘Minimum Credible Defence Posture.’ Key components of this posture are described as ‘Maritime Domain Awareness’ and ‘Maritime Security.’ David Saw

Page 6 Naval Commanders’ Conference 2014 Defence Minister Arun Jaitley said long delayed modernisation projects would be “fast-tracked” to ensure the Navy’s “operational preparedness”

Vikramaditya

Dedicated to the Nation Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that INS Vikramaditya will significantly enhance the ‘Blue Water’ capability of the Indian Navy. He stressed that a country’s economic prosperity and development were deeply linked to maritime power, security and infrastructure. “This is a proud moment for India. INS Vikramaditya will add tremendous might and strategic power to our Navy,” he said.

Rear Admiral (Retd) Sushil Ramsay

Page 8 Defence Budget 2014-15

Photograph: PIB

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the deck of INS Vikramaditya in Goa. The Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R.K. Dhowan is also seen.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said that “there can be no compromise with the defence of our country. I therefore propose to allocate an amount of `2,29,000 crore for the current financial year for defence.”. Lt General (Retd) Naresh Chand

Page 10 Unmanned/Autonomous Underwater Vehicles The interest in UUVs autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) has been further rejuvenated when the search and rescue team for flight MH370 decided to send AUV Bluefin-21. Lt General (Retd) Naresh Chand

Plus INS Sahyadri Stars at World’s Biggest Naval Wargame

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Air Warriors and their Weapons

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Rear Admiral (Retd) Dr S. Kulshrestha

Need to Develop a Defence 12 Industrial Base Vice Admiral (Retd) Anup Singh

News in Brief

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E D I T O R I A L

The change of guard at the Centre is likely to bring happy tidings for the Navy. The Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Robin Dhowan, took the initiative and showcased the might of the Indian Navy to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi by organising Prime Minister’s Day at sea on June 14, during which the Prime Minister also dedicated the long-awaited air craft carrier INS Vikramaditya to the nation. He also witnessed the traditional high speed manoeuvres by Western Fleet ships and the ‘Air Power Demonstration’ by various naval aircraft. He also interacted with the naval personnel. The Prime Minister stressed that a country’s economic prosperity and development were deeply linked to maritime power, security

and infrastructure. While dedicating INS Vikramaditya the Prime Minister said that “this is a proud moment for India. INS Vikramaditya will add tremendous might and strategic power to our Navy.” Read all about in this issue. This was followed by the Commanders’ Conference on June 24, 2014, which was flagged off by the newly appointed Defence Minister Arun Jaitley. In his inaugural address, Jaitley congratulated the men and women of the Navy for discharging their duties with utmost diligence and professionalism. He referred to the prevailing security environment in our neighbourhood and complimented the Navy’s efforts for working in tandem with a large number of central and

PhotographS: Indian Navy

n  Rear Admiral (Retd) Sushil Ramsay

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J

une 14, 2014, was indeed a redletter day in the annals of the Indian Navy (IN) when the Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated INS Vikramaditya to the nation. INS Vikramaditya, the largest warship ever to be acquired by India at the staggering cost of `15,000 crore ($2.3 billion), is the largest, biggest and the costliest military platform. It was indeed of huge historic significance to our country when the Prime Minister readily consented to dedicate this most potent instrument of maritime power projection to the nation. The dedication was meticulously planned to demonstrate the emerging prowess of the Indian Navy, armed to the teeth to boldly discharge its primary responsibilities. INS Vikramaditya was at sea off Goa and operating in the company of ten other frontline warships of the Indian Navy’s ‘Sword Arm’ – the Western Fleet. This was the classic setting for the Prime Minister of India to be received on board to do the honours of dedication, in a formidable maritime power environment. To lend credibility to this unique event, the Prime Minister was accompanied by the Chief Minister of Goa Manohar Parrikar, the Minister of State for Defence Rao Inderjit Singh, the National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and the Defence Secretary R.K. Mathur. While Admiral Robin Dhowan, the Chief of the Naval Staff, was the chief host, the Prime Minister was received onboard INS Vikramaditya by Vice Admiral Anil Chopra, the Flag Officer Commanding-inChief, Western Naval Command, and Rear Admiral A.K. Chawla, the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Fleet. During the traditional “Prime Minister’s Day at Sea,” he witnessed ‘Air Power Demonstration’ by various naval aircraft including MiG-29K, Sea Harriers, P-8I, longrange maritime reconnaissance and antisubmarine warfare aircraft, TU 142M, IL 38 SD, Dornier aircrafts and Kamov and Sea King helicopters. He also witnessed high speed manoeuvres by Western Fleet ships including the other aircraft carrier INS Viraat, Delhi class guided missile destroyers Mysore and Mumbai, stealth frigates Tarkash, Talwar and Teg, guided missile frigates Betwa and Godavari and fleet tanker Deepak amongst others. All three dimensions of the brute naval power were demonstrated to the Prime Minister. Significantly, for the first time the dedicated

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state agencies. Details are also included in this issue. In our quest to give the naval forces a regional flavour, an insight on the modernisation of the Philippine Navy is included where Philippines plans to initially build its military to a point where it has a ‘Minimum Credible Defence Posture.’ The much awaited Union Budget 2014-15 was presented on July 10 by Arun Jaitley, defence aspects of which with analysis are included in this issue. Then there is an article on the need to build India’s defence industrial base to achieve self-reliance in military hardware. The interest in autonomous underwater vehicle has been rejuvenated when the search and rescue team for the ill-fated flight MH370 decided to

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the cockpit of MiG-29K

Firepower demonstrations by the Western Fleet ships

naval communication satellite, Rukmini was most effectively used to telecast live the events on board INS Vikramaditya. Also for the first time the live telecast took place from a moving platform. Prime Minister Modi also interacted with officers and sailors onboard and congratulated them on their hard work and dedication in fully operationalising INS Vikramaditya in such a short period. In his address to the personnel of the fleet, the Prime Minister stated that INS Vikrama-

ditya will significantly enhance the ‘Blue Water’ capability of the Indian Navy. He stressed that a country’s economic prosperity and development was deeply linked to maritime power, security and infrastructure. “This is a proud moment for India. INS Vikramaditya will add tremendous might and strategic power to our Navy,” he said while dedicating the newly acquired carrier to the nation. While India does not aim to threaten other countries, neither will it “ever bow down” before anyone, he added.

send AUV Bluefin-21, four km underwater, to look for the wreckage of flight MH370 thus there is an overview on AUVs. An article on air-to-surface naval weapons and the usual News in Brief just about wraps the issue. Wish you all readers happy tidings and even more happier reading.

Jayant BaranwaL Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

Considering that INS Vikramaditya was commissioned on November 16, 2013, at Severodovinsk, in the northern region of Russia, set sail homewards on maiden passage, carried out essential balance of works for the onboard aviation trials, training aviation crew for deck recoveries and launches, seven months was too short a period for these outstanding achievements. Tall as a 26-storey building with built-up area spanning over three football fields, INS Vikramaditya with displacement of 44,500 tonnes marks the coming of age for the Indian Navy and its commitment to safeguard the maritime interests of the country, providing a potent instrument for maritime diplomacy. With an overall length of 284 metres and a width of 60 metres, this floating airfield is equipped to carry a maximum of 34 aircraft such 24 MiG-29K/ Sea Harrier fighters, Kamov-31, Kamov28, Sea King, ALH-Dhruv and Chetak helicopters. The landing area spans over 198 m. The ship is now fully operational with Indian pilots taking off and landing the MiG-29K naval combat aircraft. Manned by a highly professional and competent crew of 110 officers and 1,500 sailors, the ship can steam at maximum speed of 30 knots (about 55.5 kmph) on the strength of her eight boilers producing a combined thrust of 1,80,000 shaft horsepower. The ship has a maximum operating range of 7,000 nautical miles (about 12,964 km) at economical speed of 18 knots (about 18.3 kmph). Describing potential of Vikramaditya, former Navy Chief, Admiral Arun Prakash had said, “Carrying a mix of supersonic, fourth generation MiG-29K fighters, Kamov28 anti submarine warfare and Kamov-31, airborne early warning helicopters, the Vikramaditya promises to transform the maritime balance of power in the Indian Ocean. Calling the ship a ‘game-changer’ is not mere hyperbole.” Admiral Sureesh Mehta, former Chief of the Naval Staff, had expounded the strategic significance of Vikramaditya, when he said, “Vikramaditya will dramatically increase the reach of the Indian Navy, creating a sanitised bubble of 380 nautical miles (550 km) around the battle group, essential for conducting distant area operations in Indo-Pacific.” Vikramaditya which literally translates into “Strong as the Sun” and has a motto, “Strike Far, Strike Sure” is now fully geared up to be blooded as an awesome combat arm of the Indian Navy.  SP

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Modernising the

Philippine Navy Initially the Philippines wants to build its military to a point where it has a ‘Minimum Credible Defence Posture.’ Key components of this posture are described as ‘Maritime Domain Awareness’ and ‘Maritime Security.’ PhotographS: US Navy, US Pacific Command, AgustaWestland

n  DAVID SAW

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he Philippine Navy (PN) is starting to benefit from the commitment of the Philippine Government to defence modernisation. For many years the PN, like the other services in the armed forces of the Philippines (AFP), suffered from under-funding and ageing equipment, now that is starting to change. The current Philippine Government under President Benigno Aquino III is providing both the leadership and the means to make defence modernisation a reality. The structure for this is provided by the AFP Modernization Act (Republic Act 10349), that became law on December 11, 2012, in effect this is a 15-year defence modernisation programme. Although all elements of the AFP will benefit from modernisation expenditure, the PN is poised to reap significant benefits. Initially the Philippines wants to build its military to a point where it has a ‘Minimum Credible Defence Posture.’ Key components of this posture are described as ‘Maritime Domain Awareness’ and ‘Maritime Security.’ What this translates into is providing the PN with the capabilities to know what is going on in the Philippines maritime area of interest, then giving it the capabilities to protect Philippine interests and finally to deter hostile actors. One of the catalysts for this emphasis on naval modernisation is the fact that the Philippines finds itself in dispute with China over the Spratly Islands (known as the Kalayaan Islands to the Philippines) in the central South China Sea. Claimed by China, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam, the Spratly Islands cover an area of some 4,10,000 sq. km, with the islands themselves actually being around 100 islets, coral reefs, and sea mounts scattered over the area. The importance of these islands is that possession offers access to potentially enormous offshore oil and gas deposits, vast fishing grounds and a strategic position astride major seaplanes in the South China Sea. China has already demonstrated its desire to be the dominant force in the Spratly Islands, hence the concern of the Philippine Government. The recent signature of an Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States by the Philippines, on April 28, shows that the Philippine Government is working hard to bolster its security position. However, it is recognised that the Philippines cannot rely on others and that its Minimum Credible Defence Posture requires the acquisition of new naval systems to act as a deterrent.

