Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Indonesia (TNI - AL) Acquire 3 unis Submarine from South Korea

Current news report indicate Indonesia Navy will purchase 3 units new submarine from South Korea. It also reported that Daewoo arine Engineering from South Korea will responsible for manufacturing of new submarines for Indonesia Navy.

No details of new submarine was indicate in the news report. As we know, South Korea didn't have it's own design / model of submarine. It was possible for South Korea to supply the Indonesian Navy with Type 214 Diesel-electric Submarine or it's subclasses, Tridente-class submarine. Both submarine was developed HDW (Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft) of Germany.

The Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering may build the submarines for Indonesia under license from HDW base on South Korea own Type 214 - Son Won-Il class that was build by Hyundai Heavy Industries & Daewoo Shipbuilding base on HDW Type 214 design.

Type 214 Diesel-electric submarine:

Builder - HDW Germany
Propulsion - Diesel propulsion with AIP (Air Independent Propulsion)
South Korea Navy designated - Song Won-Il class
Dive - 400 meter
Days of Operation - 84 days

Displacement - 1,690 ton (surface) / 1,860 ton (submerge)
Length - 65 meter ; Beam - 6.3 meter; Draught - 6 meter
Speed - 12 knots (surface) / 20 knots (submerge)
Range - 780km @ 8 knots speed / 2,311km @ 4 knots speed (submerge)
Crew - 27
Armament - 8 x 533mm torpedo tubes, 4 x subharpoon





Reference: News report, Wikipedia etc.

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Photo's during LIMA 2011



                                From top: Typhoon targeting, weapons & A330MRTT

                               Aircraft prepare for aerial display - F-16C, Super Hornet & Rafale

                                          Dassault Rafale of French

                                           Aermacchi MB339CM trainer jet - TUDM

                                          Agusta Westland AW 149 Tactical Transport Helicopter

                                          F-016D Block 52 Falcon of RSAF with weapon

                                           F/A-18D Hornet from RMAF

                                          P3C Orion US Navy

Friday, December 16, 2011

Photo of Aircraft During LIMA 2011 Aerial Display

3. Boeing F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet from US Navy
2 F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet Exhibit during LIMA 2011. The Super Hornet involve in aerial display daily. 1 Super Hornet perform on aerial display and another as standby.
The Super Hornet supported by DC-10 Omega Tanker for refueling to Langkawi.
Below is the photo of Super Hornet during LIMA 2011 aerial display:









4. Saab JAS-39 C/D Gripen from Royal Thai Air Force

2 JAS-39C/D Gripen from Royal Thai Air Force participate at LIMA 2011. The RTAF Gripen make it first appearence at International Air Show outside Thailand at LIMA 2011. The Gripen just exhibit for static display.



LIMA 2011 - Aerial Photo

1. Dassault Aviation Rafale from French Air Force
2 Dassault Rafale participate at LIMA 2011 Airshow. 1 involve in aerial display daily. 1 unit act as standby. Dassault Rafale test pilot perform Rafale on daily aerial display. Dassault Rafale supported by A310 MRTT for refueling on the way to Langkawi from UAE French Air Base.
Below is Rafale photo during aerial display:





2. EADS / BAE System Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche II from RAF
2 Eurofighter Typhoon involve for LIMA 11 aerial show display. 1 Typhoon perform daily aerial display from RMAF Air Base Butterworth. Another Typhoon act as standby.
4 RAF Eurofighter Typhoon arrive at Butterworth Air Base on October for FPDA Exercise Bersama LIMA 11.
2 Typhoon remain at Butterworth Air Base for LIMA 2011 participation. Another 2 Typhoon involve in Dubai Air Show in November 2011.
Typhoon was piloted by BAE System Typhoon Test Pilot Nat Makepeace for daily aerial display. During aerial display Typhoon perform rolling, agility, 9G turning etc.
Below is the photo of Typhoon during aerial display at LIMA 2011:











Saturday, December 10, 2011

Day 4 of LIMA 2011 on Eurofighter team blog

Below is the script on blog of Eurofighter Team on Day 4 LIMA 2011 air show:


Nat's Blog - Day4

Friday 09.11.2011
Well it is day 4 and the trade show days are over!

We now have two public days left, traditionally the companies tend to disperse after the trade bit, leaving a minimal crew to brave the onslaught of the public, for us remotely located 80 miles to the south, the show goes on.  


Unusually the next two days, we have two air display a day about 4 hours apart – which for me is very strange - I have never been to a show like that before.  Mind you, judging from the numbers of people who have been lining the edges of the airfield (clearly far more than those attending the trade show) then I suspect it'll be a huge two days and I'm guessing they'll like the double display.

