CV32

From Defense Aerospace Long Range Land Attack Projectile Test Demonstrates 60 NM Guided Flight (Source: US Navy; issued June 27, 2005) WASHINGTON --- The DD(X) National Team and the Navy conducted the third consecutive successful guided-flight test of the 155mm Long Range Land Attack Projectile (LRLAP) June 16. Preliminary results indicate the munition successfully conducted preplanned maneuvers along a 60 nautical mile flight path during the 280-second flight. “This important test highlights another successful milestone to develop and field long-range, GPS-precise gun munitions for our fleet,” said Rear Adm. Charles Hamilton, the program executive officer for ships. “The success of LRLAP is vital to our efforts to deliver DD(X) to the fleet as planned. Each one of these shots brings us closer to that goal.” “The DD(X) development team, both in the Navy and industry, continues to make major strides to demonstrate critical new capabilities such as LRLAP for DD(X),“ according to Capt. Charles Goddard, the DD(X) program manager. “Our rigorous development and test program is focused using prototype systems to fully evaluate and mature these technologies for DD(X) and other future ships.” Guided Flight Test #4 (GF-04) is the fourth of seven guided-flight tests planned as part of the LRLAP engineering development model (EDM) program. GF-04 follows the successful projectile performance demonstrated in two other successful flights in January and February 2005. This most recent test, like the others, was conducted at the San Nicolas Island test facility located at Naval Air Warfare Center, Weapons Division, Pt. Mugu, Calif. After launch, the LRLAP projectile successfully acquired Global Positioning System input and executed guided flight through a series of preplanned maneuvers. The GF-04 flight plan was developed to provide expanded aerodynamic performance data across many anticipated flight regimes. Detailed test data recorded during the flight will be analyzed as part of the development program. The test projectile consisted of a full-length projectile airframe with base/tail assembly, a live rocket motor with a pressure-activated initiator, a telemetry unit housed in the warhead section, and a full guidance, navigation and control subsystem. The test event was conducted by United Defense and Lockheed Martin under subcontract with Bath Iron Works and the DD(X) design agent Northrop Grumman Ships Systems. DD(X), a multimission surface combatant tailored for land attack and littoral dominance, will provide independent forward presence and deterrence, and operate as an integral part of joint and combined expeditionary forces. DD(X)’s main battery of two 155mm Advanced Gun Systems and fully automated magazine of up to 920 Long Range Land Attack Projectiles will provide ground forces with lethal and responsive all-weather firepower. In addition, the DD(X) program will provide a baseline for spiral development of technology and engineering to support a range of future surface ships, including the next-generation air-defense cruiser CG(X), the CVN 21 aircraft carrier and amphibious ships. The Navy awarded the DD(X) Phase III Design Agent contract to Northrop Grumman Ship Systems (NGSS) April 29, 2002. As the DD(X) Design Agent, NGSS is executing the design, development, and testing of 10 Engineering Development Models (EDMs), and maturing the DD(X) system design culminating in the Critical Design Review (CDR) in July 2005.

From Defense Aerospace Northrop Grumman-built Forrest Sherman (DDG 98) Completes Third-ever 'Super' Sea Trial (Source: Northrop Grumman; issued June 27, 2005) PASCAGOULA, Miss. --- Northrop Grumman Corporation's Aegis guided missile destroyer Forrest Sherman (DDG 98) successfully conducted the third-ever “super trial” last week in the Gulf of Mexico, a significant milestone that proves the ship is ready for delivery to the U.S. Navy as scheduled in August. The super trial concept, developed by industry and Navy leadership as a cost savings measure, combines three separate sea trial voyages into one extended exercise. The savings realized in conducting such a trial can be applied to future upgrades and maintenance once the ship enters the fleet. The company's 23rd Aegis destroyer, built at its Pascagoula shipyard, spent three days at sea. Northrop Grumman and Navy personnel tested DDG 98's entire systems range -- from propulsion to communications to weapons -- and received high praise from Navy inspectors. “Our test and trials team demonstrated each and every critical system on DDG 98 to our Navy customer,” said Paul Robinson, Northrop Grumman vice president and general manager of surface combatants in its Ship Systems sector. “Once the testing began, the ship performed extremely well in all aspects of the super trial. The Navy-industry team collaborated to ensure the prospective commanding officer and his crew will receive the most capable DDG delivered to date.” The super-trial sequence began last summer on USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) and continued in November on USS Halsey (DDG 97). Now, with the success of a third super trial, the plan to combine the builder's and weapons' trials and the customer acceptance trial into one voyage will continue on future ships. “Forrest Sherman marks the third successful super trial conducted here on the Gulf Coast,” said Navy Capt. David Bella, supervisor of shipbuilding, conversion and repair, Gulf Coast. “Since starting the super-trial evolution, we have consistently achieved some of the highest marks on our engineering and combat-systems trial events witnessed by the Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey. Representatives from the office of the Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Gulf Coast and the Program Executive Office, Ships, are proud to have worked with the industry team of Northrop Grumman to achieve these excellent results. In early August, Forrest Sherman will be the finest destroyer delivered to the fleet.” The sea trial team composes the sequence of every single event and provides a handbook to every person on board during the trip. The team not only includes members of Northrop Grumman's test and trials group, but also other shipbuilders who volunteer as port stewards and prepare four meals a day to more than 500 sea-trial participants. Navy Cmdr. Michael G. Van Durick, a Scranton, Pa., native and graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, is the ship's first commanding officer and will lead a crew of 380 officers and sailors. The 509.5-foot, 9,300-ton Forrest Sherman has an overall beam of 66.5 feet and a navigational draft of 31.9 feet. Four gas-turbine propulsion plants will power the ship to speeds above 30 knots. “The Navy, Northrop Grumman and contractor team, through hard work and close coordination, have once again produced an impressive destroyer that will carry forward the proud legacy of Forrest Sherman,” said Cmdr. Van Durick. “As a happy captain speaking for my crew, we're thrilled to be partnered with the Northrop Grumman shipbuilding experts.” DDG 98 is named to honor Navy Adm. Forrest Percival Sherman (1896-1951). Sherman served as chief of Naval Operations from 1949 until his death in July 1951, and was the youngest man ever to serve in this role. This highly capable multi-mission ship can conduct a variety of operations, from peacetime presence and crisis management to sea control and power projection, all in support of the United States' military strategy. Forrest Sherman will be capable of simultaneously fighting air, surface and subsurface battles. The ship contains myriad offensive and defensive weapons designed to support maritime defense needs well into the 21st century. Northrop Grumman Ship Systems includes primary operations in Pascagoula and Gulfport, Miss.; and in New Orleans and Tallulah, La., as well as in a network of fleet support offices in the U.S. and Japan. Ship Systems is one of the nation's leading full-service systems companies for the design, engineering, construction and life-cycle support of major surface ships for the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard and international navies.

