Combat Aircraft Monthly - September 2013

NATO TIGER MEET

SEPTEMBER 2013 4.20

European Edition Vol 14, No 9 | www.combataircraft.netTHE WORLDS FAVOURITE MILITARY AVIATION MAGAZINE

ANATOLIAN

EAGLEANAANAAN TOLIATOLIAEXERCISE REPORT

FORCE FORCEF-15E Strike Eagle

European mig-21 survivorsMirage f1S on baltic patrol

Sea harriers over bosnia

Glory Days:

BRITISH COMBAT AIR FORCESA review of UK air power now and into the future

UK cover (Anns amends 2).indd 1 19/07/2013 16:37

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68 EUROPES FINAL FISHBEDS Over 50 years after the type was first flown, the MiG-21 is still serving on the front line in Europe. Dirk Jan de Ridder explains how, over the next 12 months, several of these operators may finally replace their jets

76 AIR POWER REVIEW: BRAZILIAN ARMY AVIATION COMES OF AGE Santiago Rivas reports on how Brazilian Army Aviation is emerging as a very modern and efficient force, with a growing fleet composed almost entirely of Eurocopters

82 EXERCISE REPORT: ANATOLIAN EAGLE 2013 Derek Bower visits Exercise Anatolian Eagle for a rare opportunity to see some Middle Eastern air combat assets deployed in Europe

88 GLORY DAYS: SEA HARRIER OVER THE BALKANS It is now 20 years since Royal Navy Sea Harriers first deployed into the Adriatic as part of Operation Grapple. In this first instalment of a two-part feature, Richard Scott looks at the contribution of the FRS1 variant in its twilight years

96 CUTTING EDGE Combat Aircrafts monthly column reporting from the front line of aerospace technology, by David Axe

HEADLINE NEWS

X-47B traps aboard a carrier for the first time, USAF squadrons return to operations following grounding and US Navy receives F-35C

US NEWS

P-8 Poseidon passes operational test milestone, Mildenhall receives first Ospreys and California ANG gets F-15Cs

UK NEWS

RAF Typhoon training latest, third F-35B delivered and MoD evaluates unmanned future

EUROPE NEWS

Spanish Mirage F1s bow out, first Italian ICH-47F makes maiden flight and Russia shapes up for MiG-35

WORLD NEWS

First Australian MH-60R maiden flight, new missile on J-20 and UAE Typhoon deal looks to be on?

news68

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PLUS: Special report on the Luftwaffe F-4F retirement event and Chinas new bomber programme plus Robert F. Dorrs Front Line column and all the latest military Losses

Whats insideVol 14, No 9 September 2013

Typhoon Force in this issue Combat Aircraft evaluates the future face of Royal Air Force combat air power. Jamie Hunter

SUBSCRIBE AND SAVESubscribe to Combat Aircraft Monthly and make great savings on cover price. See pages 86 and 87 for details.

Typhoon Force in this issue Combat Aircraft

56 UK AIR POWER 2013

Since the end of the Cold War, the Royal Air Force has seen a steady decline in strength and resources. The UKs armed forces have been especially badly hit by budget cutbacks over the past ve years. Combat Aircraft reviews the future prospects of the RAF. Photo Jamie Hunter

38 BALTIC AIR POLICING: FINAL BOW FOR THE MIRAGE F1CR Six out of 28 NATO member states are unable to defend their own airspace. France is currently performing the Baltic Air Policing mission for the fourth time, as Tieme Festner and Cees-Jan van der Ende report

44 EXERCISE REPORT: ARCTIC FIGHTER MEET 2013 Jan Jrgensen attends the Arctic Fighter Meet at Bod, located on Norways west coast, just north of the Arctic Circle

46 F-15E: DIFFERENT BENEATH THE SKIN No-one expected the F-15E to become a close air support platform when the aircraft first flew, but as Robert F. Dorr details, improvements in sensors, avionics and ordnance have changed all that