So back to the last 2 days, well it's been business as usual, spiders, spiders, spiders, oh and did I mention spiders?  But today at my medical the Eurofighter blog animal collection got even bigger with the addition of a King Cobra!  Fortunately, the said cobra was not in the cockpit - that would be a step too far - but rather an occupant of the medical centre where I have my morning check up.  Now when I say occupant, I don't mean in a tank, I mean living wild in the building!  I know I'm supposed to be talking about the show, but this is the reality of operating in this part of the world.

So yesterday the weather was good and I was able to do a full display.  After I landed, a plan was hatched to land at the show site today in order to take a picture of us and the other competitors for the Malaysian Air Force fighter competition.  Now that would have been great as not only would we have been able to land at the show, but I'd have been able to take-off from there too. As impressive as the display is when flown from a remote site, it is so much better when flown from a standing start.  However, after several frantic calls and organisational issues, the plan was consigned to the bin and normal operations continued. 

Today (Thursday) was like any other.....almost.  First the Chief of the Royal Air Force (CAS) came to visit his team from 6 Sqn at the RMAF base in Butterworth.  It is important to understand and acknowledge that this whole display would not have been possible without the significant efforts from the RAF and in particular the men and women from 6 Sqn, RAF Leuchars. 

As it turned out he arrived just as I was crewing the aircraft so I never spoke to him, however, once I had taxied out he spoke at length to the groundcrew.  So off I went, rolling down the runway, lifting off around 160 mph (higher than the display as I'm not using reheat), and as I raise the gear I see 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 birds in quick succession above the aircraft...I get to 100 ft and woah..... a huge flock of birds is in front of me! I have speed in hand so I pull up and over, missing them all safely, but CAS and his team must have wondered what I was up to.  Anyway, I then proceed to the display site which is an approximate 10 minute transit at 350 mph. 

As on the other days, I have to land, roll and take-off but for some reason they seemed to have forgotten that and have cleared me to display with an F16 on the runway!  I do have a plan B as it would not be correct to take-off with the aircraft in the way but luckily he gets moves in time and then I'm on the ground, reheat in, nose up, climbing in the vertical, start the roll over at 3200 ft and wow I’m looking downwards. Unlike Dubai, where I got a face full of airfield, here I get a face full of jungle which seems less worrisome, but it is not something that is ever comfortable.  Even though, I know exactly what the limits are and of course ensure that I always meet my gate heights, it is still not the most relaxing feeling!  The good news is that this aircraft makes it easy and allows me the luxury of being able to manoeuvre close to the ground safely everyday.  As I pull out at 500 ft and start my three rapid rolls down the runway, I wonder:

a) What my next manoeuvre is,
b) What was the extra bit I had to do to make it look better and
c) Where is that Black Widow spider? 

Up we go 7g at the end of the runway in to a half horizontal, upside down again and coming down at low level, oh look there is the F18 sat waiting to be flown by my test pilot friend "Bull" from Boeing - he is waiting for me to finish so he can display the Super Hornet after me.  So where was I?  You know sometimes the display is just a blur, working at the edge of the aircraft and human limits for 7 minutes is not something to take lightly, it is quite demanding at times.  I have, on the odd occasion had to ask my display supervisor "did I fly all the manoeuvres correctly".  Of course the answer is always "yes"! So 12 minutes later I'm back on the ground at Butterworth 80 miles to the south, CAS has left and another display is done.  The RAF guys take the aircraft from me and start the servicing to ensure we are ready again tomorrow for our double bill.  

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Eurofighter team view of LIMA 2011 Day 3

The view of Eurofighter team on LIMA 2011 day 3:


Day3

Thursday 07.11.2011
The Sukhoi Su-30 is a huge, fantastic fighter. Better, it is a huge, fantastic fighter-bomber and deep strike attack aircraft. The version in service with the Malaysian Air Force, the Su-30MKK is, with the MKI in service with the Indian Air Force, the most advanced available, even better than the ones in service with the Russian Air Force. Parked and lined up and next to 5 Malaysian MiG-29 at LIMA 2011, the Russian fighter at the end of the show looked like a tired athlet: the engine nozzles folded down, all flaps and slats opened, the speedbrake half open, its canopy covered by a canvas, but it still looks potent and malicious. In flight all this turns into another story. Noisy as only a Russian aircraft can be, it is a perfect airshow actor with its cobra manoeuvres, super high alfa low speed passes, turns around his own axes, loops that only a thrust vectoring aircraft of this class can do, it is simply amazing to watch. Of course all these air display capabilities do not have much significance in real operations as the loss of energy associated with these manoeuvres would be too detrimental to the effectiveness of the flight tactics and also potentially deadly against an agile opponent.
The Malaysian Air Force has a mix of many combat types: F-5, Hawk 200 (the single seat version of the British trainer), F-18D (the twin seat combat version of the legacy Hornet), MiG-29 and Su-30MKK. The goal is to start to rationalize the fleet which is capable but not easy to manage. The MRCA programme, for a new multirole fighter could receive a boost next year with a detailed Request for Proposal for a first batch of 18 aircraft plus 18 additionally an option: what's better than a fleet mix made up of Su-30's and Eurofighter's? Absolutely the best mix possible to guarantee for Malaysia total aerial deterrence for the next 40 years!