From Jane's Defence Weekly Indonesia aims for 'green water navy' capability By Riefqi Muna JDW Special Correspondent London Chief of the Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) Admiral Slamet Soebijanto has outlined plans to develop the service's overall capabilities. Earlier this month Adm Soebijanto reiterated his intention to implement a major restructuring of naval forces. This would serve as the prelude to a broader development programme unveiled three years ago - an internal plan known as the 'TNI-AL Blueprint 2004-2013'. Adm Soebijanto previously stated that the long-term aim was to establish an effective 'green water navy' by 2020. "A green water navy represents a level of sea power higher than that of a brown water (or coastal) navy but below a full blue water navy," he explained in an internal document. The proposed restructuring would see the TNI-AL come under a single command known as the Panglima Armada RI, which would be established in Surabaya. Under the current structure, there are two independent fleets. The restructuring is aimed at making the navy more flexible and responsive in protecting Indonesia's vast territorial waters, together with three vital sea lines of communication. However, no timetable has been released. Sources said the delay is due to funding constraints. Efforts to synchronise with army and air force restructuring plans may also be a factor in order to avoid internal conflict over resources.

From DefenseNews NATO Chief Hails Ukraine’s Bid To Join Alliance By YANA DLUGY, AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, KIEV NATO chief Jaap de Hoop Scheffer hailed June 27 the commitment of this former Soviet republic’s new leadership to joining the alliance. ”I’m here in a new and changed Ukraine and it gives me... a lot of pleasure knowing the ambition of the Ukrainian government for Euro-Atlantic integration,” Scheffer said at a press conference in Kiev, where he was on a one-day visit. ”The process... is very much supported by the 26 NATO allies,” the NATO secretary general told reporters after talks with Ukraine Foreign Minister Boris Tarasyuk. ”On the road to NATO many reforms are necessary and I know the Ukrainian government has embarked on the road to reform and the NATO allies... will assist Ukraine wherever it is asked and wherever it is necessary,” he said. Scheffer was later due to meet with President Viktor Yushchenko, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, Defense Minister Anatoly Grytsenko and other senior officials in parliament and government. Topping the agenda at the talks on June 27 was progress on reforms that Yushchenko’s administration has undertaken to make as part of its drive for membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and the European Union. Yushchenko’s pro-Western leadership was swept to power at elections last year after a popular revolution against the previous pro-Moscow administration. His inauguration invigorated ties between the 26-member alliance and Kiev. Yushchenko has reinstated the objective of joining NATO as part of Ukraine’s military policy. At an informal meeting earlier this year in Vilnius, NATO foreign ministers agreed on a three-page package of “short-term actions” designed to help Kiev carry out reforms needed to deepen ties with the alliance. Ukraine has long been a member of NATO’s Partnership for Peace program with former Communist states. But Yushchenko’s hopes of actually joining NATO -- the West’s Cold War-era military bloc -- face major obstacles. For one, most Ukrainians oppose their country joining the alliance -- a May opinion survey showed that 55.7 percent of the population were against it, up from 48 percent in February. Scheffer sought to allay such concerns on June 27 by saying that NATO’s focus has shifted drastically since its founding during the Cold War. ”When I speak about a new Ukraine, there is also a new NATO... it is a different NATO than the NATO of the Cold War, it is a NATO that is running and being responsible for peacekeeping operations in many parts of the world,” he said. Another obstacle to Kiev’s NATO plans is opposition from Russia, Ukraine’s traditional powerbroker that today supplies it with most of its energy needs. Russia frowns on Ukraine’s NATO ambitions as it would enlarge the alliance’s borders with Russia and could remove a major parts supplier to the Russian military. NATO membership would have a serious effect on Ukraine’s defense industry which sells much of its production to Moscow. Kiev supplies engines for Russian helicopters, gas turbines for Russian ships, parts for Russian anti-aircraft systems and Russian military satellites are sent into orbit on Ukrainian rocket launchers.