62 EXERCISE REPORT: TIGER! TIGER! TIGER! The largest ever NATO Tiger Meet brought an impressive array of front-line aircraft to rland MAS, Norway and thus afforded perhaps the best training opportunities of any NTM to date. Ben Dunnell was there

3 Contents UK C.indd 1 22/07/2013 15:32

Combat Edge

CONTRIBUTOR PROFILE

TIEME FESTNER

Tieme Festner was born in Rotterdam in the Netherlands and his work has been published since the 1990s. In a career spanning over 20 years he has worked with various air forces, government and industrial institutions. As a photographer he has flown many hours in a variety of aircraft types, notably in Lithuania, where he has become an expert in NATOs Baltic Air Policing mission.

GRIM RREAPEREAPERAs the US Navy takes delivery of its rst F-35Cs for eet replenishment squadron (FRS) VFA-101 Grim Reapers, it is an important step on the road towards bringing the Lightning II to the eet. Lockheed Martin

4 September 2013 www.combataircraft.net

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THIS MONTHCombat Edge

US NAVY PILOTS and maintainers are now gearing up to start formal training on their brand new F-35C Lightning IIs at Eglin AFB, Florida. With larger wings, beefed up undercarriage, increased fuel

capacity and arrester hook, this is the F-35 variant that is lagging behind in flight-testing, and one that many still consider to be vulnerable in the current fiscal climate.

LCDR Chris Tabert delivered the first F-35C to VFA-101 at Eglin. The F-35 offers the Navy that fifth generation strike fighter capability that we need in the carrier strike group, he said.

However, Orlando P. Carvalho, the new Executive Vice President of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, is well aware of the US Navys scepticism over the F-35C. His mission is to boost confidence in the aircraft, and he hopes carrier trials next year will go a long way towards achieving this. Carvalho does however concede that the C-model is inherently more expensive than the US Air Forces F-35A.

In March, the Chief of Naval Operations ADM Jonathan Greenert acknowledged that walking away from its planned 260 F-35Cs would damage the overall programme, but he did not rule out a possible reduction in orders. Reducing the Navy order will inherently bump up unit costs for everyone. Greenert said that the Navy needs the F-35Cs capabilities, but he warned that the service is well aware there is still a lot of expensive work to do on integrating the F-35 into the Navys carrier air wings (CVWs).

Greenerts comments came as another warning shot across the programmes bows. In 2012 he warned that future stealthy aircraft such as the F-35 may become compromised by improving radars.

Integrating the F-35C into the CVWs is set to be a complicated and costly affair. Over the last decade the Navy has simplified and streamlined its decks, mainly thanks to the success of the Super Hornet. Its a factor that Boeing officials hope will still deliver fruit for its St Louis plant. Boeing is offering credible alternatives to F-35C technology. It announced in May that it plans to progress with its work on the Advanced Super Hornet and embark on a flight test programme. The conformal fuel tanks, an internal infra-red search and track (IRST) sensor, new large area cockpit display and an enclosed weapons pod (EWP) all offer F-35-esque capabilities.

The big question is: will the Navy sit out the F-35 and exit via the door marked Super Hornet, opting to skip a generation and focus on long-term goals?

Jamie Hunter, EditorE-mail: [email protected]

Does the Navy need the F-35C?

5www.combataircraft.net September 2013

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News


Unmanned touchdown!X-47B makes history with carrier trap

NORTHROP GRUMMANS X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System Demonstrator (UCAS-D) completed its first carrier-based arrested landing when it touched

down aboard the USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) on 10 July and caught the ships number three wire with its tailhook.

Following its take-off from NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, the X-47B flew a 35-minute transit to the carrier, which was operating off the coast of Virginia, and following several precision approaches made an autonomous arrested landing. The aircraft makes its approaches autonomously, without human interference. Following the landing the UCAS-D carried out a catapult launch and then a second arrested landing.

