Friday, December 12, 2008

Ukrainians Complete Mission In Iraq

Ukrainian Contingent Ends Iraq Mission, Head Home
(NSI News Source Info) CAMP ECHO, Iraq - December 13, 2008: The Ukrainian Army hosted an end of mission ceremony at Camp Echo in Central Iraq Dec. 9. More than 5,000 Ukrainian troops have served in Iraq during Ukraine's five years of service in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
"Enduring peace, stability and prosperity are common values to fight for in the modern world. Your mission in Iraq has been successfully completed," said Viktor Nedopas, Charge d'Affairs of the Ukrainian Embassy in Iraq.
The Ukrainians served as the third-largest Coalition forces contingent in Iraq, with about 1,700 soldiers from 2003-2005.
"Ukraine started accomplishing its mission in Operation Iraqi Freedom through assistance to the Iraqi government to establish constitutional order and a secure environment from the very beginning in 2003," said Col. Henadii Lachkov, senior commander for the Ukrainian forces in Diwaniya.
In 2006, they shifted their operational focus and down-sized to a peacekeeping force of about 40 soldiers. They also moved their operations from al Kut to Diwaniya, about 180 kilometers south of Baghdad, under Polish command for specialized Iraqi Army and Iraqi Police training.
"We know that violence is at its lowest level in five years, and the Iraqi Security Forces, partnering with Coalition forces, will take the lead in defending their country," said Maj. Gen. Michael Ferriter, deputy commanding general for operations, Multi-National Corps-Iraq.
"And soon, the Iraqi people will vote in the future of their country in the provincial elections. These changes were not brought about naturally, but were instead brought about by the dedication and the hard work of the men and women from the nations such as yours. You helped create the Iraqi Security Force and instilled in them a solid foundation of skills essential to the future security and prosperity of Iraq," said Ferriter.
"To Iraq's benefit and through Ukraine's efforts, you have helped ensure a higher quality of life for the people of Iraq. Ukraine forces made contributions that enabled all Coalition partners to be successful here, but it has not been without cost. A precious 18 Ukrainian Soldiers have died here," said Ferriter.
Lachkov led a moment of silence during the ceremony to honor those who gave their lives and the family members they left behind.
"You have allowed peace to grow in the region, and now, you can return home knowing that you made that difference. Thank you for being a part of this Coalition," said Ferriter.
Words, gestures and gifts shared during the ceremony solidified friendships among the different nationalities that have fought and worked together for a better Iraq.
"We are leaving this place, but Ukrainian color will (still) be represented in the Republic of Iraq. Our Soldiers will continue serving in the NATO training mission, making their contribution into the matter of developing democracy, stabilizing the internal situation in Iraq and providing support to the Iraqi Security Forces," promised Lachkov.
Countries that remain with the Coalition in Iraq include: Albania, Australia, Bulgaria, Denmark, El Salvador, Estonia, Lithuania, Romania, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Spain Receives First Tranche 2 Eurofighters

Spain Receives First Tranche 2 Eurofighters
(NSI News Source Info) December 13, 2008: The Spanish Air Force (SpAF) has received the first three Eurofighter production aircraft of Tranche 2. The fourth unit will be delivered in the near future. The delivery follows the Type Acceptance agreement for Block 8 (Tranche 2) achieved on 12th September.
Enrique Barrientos, CEO of EADS Defence & Security in Spain, underlined that “the Spanish Air Force is more and more getting benefit from the maturity achieved by the most advanced new-generation combat aircraft in operation. The delivery of these Tranche 2 aircraft steps into the following phase of operational capabilities for our customers and underlines the continuous technological enhancement of the weapon system”.
According to the production umbrella contract, the four Partner Nations committed themselves to the acquisition of 620 Eurofighter aircraft in three tranches, and Spain participates with 87 units. The delivery of the Tranche 1 (19 aircraft for SpAF) concluded in September last year. Tranche 2 foresees the production of 34 new SpAF aircraft. The main difference between Tranche 1 and Tranche 2 aircraft is a new suite of computers and enhanced air-to-ground capabilities. More processing power (speed and memory capacity) will be the enabler for capability insertion.
Moreover, all Tranche 2 aircraft already delivered will eventually go through the Phase One Enhancements programme, agreed in March 2007, integrating the latest achievements. This programme covers new software and an enhanced multi-role Human-Machine Interface (HMI). Furthermore, the Multiple Information and Distribution System (MIDS), the Global Positioning System, the Defensive Aids Subsystems and the communication systems will be upgraded. Finally this programme foresees the integration of the Laser Designator Pod (LDP) and of additional weapons such as Paveway IV and EGBU-16.
Meanwhile the four Eurofighter partner companies continue with the development programme of advanced solutions for the Eurofighter weapon system. Deliveries of Tranche 2 aircraft to the customer air forces have started on 10th October 2008 with the handover of BS040 to the Royal Air Force. More than 60 Block 8 (Tranche 2) aircraft are currently in the final assembly lines across the four partner companies.