From DefenseNews Israel To Clear Future Arms Deals With U.S. After China Row By AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, JERUSALEM Israel was set June 27 to sign an agreement to clear future defense deals with Washington after a spat over an arms contract with China which could leave it with a multi-million dollar compensation bill. Defense ministry spokeswoman Rachel Ashkenazi said negotiations “to reach an understanding with the United States are at an advanced stage” after Israel effectively apologized to Washington over a controversial drones deal. The Haaretz newspaper said the agreement will mean Israel having to renege on the agreement to upgrade Harpy Killer drones it had sold to Beijing, leading to the likelihood that China will demand multi-million dollar compensation for the second time in five years. Israel had to pay Beijing 350 million dollars in compensation after breaking an agreement in 2000 to supply Falcon airplanes with an AWACS radar system. According to Haaretz, the memorandum of understanding will declare that the United States and Israel are “strategic partners” and will be considerate of the other’s concerns about the transfer of military technology to third countries. Countries “arousing concern” will be specified separately. The new accord will also stipulate that the United States cannot ban defense deals on commercial grounds after anger among the Israeli defense industry that business interests lay at the heart of the row over the drones deal with China. Two senior Israeli delegations are expected to visit Washington this week to formulate the agreement with the Pentagon. The final agreement is expected to be signed by Israeli Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz during a trip to Washington next month. Israel’s ambassador to Washington, Danny Ayalon, told the paper that the agreement will “help prevent misunderstandings in the future.” ”The agreement will also help our defense industries to better penetrate the mammoth American market, which is much bigger than the Chinese market,” he added. Israel’s ties with its usually staunch U.S. ally took a major hit from the row over the drones deal, with the Pentagon imposing some restrictions on arms sales and technology transfers to Israel. Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom moved to defuse the row during a visit by U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice earlier this month, expressing “regret that these sales could have damaged the interests of the United States”. Rice said she believed that “the Israelis now understand our concerns and I am certain as good partners can... we will come to strong resolutions that allow U.S. to proceed.” Israel was particularly keen to resolve the dispute with Washington at a time when it is looking heavily to support from the Bush administration for the pullout from the Gaza Strip starting in August. In a sign of Washington’s wariness of China’s growing military power, U.S. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld warned earlier this month that China is spending much more on a major military buildup than officially acknowledged, putting at risk the military balance in the whole Asia Pacific region. The United States has also been vigorously lobbying against moves by the European Union to lift the arms embargo it slapped on China after the June 1989 crackdown on pro-democracy students in Beijing.

As some of you may know, record setting aviator Steve Fossett and navigator Mark Rebholz are due to recreate the famous 1919 trans-Atlantic flight from Newfoundland to Ireland achieved by British flyers Alcock and Brown. The flight will be (hopefully) made this weekend in a replica of the original Vickers F.B.27 Vimy bomber (the world's largest flying biplane), taking off from my home town here in St. John's, Newfoundland. This morning I was fortunate to get a closer look at this amazing aircraft and snap a few photos. Enjoy. The Vimy is an impressively large aircraft: The nose ... ... and the tail Accolades and honours ... The props and engines ... The teeny tiny (and likely very cold) cockpit (note the energy bars duct taped to the sides of the cockpit) ...

From DefenseNews Turkish Army Chief Meets Greek Defense Minister By AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, ATHENS Turkish army general staff Chief Yasar Buyukanit, who is on an official visit to Greece, on June 23 visited the defense ministry in Athens and met with Defense Minister Spilios Spiliotopoulos. In a 15-minute discussion with Buyukanit, the Greek minister complained that Turkey’s statements about improving bilateral relations were in contrast to the behavior of its air force over the Aegean Sea, the semi-official Athens News Agency (ANA) said, quoting ministry sources. Seven formations of Turkish military aircraft on June 23 entered the Greek Flight Information Region (FIR) without submitting flight plans, some of them violating Greek airspace above the north and central Aegean Sea, ANA said. Greece sets the limits of its airspace at 10 nautical miles (18 kilometers) from its coastline, but Turkey accepts a distance of only six nautical miles. The difference has caused recurring tension between the two NATO allies for years. Buyukanit on June 23 also held talks with his Greek counterpart lieutenant-general Nikolaos Douvas on promoting cooperation between Turkish and Greek land forces. On June 24 the Turkish army chief was due to travel to the northern port city of Thessaloniki, where he will visit the former home of Kemal Ataturk, founder of the secular Turkish state. He is also scheduled to tour the ancient city of Vergina, capital of the 4th century BC kingdom of Lower Macedonia. [Maybe they'll play nice from now on ... yeah, riiiight ! ]

From Norwegian Ministry of Defence Excerpt from the Summary: "This Strategic Concept states the political basis for the operational activities of the Norwegian Armed Forces (NAF) in the field of security and defence policies. In doing so, it serves the role as strategic level political guidance. The document, thus, provides the political basis for the development of NAF doctrines and the NAF's operational activities." More at the link above.