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Tiger HAD attack helicopter second appearence at LIMA 2011

TIGER HAD attack helicopter will participate for the second time at LIMA 2011. Below is press release regarding this matter:


Eurocopter’s State-Of-The-Art Tiger Attack Helicopter Takes to the Skies in Malaysia at the LIMA 2011 Exhibition
(Source: Eurocopter; issued December 5, 2011)

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia --- Eurocopter stands ready to propose its latest-generation Tiger attack helicopter to bolster Malaysia’s defense capability as the company showcases this combat-proven multi-role aircraft during flight demonstrations at the 2011 Langkawi Maritime & Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA).

In a strong signal of its commitment to meet the operational needs of Malaysia’s military and civil sectors, Eurocopter will highlight the Tiger and other members of its helicopter product line during this week’s LIMA event at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Center. In particular, the Tiger will take part in the daily flying display, showing its capabilities that provide the right fit with Malaysia’s defense plans in anticipation of a future Request for Proposal (RFP) by the country for attack helicopters.

“Eurocopter is fully dedicated to assisting Malaysia in establishing a highly capable attack helicopter force,” stated Eurocopter President & CEO Lutz Bertling. “Our proposal will be based on the Tiger’s effectiveness, which is proven with combat deployments in both Afghanistan and Libya – during which it demonstrated operational reliability rates of over 90 percent and confirmed a high level of maintainability. Designed for armed forces’ 21st century requirements with the latest cutting-edge technology, we believe the Tiger is the right helicopter to bolster Malaysia’s defense capabilities.”

Eurocopter’s subsidiary in Malaysia is well positioned to provide in-country services and fully support the company’s customers. As part of its local presence strategy, Eurocopter and the Boustead Group recently created a joint venture for maintenance, repair and overhaul services. “Eurocopter will transfer its know-how in maintaining government helicopters, ensuring such support is close at hand for Malaysia’s fleet,” Bertling added.

The Tiger is a medium-weight 6-ton helicopter with a two-seat tandem cockpit and twin-engine design for survivability. Developed to cover a wide range of roles in the most demanding operational conditions – including armed reconnaissance, escort, air-to-air combat, ground fire support and anti-tank combat – the Tiger is able to act autonomously or inside coordinated wings of 2-3 aircraft, operating in high-intensity combat as well as low-intensity and peacekeeping operations.

In addition to the Tiger’s starring role at LIMA 2011, Eurocopter will exhibit its light twin-engine EC145 civilian helicopter on the exhibition’s static display line, with this aircraft configured in an emergency medical services configuration. Additionally, scale models of the EC725 – which has been ordered by the Royal Malaysian Air Force – and the EC135 (a reference for light helicopters in mission training, law enforcement and public services worldwide) will be displayed on Eurocopter’s stand at Langkawi (Hall B, Stand no. B435).


Eurocopter Malaysia was incorporated in 2002, and is the only helicopter manufacturer with a comprehensive network of maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) service centers in Malaysia. With a workforce of 130 employees and a presence in Subang, Miri and Kerteh, it provides a broad spectrum of services, ranging from scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, aircraft modification (retrofit, painting, interior refurbishment and customization), as well logistics support (spare parts, repairs and overhaul).

Eurocopter Malaysia backs its support offer with its inventory, 24-hour service, highly skilled workers and efficient logistic services. It has in its stable some 20 local small and medium enterprises as its vendors or partners. The company also is an authorized training center, providing a range of services for customers from standard training to customized courses.


Established in 1992, the Franco-German-Spanish Eurocopter Group is a division of EADS, a world leader in aerospace, defense and related services. The Eurocopter Group employs approximately 17,500 people. In 2010, Eurocopter confirmed its position as the world’s number one helicopter manufacturer in the civil and parapublic market with a turnover of 4.8 billion Euros, orders for 346 new helicopters and a 49 percent market share in the civil and parapublic sectors.

DCNS of France press release for LIMA 2011 participation

Below the transcript of press release of DCNS regarding LIMA 2011

DCNS at LIMA, the Langkawi International Maritime & Aerospace Exhibition, 6th –10th December 2011, Langkawi, Malaysia
(Source: DCNS; issued Dec. 5, 2011)

PARIS --- DCNS is a world leader for value-added naval defence systems. As a naval prime contractor, shipbuilder and systems integrator, DCNS combines resources and expertise spanning the naval defence value chain and entire system lifecycles. DCNS delivers innovative solutions from integrated warships to strategic systems, equipment, services and new energy solutions.