Fleet Building The PN has already made significant progress on its journey towards a more modern and effective fleet, although as things currently stand its legacy assets are elderly and no longer provide the desired operational capability. In consequence the PN has defined its desired future force structure, this will consist of six frigates, 12 new corvettes optimised for ASW and 10 new

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Apolinario Mabini (PS 36) is one of three Emilio Jacinto class patrol corvettes

BRP Grigorio del Pilar (PF 15) enters Pearl Harbor on its maiden voyage to the Philippines in 2011

AgustaWestland AW159 has been identified as one of the leading contenders for the Philippine Navy’s maritime helicopters programme

OPVs for EEZ surveillance and related missions. After that they intend to acquire up to three submarines and an MCMV capability of three units. In addition support forces will also be significantly upgraded. Two of the six frigates are already in service, these are BRP Grigorio del Pilar (PF 15) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF 16), the two former US Coast Guard Hamilton class High Endurance Cutters, commissioned in 2011 and 2012. This acquisition provided a useful patrol capability fairly rapidly, but now the PN wants to do much more with these units. They will conduct a Service Life Extension Programme (SLEP) and this will also see the addition of new weapons and sensors to increase the operational utility of the two frigates. The acquisition programme for two more new frigates is due to be settled later this year, this is known as the Deep Water Patrol Vessel (DWPV) programme. These will be advanced modern frigates, with the programme budget being in the $400 million range. The PN is currently looking at proposals from four companies: Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME), Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) and STX Offshore, all from the Republic of Korea, (ROK), and Navantia of Spain. After the completion of DWPV the PN will then proceed with the acquisition of two more frigates, although the programme strategy has yet to be firmed up. At this point both new construction and the acquisition of second-hand ships are an option, in the end it will come down to how rapidly the PN needs the frigates and the sort of budgets that they have to play with at that point in the future. As the new frigates, corvettes and OPV units arrive, legacy units will be retired although some will remain in service for many years yet. For example, the Emilio Jacinto class of three patrol corvettes,

s o uth e a st a si a 

Naval Aviation in the Philippines The Naval Air Group (NAG) of the Philippine Navy is responsible for naval aviation in the Philippines and has both helicopter and fixed-wing assets. Legacy assets include seven Britten Norman BN-2A1B Islander aircraft, with six flyable, a Cessna 172F and a Cessna 172N (delivered 2008) for training. The first helicopter to enter service with the NAG was the MBB (now Airbus Helicopters) Bo 105C, initially six were acquired followed by an additional helicopter in 1988, currently some four Bo 105C are operational. More recently in September 2007 the NAG received a Robinson R22 Beta II training helicopter. Defence modernisation investment has seen the NAG receive new helicopter capabilities, with much more in prospect. The first sign of this was an order for three AgustaWestland AW109 Power helicopters, for search and rescue (SAR) missions, with these helicopters being delivered in December 2013. Then in February 2014 it was announced that two more AW109 Power helicopters had been ordered with delivery due in the second half of 2014. The NAG envisages having an 18-strong helicopter force, of which five AW109 Power helicopters will form part, for SAR, utility and other operational functions. Separately

originally commissioned in 1983-84 as the Peacock class for the Royal Navy for use in the OPV mission from Hong Kong, entered PN service in August 1997. In recent years these units have been significantly upgraded in terms of electronics, propulsion systems and the hull. Other life extension and modernisation programmes are under consideration to further increase the operational life of these units. PN modernisation will also see the acquisition of a large class of small fast attack craft known as the multi-purpose attack craft (MPAC), six units are already in service but now the PN is looking for a next generation MPAC with far more impressive capabilities. These will have a speed of 40 knots and a length of less than 20 metres, the key change is that an armament package will be provided, this will include a remote weapon station (RWS) with a 12.7mm calibre machine gun and, importantly, the installation of up to 10 surface-to-surface missiles of an unspecified type. Rafael of Israel is one of the companies seen as a likely source of equipment for this next-generation MPAC. In total the PN hopes to acquire some 40 MPAC. The enhancement of PN amphibious warfare and support forces has already commenced. Apart from their military application, these forces also have significant utility in the disaster relief mission. This capability is seen as essential, with Typhoon Haiyan (called Typhoon Yolanda in the Philippines) of November 2013, the most powerful tropical cyclone ever to hit the Philippines, providing an object lesson in the importance of effective disaster relief capabilities. The PN future force structure has a requirement for a class of four units known as the Strategic Sealift Vessel (SSV), in reality this is an LPD-sized unit. The contract for the first two SSV was awarded to PT PAL of Indonesia in January, they will be supplying a design based on the Makassar class built for the Indonesian Navy. The first two SSV will be delivered in 2016-17. There is also a requirement for three logistic support ships, that will most likely be a derivative of an LST design. The PN fleet train received a boost in March when an agreement was signed with the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) to transfer three small oil tankers to the PN. It should be noted that PN amphibious warfare and support forces have an important role to play in supplying Philippine outposts in the Spratly/Kalayaan Islands. The Philippines is making a significant defence modernisation investment, with the PN being a major beneficiary. The funding is available to support acquisition programmes and these programmes are being efficiently conducted in an open and transparent manner. Over time this will translate into the Philippines having a navy that is more than capable of providing the desired minimum credible defence posture.  SP

the NAG also has an acquisition programme to acquire a force of six dedicated maritime helicopters for ASV/ASW missions, these helicopters will be ship-based. In March the Philippine Department of National Defence (DND) announced an acquisition programme for an initial two dedicated maritime helicopters with $120 million (PHP 5.4 billion) being allocated to fund the programme. This acquisition is to be decided before the end of the year. At present the favoured candidate appears to be the AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat, as used by the Royal Navy. However, the funding allocation, even though it includes Integrated Logistics Support (ILS), training and other expenditure, can support the acquisition of other helicopter types if so desired. As yet there has been no movement on discussing a weapons package for the new helicopters. Initially the two helicopters will be deployed on the two former US Coast Guard Hamilton class High Endurance Cutters BRP Grigorio del Pilar (PF 15) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF 16). More helicopters will be acquired for the two frigates being purchased under the Deep Water Patrol Vessel (DWPV) programme, with two more helicopters required for the two further frigates that the Philippine Navy intends to acquire. Although AgustaWestland has built a strong position in the Philippines, the Philippine Government is committed to open procurement, thus Airbus Helicopters and Sikorsky amongst others will both have opportunities to meet NAG helicopter requirements.  SP

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Naval Commanders’ Conference 2014

Defence Minister Arun Jaitley said long delayed modernisation projects would be “fast-tracked” to ensure the Navy’s “operational preparedness” Photograph: Indian Navy

The Union Minister for Finance, Corporate Affairs and Defence, Arun Jaitley addressing the Naval Commanders, during the Naval Commanders’ Conference, in New Delhi on June 24, 2014

n  Rear Admiral (Retd) Sushil Ramsay

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ost the major reshuffle in the top echelon of the Indian Navy (IN) in the recent past, the first of the two Commanders’ Conference of the year 2014, as is customary was flagged off by the newly appointed Defence Minister, Arun Jaitley on June 24, 2014. The biannual conferences are held to discuss issues of operational relevance, identify capability gaps and to review the future plans of the Indian Navy. The Naval Commanders’ Conference provide an ideal platform for centrally discussing matters related to combat readiness of the fleet and other operational formations, building capabilities for the future and addressing human resource challenges amongst others. Hence, the deliberations at these forums are of immense strategic value to the service. Before inaugurating the Conference, the Defence Minister first met Admiral R.K. Dhowan, the Chief of the Naval Staff, and all Commanders-in-Chief who have taken the helm of their respective Commands in the recent past. In his inaugural address, Arun Jaitley congratulated the men and women of the Indian Navy for discharging their duties with utmost diligence and professionalism. He referred to the prevailing security environment in our neighbourhood and complimented the Navy’s efforts for working in tandem with a large number of central and state agencies. He stated that the deployment of our assets has been highly effective and needs to be continued to secure the country’s economic and maritime interests. Taking note of the capability shortfall of conventional submarines, ship-borne helicopters, mine countermeasure vessels and other weapons and sensors in the