Iraq To Receive $1 Bn Naval Package From US

Iraq To Receive $1 Bn Naval Package From US
(NSI News Source Info) WASHINGTON - December 13, 2008: On Dec. 9, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Iraq of (20) 30-35meter Coastal Patrol Boats and (3) 55-60 meter Offshore Support Vessels as well as associated equipment and services.
The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $1.010 billion.
The Government of Iraq has requested a possible sale of (20) 30-35meter Coastal Patrol Boats and (3) 55-60 meter Offshore Support Vessels, each outfitted with the Seahawk MS1-DS30MA2 mount using a 30 x 173mm CHAIN gun and short range Browning M2-HB .50 cal machine gun, spare and repair parts, weapon system software, support equipment, publications and technical data, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor engineering and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $1.010 billion.
This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country. This proposed sale directly supports the Iraq government and serves the interests of the Iraq people and the U.S.
The sale of these patrol boats and support vessels will enhance the ability of the Iraqi naval forces to sustain themselves in their efforts to bring stability to their country, prevent overflow of unrest into neighboring countries, and protect their maritime oil platforms and territorial waters.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
The principal contractor is unknown at this time, however, acquisition is subject to FAR and DFARS domestic sourcing requirements. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.
Implementation of this sale will require the assignment of two contractor representatives in Iraq for a period of 8 years.
There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.
This notice of a potential sale is required by law; it does not mean that the sale has been concluded.

Iraq To Get 36 AT-6 Light Attack Planes, 20 T-6B Trainers

Iraq To Get 36 AT-6 Light Attack Planes, 20 T-6B Trainers
(NSI News Source Info) WASHINGTON - December 13, 2008: On the Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Iraq of 36 AT-6B Texan II Aircraft as well as associated support.
The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $520 million.
The AT-6 is fully equipped with six weapons / stores locations and can be armed with a variety of weapons including guided missiles, laser / GPS-guided bombs and 2.75in rocket pods
The Government of Iraq has requested a possible sale of 36 AT-6B Texan II Aircraft, 6 spare PT-6 engines, 10 spare ALE-47 Counter-Measure Dispensing Systems and/or 10 spare AAR-60 Missile Launch Detection Systems, global positioning systems with CMA-4124, spare and repair parts, maintenance, support equipment, publications and technical documentation, tanker support, ferry services, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor engineering and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $520 million.
This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country.
The proposed sale of these aircraft, equipment, and support will enhance the ability of the Iraqi forces to sustain themselves in their efforts to bring stability to Iraq and to prevent overflow of unrest into neighboring countries.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
The principal contractors are:
-- Hawker Beechcraft Corporation, Wichita, Kansas
-- Pratt & Whitney Corporation, Quebec, Canada and Bridgeport, West Virginia
-- Martin Baker in Middlesex, United Kingdom
-- Hartzel Propeller, Piqua, Ohio -- Canadian Marconi, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
-- L-3 Vertex, Madison, Mississippi
There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.
The proposed sale will involve multiple trips to Iraq involving many U.S. government and contractor representatives over a period of 15 years for program management, program and technical reviews, training, maintenance support, and site surveys.
There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.
This notice of a potential sale is required by law; it does not mean that the sale has been concluded.

Raytheon Canada To Provide High-Frequency Surface Wave Radars For Romania

Raytheon Canada To Provide High-Frequency Surface Wave Radars For Romania
(NSI News Source Info) WATERLOO, Ontario - December 13, 2008: Raytheon Company has been awarded a $16 million subcontract by the BAV Division of VSE Corporation to provide Romania with two High-Frequency Surface Wave Radar systems.
Raytheon Canada's HFSWR system provides continuous, all-weather coverage to enable Romania to protect its maritime sovereignty in the Black Sea.
The system detects and monitors any vessel movement throughout the country's 200 nautical mile (370 kilometers) Exclusive Economic Zone. Raytheon Canada and Defence Research and Development Canada collaborated to develop the technology that helps countries strengthen their security along the coastline.
HFSWR production will occur at Raytheon Canada's Waterloo facility. "When industry partners with government agencies, the customer benefits with the best technology available from both worlds," said Brian Smith, Raytheon Canada general manager. "We worked with DRDC to research and develop this maritime domain awareness technology and are pleased to offer Romania this solution."
Raytheon Company, with 2007 sales of $21.3 billion, is a technology leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 72,000 people worldwide.