The DCNS stand showcases:

Submarines

-- DCNS expertise in submarine design and construction, through the Scorpene medium-size submarines. Already chosen by the Royal Malaysian Navy and other first rank navies, Scorpene submarines represents the state-of-the-art in submarine design and construction and benefits from the latest technologies developed for nuclear-powered classes operated by the French Navy, particularly as regards acoustic discretion and combat system performance. At LIMA, the Scorpene is presented with the MESMA AIP (Autonomous Submarine Energy Module). This is an electrical energy production module designed specifically for conventional submarines. As well as supplying electricity to the vessel and to the propulsion system, it can also be used to recharge the batteries without the need to surface. Together with a MESMA section, a Scorpene will be able to carry out extended missions with an over 3 weeks submerged endurance. The 10 metres MESMA module can be considered as a new-build option or installed during a refit.

-- The Andrasta, a compact submarine designed to operate in coastal waters, a theatre of growing importance to all maritime nations. Being, Andrasta combines a state-of-the-art design with stealth, agility and power. A direct descendant of the Scorpene, the Andrasta is remarkably effective and a fearsome adversary in deep water, thanks to its SUBTICS® combat system.

-- The SMX-25, known as “the lightning prowler”, this concept focuses on how to get what is essentially a conventional submarine to a theatre of operations as quickly as possible. Powered by three gas turbines driving three water jets, the SMX-25 submersible is designed to achieve a sustained surface speed of 38 knots.

Surface combatants

-- The FREMM multimission frigates programme combines the latest technologies developed by the DCNS group. These technological and engineering advances make the FREMM frigates world leaders in their class. France’s total order is 11 vessels and the delivery is scheduled from 2012 to 2022. In addition, one FREMM frigate is currently under construction for Morocco.

-- The innovative Gowind vessels, a new family of ocean-capable vessels designed by DCNS for all littoral and naval operations, are exceptional tools able to fulfil missions ranging from anti-piracy up to sea control and denial.

-- The Gowind OPV is designed to meet the operational needs of a large number of navies focusing on coastal missions/homeland security. A first ship is already used by the French Navy since October 2011. With a length overall of 87 metres and 1,400 tonnes displacement, the Gowind OPV will offer three weeks’ blue-water endurance, a range of 8,000 nautical miles and a top speed of 21 knots.

Bigger, Gowind Combat is a multi-mission corvette (100 metres, 2,400 tonnes), has a comprehensive Combat System for full-scale multi-threat missions, including a complete ASW suite with towed array sonar and improved stealth and survivability.

The ADVANSEA (ADVanced All-electric Networked ship for SEA dominance) concept ship presented at Euronaval 2010 gives a first glimpse of what a next-generation all-electric surface combatant might look like.

Combat Systems

DCNS has over 40 years of experience in design, development and integration of combat systems for international navies. DCNS expertise in combat systems includes a committed staff of 1200 people, mainly composed of specialized engineers, combined with high technology and wide industrial capabilities. To respond to today’s naval defence needs, DCNS offers fully integrated combat systems solutions for new and modernization programmes and for any type of submarines such as SSK, SSN or SSBN and surface vessels from Offshore Patrol Vessel to aircraft carrier.

Thanks to a widely recognized NATO expertise and a steady involvement in interoperability standard workshops, DCNS’s SUBTICS, POLARIS and SETIS combat systems, respectively dedicated to submarines and surface ships, can efficiently operate with other systems within a national or joint task force.

SUBTICS combines long-range capabilities in all navigation conditions with powerful weapons (torpedoes, anti-ship missile, counter-measures, land-attack capability). As a fully-integrated system, all functions are operated from MultiFunction Common Consoles and its open architecture and modularity guarantee that the system can be adapted to every type of submarines and configured according to operational requirements. It can also be upgraded during its lifetime to fulfil new missions and keep its operational superiority.

SETIS manages anti-surface, anti-air and anti-submarine warfare and is designed to perform intelligence gathering, land attack and special operations. SETIS can be fitted on all types of surface ships with heavy weapon capabilities to meet evolving navies requirements such as: to defend vital interest, to guarantee homeland security, to resolve conflict and crisis and to ensure naval superiority.


DCNS will also showcase:

-- The Contralto-V torpedo countermeasures, a system for surface combatants designed to counter latest-generation torpedoes. Like Contralto-S, it uses acoustic decoys and is based on the ‘confusion/dilution’ principle. The operational ‘confusion/dilution’ principle represents the state of the art in torpedo countermeasures. Contralto-V saturates an in-coming torpedo’s processors by creating and constantly renewing dozens of ephemeral acoustic targets, the only viable solution against latest-generation torpedoes.