During a third approach to the carrier the X-47B self-detected a navigation computer anomaly that caused the air vehicle to transit to an assigned shore-based divert landing site. It recovered safely at the NASA Wallops

Island Flight Facility in Chincoteague, Virginia.

During two previous periods at sea the X-47B had completed CVN deck operations aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) in December 2012, and in May it completed its first-ever catapult launch from CVN 77. It subsequently carried out precision approaches and touch-and-go landings aboard the latter ship.

The failed third arrested landing on the current trial was seemingly caused by the failure of one of its three navigation computers. CAPT Jaime Engdahl, the US Navys programme manager for unmanned systems, commented: There are three redundant navigation computers on the X-47. We saw an issue on one of those computers and decided we had done enough for the day, flew the aircraft back and landed it.

Although capable of landing on just one of its three precision GPS navigation computers, it is programmed to auto abort,

and the human controller then elected to divert the aircraft.

The second flying X-47B, aircraft NG501, was planned to make the second series of carrier traps.

The X-47B demonstrations will be used to better evaluate the forthcoming US Navy Unmanned Carrier-Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike (UCLASS) programme, which is designed to provide an operational production UAV for aircraft carriers to undertake intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. The US Navy expects to release a draft request for proposals (RFP) for UCLASS in August. Boeing, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman are already working their offerings up to a preliminary design review by early 2014. An RFP will then follow for a technology demonstration phase in the second half of 2014, and a winning contractor is set to be selected by the end of 2014.

X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System Demonstrator (UCAS-D) BuNo 168064/NG502 completes its rst arrested landing on the ight deck

of the USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77), after grabbing the number three wire on 10 July. The landing marked the rst time an unmanned

aircraft had made an arrested landing at sea. US Navy

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Headlines


Theyre back! USAF squadrons return to the airOn 15 July Combat Air Forces (CAF) units from various US Air Force commands resumed flying after many had been grounded in April as a result of sequestration. Using a process that shifts funds from lower-priority accounts to more vital operations, the US Congress has authorised a $1.8-billion reprogramming allocation, of which some $208 million has been allocated to the restored flying hour programme. The budget allocation ensures that the USAFs CAF fleet is able to fund critical training and test operations for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2013. Units affected by the order include those assigned to Air Combat Command, US Air Forces Europe and Pacific Air Forces.

In the case of ACC, the restored flying hours will be allocated to combat aircraft and crews within the commands operational and test units, including the Air Warfare Centers Weapons School, Aggressors and the Thunderbirds aerial demonstration team.

Gen Mike Hostage, commander of Air Combat Command, said: Since April weve been in a precipitous decline with regard to combat readiness. Returning to flying is an important first step but what we have ahead of us is a measured climb to recovery.

The restoration of flying hours only addressed the next two-and-a-half months of flying up until 1 October. In the words of Gen Hostage, Important questions remain about FY14 and beyond. With continued budget uncertainly, it is unclear if the USAF will be able to sustain a fully combat-ready force beyond this date. At the same time, funds for the restoration are being taken at the expense of future capability, resulting in reduced investment in the recapitalisation and modernisation of the combat fleet.

US Navy receives first F-35CGrim Reapers gear up for training

LOCKHEED MARTIN DELIVERED the US Navys first production F-35C to Strike Fighter Squadron 101 (VFA-101) Grim Reapers at Eglin

AFB, Florida, on 22 June. Tasked as the Fleet Readiness Squadron (FRS) for the carrier variant of the Joint Strike Fighter, the Grim Reapers will train aircrew and maintenance personnel to operate and maintain the F-35C. Assigned BuNo 168733 (c/n CF-6), the aircraft joined a fleet

of 12 F-35As and 13 F-35Bs already assigned to Eglins Integrated Training Center. The squadron welcomed its second F-35C when BuNo 168734 (CF-7) landed at Eglin on 25 June, and three additional F-35Cs will arrive at Eglin this year. The second F-35C flew in to Eglin accompanied by the United Kingdoms third F-35B. Serial ZM137 (BK-03) is the first F-35B to feature the upgraded Block 2A software. It will initially support pilot and maintainer training alongside the UKs other two aircraft.