From Defense Aerospace Korea to Develop Super-Fast Flying Boats (Source: Korea Information Service; issued June 23, 2005) The Korean government plans to invest 170 billion won to develop a large-sized watercraft that can cruise at a maximum speed of 250 kilometers per hour just above water, starting 2006. It will also spend about 70 billion won to establish an Antarctic research center by 2011, in addition to the existing King Sejong Station. The ambitious plans were endorsed on Thursday (June 23) at a meeting of science-related ministers, presided over by Science-Technology Minister Oh Myung. To build watercraft, called wing-in-ground (WIG) vehicle with a loading capacity of 100 tons of cargoes, the government will channel 85 billion won in the project and hopes to attract as much from private companies. “We aim to earn 4.15 trillion won by exporting 83 WIG craft from 2010 through 2019. We expect this scheme to provide Korean shipbuilders with next-generation growth engines,” Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries director Yeon Yeong-jin said. Yeon said local shipbuilders, such as Samsung Heavy Industries, Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction and STX, showed interest in the project. WIG vehicles, which look like airplanes, skim 1 to 5 meters above water at a speed of exceeding 200 kilometers per hour, a speed unmatched by traditional vessels. The watercraft are expected to revolutionize the transportation business by offering large-volume services that are cheaper than aircrafts and faster than conventional freighters. Russia first tried to develop the WIG vessels in the 1960s for military purposes and the United States, Japan and Korea followed suit. However, their targets have been relatively small passenger ships and no country has ever come up with a plan to manufacture large-sized watercraft. “Korea will be able to preempt the lucrative future market by commercializing large-sized cargo WIG vessels for the first time in the world,” Yeon said.

From DefenseNews Technology Problems Persist for USN Destroyer: Report By CHRISTOPHER P. CAVAS Technological development for the U.S. Navy’s advanced DD(X) destroyer is still lagging despite progress in a number of areas, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) said in a report issued June 14. The report, sent to Senate and House of Representatives Armed Services Committee leaders, highlighted problems with the 10 critical engineering areas being developed for the 14,000-ton destroyer. Packed with new technologies, the DD(X) is intended by the Navy to support forces ashore and dominate coastal regions, and is planned to replace Arleigh Burke-class destroyers in the service’s building program. Among the problems listed in the report: • Designers have substituted an Advanced Induction Motor (AIM) for the planned Permanent Magnet Motor (PMM) in the ship’s power system after the PMM failed in tests earlier this year. Although the AIM incorporates proven technology, it is heavier, larger, noisier and less power-dense than the PMM, requiring several changes in the ship’s design. • The volume search portion of the dual-band radar still is encountering technical problems, although the multifunction radar has successfully completed its tests to date. • Fire and shock testing for the composite-construction superstructure have been delayed due to questions about the materials to be used. • The peripheral missile launch system needed to be redesigned after an “immense explosion” caused damage during tests a year ago. The GAO report provided no recommendations for the program. Northrop Grumman Ship Systems, Pascagoula, Miss., currently is heading the DD(X) development effort, with Raytheon managing the program’s radar and combat systems. The Navy is restructuring the destroyer program and will take over management of the DD(X) project this fall. Navy officials have described the restructuring effort as part of an overall attempt to reduce costs on the program and not due to any management issues with Northrop Grumman.

Well, that's where the processing technology must necessarily be very good. If the MAGSAFE system is going to measure things like speed of a contact, then right away the number of false contact possibilities drops off. I can't think of many underwater objects that are both magnetic and mobile ... except a submarine.

The processing technology is apparently much enhanced, from the sound of it, but unless the basic sensor technology is also improved, I expect the effective range is still painfully short. It would have to be better, if they expect to use it for search. Traditional MAD is not a great tool to search for a submarine that may or may not be there.

From Jane's Missiles & Rockets Canada works on hypervelocity anti-armour missile programme Christopher F Foss Canada is working on a High-Energy Missile (HEMi) programme to meet the potential future requirements of the Canadian Armed Forces. The key aim of the programme is to demonstrate the concept of a small hypervelocity missile that would provide the firepower of a 70-ton main battle tank (MBT) in a light combat vehicle. Project Definition of the HEMi was carried out under Phase 0 between April 2000 and April 2001 at a cost of C$400,000 (US$321,000). Phase 1 started in April 2001 and is due to run through to March 2006. During this phase a number of key objectives are required to be met, including system concept definition, detailed component design, demonstration of components and a military utility study. One of the key requirements is that the HEMi must be able to penetrate a minimum of 1,000 mm of conventional rolled homogenous armour (RHA), have a maximum length of 1.21 m and have a launch weight of 22.4 kg. The projected low weight will enable more rounds to be carried on the platform. It also must have a minimum velocity of 2,250 m/s at ranges of between 400 m and 5,000 m. (A typical currently fielded 120 mm armour-piercing fin-stabilised discarding sabot [APFSDS] projectile fired from a tank gun has a muzzle velocity of around 1,600 m/s that decreases with range.) A number of lethality achievements have already been made covering the key areas of lethality, propulsion, aerodynamics, structure, guidance and control, modelling and simulation, and operational research. These include optimised segmented rod parameters, 12 gun-validation firing tests and the firing of segmented rods against active armour. The first firing of a segmented rod took place in December 2004.