-- Sirehna, a wholly-owned subsidiary, specialises in vessel dynamics and allied technologies. The company’s 55 high-level researchers offer multidisciplinary expertise spanning naval hydrodynamics, fluid mechanics, experimental technologies, design optimisation and wave propagation. Sirehna was acquired by DCNS in 2008. The company played a key role in the design and development of the stabilisation solution for the FREMM multimission frigate programme. Sirehna is also active in stabilisation, positioning and automatic control solutions for unmanned aerial and surface vehicles (UAVs & USVs).

-- Boustead DCNS Naval Corporation Sdn Bhd (BDNC), a Joint Venture Company between BHIC Defence Technologies Sdn Bhd and DCNS awarded by the Malaysian Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) to undertake In Service Support (ISS) for the two Royal Malaysian Scorpene Submarines.


DCNS is a world leader in naval defence and an innovative player in energy. The Group's success as an advanced technology company with global reach is built on meeting customer needs by deploying exceptional know-how and unique industrial resources. DCNS designs, builds and supports surface combatants, submarines and mission-critical systems and equipment incorporating the most advanced technologies. It also proposes services for naval shipyards and bases. The Group employs 12,500 people and generates annual revenues of around EUR 2.5 billion.

Sikorsky S-92 Legacy of Heroes participating for LIMA 2011

Below is the press release of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. for LIMA 2011:

Sikorsky S-92 "Legacy of Heroes" Demo Helicopter on Display in Malaysia
 (Source: Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.; issued December 4, 2011)

LANGKAWI, Malaysia --- Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.'s S-92 "Legacy of Heroes" demonstration helicopter will be shown on static display at the Langkawi International Maritime & Aerospace Exhibition beginning Dec. 6 .

The aircraft recently launched the second leg of its worldwide tour with its arrival in Singapore on Nov. 21. The helicopter will visit multiple countries to recognize first responders to natural disasters and other humanitarian emergencies around the globe while promoting the company's family of products including the H-92 helicopter, the military version of the company's commercial S-92 helicopter.

The tour commenced in the United States in September and continued through late October. From its current location in Malaysia, the aircraft will next visit Brunei, Thailand and Hong Kong, and then travel to India. A six-member crew is conducting cockpit briefings and aircraft tours at designated stops, and participating in first responder recognition ceremonies and other special events to provide community support along the way.

"Sikorsky Aircraft was built on Igor Sikorsky's vision of the helicopter as a life-saving device," said Carey Bond, President of Sikorsky Global Helicopters. "Since Sikorsky's earliest days, our helicopters have been the first to arrive on the scene of natural disasters and other emergency, life-threatening situations. The Legacy of Heroes demo tour gives us the opportunity to share the success stories of the extraordinary people who use our products and to introduce the aircraft capabilities and product solutions to those who may be unfamiliar with them."

The aircraft on display was customized by employees at Sikorsky Global Helicopters' main facility in Coatesville, Pa., U.S.A. It is a utility-configured S-92 aircraft bearing a unique gray and black paint scheme with a silhouette of first responders depicted on each side. The aircraft is fitted with side-facing seats, a triple-litter kit, cargo hook, Search-and-Rescue Automatic Flight Control System, and night sun capabilities.

During the tour, the crew will showcase the multi-mission capability of the aircraft.

The S-92 Legacy of Heroes helicopter will be located at booth OD 7 at the LIMA air show. There will be a limited supply of Legacy of Heroes promotional items for visitors to the aircraft.

The company has created a microsite on the Internet to provide regular updates on the tour's activities. The microsite will offer blog reports from crew members and other highlights of the tour.

S-92 helicopters perform search and rescue (SAR) missions as well as a variety of transportation missions for VIPs including Heads of State, offshore oil and gas crews, utility and airline passengers. The worldwide fleet of 151 S-92 helicopters has accumulated more than 365,000 flight hours since deliveries began in 2004. The S-92 helicopter was certified to FAA/EASA harmonized Part 29 requirements, as amended through Amendment 47. The S-92 helicopter remains the only aircraft to have been certified to this rigorous airworthiness standard without exception or waiver.


Sikorsky Global Helicopters, a Sikorsky company, develops and produces civil certified helicopters and their derivatives. Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., U.S.A., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture, and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., U.S.A., provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.

Russian Delegation Press Release for Participation at LIMA 2011

Below is the transcript of press release from Rosboronexport regarding participating at LIMA 2011:


Rosoboronexport at LIMA 2011
 (Source: Rosoboronexport; issued December 2, 2011)

Rosoboronexport, JSC is expected to put up a magnificent performance at LIMA 2011 exhibition in Langkawi, Malaysia on December 6-10, bringing cutting edge Russian weapons and materiel to the show.

The Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace has been held since 1991. Today it’s one of the most important arms exhibitions in the region. With the role of Asian-Pacific countries in international affairs growing dramatically over the past years, defense and security issues rise high on their national agendas as far as sustainable peace and development are concerned. Noteworthy, Russia played one of the key parts in making LIMA really popular and influential.