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Navy, he assured that all efforts would be made to ensure operational preparedness of the Indian Navy. Taking note of the overseas deployments and bilateral exercises by naval ships with the regional navies in the South China Sea, Western Pacific and the Persian Gulf, he said that these have further strengthened our bilateral relationships, enhanced inter-operability and built, as well as renewed ‘bridges of friendship’. Appreciating the indigenisation efforts of the Indian Navy, Jaitley made a mention of the fact that all 44 naval ships and submarines under construction are being built in Indian shipyards. He stressed that these efforts need to be further strengthened for timely induction of the platforms. Addressing the challenges pertaining to human resource development in the Navy, which are unique due to high levels of technical skills required to operate nuclear submarines, state-of-the-art ships and deck launched fighter aircraft, Jaitley assured that all efforts will be made to reduce the existing shortfall of manpower. The Defence Minister said the Indian Navy personnel have always risen to the challenges and have conducted themselves in the best traditions of the service. He said that the establishment is aware of the sacrifices made by the men in uniform and would accord necessary thrust to welfare measures, both for the serving as well as retired community. The Defence Minister complimented the Navy for adopting green initiatives and environment protection measures by reducing the carbon footprint and rationalising use of energy resources. Jaitley expressed confidence that the Senior Commanders of the Navy will take a close look at all the important issues and take decisions to address the shortcomings

and chart out a futuristic, visionary roadmap for the Indian Navy. The Defence Minister expressed his concerns over the “slow pace” of acquisition of weapon systems and assured that the new government will work towards “expediting” several procurement decisions in the pipeline to meet the requirements of the armed forces. After attending the Naval Commanders’ Conference, he hinted that demand of the armed forces for more funds in the budget was likely to be accepted as the “entire resource of the country, notwithstanding various pressures, has to make available a significant amount for those in defence

“The key subject matter of concern appears to be the slow pace of acquisition of whatever equipment and assets are required. The Navy has highlighted that.... Hope of the forces is that their requirements should be fulfilled and the process should also be expedited. The effort of the government would be to work in that direction,” Jaitley said.

of the country.” The key subject matter of concern appears to be the slow pace of acquisition of whatever equipment and assets are required. The Navy has highlighted that....Hope of the forces is that their requirements should be fulfilled and the process should also be expedited. The effort of the government would be to work in that direction,” Jaitley said. Talking to reporters after a detailed interaction with the top brass of the Navy at the Commanders’ Conference, the Minister said, “There are several decisions in the pipeline and I think there is a good case for these processes to be expedited.” The Navy has several acquisition projects stuck for many years due to slow procurement process, including the `6,000 crore (about $1 billion) 16 multirole helicopter project and the acquisition of torpedoes for the Scorpene submarines. Its tender for acquiring six new submarines under Project-75 India, estimated to cost over `1,00,000 crore, is also stuck as the government has to alter a 1999 decision to build all future submarines only indigenously. The Navy is also waiting for final clearance to acquire 16 mine countermeasure vessels from a South Korean firm which has been stuck after complaints were filed against the fairness of the process under the previous government. On whether the new Government will do a full review of the defence acquisition process to expedite procurements, Jaitley said, “I would not use the word full review but even under the present procedures also, expediting processes is still possible. Every file need not move up and down indefinite number of times.” To a query on several procurement cases which were in the final stages but Continued on page 13

 D e f e nc e B ud g e t / S P ’ s e x c l usiv e

Defence Budget 2014-15 Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said that “there can be no compromise with the defence of our country. I therefore propose to allocate an amount of `2,29,000 crore for the current financial year for defence.” Photograph: PIB

n  Lt General (retd) Naresh Chand

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he much awaited India’s Union Budget 2014-15 was announced in the Parliament on July 10 by the Finance Minister (also holds the charge of Defence) by Arun Jaitley. There was a lot of excitement and expectation before the budget as it was the first budget of a nonCongress Government after a decade. The Finance Minister made his intentions clear by focusing on boosting of growth, cutting inflation, reduce fiscal deficit and consolidate fiscal health. He dwelt at length on fiscal deficit by stating that, “My predecessor has set up a very difficult task of reducing fiscal deficit to 4.1 per cent of the GDP in the current year. Difficult, as it may appear, I have decided to accept this target as a challenge.” There are not many changes from the defence portion of the Interim Budget which are being highlighted.

Allocation The Finance Minister said that “there can be no compromise with the defence of our country. I therefore propose to allocate an amount of `2,29,000 crore (about $38.16 billion) for the current financial year for defence.” Thus there is an increase of `5,000 crore (about $0.8 billion and 12.5 per cent) in the capital budget for modernisation which includes `1,000 crore (about $0.16 billion)

The Union Minister for Finance, Corporate Affairs and Defence, Arun Jaitley departs from North Block to Parliament House along with the Minister of State for Commerce & Industry (Independent Charge), Finance and Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman to present the General Budget 2014-15 in New Delhi on July 10, 2014.

for accelerating the development of the railway system in the border areas. He also mentioned that urgent steps would also be taken to streamline the procurement process to make it speedy and more efficient. One Rank One Pension. Jaitley stated that “We reaffirm our commitment to our brave soldiers. A policy of “One Rank One

INS Sahyadri Stars at World’s Biggest Naval Wargame

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ndian stealth frigate INS Sahyadri, the first Indian Navy warship to participate in the Rim Of The Pacific (RIMPAC) series of international maritime exercises, has drawn considerable interest at Joint Base Pearl HarborHickam. She is part of a multinational flotilla of 49 surface ships, six submarines and more than 200 aircraft involved in the exercise, along with about 25,000 personnel from 22 nations and six observer nations, participating in the 24th RIMPAC exercise, the world’s largest international maritime exercise, till August 1, in the East Pacific. Sahyadri and the other surface combatants will, according to the US Navy, conduct training ashore and out at sea in a coalition and joint effort. “RIMPAC is a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world’s oceans,” says the US Navy. “I think it’s important to note that by simply attending RIMPAC, every nation here is making the bold statement that we must improve multilateral military cooperation despite disagreements,” US Navy Admiral, Harry Harris, Pacific Fleet commander, said. “Today, maritime cooperation is more vital than ever. For centuries the world’s oceans kept us apart but in this

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increasingly globalised world the world’s oceans bring us together.” “The rebalance is based on a strategy of cooperation and collaboration and that’s why it’s imperative that we work together to build trust and confidence to solve our collective maritime challenges,” Harris said. “When great nations work together, we can accomplish great things. Collaboration and cooperation; that’s why we’re here, to learn together, to operate together, and to sail together.” “It’s going to be very valuable training but make no mistake it’s going to be very hard work,” said US Navy Vice Admiral Kenneth E. Floyd, Combined Task Force commander. “I’m already proud and very honoured to have the opportunity to lead the 25,000 people from 22 different countries on the RIMPAC team this year and I’m looking forward to all that they are about to do out on the high seas.” Harris said that building mutual trust and opening lines of communication are critical for success but challenging to build. RIMPAC offers participants the chance to work alongside other nations in preparation for real world events, and is designed to strengthen rebalance efforts of the AsiaPacific region.  SP – SP’s Special Correspondent

Pension (OROP)” has been adopted by the Government to address the pension disparities. We propose to set aside a further sum of `1,000 crore (about $0.16 billion) to meet this year’s requirement. War Memorial. This was long awaited aspirations of the defence forces and in this context Jaitley mentioned that “the

country is deeply indebted to the officers and the jawans of the armed forces for having made huge sacrifices to defend its honour. In doing so a very large number of them gave up their lives. It is a privilege for the nation to erect a befitting memorial in their memory. I am happy to announce that a War Memorial will be constructed in the Princes Park. It will be supplemented by a War Museum. I am allocating a sum of `100 crore for this purpose.” Defence Production. Jaitley stated that, “in the year 2011 a separate fund was announced to provide necessary resources to public and private sector companies, including SMEs, as well as academic and scientific institutions to support research and development of defence systems that enhance cutting-edge technology capability in the country. However, beyond the announcement, no action was taken. Therefore, I propose to set aside an initial sum of `100 crore to set up a Technology Development Fund to support this objective.” Foreign direct investment (FDI). The majority opinion was that there is a requirement to increase the FDI in defence from the current 26 per cent (increase was to be allowed case by case basis). The suggested increase varied from 49 per cent to 100 per cent. Many private companies who are involved in defence manufacture appeared not to be in favour of the increase. Jaitley mentioned that, “the policy of the NDA

PhotographS: US Navy

INS Sahyadri (F 49) transits to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam to participate in RIMPAC 2014

d e f e nc e bud g e t  Government is to promote FDI selectively in sectors where it helps the larger interest of the Indian economy. India today is the largest buyer of defence equipment in the world. Our domestic manufacturing capacities are still at a nascent stage. We are buying substantial part of our defence requirements directly from foreign players. Companies controlled by foreign governments and foreign private sector are supplying our defence requirements to us at a considerable outflow of foreign exchange. Currently we permit 26 per cent FDI in Defence manufacturing. The composite cap of foreign exchange is being raised to 49 per cent with full Indian management and control through the FIPB route.”

Number crunching Revenue Budget (figures in brackets pertain to the interim budget) Army. Army’s revenue allocation also includes allotment for Rashtriya Rifles, National Cadet Corps, Military Farms, ExServicemen Contributory Health Scheme and other revenue expenditure. The overall allotment is `92,669.32 crore (`92,601.32 crore), a marginal increase. Navy. Navy also includes repairs and refits and there is no change in the already allotted sum of `13,975.79 crore. Air Force. Air Force also includes special projects and there is no change in the already sum of `20,506.84 crore. Indian Coast Guard. There is no change in the already allotted sum of `1,130.26 crore. There is normally a marginal upward trend in the revenue allotment due to dearness allowance and other factors. Navy will have a problem as additional funds will be required for repairing the ships and submarines which were damaged during accidents.

possible. The new Government had to symbolically indicate their inclination towards increasing the defence preparation. In any case five months have already been lost (from February) due to the change of government and there is hardly any scope to launch new programmes in the remaining financial year. Picture of defence cooperation with the United States will emerge after the visit of the Prime Minister to the United states in September. Army. Major requirements of the Army are helicopters for the Army Aviation Corps, variants of the 155mm gun, anti tank missiles; and guns and missiles for Army Air Defence. There could be scope for progressing some of these requirements. Air Force. There is a drop by about `9,000 crore in the allocation for aircraft and aero engines from last year and all indications are that no big ticket projects may go through this year. Navy. The allocation under aircraft and aero engines has been reduced by almost 50 per cent from last year that means ruling out any new acquisitions like 16 Multi-role Helicopters (as an interim measure) and amphib-

ian aircraft. US Sikorsky S-70B and European NH-90 were tried out earlier but final decision is still pending. The ShinMaywa US-2 amphibian was a strong contender but it is also hanging fire. The allotted funds may be used for past deals like MiG-29K carrierbased fighter jets of Russian origin. The allocation for the Naval fleet is used for acquiring new ships and payment of past liabilities. There is a marginal increase in the allocation but considering that about 45 ships and submarines are under construction in the Indian ship yards, there is a requirement for additional requirement. The capital allocation for the Naval dockyards is for modernisation of the infrastructure which is required if they have to perform more efficiently and match the international standards. Coast Guard. Considering the Coast Guard’s key role in the coastal security structure, they have to be allotted adequate funds to enlarge their organizational infrastructure; for acquiring additional ships, fast boats, helicopters and aircrafts.