From Defense Aerospace US, Europe Still Split on NATO's Role (Source: Deutsche Welle German radio; issued Jun 9, 2005) At the NATO Summit on Tuesday, Europe and the US will discuss the direction the alliance will take. Behind all the talk of harmony are some major differences on how much political power the organization should have. In the days after he made them, German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder's comments that NATO was no longer the "primary venue" for discussing global strategy offered a cue for every one to jump into an increasingly controversial debate. US President George W. Bush saw in them a threat to sideline the security organization and told German television that he "looked forward to reminding Gerhard Schröder that NATO is an active institution." NATO head Jan Hoop de Schaeffer, while rejecting Schröder's call to set up a panel of experts to look at rehauling the organization, said it reflected efforts he has made in recent years to make NATO more politically active. Behind the semantics are very real questions about what shape the 26-nation institution will take as Europe grows closer to forging a security and defense policy that could supplement some of NATO's tasks. It is an issue on which parts of Europe and the United States are still divided. France, for example, favors making the European Union ever stronger in defense matters, part of a grander strategy of providing a counterweight to the United States in the world. US: No NATO competition The United States, encouraging but at the same time wary of the European Union's military ambitions, is on edge when talk of changing the alliance comes up. Thierry Balzacq at the Center for European Policy Studies said the paranoia stems from plans Belgium, France, Germany and Luxembourg drew up at a summit last year calling for a military planning council that Washington saw as competition to NATO. Every time one of these countries says something, even if they're supporting NATO, the other side will always come and say 'oh, they are trying to undermine NATO's policy'," he said. When he meets with President Bush in Mainz on Wednesday, Schröder will take care to distance himself from the French position without selling out completely on Europe, said Henning Riecke, a transatlantic security expert. A certain ambiguity "I think NATO is very important for the Germans, but they aren't able to issue this NATO first principle the Americans would like to hear," said Riecke, who works for the Berlin-based Council on Foreign Relations. "So there has to be a certain ambiguity." Schröder himself left nothing to doubt when he defended his remarks two days after his defense minister read them out at the Munich Security Conference on Feb. 14. He lobbied again for an expert panel to look for ways to expand the organization's involvement in policy discussions. "I really believe that it contributes to a strengthening of NATO and transatlantic relations if we speak more openly on political issues than we have tended to in the past," he said. Providing troops - and strategic direction? At issue is whether NATO, an organization that provides the troops, weaponry and logistical support for peacekeeping missions from Afghanistan to Sarajevo, will have a greater say on how that weaponry and manpower gets used. Since the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the organization has made great strides in increasing its military prowess, investing in technology and creating a rapid response force which is able to deploy anywhere in the world within a few days. But differences between some NATO allies -- like France and the US -- over the Iraq war, kept the alliance from discussing ways to increase NATO's say in strategic planning, said Riecke. "What is lacking is a strategic understanding of what these troops should be used for," he said. While NATO improved its capabilites, the EU for the first time got serious about developing a military wing. They pledged to develop a military response force simliar to NATO's and took over the organization's policing mission in Bosnia. No clear resolution Some in Washington worry that the steps taken both by NATO and the European Union are on a collision course. In the best of both worlds, the NATO would serve as the big stick to the European Union's well-intentioned diplomacy, say some observers. But NATO, and its biggest member, America, will not always have the same interests in a crisis region as the European Union. The Europeans "might need (military) capabilities to keep the neighborhood in order, like in the Balkans," said Riecke. No one expects any clear position to emerge from the NATO discussions Tuesday. Most analysts agree that Bush's visit will be a charm offensive designed to show European allies that the United States still cares. But many don't expect a more substantive indication on how their differences on NATO will get resolved. The visits by Condoleezza Rice and Bush are "clear signals that Europe is being taken seriously as a strong partner," said Reicke. We'll have to see what the wrangling on the working level will turn out to be, how this might poison the picture a bit."

From Defense Aerospace Seabasing to Transform Marine Deployments, Commandant Says (Source: US Department of Defense; issued June 9, 2005) WASHINGTON --- The "seabasing" capability being developed for the Marine Corps will enable the service to deploy 15,000 troops anywhere in the world in as little as 10 to 12 days, according to the commandant of the Marine Corps. "And when you are able to respond that fast, it is going to change the calculus of the battlefield," Gen. Michael W. Hagee explained during an interview with the Pentagon Channel. The concept, expected to be in full swing within the next 10 to 15 years, involves pre-positioning ships with critical wartime assets. In the event of an operation, the Marines would fly directly to the ships and begin preparations. "We'll do the rehearsal, the arrival (and) assembly at sea, and then launch them to wherever they need to go," Hagee said. "It is essentially using the sea as maneuver space." This will significantly reduce the time it takes to deploy Marines to operations, whether they're major combat operations or humanitarian relief efforts, the general said. "For example, during Operation Iraqi Freedom, we put about 60,000 to 70,000 Marines and sailors into Kuwait, with all their equipment, ready to cross the line of departure (into Iraq) in less than 60 days," he said. Despite that impressive speed, which Hagee said "no one else in the world" can match, seabasing will make deployments even faster. "With seabasing, we will be able to put 15,000 Marines and sailors anywhere in the world in 10 to 12 days," he said. "We can't do that today, but ... between 2015 and 2020, we are going to be able to do that." Seabasing will eliminate the need for a land base when conducting military operations. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Marines used Kuwait as their initial ground base to launch their operations. "If, in 2020, we had to do Operation Iraqi Freedom," Hagee said, "ships would come into the (Persian) Gulf, we'd do the arrival and assembly at sea, (and) the Marines would launch - instead of from Kuwait, from the sea base - directly into ... Iraq." The ability to respond more quickly to operations or contingencies can have a big impact on how they proceed, the commandant said. "You might be able to get there so quickly that you may not need large follow-on forces," he said. "At the same time, you keep your footprint very small ashore," Hagee said, reducing the likelihood of force-protection problems and better recognizing the host country's autonomy. "What we want to do is erase that line between the sea and land," the general said. "That's the vision."