“South-East Asia is a very important market for us, as it accounts for a significant part of total sales by Rosoboronexport. Despite tight rivalry, we plan to expand our cooperation with the countries in this region. And not only in export of final products: we are discussing opportunities to launch joint weapon development projects, organize license production and establish maintenance and service centers here,” said Rosoboronexport’s deputy Director General Viktor Komardin, who led the company delegation at LIMA 2011.

Russia has good interaction almost with all nations in the region, working closely with traditional partners and those who have indicated their interest in establishing defense technology ties with Russia for the first time, e.g. Brunei, Cambodia, Nepal and the Philippines.

Russia’s part of the exhibition devoted to aviation has traditionally been one of the most remarkable at the LIMA show. This year Rosoboronexport opted for a digital format of presentations, laying stakes on interactive capabilities of modern multimedia technologies. For instance, performance of MiG-29M multi-role fighter and Mi-28NE and Ka-52 attack helicopters will be demonstrated in this manner: simulated 3D videos give a comprehensive picture of their combat capabilities.

In addition, Su-30MKM and MiG-29N fighters of the Malaysian Air Force will show their capabilities during flying display. Sukhoi’s Su-30MK fighters of various modifications are quite popular in the region. They are in service with the armed forces of Vietnam, India, Indonesia, Malaysia and China.

“This is a very good aircraft, and we believe it still has quite high export potential. It meets all modern requirements and offers huge opportunities for upgrade. For instance, we are looking forward to Malaysian Defense Ministry’s tender for a batch of new multirole fighters, as we are sure that our bid will have very good chances to win. Trying to keep up with the latest trends on the arms market, we are willing to make an interesting offset proposal,” Mr. Komardin pointed out.

By the way, Russian offset proposals will be announced during the show, and in addition to Sukhoi maintenance and repair projects, will include localization of the components in the field of civil aviation, as well as transfer of different industrial technologies.

Specialists also expect increased attention to Russian air defense systems. The experience of recent conflicts shows that an effective air defense is vital for the national security of any country.

South-East Asia is also one of the key markets for Russian helicopter manufactures. Rosoboronexport offers all types of helicopters that can operate in difficult climatic conditions and are much superior to rivals in terms of cost-effectiveness.

Most of the countries in the region have long coast border, that’s why protection of their 200-mile economic zone becomes one of top priorities. Rosoboronexport offers ships and submarines to achieve this goal and meet other national policy interests. In addition, Russia boasts modern technologies to deploy an integrated maritime and boarder control system which can include unique over-the-horizon radar Podsolnukh-E.

Guests of the exhibition will receive full information about the following aircraft, naval and air defense systems, if they come to the Rosoboronexport stand:
Aircraft: Su-30MKM, Su-30MK2, MiG-35, MiG-29M, MiG-29SMT multirole fighters, Yak-130 combat trainer, Be-200 amphibian, Il-76MD transport plane;
Helicopters: Mi-171Sh utility helicopter, Mi-28NE and Ka-52 attack helicopters, Ka-226T and Ka-32 multi-purpose helicopters, Mi-26T2 heavy transport, and Ka-31 scout.

Air defense systems: Antey-2500, Buk-M2E, Tor-M2E SAM systems, Pantsyr-S1 air defense missile and gun system, Igla-S man-portable air defense system, Protivnik-GE and Nebo-SVU radars.

Naval systems: Amur-1650 and Project 636 diesel-electric submarines, Gepard 3.9 frigate, Project 20382 Tigr corvette, Tornado small missile (artillery) ship, Murena-E air-cushion landing boat, and Svetlyak, Sobol, Mirazh, Mangust and A106 patrol boats.

In addition, visitors will be able to familiarize themselves with a broad range of air launched weapons, shipborne weapons, unmanned aerial vehicles.

In the spotlight:

-- Yak-130.
An outstanding pilot training tool, the aircraft is also effective as a light fighter jet. It is very economical and features superb safety, let alone its capability to simulate flying performance of a whole bunch of modern fighters. Both cockpits of the aircraft are full-glass, with HOTAS controls.

-- Ka-226T.
This multi-role helicopter boasts characteristics, unique for its class, including the service ceiling of 5,500 meters with the maximal takeoff weight of 3,600 kg. Another feature is the capability to accommodate various payload modules, which make the chopper equally effective in medevac, SAR and firefighting roles without compromising its flight performance.

-- Buk-M2E.
A battery of such SAM systems can engage up to 24 targets at once, incoming from any directions at ranges from 3 to 45-50 km and at altitudes from 15 m to 25 km under conditions of aggressive enemy countermeasures and fires. The main difference between the upgraded version and its predecessor Buk-M1 is the phased array of the target acquisition radar, which increased the system’s attack capability fourfold.