Conclusion There are many new aspects like increase

in FDI and encouraging technical development by allotting `100 crore. This is too meager a sum for Rand D by public and private sector companies, including SMEs, as well as academic and scientific institutions to support research and development of defence systems that enhance cutting-edge technology in defence thus would need enhancement. Also the danger of duplication with the Defence Reserch and Development Organisation (DRDO) is there thus should be synergized with them. The other measures which concern the respect and the well being of defence personnel like allocation of funds for the war memorial and OROP which are very encouraging but additional funds will be required specially for OROP as conservative estimates are that it may require more than the allotted amount. The limited time remaining in the financial year will only allow clearing past payments and consolidation. The trend of the Defence Budget indicates the noble intentions of the Government towards defence preparedness and the well being of the defence personnel.  SP

Capital Budget (figures in brackets pertain to the allocation in the interim budget). The capital budget includes funds for land and construction, capital requirement of other organisations like ECHS, NCC, DRDO, Naval Fleet, Naval Dock Yards etc, apart from modernisation of the armed forces. Capital allotment for the Coast Guard is given separately under Ministry of Defence -Demand No. 20 (which normally covers revenue budget).The total allotment is `94,587.95 crore (`89,587.95 crore) an increase of `5,000 crore as already mentioned. Army. For aircraft and aero engines no change in the already allotted sum of `2,127.99 crore; for heavy and medium vehicles `2,692.16 crore (2,128.16 crore) –an increase of `564 crore and for other equipment- `15,591.93 crore (`16,155.93 crore) – a marginal decrease of `564 crore which has been adjusted with the increase for heavy and medium vehicles. Navy. For aircraft and aero engines no change from the already allotted sum of `3,330.69 crore; for heavy and medium vehicles no change in `34.27 crore already allotted; for other equipment- no change in the allotted sum of `4,358.10 crore; for Naval Fleet `12,576.06 crore (12,856.06 crore), a marginal decrease and for Naval Dock Yards no change in the already allotted sum of `1,612.87 crore. Air Force. For aircraft and aero engines no change in the already allotted sum of `16,271.43 crore; for heavy and medium vehicles no change from the already allotted sum of `194.29 crore; and for other equipment no change from the allotted sum of `15,352.17 crore. Coast Guard. No change in the already allotted sum of `1550 crore. Prototype Development under Make Procedure. No change from `35.71 crore.

Brief Analysis There is only cosmetic increase in the modernisation allocation as the interim budget had already allotted funds to the extent

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9

 t e chn o l o g y

Unmanned/Autonomous Underwater Vehicles

The interest in UUVs/autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) has been further rejuvenated when the search and rescue team for flight MH370 decided to send AUV Bluefin-21 PhotographS: Bluefin Robotics, Saab

n  Lt General (retd) Naresh Chand

www.spsnavalforces.com

R

Bluefin-12D recovery

equirement of Underwater Unmanned vehicles (UUVs)/ autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV) unmanned platforms operating from land, sea and air have acquired great importance in the current warfare scenario as it removes the crew from danger and allows them to access dangerous, difficult and inaccessible situations. The US’ Drone war has caused about 2,500 casualties in the recent times in countries like Pakistan, Somalia, etc without declaring war on them. Majority of the navies have to operate in the littorals which are shallow and restricted in space and thus constrain manoeuvre thereby placing the naval platforms in harm’s way. This is of special concern to the submarines when they are deployed in the littorals to carry out intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions or carry out covert operations. The US Navy is seized with this problem and for the last few decades has been investing in the development of UUVs as they are the ideal platform for mine detection thus they have been included in the long-term mine reconnaissance system (LMRS) and its successor, the mission reconfigurable UUV (MRUUV). The development in the last few decades particularly in the field of propulsion, control systems, hydrodynamics and sensor technology have boosted the developing in UUVs/AUVs. The inherent characteristic of subsurface stealth and no risk to the crew, adds to the employment of UUVs/AUVs. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency of US has been examining the feasibility of very long-endurance AUVs so that they can replace manned systems for this role. The interest in UUVs/AUVs has been further rejuvenated when the search and rescue team for flight MH370 decided to send AUV Bluefin-21, four km underwater, to look for the wreckage of flight MH370. Some of the roles could be: Port and Harbour Security. UUVs/ AUVs are ideally employed for port and harbour security to prevent smuggling and terrorism as they have the ability to provide hull, pier and harbour bottom inspection and to operate in confined areas. Ship Hull and Infrastructure Inspection. Normally the Inspection of ship hulls and other infrastructure for maintenance and sabotage is done by divers which is a manpower intensive and time consuming activity and also prone to personnel risk. Hull inspection is considered “dull, dirty and dangerous” job in the navy as the diver has to physically touch the hull due to limited visibility however a hovering AUV (HUAV) is capable of this task even in turbulence conditions. UUVs/ AUVs are thus ideal for these tasks. Mine Countermeasures (MCM). MCM include the detection, classification, identification, location, clearance and protection against mines. Traditionally MCM is done by ships which is prone to grave risk but with the advancements in UUVs/AUVs/ HUAVs technology, they are being designed and deployed for MCM role.

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Saab’s AUV62

Unexploded Ordnance (UXO). Presence of UXO is commonplace in areas of maritime conflict or areas in proximity. The technologies applicable for MCM can easily be extended to detect, classify and neutralize the UXO. Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA). REA information like bottom type and composition, bathymetric data, oceanographic data, current and tidal information, etc. is a must for decision making which is done by ship-based sensors but UUVs/AUVs can do this task faster and covertly. Anti-submarine Warfare. Submarines have a key role to play in maritime operations but are high cost assets thus the UUVs/AUVs can operate as off board sensors and extend the range of detection without increasing the risk with less cost. Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR). ISR mission are an essential part of operation planning be it be MCM or ASW. UUVs/AUVs are the most suitable for this role as they carry a wide-

range of sensors, can provide covert persistent surveillance, operate at long stand-off distances, operate in shallow water areas, reach difficult and normally inaccessible areas and can be launched from surface, air and subsurface platforms.

Examples Bluefin-21(Bluefin Robotics) is a highly versatile search/survey vehicle equipped with modern sensor payload suite

General Dynamics’ Knifefish General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems has designed and build Knifefish, the Surface MCM UUV system, on a contract from US Navy’s Naval Sea Systems Command. Knifefish is being developed as a part of the Littoral Combat Ship Mine Warfare mission package. Knifefish is the first heavyweight class mainstream MCM UUV which will act as an off-board sensor while the host ship stays outside the minefield boundaries. This will reduce the risk to navy personnel while provid-

ing enhanced mine-hunting capability. Knifefish can detect, classify and identify buried mines and mines in high clutter environments. Remote Environmental Monitoring Unit System (REMUS). REMUS AUV was first developed in the late 1990s for the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute by Hydroid, a subsidiary of Kongsberg Maritime. The man-portable class 36 kg REMUS 100 AUV is used by the US Navy for shallow water MCM and hydrographic reconnaissance. Japan operates four of the REMUS 600-metre variants and one REMUS 100 for seafloor mapping and MCM. Three variants of the REMUS are in service in the US Navy as follows: zz MK 18 Mod 1 Swordfish. Based on the REMUS 100 (Kongsberg Maritime), the Swordfish is designed to Search, Classify, and Map (SCM) the Very Shallow Water (VSW) Region (10-40 ft). zz Kongsberg Maritime’s REMUS 600. The REMUS 6000 has been designed to enable operations from a water depth of 6,000 metres to long mission durations in shallow littoral areas. It can carry out deep ocean search and survey, deep ocean acoustic and optical surveys and debris field mapping. zz MK 18 Mod 2 Kingfish. The Kingfish is based on the REMUS 600 and has increased area coverage rate, increased endurance, and will serve as a platform for advanced sensors. The Kingfish Small Synthetic Aperture Sonar Module configuration provides wider swath, higher resolution imagery, and buried target detection. Littoral Battlespace Sensing (LBS UUV). This is also based on REMUS 600 and used for environmental surveys of ocean, coastal, and inshore waters. SEAGLIDER™. Also of Kongsberg Maritime, Seaglider™ is an AUV or underwater glider developed for continuous, long-term measurement of oceanographic parameters. Rather than an electrically driven propeller, the vehicle uses small changes in buoyancy and wings to achieve forward motion. It has revolutionised the way that oceanographic data is collected. Its novel method of propulsion uses very little energy, provides extremely long endurance allows collection of data at a fraction of the cost of traditional methods. Bluefin-21 AUV. Bluefin-21 (Bluefin Robotics) is a highly versatile search/survey vehicle equipped with modern sensor payload suite that includes side scan sonar, sub-bottom profiler, multi-beam echosounder and digital camera. An onboard inertial navigation system and an ultrashort baseline system capability provides for accurate navigation and poseitioning of the vehicle. It can operate at a depth of 1500 metres, Air Weight is approximately 800 kg, speed of 2 to 4.5 knots (about 4 to nine kmph) and estimated endurance is about 20 hours at 3 knots. Standard payload consists of EdgeTech 2200-M 120/410 kHz side scan sonar (option: EdgeTech 230/850 kHz dynamically focused), EdgeTech DW-216 sub-bottom profiler, and