DefenseNews Taiwan Successfully Test Fires First Cruise Missile By AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, TAIPEI, TAIWAN Taiwan has successfully test fired its first cruise missile, which would allow the island to hit major military targets in southeast China, a newspaper here reported June 5. The Hsiung Feng cruise missile, developed by the military-run Chungshan Institute of Science and Technology, has a range of 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) and could be used to attack military bases in southeast China, the China Times said. “Once deployed, it would mark the first time that Taiwan is able to put ‘strategic weapons’ into use. Its political and military impact would be far-reaching,” the paper reported. The defense ministry declined to comment on the report. The newspaper said Defense Minister Lee Jye witnessed the test firing of the missile from Chiupeng military base in the southern Pingtung county. The missile flew more than 500 kilometers (300 miles) before hitting its target. The report did not specify when the test took place but speculated that it could have been in March. The missile is expected to go into pilot production later this year or next year. Taiwan is striving to build up its missile defense capabilities to counter the military threat from China, which officials say has targeted the island with at least 700 ballistic missiles. Taiwan’s cabinet last month approved a revised arms deal with the United States worth almost $15.5 billion after the previous proposal was rejected by parliament. The arms package, over a 15-year period from 2005 pending final approval by parliament, includes eight conventional submarines, a modified version of the Patriot anti-missile system and a fleet of anti-submarine aircraft. The massive budget proposal has stirred heated debate on the island. Critics say the spending could further provoke China and heighten cross-strait tensions. China sees Taiwan as part of its territory awaiting reunification since they split at the end of the civil war in 1949, and has repeatedly threatened to invade if the island moves towards formal independence.

From Defense Aerospace Keel Laid for First Littoral Combat Ship, USS Freedom (Source: US Navy; issued June 3, 2005) MARINETTE, Wis. --- The keel was laid and authenticated for the Navy's first Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) June 2 at Marinette Marine here. The 378-foot LCS will be the first U.S. ship to carry this class designation. "LCS Represents the cutting edge of a new Navy, the likes of which we have never seen before," said Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Vern Clark during his remarks at the ceremony. "It is a great personal privilege to confirm this keel on such a brave and bold future for our Navy." The future USS Freedom (LCS 1) acknowledges the enduring foundation of the nation and honors American communities from coast to coast which bear the name Freedom. States having towns named Freedom range from New York to California, and include Indiana, Maine, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Wyoming. "It strikes me that since freedom is what we are all about as a nation, this is a perfect name for LCS 1," said Clark. Serving as ship’s sponsor is Birgit Smith, the widow of Army Sgt. 1st Class Paul Ray Smith, who died in Operation Iraqi Freedom and was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. Smith and the CNO authenticated the keel by having their initials welded to the hull by veteran welder Jim Renner. Freedom, the first of two dramatically different LCS seaframes being produced, will be optimized for littoral or coastal missions, focusing on high-speed maneuverability, agility and sprint speed. Designed to operate quickly in a shallow-water environment, the LCS is capable of speeds up to 45 knots and can operate in water less than 20 feet deep. The LCS class will act as a platform for launch and recovery of manned and unmanned vehicles. Its modular design will support interchangeable mission packages, allowing the ship to be reconfigured for antisubmarine warfare, mine warfare or surface warfare missions on an as-needed basis. LCS will be able to swap out mission packages pierside in a matter of hours, adapting as the tactical situation demands. These ships will also feature advanced networking capability to share tactical information with other Navy aircraft, ships, submarines, and joint units. "This idea - this ship - revolutionizes the capability of our nation and our Navy," said Clark. In May 2004, the Department of the Navy awarded both Lockheed Martin and General Dynamics - Bath Iron Works, Bath, Maine, separate contract options for final system design with options for detail design and construction of up to two LCS ships. In December, the Navy awarded Lockheed Martin Corp., Maritime Systems & Sensors, Moorestown, N.J., a contract for detail design and construction of the first LCS. Lockheed Martin's teammates include Gibbs & Cox, Arlington, Va.; Marinette Marine, Marinette, Wis.; and Bollinger Shipyards, Lockport, La. Production at Marinette is expected to culminate in late 2006 when the ship is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy.