-- Pantsyr-S1.
The combination of missiles and guns allows engaging targets continuously at ranges from 200 m out to 20 km and altitudes from 5 m to 15 km. A battery of six combat vehicles can simultaneously attack up to 24 targets with missiles flying at a speed of 1,300 m/s. The system owes its remarkable countermeasure immunity and survivability to a cutting-edge multimode adaptive radar and optical fire control system.

-- Amur-1650.
The sound field of Amur-1650 is far smaller than that of the Kilo class submarines, renowned for their low noise. Owing to the new generation sonar, the sub detects enemy at long range, while remaining invisible for him. It can destroy sea and coastal targets at 275 km with its unique Club missiles, featuring a capability to launch the cruise missiles at single and group targets in a salvo.

-- Gepard 3.9.
The frigate is built using stealth technologies and boasts outstanding seagoing qualities and survivability. The baseline version is armed with Uran-E antiship missiles with an effective range of 130 km, a standard AK-176M gun and an advanced Palma gun/missile air defense system. The antisubmarine weapons include two twin-barrel 533-mm torpedo launchers. The ship can also carry a 12-ton helicopter.

Eurofighter Typhoon news at LIMA 2011

Eurofighter Typhoon Takes Centre Stage for Lima 2011 Flying Display
(Source: Eurofighter Typhoon; issued December 6, 2011)
Eurofighter Typhoon will take pride of place as one of the highlights of the daily flying display at LIMA 2011 as it debuts at the show. On Tuesday 6 December the world’s most advanced multi-role combat aircraft, flown by BAE Systems’ Typhoon Test Pilot, Nat Makepeace, will take to the skies for the first time over Langkawi, demonstrating its incredible agility and speed.

During the seven minute display Nat will put Eurofighter Typhoon through its paces, carrying out a carefully choreographed series of intricate high and low energy manoeuvres designed to highlight the awesome power and capability of the aircraft.

Commenting on what promises to be star attraction of the show, Nat said: “It is a great honour to open the flying display at such a prestigious event as LIMA. There are many things that make Eurofighter Typhoon special to fly. For me, the one of the biggest is showcasing the exceptional performance and the carefree handling of the aircraft at events like this. We have great excess power straight from take-off – you can see this from the slow-speed rotate and the climb straight up to 4,000 feet which ensures an exciting display. It is presenting European capability at its best and I feel proud of what we have achieved.”

Recently four UK RAF Typhoon aircraft from 6 Squadron flew from their base in Scotland to the Royal Malaysian Air Force airbase in Butterworth to take part in Exercise BERSAMA LIMA achieving unsurpassed levels of availability on operational duty.

The Typhoon has already been ordered by six nations (Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Austria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia). With 559 aircraft under production contract, over 300 aircraft delivered and more than 130,000 flying hours achieved, Eurofighter Typhoon is Europe’s largest military collaborative programme and delivers leading-edge technology, strengthening Europe’s aerospace industry in the global competition.

LIMA 2011 news from exhibitor's release press - Boeing

Below are press release regarding LIMA 2011


1. Boeing Receives Contract for 1st Major Upgrades to Malaysian F/A-18D Hornets
(Source: Boeing Co.; issued December 7, 2011)

LANGKAWI, Malaysia --- The Boeing Company on Nov. 28 received a U.S. Navy contract under the Foreign Military Sales Program to provide the first major upgrades for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) fleet of eight F/A-18D Hornet fighter aircraft.

The contract covers design, development and installation of retrofit kits that will provide enhanced navigation, targeting and situational awareness. The upgrade program includes:
-- GPS improvements
-- A color, moving-map cockpit display
-- Identification Friend or Foe Interrogation capabilities
-- Addition of the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System
-- Maintenance and air crew training for these systems.

“These upgrades will deliver enhanced capability for the RMAF fleet to remain effective, interoperable with allies and operationally relevant for years to come,” said Julie Praiss, Boeing Global Services & Support director of Tactical Aircraft & Weapons Support. “Boeing looks forward to our continued partnership with the Royal Malaysian Air Force and the U.S. Navy to ensure that these F/A-18Ds continue to serve Malaysia’s strike and interdiction mission needs.”

The upgrades also make the RMAF’s F/A-18Ds more compatible with the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, which Boeing is offering to meet Malaysia’s Multi-Role Combat Aircraft needs.

The government of Malaysia ordered eight F/A-18D Hornets in 1993. Since delivering all aircraft on schedule in 1997, Boeing has been providing sustainment support for the fleet at the RMAF base in Butterworth, Malaysia. These support programs include engineering and logistics support, pilot training and technical publications.

Boeing provides life-cycle support solutions, services and upgrades for F/A-18 Hornet fleets worldwide, including for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, the Royal Australian Air Force, the Royal Canadian Air Force, the Finnish Air Force, the Kuwait Air Force, the Spanish Air Force, the Swiss Air Force and the RMAF.