The rst F-35C destined for Strike Fighter Squadron 101 (VFA-101) folds its wings

after arriving at Eglin AFB, Florida, on 22 June. The Grim Reapers will serve as the

initial Fleet Readiness Squadron (FRS) for the carrier variant of the Joint Strike

Fighter. Lockheed Martin

Poseidon clears IOT&E First operational deployment planned for December. See US News

Typhoons complete Android Preference Qualied Weapons Instructors course exercise. See UK News

New C-130Js First aircraft for Israel and South Korea. See World News

ALSO THIS MONTH...

6-7 Headlines C.indd 7 19/07/2013 10:23

NewsP-8A BuNo 167954 operated by VX-20 conducts a Harpoon test ight near NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, during December 2012. Live ring testing has commenced over the Pacic Missile Test Ranges. US Navy

Poseidon completes operational testingHarpoon firing Initial deployment planned

THE US NAVY formally announced on 1 July that, after completing Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E), the Boeing P-8A Poseidon

patrol and reconnaissance aircraft has been determined to be operationally

effective, operationally suitable, and ready for fleet introduction. The successful completion of IOT&E is a requirement that will allow the Poseidon to enter full-rate production.

The first P-8A will make its initial operational deployment in December when Patrol Squadron 16 (VP-16) heads

to the Pacific. The US Navy has already taken delivery of nine Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) and six test aircraft. Its programme of record includes 117 P-8As.

Weapons testing is also progressing. A P-8A operated by Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 20 (VX-20) completed the first firing of a Harpoon missile, which resulted

Endurance Fire Scout delivered to Point MuguThe first of a planned fleet of 30 MQ-8C Fire Scout unmanned aerial vehicles arrived at NAS Point Mugu, California, on 8 July. Based on the Bell Model 407 helicopter, the MQ-8C is being developed as an endurance upgrade using systems designed for the smaller MQ-8B. It retains over 85 per cent of the MQ-8B system hardware including the sensors and communications and 95 per cent of the software. Northrop Grumman and Bell Helicopter began development of the new medium-range vertical unmanned aerial system (VUAS) as a private venture known as Fire-X in 2010. The US Navy purchased the systems as a Rapid Deployment Capability (RDC) in response to a 2011 Special Operations Command Joint Urgent Operational Needs Statement (JUONS). The MQ-8C variant will reportedly provide a 30 per cent increase in range, double the endurance and provide a 40 per cent increase in payload capacity over the existing MQ-8B variant, which is based on a Sikorsky/Schweizer Aircraft Model 333 airframe. The unmanned helicopter is one of two developmental MQ-8Cs that will support testing of the aircraft and the Fire Scout systems in advance of a planned 2014 deployment. The MQ-8C is expected to make its first flight in September; testing will be jointly conducted by Northrop Grumman and Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 30 (VX-30). Northrop Grumman is currently under contract to produce 14 MQ-8Cs and seven ground control stations.

MQ-8C BuNo 168455 being unloaded from a truck at NAS Point Mugu on 12 July. The unmanned helicopter is expected to make its rst ight in September. US Navy


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United States

California ANG receives EaglesThe California Air National Guards 144th Fighter Wing received its first F-15C when serial 84-0014 arrived at Fresno-Yosemite Airport on 18 June. The wings 194th Fighter Squadron currently flies the F-16C but will transition to the Eagle over the next couple of months. The fighters are being transferred from the Montana Air National Guards 120th FW in Great Falls, which will transition to a new mission operating the C-130H. The aircraft currently assigned to the Fresno unit will be passed on to the Arizona ANGs 162nd FW in Tucson. Four more Eagles are scheduled to arrive in Fresno over the next few weeks, and seven more will follow in September. The final eight Eagles will leave Great Falls in October.