From Defense Aerospace RSwN Submarine HMS Gotland on Lease to US Navy for Twelve Months (Source: Kockums AB; issued May 31, 2005) The Swedish Navy submarine HMS Gotland, designed and built by Kockums, is being leased to the US Navy for a year, complete with a Swedish crew, so that the Americans can conduct joint manoeuvres with her. She was recently loaded onto a container ship for freight to the USA. She will initially be based on the US west coast in San Diego. Prior to her transatlantic transit, Kockums’ personnel and others have carried out a thorough overhaul. Among other things, the vessel’s civil communications equipment for marine safety has been upgraded with an emergency power supply. A new satellite communications antenna has been installed and the submarine has been equipped with an improved air conditioning system and a larger freshwater generator. “Everyone involved has done an excellent job in a short time,” notes project manager Lars Bergenzaum at Kockums. The Gotland-class submarine possesses excellent stealth characteristics and has performed well in international joint manoeuvres.

Defense Aerospace DD(X) Quarter Scale Model Underwater Explosive Testing Successful (Source: DD(X) National Team; issued Jun 1, 2005) ABERDEEN, Md. --- The DD(X) National Team, led by Northrop Grumman and in partnership with Raytheon, General Dynamics, United Defense and Lockheed Martin, announces the successful completion of Underwater Explosion (UNDEX) testing on the DD(X) Quarter Scale Model. This test provided a critical step in demonstrating that the DD(X) wave piercing tumblehome hull form fully meets the operational requirements set forth by the U.S. Navy. The primary purpose of the testing was to determine the DD(X) hull form's reaction to an UNDEX to demonstrate the validity of the DD(X) design. Explosive charges were placed at predetermined distances from the DD(X) Model. Intensity of the charges increased as the test series progressed. A large plume resulted from the explosions and the DD(X) wave-piercing bow, tumblehome cross section, step deck area and rising stern responded as envisioned. "The successful completion of this event increased the overall confidence level in the DD(X) hull design and was carried out at a fraction of the cost for testing a full-size model," said Brian Cuccias, Northrop Grumman Vice President and DD(X) Program Manager. "We are meeting Phase III exit criteria and are eager to begin detail design of this truly revolutionary ship." The 150 foot DD(X) Quarter Scale Model was built at the Northrop Grumman Ingalls Shipyard in Pascagoula, MS. This scaled down model mitigates risks associated with a new design at a nominal investment. The UNDEX tests were conducted by Northrop Grumman employees with the support of U.S. Army personnel and under the auspices of the U.S. Navy. Data collection and analysis continue and the knowledge of the hull form response, as well as lessons learned will be applied to Phase IV of the DD(X) program. In partnership with the United States Navy, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, General Dynamics, Lockheed Martin and United Defense are leading a premier National Team to design DD(X) -- a revolutionary multi-mission destroyer. DD(X) technologies are currently in an advanced state of development and are destined to influence ship design efforts around the world for the remainder of this century. The National Team, which includes more than 100 U.S. companies from 45 states, understands the importance of the rapidly maturing DD(X) Program to our nation, and is proud of the historic role this vessel will play in the advancement of ship -- and ship systems -- design. The DD(X) National Team has successfully completed nearly a dozen incremental design review milestones, highlighting the DD(X) National Team's commitment to staying on schedule and on cost, as well as the extraordinary maturity and discipline of the program's approach to integrating unprecedented advanced technologies into the platform.

Defence Aerospace Operational Practice Firing of the Charles de Gaulle Aircraft Carrier Self-Defence System (Source: Eurosam; dated May 25, issued June 1, 2005) On 25 May 2005, the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier conducted another operational practice firing of its SAAM-FR antimissile self-defence system. The purpose of this firing was to engage a high subsonic anti-ship target with a salvo of 2 Aster 15 equipped with warheads. All the objectives of this firing were achieved. Once again, the system demonstrated its outstanding precision, with a direct hit of the target engaged by the Aster 15 missile. This firing is the latest in a 100%-successful series of SAAM-FR practice firings using the Aster 15, including in particular, in 2004, a firing from the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier in December, and one firing from each of the 3 frigates in the SAWARI II programme, on 23 March, 7 September and 29 September 2004, respectively. Besides the SAAM-FR system (the SAAM-FR on the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier is made up of a fire control system comprising the Arabal radar and SYLVER vertical launchers associated with the Aster 15 missile), Eurosam presents a family of naval systems designed to carry out different missions to meet new-generation threats: -- The SAAM, in its Italian configuration, SAAM-IT (SAAM-IT is made up of a fire control system comprising the EMPAR radar and SYLVER vertical launchers associated with the Aster 15 missile) has also completed its qualification programme; the “Cavour” aircraft carrier will be the first ship to be fitted with it. --The PAAMS (Principal Anti-Air Missile System) is made up of a fire control system comprising the EMPAR radar and SYLVER vertical launchers associated with the Aster 15 and Aster 30 missiles) will be installed on the Horizon Franco-Italian frigates to provide self-protection and area defence.

I thought one of the guys (Jan ?) was looking at the possibility of creating a WWII DB but I am not sure what the status of that effort is. I've toyed with the idea now and then myself. I think HCG might make a pretty decent WWII simulator, given the less sophisticated sensor model, for example. The Command at Sea (CaS) gaming system would probably be a decent source of DB info.