Indonesia And Malaysia Laying Claim To Islands

Indonesia And Malaysia Laying Claim To Islands (NSI News Source Info) December 13, 2008: Indonesia has dispatched an F-16 fighter, and its ground crew, to an airfield in Makassar, on nearby South Sulawesi island, to defend the nearby Ambalat region (between Sipadam and Ligatan Islands) from Malaysia, which claims ownership of the place. Indonesian AF F-16A in air superiority blue color scheme, prior to delivery. The Indonesian Air Force (Tentara Nasional Indonesia-Angkatan Udara) ordered a total of 12 F-16A/B Block 15OCU aircraft. An additional order for 9 aircraft (from the embargoed Pakistani order) and plans for the acquisition of up to 60 F-16s were cancelled and replaced with 4 Flankers. Indonesia's F-16s are employed in both air defense and ground attack roles, although lack of advanced weapons and navigation/targeting equipment limits them to daylight operations
The area is believed to contain large gas and oil deposits. This is a common situation in the region, where there are many disputed islands sitting on possible oil fields. This sort of thing has long been a cause for wars. All it takes is a country that feels it is losing out because a border is not where everyone agrees is should be. Same thing with islands. There are dozens of these island disputes worldwide. Most are not active issues, except for the fact that an international treaty (the 1982 Law of the Sea) gives whoever owns these uninhabited rocks rights to fishing, and oil drilling, for over three hundred kilometers from each of these tiny bits of land. Aside from prestige and possible historical ties, the primary reasons countries are claiming ownership of these uninhabited bits of land has to do with the ability to control sea lanes, defining maritime economic zones, possible tourist dollars in some instance, and oil, rumored to underlie much of the area. The principal islands involved (and the nations claiming ownership) are; -- Sipadam and Ligatan Islands, claimed by Malaysia and Indonesia -- this is one that has always seemed most likely to cause trouble in the near term. Two years ago, warships from both countries confronted each other in the area, with a Malaysian ship ramming an Indonesian one, causing minor damage to both vessels. Malaysian warships have been chasing Indonesian fishing boats out of the area. Both nations have awarded oil concessions to companies, but no one is willing to search for oil until the diplomatic, and military, friction is taken care of. -- Padra Branca Islands, claimed by Malaysia and Singapore. -- Louisa Reef, claimed by Malaysia & Brunei. -- Spratly Islands, claimed by China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, & Brunei: They're a bunch of some 100 rocks, reefs, cays, shoals, mud banks, and even islands. China claims them all, but occupies only 8, Vietnam has occupied or marked 25, the Philippines 8, Malaysia 6, and Taiwan one. -- Paracel Islands, claimed by China, which occupies them, Taiwan, and Vietnam. -- Sabah, claimed by Philippines & Malaysia. This is a province of Malaysia, which the Filipinos claim was ceded to the Sultan of Sulu (now part of the Philippines) back in the 1870s. In some of these there have also been periodic clashes over who maintains aids to navigation.

India Details Defense Agreements with US

India Details Defense Agreements with US (NSI News Source Info) December 13, 2008: India has the following three Defence Agreements with USA: (a) Agreement concerning Security Measures for the Protection of Classified Military Information, signed in January, 2002 (GSOMIA). (b) Master Information Exchange Agreement (MIEA) to facilitate exchange of Research and Development, Information signed in February 2004. (c) Agreement on Research Development Testing and Evaluation Projects (RDT&E), signed in January, 2006. The Government has not made any study to assess the strategic benefits of India as well as USA out of these agreements. This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Tapan Kumar Sen and Shri Prasanta Chatterjee in Rajya Sabha today. Other Indian Defense Briefs --Status of LLQRM System Developed by DRDO Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with M/s Rafael, Israel to procure Spyder Low Level Quick Reaction Missile System (LLQRM) for the Indian Air Force. The proposal for Trishul system was foreclosed due to its inability to meet certain critical operational requirements. However, it served as a technology demonstrator and the expertise acquired with the technologies developed during design and development phase of Trishul Missile System are being utilized for developing state-of-the-art Short Range Surface to Air Missile System. This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Tarini Kanta Roy in Rajya Sabha today. -- Introduction of Submarines in Indian Navy Six Scorpene Class submarines are presently under construction at M/s Mazagon Dock Limited, Mumbai with transfer of technology from M/s Armaris, France under Project – 75. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has accorded approval from acceptance of necessity angle in November, 2007 for the indigenous construction of six more submarines to be built under Project -75 (India). The submarines are to be built to an imported design in association with an overseas collaborator to be selected on multi-vendor basis. The issuance of Request for Proposal (RFP) for the submarines under P-75 (I) is envisaged in mid-2009. Necessary provisions are included in contracts to ensure that the defence equipments are received as per agreed delivery schedule and negotiated price and other contractual terms and conditions. A clause regarding levy of Liquidated Damages (LD) is also included in defence contracts in case of delay in delivery.