As the 120th FW begins transferring its F-15Cs to the California ANG, it awaits the arrival of its own new aircraft. The wing and its 186th FS officially became non-mission-capable on 1 July and will formally begin conversion to the airlift mission on 1 October. Under its new mission the 120th will operate eight C-130H1 Hercules. The transition will take around three years to complete. Although half of the wings current pilots are transferring to other fighter units, the first of 14 that will switch to the C-130H will enter the seven-month conversion programme in August. The unit expects to gain around 40 new pilots along with navigators and loadmasters as the conversion progresses.

The US Navy began Phase 2 aircraft compatibility testing (ACT) of the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) on 25 June when an EA-18G Growler was successfully launched from the land-based test site at JB McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. It was the first time that the EA-18G had been launched by the EMALS, which is intended as a replacement for the steam catapults installed on current aircraft carriers. The system is initially being installed on the Ford-class ships. The Phase 2 ACT will simulate various carrier situations, including off-centre launches and planned system faults that are intended to demonstrate that the aircraft can meet end-speed and validate launch-critical reliability. The test team expects to conduct more than 300 launches this year and every carrier-based aircraft with the exception of the E-2C Hawkeye will be tested. During ACT Phase 1, which was conducted in autumn 2011, 133 manned aircraft launches were conducted with the EMALS. The aircraft that underwent testing included the F/A-18E, C-2A, T-45C, C-2A, E-2D and F-35C.

NEA-18G BuNo 166641 operated by VX-23 is prepared for launch using the US Navys new Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) at the Naval Air Warfare Center at JB McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey on 25 June. US Navy

Carrier launch system enters new test phase

The rst F-15C for the California ANG arrived at Fresno on 18 June. USAF

in a successful target strike, on 24 June. The test was conducted over the Point Mugu Sea Test Range using an AGM-84D Block IC missile that was fired at a Low-Cost Modular Target. The developmental test will be followed by Harpoon operational testing to support fleet initial operational capability (IOC).


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News

ASSEMBLY OF THE first Boeing KC-46A tanker for the US Air Force began at Boeings Everett, Washington facility on 26 June when

the wing spar for the initial aircraft was loaded into a production jig. The spar, which is 82.42ft (25.12m) long, is the main structural component of the wing. Based on the commercial 767-200ER airframe, the first KC-46A will be assembled in November and is planned

to be rolled out of the factory in January 2014.

Installation of mission-specific systems will be carried out at Boeing Field in Seattle in June 2014 and ground testing will follow. The tanker is scheduled to carry out its first flight in early 2015, and first deliveries are currently planned for 2016. Boeing expects to complete delivery of the initial group of 18 KC-46As by 2017. If all options are exercised, it will deliver a total of 179 aircraft to the USAF by 2027.

The rst KC-46 has entered production at Boeings Everett facility in Washington State. Boeing

MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina, welcomed its first F-35B Lightning II when BuNo 168059 arrived there on 9 July. Assigned to Eglin-based training unit Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 (VMFAT-501) Warlords, the aircraft is the second production F-35B and is the first to arrive at Cherry Point in order to receive modifications at Fleet Readiness Center East.

In related news, the third production F-35C conducted its maiden flight at NAS JRB Fort Worth, Texas, when BuNo 168735 (CF-8) took to the air on 20 June.

Elsewhere, the USAF has made the decision to station an additional 72 F-35As at Luke AFB, Arizona, bringing the eventual total number of Lightning IIs at the base to 144. The 56th Fighter Wing at Luke is scheduled to receive its first F-35As in spring 2014. In August 2012, the USAF announced its intention to establish an F-35 pilot training centre at Luke. In addition to training US pilots, the base will also serve as an F-35A International Partner Training site.