From Jane's Defence Weekly Taipei embroiled in defence budget row By Wendell Minnick JDW Correspondent Taipei The Republic of China (Taiwan) is coming under increased pressure from Washington to resolve internal political debate over a $15.19 billion special budget for 12 P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft (MPA), six Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) low- to high-altitude air-defence system batteries and eight diesel-electric submarines (SSKs) promised by the Bush administration in 2001. The political battle is being waged within the Legislative Yuan (parliament) between the pro- independence Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the pro-unification Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT). The KMT has successfully blocked the passage of the budget since last year. The US Department of Defense (DoD) has told Taiwan government officials that the much delayed decision to proceed with the purchase must be resolved by the end of May, or the arms deal may be revised or even dropped.

From Defence Aerospace Singapore and Indonesian Navies Launch Sea Surveillance System (Source: Singapore Ministry of Defence; issued May 26, 2005) The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) officially launched Project SURPIC in Batam today. This is a sea surveillance system which allows the RSN and TNI-AL to share a common real-time sea situation picture of the Singapore Strait. It will enable the two navies to better monitor this busy waterway, so that they can exchange information, and deploy their patrol vessels in the area more effectively. Project SURPIC is a significant step forward in enhancing security and the safety of shipping in the Singapore Strait. It strengthens the already close working relationship between the RSN and TNI-AL under the ambit of the Indo-Sin Co-ordinated Patrols (ISCP), and enhances the interoperability of the two navies to combat piracy and sea robberies. Chief of Navy RADM Ronnie Tay and his Indonesian counterpart ADM Slamet Soebijanto officiated at the ceremony. They also witnessed the signing of the Project SURPIC Cooperation Arrangement between RSN’s Coastal Command and TNI-AL’s Western Fleet Sea Security Group. This was followed by a joint demonstration of Project SURPIC’s capabilities against a simulated sea robbery. The demonstration involved the RSN, TNI-AL, the Singapore Police Coast Guard and the Indonesian Police.

From Defence Aerospace Ike, French Carrier Work Together During Multinational Maritime Exercise (Source: US Navy; issued May 26, 2005) ABOARD USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER --- USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) opened her flight deck to the French navy May 25 during Multi-National Maritime Exercise (MNME) 05-1. A multi-role strike fighter Rafale M jet performed landings, and an E-2C Hawkeye from the French aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle (R 91) trapped and launched from Ike’s deck during MNME 05-1. It is the first time in more than four years Ike has worked with multinational forces. MNME 05-1, which incorporates more than 17,000 Sailors from Canada, France, Great Britain, Spain and the United States, is one step in the certification of forces for the NATO Response Force (NRF). Ike, USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Carrier Strike Group and other U.S. Navy units are representing the United States as all five countries conduct coalition strike training, tactical air cross-deck training, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and related unit training events. For Ike to be a participant in such a multinational exercise is historic, in the sense that the warship has only been to sea five times since completing her four-year, mid-life overhaul. Not since 2001, when Ike last completed a Mediterranean cruise, has the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier taken on an active role with NATO forces. Ike’s role in MNME 05-1 was to provide a platform for allied navies to use as the United States and other countries continue to build relationships, which are vital to the overall success of any military operation. In addition to fixed wing operations, French Puma and Dauphin helicopters also landed aboard Ike. Ike also hosted 15 French sailors for a 24-hour period. The French Sailors were able to tour most of the ship, including the gyms, ship’s stores, various work centers, the bridge, primary flight control and the flight deck during flight operations. “I was very impressed because there was so much activity,” said Petty Officer Sebastien Laurent of Charles De Gaulle from Normandy, France. “There is always aircraft flying, landing and launching — it never stops.” Laurent said he and his French shipmates were amazed at the complexity of Ike, since De Gaulle is not as compartmentalized as U.S. aircraft carriers. De Gaulle has two catapults and holds 40 aircraft, so the French Sailors were amazed at Ike’s size. “It’s very, very big. It’s three times bigger than the De Gaulle,” said Laurent. “I think it’s very great.” Lt. Cmdr. Jason Rimmer was one of three Ike crew members, in addition to eight Carrier Air Wing 7 representatives, who flew over to De Gaulle to experience how their French ally conducts carrier operations, and to offer assistance regarding the launching and recovery of several U.S. Navy aircraft, including an F/A-18 Hornet, E-2C Hawkeye and C-2 Greyhound. This was the first time an F/A-18 landed aboard De Gaulle. “I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to the Charles De Gaulle and the chance to participate in joint operations with the two navies,” said Rimmer. “Their commanding officer put it best, saying that he hoped this exercise would prove our interoperability and readiness for tasking wherever and whenever. The French were excellent hosts and extremely professional operators.” As Ike continues to move forward toward becoming surge ready under the Fleet Response Plan, the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier will take on a more active role in exercises such as MNME 05-1.

Harpoon CPX Update Okay, the coin has been tossed and ... Dewayne has drawn the EU Peter has drawn the US You will each receive separate SITREP's and Order of Battle (OOB) information by private email. Your choices will be posted here later. Here's the basic premise of the scenario, which I've entitled "Terminus": Sometime in the not too distant future … The war in the Middle East during the past few weeks has been devastating, and has left military forces, political ties and civilian populations bruised and battered on all sides. One of the most tragic victims of the conflict has been the longstanding alliance between the United States and the European Union, and due to their diametrically opposed positions on the war, there is ever increasing tension between them. A US Navy carrier battle group, understrength and weary of battle, is moving west toward the Strait of Gibraltar. As it draws closer to this natural chokepoint, the question everyone is asking is whether the EU will permit free passage.