C130E Hercules The Workhorse Of The USAF

C130E Hercules The Workhorse Of The USAF (NSI News Source Info) December 13, 2008: A U.S. Air Force C-130E recently passed the 30,000 hours (in the air) mark, the first time this has happened. This aircraft is expected to fly for another two years, and spend another 1,500 hours in the air. This C-130 has undergone seven refurbishments since it entered service in the 1960s. Currently, nearly all the 491 C-130Es built are still flying. Last year, the air force retired a 44 year old C-130, that had spent 29,500 hours in the air. On average, C-130s last about 25 years, and about 20,000 hours in the air. But averages are just that, and some aircraft get lucky. If an aircraft has relatively few, "high stress" (heavy load, rough weather) flights, it will fly longer. The key component in C-130 longevity is the center wing box. This component takes the most punishment, and if it suffers corrosion, as well as enough stress to cause metal fatigue, it usually means the useful life of the aircraft is over. The C-130 has been in service 51 years. So far, 2,262 have been built, and it is still in production. That is unprecedented. Several other military aircraft remained in service over half a century (the British Canberra, U.S. B-52, the Russian Tu-95, AN-2, and the U.S. DC-3). But no other aircraft has remained in production for so long. Originally, the C-130 was designed to carry 15 tons of cargo, 92 troops, or 64 paratroopers. The latest version, the C-130J, has a top speed of 644 kilometers, a range of over 12,000 kilometers, and can carry 20 tons of cargo. The C-130 is used by more than 50 countries. When retired, U.S. military aircraft usually end up at a storage yard in the dry southwest, where the aircraft can be cannibalized for spare parts, until the remaining bits are sold for scrap.

Canada's Afghan Mission Will End In 2011: Defense Chief

Canada's Afghan Mission Will End In 2011: Defense Chief (NSI News Source Info) MONTREAL - December 12, 2008: Canada reiterated Thursday its mission in war-torn Afghanistan will last until 2011, after US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates suggested he would welcome an extension from Ottawa. Gates "has always been gracious about Canada's role in the UN-mandated mission," said Dan Dugas, spokesman for Canadian Defense Minister Peter MacKay, adding however that the "minister and the government have been very clear." Canada's Parliament "has decided that our mission there ends in 2011," he said. During a visit to Kandahar, Gates acknowledged Thursday the role and sacrifices of Canadian forces in Afghanistan since Ottawa deployed forces in the country in 2002. No other country partnered with the United States has "worked harder or sacrificed more than the Canadians," he said in comments, broadcast by CBC television, that have been seen as indicating the desire to see the Canadian contingent stay beyond 2011. "They have been outstanding partners for us, and all I can tell you is ... the longer we can have Canadian soldiers as our partners, the better it is," he said. Canada has a 2,750-strong force in southern Afghanistan. While campaigning for the October legislative elections that his party won, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said Canada did not agree to a further extension of the Canadian mission beyond 2011. Observers expect, however, that Canada could be pressured to maintain troops in the country beyond that date due to the importance given to the Afghan mission by US president-elect Barack Obama, who will take office on January 20.

Vietnam Airlines Buys Six ATR-72s At $112 Mln

Vietnam Airlines Buys Six ATR-72s At $112 Mln
(NSI N ews Source Info) HANOI - December 12, 2008: National carrier Vietnam Airlines signed a $112 million contract on Friday to buy six turboprop ATR 72-500 planes from ATR, a joint venture between EADS and Finmeccanica , despite falling tourism in the country. The first plane would be delivered in June 2009 and the last one would arrive in February 2010, Vietnam Airlines CEO Pham Ngoc Minh said in a speech prepared for the signing ceremony in Hanoi. The contract followed a deal by the unlisted Hanoi-based airliner of five ATR 72s signed in December 2007. "With today's purchase of six further ATR 72-500s, we will satisfy the increasing demand for services on short-haul routes," Minh said. Vietnam Airlines, under pressure to boost falling tourism in the Southeast Asian country as the global financial crisis hits, now has 50 aircraft in its fleet, including three ATR 72-500s and seven ATR 72-200s. Minh said the airline would gradually replace the old model ATR 72-200 planes between July 2009 and May 2010 with the newer model ATR 72-500s and would have a total of 14 ATR 72-500s by 2010 "in preparation for the recovery of the aviation market". Vietnam welcomed 3.9 million foreign visitors during the first 11 months of this year, up just 1.1 percent from the same period last year, when the country reported an annual tourist arrival growth of 17 percent. Yet tourism is expected to generate $2 billion in revenues this year, on par with the actual inflow of official development assistance and which, along with an expected $8 billion in overseas remittances, would help offset a widening trade deficit, economists said.