w e a p o ns / t e chn o l o g y 

Air Warriors

and their Weapons In the Indian context, there is a huge requirement to indigenise the rockets, missiles and bombs of the MiG-29, with commonality with the Indian Air Force, which presents a huge opportunity for joint ventures/transfer of technology. Photograph: US Navy

n  Rear Admiral (Retd) Dr S. Kulshrestha

T

he armament carried today by maritime aircraft and helicopters includes depth charges, bombs, lightweight torpedoes and anti-ship cruise missiles. Air Dropped Depth Charges and Bombs. British Aerospace BAE Systems had developed the Mk 11 depth charge for air delivery from maritime aircraft and helicopters. The design of Mk 11 depth charge caters specifically for shallow water operations against submarines on the surface or at periscope depths. It is fully compatible for carriage and release from a wide-range of anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopters and fixed-wing maritime patrol aircraft. Bofors Underwater Systems (now Saab Dynamics) developed the BDC 204 depth charge for air delivery from maritime aircraft and helicopters of the Swedish Navy. Four different weight categories and with different sinking speeds ranging between 5.2 metres per second and 6.8 metres per second are available to cover a wide range of applications. Two air dropped bomb upgrade kits worth mentioning are joint direct attack munition (JDAM) by Boeing Corporation and the dual mode laser guided bomb (DMLGB) by Lockheed Martin. The JDAM upgrades include GPS-aided inertial navigation system with a range of up to 24 km. The DMLGB kit provides LGBs with a semiactive laser, GPS/INS guidance. Air launched Torpedoes. Stingray is a light-weight torpedo manufactured by BAE Systems. It has a diametre of 324 mm, weight of 267 kg, and length of 2.6 metres. Its speed is 45 kts (about 83 kmph) with a range of 8 km and its warhead is 45 kg of Torpex explosive. It can dive up to 800 metres. Mk46 Mod5 torpedo is the mainstay of US Navy’s air-launched light-

Reson 7125 (400 kHz) multi-beam echosounder. It also includes a camera as optical payload. The side-scan sonar transmits a pulse which produces a high-resolution 3D map of the sea floor. Bluefin-21 is in the news as it is being employed to search for the wreckage of Flight MH370. Apart from search it can be used effectively for MCM and UXO operations. Hovering AUV (HAUV). HUAV is a two-man-portable hovering AUV designed for ship hull inspection. Equipped with a high-resolution imaging sonar, it surveys ship hulls and other structures with minimal prior knowledge. While surveys are executed autonomously, the operator can manually control the vehicle to further on areas of interest. It can autonomously locate and relocate contacts on a ship’s hull with a precision of better than two metres CEP 50. Its integrated DIDSON™ sonar provides high-resolution sonar images that can be viewed in real time over the vehicle’s fibre optic tether. It has the ability for precise manoeuvrability. It has endurance

MK 46 torpedo

weight torpedoes. Alliant Tech Systems manufacture it. It has a diameter of 324 mm, length of 2.59 metres, with a weight of 231 kg. It runs on Otto fuel, has a range of 11 km with a speed of 40 kts (about 74 kmph) and can dive upto 365 metres. The Mk 54 lightweight torpedo of Raytheon is a hybrid of technologies taken from MK 46, MK48 and MK50 torpedoes. It is supposed to have homing and warhead of the MK 50 and propulsion package of the MK 46 torpedo. P-8i aircraft of the Indian Navy are to be equipped with this torpedo. The A244/S developed by WAAS and currently manufactured by the Euro Torp consortium is a 324 mm diameter, 2.8 m long, and 244 kg weight torpedo. It has a cruise/surge speed of 30/39 kts (about 55/79 kmph), with a range of 6 km and depth up to 600 m. It has special signal processing to distinguish target from decoys. A244/S Mod 3 is the latest upgrade, which has more powerful

propulsion battery, ensuring a 50 per cent increase in the endurance of the weapon to 13.5 km. The MU90/IMPACT torpedo by Euro Torp is a 323.7 mm ‘NATO Standard’ calibre, 2.85 mm long with a weight of 304 kg weapon. An aluminium-silver oxide seawater battery using dissolved sodium-dioxide powder as electrolyte with a closed-loop electrolyte re-circulation system powers it. The control and guidance electronics has embedded operational and tactical software including the signal processing, the data processing and the torpedo guidance algorithms, which enable continuous updating of its configuration and tactics. Low-Cost-Anti-Submarine Weapon (LCAW). A200/A is a miniature torpedo developed by WASS. It is a low-cost option, which provides propulsion and guidance to a depth charge without the costs of a torpedo. The A200/A version has a length of

The development in the last few decades particularly in the field of propulsion, control systems, hydrodynamics and sensor technology have boosted the developing in unmanned underwater vehicles/autonomous underwater vehicles

ular in construction to allow tailor made payloads to suit multiple roles. Apart from typical commercial uses it can be effectively employed for MCM and UXO detection and destruction role. It can dive up to 1,500 metres, has an endurance of 30 hours at 3 knots with standard payload, speed up to 5 knots and, standard payload of EdgeTech 2200-MP 120/410 kHz side scan sonar and Digital camera, LED-based strobe. These payloads can be interchanged with other sensors depending upon the role. Saab’s AUV62 “Sapphires”. Sapphire is a modular AUV which can perform a variety of missions. The AUV62-MR (Mine Reconnaissance) version includes a dual flank-array sonar and high-resolution gapfiller sonar for long endurance mine hunting. The Synthetic Aperture Sonar can be effectively used mine search, reconnaissance and seabed mapping. It also has an anti-submarine target variant in which an omni directional hydrophone replaces the forward-looking sonar in the base module with a transducer section and a towed

up to 3.5 hours with standard payload in still conditions. It can operate at depths of 30 metres or 60 metres. HAUV can also be used for Port and Harbor Security, MCM and UXO search. Bluefin-12 DAUV. Bluefin-12D is mod-

914.4 mm, weight of 12 kg, and a diameter of 123.8 mm. The warhead is a 2.5 kg PBX shaped charge and the LCAW has an operating depth from 15 m to 300 m. It has a speed of about 18 kts with a range of 2 km. Anti-ship Missiles. Sea Skua manufactured by MBDA (UK) is a 145 kg, 2.5 m long anti-shipping missile primarily launched from helicopters like Westland Lynx. It uses solid fuel, has a 30 kg SAP, RDX warhead, and has range of 25 km. It utilises semiactive radar guidance system. RBS-15 is a long-range ASM manufactured by Saab Dynamics. It is an 800 kg, 4.33 m long turbojet missile with a range of 250 km and has a 200 kg HE warhead. It is a sub-sonic sea skimmer using, GPS, inertial and active radar guidance. MBDA is the manufacturer of EXOCET AM 39. It is a 670 kg, 4.69 m long high subsonic missile with a range of 70 km. It uses solid propellant turbo jet engine and has inertial and terminal active radar guidance with a 165 kg insensitive warhead. Manufactured by Boeing, AGM84 Harpoon Block II is an 1,160 lb, 151.5 in missile with a range of 67 nm. It has a turbo jet cruise engine with a solid booster and uses GPS aided inertial guidance with terminal active guidance. It has a 500 lb last warhead. Indian Navy has ordered this missile as a weapon outfit for its P-8i aircraft. In the Indian context, there is a huge requirement to indigenise the rockets, missiles and bombs of the MiG-29, with commonality with the Indian Air Force, which presents a huge opportunity for JV/ToT. There would be a weapon package requirement (anti-shipping cruise missiles, ASW etc) for replacement/upgrades of IL-38 and TU142s. Weapons for naval version of the LCA will also be required.  SP The author is former DG NAI and Senior Fellow New Westminster College, Canada

transducer tail to generate realistic submarine noise and sonar echoes. The Swedish Navy employs it in MCM and rapid environmental assessment role. Swedish Navy has also recently signed a contract with Saab for $22.5 million to acquire the training variant of Sapphire AUV.

Indian Perspective With India’s large coastline, maritime trade interests in the Indian Ocean and real threats of smuggling and terrorism, UUVs/AUVs make an attractive tool in the hands of the Navy and the Indian Coast Guard to counter them. It is understood that DRDO (Naval Science and Technological Laboratory) is making an endeavour to develop UUVs/AUVs but details are not known. India has so far not developed a torpedo or submarine launched ballistic missile although efforts are on but these are very complex technologies and India has quite a distance to cover. Meanwhile it would be prudent to acquire these technologies from US/Europe as it plays a major role in making systems safe and efficient.  SP

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11

 I ndust r y

Need to Develop a

Defence Industrial Base Government must think of developing self-dependency in weapon systems by providing an enabling environment and congenial ecosystem to foreign partners to be able to establish defence facilities in India. Photograph: DCNS

n  Vice Admiral (Retd) Anup Singh

www.spsnavalforces.com

I

n its sixth edition since inception, the Defence Procurement Procedure 2013 (DPP 2013) has, for the first time, provided clarity on how indigenisation is to be achieved. However, while the articulation of this long cherished dream of self-reliance is in perfect harmony with idealism, the path towards its accomplishment may not be as easily achievable as the document aims through definition. Till recently, the business of procurement did not consider the private sector capable of, or “reliable enough”, to deliver requisite hardware in terms of weapon platforms or specialised systems. This led to the business of ‘nominating’ defence public secter undertakings (DPSUs) for such procurements that were intended to be produced indigenously. The risk of attendant time and cost overruns in the case of new technologies was never given forethought and sometimes even quality of the final product was questioned by the customer (the defence services). For decades therefore, we have continued to rely on the import option for most capital procurements while the Indian private sector waits in the wings to capture some opportunity to seriously compete and prove own worth. They feel that they have, so far, not been considered as partners in the business of defence production in India. What, then, is the answer to the business of true indigenisation that could reverse the current import – homegrown ratio of 70:30 to a satisfying 30:70 and will result in conspicuous strategic benefits? Without doubt, the answer lies in determining the components of, and establishing a defence industrial base in India. First one needs to understand the full meaning of this construct. When originally coined, the term Defence Industrial Base – DIB for short – drew direct lineage from political science and implied a government’s industrial assets that directly or indirectly produced hardware for the armed forces. Today’s definition from the US military establishment describes this term as “the worldwide industrial complex that enables research and development, as well as design, production, delivery and maintenance of weapon systems, subsystems, components or parts to meet US military requirements”. In our case, however, psychologically even now the term is taken to mean its original significance – that of being the Government’s industrial assets or, the public sector including PSUs and ordnance Factories. Its genesis lies in the initiation of the stateowned industry in the early 19th century when the East India Company established the Cossipore Gun and Shell Factory. Every ordnance factory that came up thereafter, added to the Government’s kitty of defence production network. The chain of DPSUs that surfaced post-independence, served to strengthen the view that the only network of industries that could be relied upon to support indigenous Defence production was the public sector. In other words, the