The combat-proven F/A-18 Hornet is a twin-engine, multi-mission, tactical aircraft. It converts between air-to-air fighter missions and air-to-ground strike missions while on the same sortie with the flick of a switch. Currently serving the armed services of eight nations, the Hornet can be used for fighter escort, suppression of enemy air defenses, reconnaissance, forward air control, close air support, and day and night strike missions.


A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world's largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $32 billion business with 63,000 employees worldwide.

Eurofighter Team Blog on LIMA

Below I attach the quote from Eurofighter Team (BAE System) blog:


LIMA Air Show Opening Day: Typhoon Setting the Pace

Wednesday 07.11.2011
Malaysia considers itself as the heart of Asia, the essence of Asia and an excellent example of balanced economic, cultural and social growth. Langkawi, a small island part of an archipelago made up of 99 islands in front of the Thailand coast, is a popular holiday destination worth visiting all year round and famous for its peaceful resorts and popular small handy-craft shops. A tax free heaven for tourists, it is also a heaven for wild animals.
From your hotel room you can see monkeys, weasels and flying squirrels which are very much interested in the food left on your balcony after an open air breakfast on the hotel veranda.

Every two years the island transforms itself into an aircraft enthusiasts paradise for a week. And as usual in recent times, it becomes a forum for the harsh battles fought between the fighter manufacturers on the global market. In what is probably the hottest time ever for the fighter market, Malaysia plays an important role with its requirement to replace its fleet of Russian made MiG-29 in the short term. The requirement is for a multi role fighter to compliment the fleet of powerful Sukhoi Su-30MKK in service and integrate the small fleet of F-18C used for maritime and all weather attack.

Yesterday at the show the Malaysian Defence Minister, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was very clear: the key to the fighter tender is offset and technology transfer. Malaysia wants to invest its money to support the so called Vision 2020 program set to enhance the industrial knowledge, skills and the development of high technology capabilities of the nation.

For this fighter program Malaysia is currently carrying out evaluation studies about the competitors: F-18 Super Hornet, Rafale, Saab Gripen, Eurofighter and - also under consideration - another batch of Su-30. Hamidi last June was quoted as saying the Eurofighter was the best fighter jet available on the market, something we knew already!

Malaysia will probably reduce the number of competitors in the race soon, issuing a new, more detailed Request for Proposal to a limited number of manufacturers. Key to the future of the tender could be the upcoming decisions about fighters in the pipeline on the global market: India and Japan. Both will set a sort of standard for Medium Multi Role fighter requirements (a category where the light, simple, poor performing Saab Gripen and the heavy Su-30 shouldn't be considered). We will know more next year. In the meantime, we have enjoyed the sequence of fighter displays at Langkawi air show: The RAF Eurofighter Typhoon opened the show, there was a French Air Force Rafale, US Navy F-18, F-16 from the Singapore Air Force and Malaysian Su-30. A noisy time, but such a pleasure to watch with the special mountainous rainforest as a backdrop!

Monday, December 5, 2011

Aircraft arrival for LIMA before opening ceremony

The latest aircraft arrival for LIMA 2011 on 5th December 2011 is JAS 39 Gripen C/D from Royal Thai Air Force, P3C Orion from US Navy, Tiger HAD attack helicopter, Eurofighter typhoon begin training from Butterworth Air Base.

The C-17 Globemaster III, 2 Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale, F-16C from RSAF piloted by Major Desmond Khoo & Kapten Eugene Lim, F/A-18 Super Hornet from US Navy, MiG-29N, SU-30MKM, Kris Sakti Aerobatic Team etc. involve in last practice for opening LIMA 2011.

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Sunday, December 4, 2011

Tiger HAD from Eurocopter EADS participate at LIMA 2011

Eurocopter Tiger HAD attack / reconnaissance helicopter arrived at Langkawi for LIMA 2011. Tiger HAD will participate in aerial display and static display. The Tiger HAD transported by IL-76 cargo aircraft.


                     Tiger AHD after complete installation at helicopter parking bay

Eurofighter Display at LIMA 2011

Eurofighter Typhoon will display during LIMA 2011 at Langkawi, Malaysia. Typhoon will pilot by Nat Makepeace, an experimental test pilot from BAE System.

Typhoon has 13 hard points to carry air to air and air to ground weapons / missiles. The aircraft also has fully integrated self-protection capabilities - chaff, flares, electronic counter measure and towed decoy know as DASS (Defensive Aids Sub System).

During aerial display, Typhoon will perform split S climbing straight up and coming down with 3 aileron rolls, roll performance, 1/2 horizontal Cuban, back down for loop and then out for High Angle of Attack and then turning back towards the display line.

The Typhoon will practice on 4th December 2011 and aerial display from 6 - 10th December 2011 for LIMA 2011.












Notes: All the data above acquire from Eurofighter website.