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Pipavav shipyard with world-class facilities

‘business’ of defence was considered as being the sole responsibility of the government’s establishments as none else could be relied upon to deliver. This feeling has continued to persist amongst all stakeholders despite details to the contrary in consecutive editions of the DPP. Contents of the latest edition have sought to change this perception and make the private sector an equal partner. To say that the Indian private sector is capable of contributing to high technology needs of India’s defence forces, would be an understatement. An industry that has taken the world by storm from pharmaceuticals to automobiles and electronics to information technology, imbibing cutting edge technologies through joint ventures and produce contemporary weapons is certainly not a tall order. To take stock of the national potential for design, development, production and support of defence platforms and equipment, we need to clearly understand capabilities of both, the public and the private sectors in India. Despite being amongst the top 10 military spenders in the world, India has not progressed in creating a DIB, to move towards assured self-reliance. Therefore our annual imports still cost us between five and six billion dollars. There are two primary reasons for this situation. Firstly, one has to remember that we missed the industrial revolution. The other is the total dependence on the public sector for most of our indigenous effort. One has to contrast this situation with other large spenders – in both developed as well as the developing world. In all such countries, large defence industries support national needs and even earn foreign exchange through export of defence equipment. In India, on the other hand, defence requirements are met primarily through a mix of imports and government owned facilities (PSUs/ ordnance factories). Each year, we spend between 40 and 42 per cent of our total defence budget on equipment purchases/modernisation. Despite the existence of nine DPSUs and 39 ordnance factories, the products from

these units meet only about 10 per cent of the total annual modernisation requirement of our defence services. While some of these industries provide a few capital goods, much of their produce includes ammunition and low-end stores. The three types of DPSUs that produce true capital products are HAL; BEL/BDL/ECIL/BHEL; and, the defence shipyards. There too, HAL has been engaged in “licensed” production of aircraft which begins in each project with CKD assembly and gradually moves towards in-house production with outsourcing of some components of airframe/ avionics from the market. Only some projects have had complete indigenous production of major items like engines. In the case of DPSUs, true transfer of technology (ToT) is yet to be witnessed in any contract with a foreign principal. Most contracts find only an “industrial arrangement” thus leaving these PSUs at their existing threshold of technology. The case of defence shipyards, however, is better. A bulk of the naval platform is produced with indigenous raw material and build-technology that has been harnessed through five decades of experience. Thus, almost 70 per cent of a ship by volume is of indigenous content. However, when it comes to value, almost 35 to 45 per cent of the cost of a frigate or destroyer still gets spent on import of propulsion systems, most weapons, some sensors and special equipment. Though, it must be emphatically stated that the one conspicuous success story in the state owned sector is that of the conventional and strategic missile arsenal – developed by DRDO and produced by PSUs like the Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL). The private sector has mainly been involved in supply of raw materials, semi– finished products, components and spare parts to defence PSUs, ordnance factories, base workshops of army, base repair depots of air force and dockyards of the navy. Amongst the large private sector Defence players are Tatas (TCS, Tata Motors); Larsen & Toubro; Bharat Forge; Godrej; HCL; Kirloskar; Mahindras; Ashok

Leyland; Wipro. These are mainly involved in supplying customised software, vehicles, machinery including gensets and propulsion engines (licensed production). None of them have yet entered into weapon–sensor development or specialised engineering items like indigenously developed propulsion systems. Why? Because they haven’t got the opportunity despite having got requisite licences. Many times the reason points to the chicken and egg paradigm. The government will trust a private player only on the basis of past expertise or a proven product. The private industry cannot afford to set up an expensive assembly line without orders/assured returns. Since enunciation of the first Industrial Policy after independence until the year 2002, munitions, aircraft and warships were meant to be the exclusive preserve of the public sector. It is only a couple of years ago that the private sector was permitted to enter (bid) areas of military systems/platforms. Yet, in 2005, the Standing Committee on Defence had to record that despite 55 years of independence; procurement of capital equipment remained reliant on imports. Eight years later, the story is no different and the inherent inertia may well keep it that way in the future as well, unless full participation by the private sector is witnessed soon. This is so because despite opening up to the private sector, a level playing field is not perceived by many hopefuls in that sector. Before it comes to tendering in bigticket acquisitions like warships or missile systems, many a times the prerogative of ‘nominating’ DPSUs has (so far) been exercised. This trend neutralises competition and introduces time and cost overruns caused by inadequacies of the system. This monopoly has also meant that the private sector has neither had the incentive nor the opportunity to introduce cutting edge technologies – whether through ToT tie-ups or through their own innovation. Statements by the Raksha Mantri, in the run up to the latest DPP have instilled the confidence that the practice of nominations will now be a thing of the past. In the case of Naval orders, a few private shipyards like Pipavav, Bharti, ABG etc have recently entered the business of shipbuilding – but all in the non-weapon category, like offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), training ships and yard craft. Another industry major, L&T, has established exclusive expertise in submarine construction and in specialised vessel construction and holds promise in warship construction as well. The field of warship construction does not require an assembly line, but only expertise in integration; therefore it is easier for existing commercial shipyards to venture into this field. An important aspect of neglect of the private industry is that most of the intermediate and component level suppliers fall in the category of medium, small and micro enterprises (MSMEs). Small and medium enterprises play a vital role in the economic development of any country. But in advanced economies they form the upstream chain for supply of parts to the

indust r y / c o nf e r e nc e  original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). In India, since there are hardly any OEMs of complete weapon systems or platforms, MSMEs have been expanding in numbers – only as suppliers of components, sub components and spare parts for PSUs, ordnance factories and a few big companies in the private sector itself. It is estimated that there are over 6,000 Indian MSMEs “registered” in this category – destined to supply only subassemblies as per the current trend. A few large Indian companies have been granted licences for production of weapon systems and associated equipment, but they have rarely had the opportunity of bidding or winning contracts. Overall, the large number of MSMEs and a very few big players ultimately contribute only 10 per cent of the total turnover of the Indian defence industry and an even smaller percentage thereof for modernisation! By measure of value, our PSUs have the lowest per capita productivity quotient. As per official statistics in the year 201011, this value was assessed at only `15 lakh per employee per annum for PSUs/ ordnance factories as against `30 lakh being the national average for our private industry. In fact some industries like those engaged in electronics and automobiles have posted a near `40 lakh per capita figure over the last few years. The start point, therefore, for the public sector to turn around, must be “doubling” of efficiency! And since most of our defence industry (public sector) pertains to the mid- to hightechnology arena, with a little infusion of manufacturing technology and funds, this is not a difficult proposition. The next step must be to lift the private sector from supply of only raw materials/ semi-finished products, parts and components, to the status of OEMs – whether through JVs, tieups or through indigenous development. The third step should be quick and easy grant of industrial licences (a mandatory requirement for defence vendors in India) to encourage new entrants to launch their

products into the defence inventory. Currently, vendors lament a near six to 18 months wait for a licence (sometimes even denied after a long wait), followed thereafter by a hiatus of orders which in many cases is almost permanent! If survival of the PSUs/ordnance factories is a fear, perhaps a PPP model can be introduced for some (only some) major procurements over the next decade. But thereafter all must be treated as independent (equal) entities. Hopefully by that time, the PSUs should become as efficient and as technology hungry as their private counterparts. Programmes dedicated to skill upgradation of manpower must be introduced to prepare the large workforce in many PSUs and ordnance factories, for the workshops and products of tomorrow. The last cap of 26 per cent in FDI in defence production was seen as a ‘negative’ by many in the industry. The recent upgradation to 49 per cent is encouraging as a step in the right direction for attracting foreign capital and accompanying technology from developed shores. However, many in the private sector feel the FDI cap must have liberal approval procedures. Only then will FDI generate interest in foreign manufacturers and prospective Indian partners. JVs cannot be established without liberal FDI regimes. And the easiest route for imbibing cutting-edge technologies is the FDI route. There are, of course, voices within the private sector that feel FDI should not be encouraged for defence as it will dilute the Indian boards and make Indian industry too dependent on foreign partners. These voices are in a minority and will get muted by the overwhelming ‘ayes’ for liberal FDI in defence. The private sector should actually be leveraged as a strategic asset and helped in assuming full partnership (not just 10 per cent stake as at present). After all it is the private sector that has pushed the economy through advanced manufacturing, engineering and world-class products in information, communication and telecom-

munication fields apart from becoming a promising manufacturing hub with already a lead in global production of several types of machines. In addition the private sector has made India a leader in IT and ITES domains. This complimentarily can become a catalyst for indigenous development in defence related technologies and invite foreign partners’ interest. At the moment, there is negligible export potential for products made by the defence industry as they are not many items that evoke global interest. Once the private sector develops the experience and harnesses contemporary defence related technologies, these could be used for pushing exports. An automatic spin off would be a huge job creation potential apart from an organised ancillary/downstream industry. Taiwan and Turkey are conspicuous examples as are developed countries of the West. The Defence Procurement Procedure was first issued in 2002 to streamline the acquisition process and transform efficiency and transparency of defence acquisitions. It has been revised and amended in several iterations since, the latest being DPP 2013. The best way to realize the true aims of this edition would be to have an “oversight” board or commission – comprising of a mix of independent professionals/economists and senior MoD functionaries – to frequently review/audit and put in place correctives. Over the last few years, defence needs have been opened to the private sector and foreign investment. The aim has been to bring about a major restructuring and development of the defence industry. Yet, there remains a huge untapped potential of the private sector. Looking at the vast network of defence PSUs and ordnance factories, one would think that their capacity and workforce (nearly 1,80,000 skilled personnel) should be sufficient to cater to most requirements of Indian armed forces. However, capability of DPSUs and ordnance factories has remained insuf-

ficient to match the growing demands of technology. The reasons were cited in the opening paragraphs of this article. Despite having missed the industrial revolution, we can still make up by aggressively rejuvenating the public sector through infusion of technology by way of PPP tie-ups and JVs. Surely, we are capable of much better outputs and this country deserves the fruits of its true potential – hidden in the private sector as well as in the public sector, and, more importantly in the PPP model! Skill upgradation of the public sector work force is very essential. The private sector must be made full and equal partner in the defence industrial base. MSMEs must be encouraged to participate and get active membership of the supply chain for products. Lastly, half the battle will be won if the process of initiation of private players is accelerated and made “market friendly”. Single window clearances for approvals and licences must be introduced to encourage those waiting to obtain industrial and/ or weapon manufacturing licences. Nations accord the highest importance to building a vibrant DIB so that they achieve strategic autonomy through political independence, enjoy the economic advantage in procurements and obviate denial regimes in times of crisis. Selfsufficiency or self-reliance are terms that become meaningful only when a competitive and well spread out Defence industry is allowed to flourish within the country. Encouraging big players to assume OEM status and win contracts will also prove beneficial in enhancing economies of scale through efficiency of the shop floor. The answer clearly lies in unleashing the latent and the conspicuous capability quotient of the DIB which must list all public and private sector players capable of contributing to the needs of Indian defence forces.  SP

formations is of prime importance and focused efforts, as hitherto, were required at all levels to ensure sustained growth of the Navy into a formidable multi-dimensional force. Asserting that induction of Vikramaditya with integral fighter aircraft is a substantial boost to the Navy’s capabilities, he said the Navy’s surface capability is further poised for a quantum jump with the planned induction of Kolkata (P15A Destroyer) and Kamorta (P 28 ASW Corvette) in the near future. CNS expressed satisfaction at the steady augmentation of assets in the aviation arm of the Navy, with progressive induction of P-8I, LRMR and ASW and AJT aircrafts and the commissioning of ALH squadron. Capability gaps resulting from the ageing submarine fleet, shortage of integral helicopters in the fleets and the need for mine counter measure vessels were also discussed. The Admiral discussed the self-reliance programme of the Navy and stressed that indigenisation of platforms, weapons, sensors and equipment, through public as well as private sectors, should remain an area of focus. He emphasised that the ‘Roadmap for the Navy’s expansion and growth would continue to remain anchored on self-reliance and indigenisation’. CNS reviewed the ‘coastal security construct’ and was satisfied with the steady progress made in strengthening the coastal security apparatus, viz. induction of FICs, ISVs and NC3 I project. He asserted the need to remain ever vigilant and focused towards our coastal security responsibili-

ties, through proactive coordination with other maritime agencies and coastal states. CNS highlighted that our foreign cooperation initiatives and engagements are growing considerably and past efforts have borne fruit in various forms. He appreciated the quick response of the ships and aircraft deployed towards SAR of ill-fated missing Malaysian Airlines jetliner MH 370. CNS reviewed progress of various infrastructure projects that are in pipeline and shall contribute towards futuristic capacity building. The need to adopt sustainable green technologies, recycling and waste management to reduce carbon footprint of our bases, in pursuance of the energy goals of our country were impressed upon. Bringing the focus on human resource development and management, CNS stated that our men and women are our greatest assets and their morale and well-being should always remain a primary concern. The need to attract and retain quality manpower by focusing on measures to provide a high quality of life at all stages of their career was highlighted. He also applauded the contribution of civilian personnel, who form a large component of naval human resources. He reiterated his vision to run a taut, effective and happy Navy. The CNS concluded the conference by complimenting all personnel of the Indian Navy for their professionalism and patriotism, and exhorted them to prepare themselves and the Navy to meet the maritime security challenges being faced by the nation. “We need to pull on the oars together to propel the Navy to greater heights,” he said.  SP

The author is a former Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command

Naval Commanders’... continued from page 6 not inked by the UPA Government, like the acquisition of attack choppers for the IAF, the Minister said, “I am not treating this as adversarial between previous and this government. This is an issue of national priority and I would be emphasising on that.” Asked if the Commanders’ Conference discussed the issue of mishaps involving naval assets, Jaitley said the issue was not discussed in today’s meeting. “The Navy has given detailed information to me on this and they have said that they do internal investigations in these matters and after that, they take whatever action is required to be taken,” he said. With the Navy’s growing importance in safeguarding the country’s strategic interests from Malacca Strait to the Persian Gulf, as well as projecting combat power overseas, the Narendra Modi Government has promised all help in plugging operational gaps in the maritime force’s capabilities. Moving forward on this dictum, Arun Jaitley said long delayed modernisation projects would be “fast-tracked” to ensure the Navy’s “operational preparedness.” The regime change at the Centre has augured very well for the Indian Navy. Soon after taking over as the Defence Minister, was on board INS Viraat to have a firsthand feel of the Indian Navy and be briefed on its operational status. A week later, it was a proud moment when the new Prime Minister of the country in a unique manner dedicated to the nation INS Vikramaditya, the largest, the costliest platform which truly symbolises not just the Blue Water

“Roadmap for the Navy’s expansion and growth would continue to remain anchored on self-reliance and indigenisation. My vision is to run a taut, effective and happy Navy. We need to pull on the oars together to propel the Navy to greater heights,” CNS. capability and the maritime power, but as a formidable force multiplier in real sense. Admiral R.K. Dhowan, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), chaired the Conference and addressed the Navy’s top leadership in his first Commanders’ Conference as CNS. He outlined three inter-related priorities i.e. sustaining combat readiness, building capabilities for the future and addressing human resource challenges. During the Conference several important issues including operational readiness, coastal security, maintenance philosophy and quality of refits for ensuring combat effectiveness of platforms, infrastructure development and foreign cooperation initiatives, etc. were deliberated upon. CNS emphasised that combat readiness of the fleet and other operational

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 m a r k e tin g f e atu r e

Quick as Lightning, Deceptive as Mirage, Dangerous as Scorpio

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n the 21st century, Russia remains one of the world’s largest shipbuilding nations. Its national shipbuilding industry can design and build warships and auxiliary vessels of all classes, as well as produce all kinds of naval weapons and equipment. Currently, Russia is the largest exporter of combatant and patrol craft. Back in the 1960s-90s, Russia delivered abroad approximately twice as many combatant boats as Great Britain, France, Sweden, Norway, Spain and Italy combined. Today, there is growing demand in the world for combatant and patrol boats with a displacement of 20 to 500 tons. The requirement for them is quite high in the Middle East, Southeast Asian, African and Latin American markets. Russian companies have something to offer in this sector to international buyers. Today, the combatant craft is a fast, well-armed, advanced electronic-technical system capable of successfully performing a wide range of missions in wartime and peacetime. Russia pioneered in applying bottom devices to small ships. With lift vector control, the world’s unrivalled Project 14310 Mirazh (Mirage) patrol boat can achieve speeds up to 50 knots, significantly reduce rolling and pitching motions and cut down specific fuel consumption. The Project 12418 Molniya (Lightning) missile boat is designed to engage enemy surface combatant ships, boats and vessels on the high seas and in coastal waters, both independently and in conjunction with the fleet striking forces. It is equipped with the Uran-E anti-ship missile system capable of penetrating current shipborne air defenses and assuredly engaging any surface target. In terms of firepower, the Molniya is unrivalled among its foreign counterparts. Throughout its history, the boat was repeatedly studied by foreign experts. Designers and military highly praised its combat and speed performance, survivability, and simplicity of design. In its issue of May 26, 1992, New York Times named the Molniya boat of the first modification one of the fastest and deadliest ships of this class in the world. New versions of the Molniya boats significantly outperform their predecessors in fighting capabilities. Among combat missions assigned to the Molniya are engaging enemy combatant boat and ship detachments, landing detachments and convoys, providing cover for friendly ASW forces, landing detachments and convoys, conducting tactical reconnaissance, and providing surface situation awareness. In peacetime, the boat is used to protect the state border, perform patrolling, ensure safety of navigation, fight piracy and participate in rescue operations. All these capabilities have been appreciated by the sailors of Turkmenistan’s Navy, which recently purchased a batch of such boats. The Project 12150 Mangust (Mongoose) fast planing patrol boat has great export potential. It is capable of achieving

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Project 12418 Molniya (Lightning)

Project 14310 Mirazh (Mirage)

Project 12150 Mangust

speeds up to 50 knots and is designed to intercept virtually all high-speed sea targets. Its armament mix includes a 14.5mm naval pedestal machine gun mount and the Igla-S MANPADS. The Project 12061E Murena air-cushion landing craft is unique in its combat and performance characteristics. It is designed to take on forward landing parties’ military equipment and personnel from a hard beach or a beach, large landing ships and transports; provide their sealift and landing on

unequipped coast and shallow water. The Murena can also be used to patrol coastal areas, naval base and seaport areas. The Murena landing craft offers improved design features and seaworthiness through the use of corrosion-resistant alloys, extruded sections and panels, and a high-performance power plant. The boat and its armaments remain operable at a wave height of up to 1.5 m and wind speed of up to 12 m/s. Its troop capacity is impressive: 2 infantry fighting

vehicles, or 2 armored personnel carriers, or 3 armored vehicles, or 2 amphibious tanks, or 1 medium tank, or 130 marines. Its armament corresponds to the assigned missions: two 30mm AK-306 lightweight automatic guns controlled by an optical sighting device (ammunition load: 500 rounds per gun) and eight Igla-S MANPADS sets. The Project 20970 Katran patrol boat is designed to counter enemy surface ships and combatant boats, patrol the maritime area in the open coastal waters of the seas and oceans and in inland waters. It can effectively engage enemy surface ships and combatant boats, landing craft and transports, provide fire support to amphibious landing parties, conduct tactical reconnaissance. In peacetime, the Katran can carry out patrol missions as part of the Coast Guard forces. To reduce radar visibility, Katran’s hull and superstructure are made using stealth technology. The main striking weapon of the boat is the Uran-E anti-ship missile system with 3M-24E anti-ship missiles accommodated in eight transport-launch containers. Air defense is provided by an AA missile/gun system, the 3M-47 Gibka shipborne turret mount with four Igla-S SAMs, and the 30mm AK-306 lightweight automatic gun mount. The PK-10 decoy dispensing system (four KT-216 launchers, 40 rounds) is used for passive jamming. The Katran patrol boat is capable of achieving a maximum speed of about 40 knots and covering up to 2200 miles at maximum fuel capacity. Its endurance is five days. The Project 12300 Scorpion (Scorpio) is even a more powerful missile/gun boat. It is designed to engage enemy surface combatant ships, boats and transports independently and in conjunction with fleet striking forces. Its full displacement is about 460 tons, hull length – 57 m, beam – 10.3 m. With such dimensions, the Scorpion has a top speed of about 40 knots, cruising range at maximum fuel capacity is about 2,000 miles, and endurance is 10 days. Like on the Katran, modern radar signature reduction technologies are also effectively used here. Upon customer request, the Uran-E antiship missile system may be replaced with the Yakhont anti-ship missile system consisting of two launchers (with two missiles each) and 3R50E-12300 shipborne control system. In addition to striking missile weapons, the Katran carries an AA missile/ gun system; the 100mm A-190-5P-10E universal gun system (consisting of the A190 gun and the 5P-10E universal fire control radar), as well as the PK-10 decoy dispensing system (two or four KT-216 launchers) for passive jamming. Depending on customer’s requests, economic and technological possibilities, Rosoboronexport offers co-production of high-speed missile boats both at Russian production facilities and at buyers’ shipyards. Licensed boat construction by partner states is also possible.  SP

News

News in Brief

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Jayant Baranwal Assistant Group Editor R. Chandrakanth Senior Editorial Adviser R. Adm (Retd) S.K. Ramsay

SIMBEX 2014 The 2014 edition of the ‘SIMBEX 14’ series of annual bilateral naval exercises between the Indian Navy (IN) and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) have been conducted in the Andaman Sea from May 22-28. Hosted by IN, SIMBEX 14 will be the 21st in the series, designed to enhance inter-operability and mutual understanding between the two navies. Bilateral Naval cooperation between the two navies was first formalised when RSN ships began training in antisubmarine warfare with the Indian Navy in 1994. SIMBEX is an acronym for ‘Singapore Indian Maritime Bilateral Exercise’. This year, the IN is being represented by IN ships Kuthar and Karmuk from the Eastern Naval Command. In addition, a maritime patrol aircraft and a helicopter each from Andaman and Nicobar Command is also participating in the exercise.

Boeing delivers 4th P-8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft to India Boeing has delivered the fourth P-8I maritime patrol aircraft to India on schedule, fulfilling the first half of a contract for eight aircraft. The aircraft departed from Boeing Field in Seattle and arrived May 21 at Naval Air Station Rajali, where it joined three P-8Is currently undergoing operational evaluation. “This marks an important milestone – the halfway point for P-8I deliveries to India,” said Dennis Swanson, BDS Vice President in India. “The programme’s success the past year is really a testament to the great work between Boeing, the Indian Navy and industry.” Based on the company’s next-generation 737 commercial airplane, the P-8I is the Indian Navy variant of the P-8A Poseidon that Boeing has developed for the US Navy.

Visit of Rear Admiral Ng Chee Peng Chief of Navy Republic of Singapore

Rear Admiral Ng Chee Peng, Chief of Navy, Republic of Singapore Navy called on Admiral R.K. Dhowan, Chief of the Naval Staff, on June 3, 2014. Rear Admiral Peng started

>> SHOW CALENDAR 10 September Maritime Security & Defence (MS&D) Hamburg Messe und Congress, Hamburg, Germany www.msd-smm.com 29 September–1 October Maritime Reconnaissance and Surveillance Rome, Italy www.maritimerecon.com 30 September–2 October Offshore Patrol Vessels The Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin, Ireland www.offshorepatrolvessels.com 27–31 October EURONAVAL Paris – Le Bourget Exhibition Centre, Paris, France www.euronaval.fr

his visit by laying a wreath at ‘Amar Jawan Jyoti’ and thereafter, he was received at the South Block lawns by Admiral Dhowan with the traditional ‘Guard of Honour’. Visit of Singapore Naval Chief is expected to intensify the cooperation between both navies and strengthen historical ties between both navies. Incidentally, 2014-15 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Singapore. Presently, Singapore has a Defence Cooperation Agreement besides a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement with India. During his visit Singapore’s Naval Chief is expected to discuss issues of cooperation between both navies and regional maritime security. He would be also be interacting with COAS, CAS and the Defence Secretary.

well as diving drills. Apart from China, Singapore and Brunei will also send ships.  SP

Green Footprint of a Blue Water Navy

Vice Admiral Satish Soni takes over Eastern Naval Command: Vice Admiral Satish Soni took over as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command Visakhapatnam on June 16, 2014. Vice Admiral was commissioned into the IN on July 01, 1976. Prior to this, he was the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command. He is the recipient of PVSM, AVSM and Nao Sena Medal.

As guardians of maritime frontiers, the Indian Navy deploys ships, submarines and aircraft that consume energy resources for operational roles. With diminishing energy resources, price volatility and to minimise the impact of fossil fuels on the environment, there is an emerging and compelling need to ensure optimal utilisation of these resources and ‘stretch each rupee to the maximum’ by increasing operational efficiency of maritime platforms and associated administrative processes within the Navy. Accordingly, the Indian Navy has embarked on an ambitious path of whole-heartedly embracing ‘Green Initiatives’. Admiral R.K. Dhowan, Chief of the Naval Staff, has stressed on the need to implement measures which would cover all aspects— operations, administration, maintenance, infrastructure and community living.

Visit of delegation of Sri Lankan Coast Guard A three-member delegation led by the Director General Sri Lankan Coast Guard (SLCG) Rear Admiral Ravindra C. Wijegunaratne, visited India from June 24-28, 2014, for an apex level meeting with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The Indian delegation was led by the Director General ICG Vice Admiral Anurag G. Thapliyal. The visit was in continuation of the various efforts by the governments of the two countries towards cooperation between their respective coast guards in pursuance of the discussions on maritime issues of mutual concerns to formulate a cooperative approach. The focus of the meeting was on further strengthening the operational level interaction for search and rescue, preservation and protection of maritime environment, revalidating standard operating procedures and communication procedures between the two Coast Guards. During the visit, the SLCG delegation also called on the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral R.K. Dhowan and the Defence Secretary R.K. Mathur.

Chinese navy to participate in RIMPAC The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Daily has reported that the Chinese Navy will participate in the US’ RIMPAC multinational naval exercises for the first time this year with a missile destroyer, a missile frigate, a supplier ship, a hospital ship with two on board helicopters, a special battle force and a diving force. As previously agreed by leaders from the Chinese and US navies, the Chinese Navy will take part in cannon firing exercises, comprehensive exercises, maritime security actions, maritime warship exercises, military medical care exchanges, humanitarian aid and disaster reduction as

Appointments Vice Admiral Anil Chopra heads Western Naval Command: Vice Admiral Anil Chopra took over as the Flag Officer Commanding-inChief on June 6, 2014. He has held various key appointments like Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command; Director General, Indian Coast Guard; Fleet Commander of the Western Fleet etc. Commissioned into the IN on July 1, 1975, he is recipient of PVSM and AVSM.

Vice Admiral S.P.S. Cheema, assumes charge of Southern Naval Command: Vice Admiral S.P.S. Cheema assumed command of Southern Naval Command as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief on June 19, 2014. The Admiral was commissioned into the IN on January 1, 1977. He is a graduate of the National Defence Academy, Defence Services Staff College, Wellington and the College of Naval Warfare, Mumbai. He is a specialist in missile and gunnery. His other two Commands include the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee as also the Commander-in-Chief, Strategic Forces Command. He has been awarded the PVSM, AVSM and Nau Sena Medal (Gallantry). Vice Admiral P.K. Chatterjee is the Commander-in-Chief, Andaman & Nicobar Command: Vice Admiral Pradeep K. Chatterjee assumed the command of the only unified tri-service command of the country, Andaman and Nicobar Command June 1, 2014. He was commissioned in the IN on January 1, 1977. He is a submariner and has commanded the Type 1500 submarines, Shankush and Shankul. He has also been the Inspector General Nuclear Safety and the Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, Integrated Headquarters, MoD (Navy). He is the recipient of AVSM and Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry). Vice Admiral Sunil Lanba takes over as Vice Chief of Naval Staff: Vice Admiral Sunil Lanba took over as the Vice Chief of Naval Staff on June 2, 2014. He was commissioned into IN on January 1, 1978. He is an alumnus of Royal College of Defence Studies, London. On promotion to rank of Vice Admiral he was appointed as Chief of Staff, Headquarters Eastern Naval Command. Prior to assuming charge as Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, he was Commandant of National Defence College, New Delhi. He is the recipient of AVSM.

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