New tanker shapes upBoeing KC-46 assembly under way

Joint Strike Fighter latest


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United StatesOsprey lands on Japanese warshipsAn MV-22B Osprey operated by Marine Medium Tilt-rotor Squadron 161 (VMM-161) chalked up a major milestone on 14 June when it landed aboard the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) helicopter destroyer Hyuga (DDH 181) for the first time. After landing, the crew of the Osprey and the ships personnel demonstrated the utility of the MV-22B by undertaking towing procedures, lowering and raising the aircraft in the ships elevator and loading and

unloading supplies. Hyuga was one of three JMSDF ships that participated in Exercise Dawn Blitz from 11-28 June off the coast of southern California. Although referred to as a helicopter destroyer, the 7,000-ton ship actually functions as an anti-submarine warfare carrier. It is capable of supporting up to 11 helicopters, but normally operates with four to five aircraft including SH-60Ks. The same Osprey subsequently landed aboard the Shimokita (LST 4002).

MV-22B BuNo 168033 aboard the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Forces helicopter destroyer Hyuga on 14 June. The Osprey from VMM-161 had just made the tilt-rotors rst landing aboard a foreign ship. USMC

Late CONA SundownerA further special colour scheme to mark the Centennial of Naval Aviation has appeared albeit two years after the main event. It would appear that a scheme was devised for an F-5N Tiger II, but an appropriate airframe was not available at the time. VFC-111 Sundowners has now painted this example, BuNo 761547/AF-105, to represent an F6F-3 Hellcat from VF-11 Sundowners. Dan Stijovich

MV-22B Ospreys from Marine Medium Tilt-rotor Squadron 263 (VMM-263) arrive aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6). US Navy

Thunder Chickens deployThe Japan-based amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) embarked four MV-22Bs from Marine Medium Tilt-rotor Squadron 263 (VMM-263) on 14 June. The arrival marked the start of the Ospreys maiden Forward Deployed Naval Forces (FDNF) deployment. The bulk of the reinforced squadron, which serves as the Aviation Combat Element (ACE) for the 31st Marine Expeditionary Units (MEU), arrived aboard the ship on 24 June. In addition to Ospreys, VMM-263(R) includes AV-8Bs,

CH-53Es, AH-1Ws and UH-1Ys that are respectively detached from VMA-214, HMH-772 and HMLA-167.

In related news, 12 MV-22Bs destined for VMM-262 will reportedly arrive in Japan by the end of July. The Ospreys will initially arrive at MCAS Iwakuni but will re-locate to MCAS Futenma, Okinawa, in August. The aircraft were prepared for shipment by VMM-363 at MCAS Miramar and flown to NAS North Island in advance of the planned departure by sea on 15 July.

Joint Strike Fighter latest

This photo: F-35B BuNo 168059 taxies after landing at MCAS Cherry Point on 9 July. The Lightning II will be the rst to enter maintenance at the Fleet Readiness Center East. US Navy

Bottom left: The second F-35C destined for VFA-101 lands at Eglin AFB, Florida, on 25 June. The Grim Reapers will serve as the initial Fleet Readiness Squadron for the carrier variant of the Joint Strike Fighter. USAF


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News

Ospreys arrive at MildenhallAFSOC looks to assume CSAR mission

THE FIRST OF 10 Bell Boeing CV-22B Ospreys destined to serve with the 352nd Special Operations Group arrived at RAF Mildenhall, UK, on 24 June when the first pair

of the tilt-rotors was delivered to the 7th Special Operations Squadron. Tasked with executing night, adverse-weather, long-range insertion, extraction and resupply operations, the 7th SOS currently operates the MC-130H. The group recently began an expansion that will last until the end of 2014, involving the arrival of 10 Ospreys and the replacement of the MC-130Ps operated by the 67th SOS with new MC-130Js. The first MC-130J was also delivered to RAF Mildenhall in June.

Meanwhile, Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) is reportedly lobbying

to take control of the combat search and rescue (CSAR) mission, which is currently assigned to Air Combat Command (ACC). The command, which was responsible for the mission between October 2003 and April 2006, insists that it can carry it out with fewer aircraft and at less cost than ACC. ACC currently operates a fleet of around 100 HH-60Gs and is preparing to order the first of 112 new replacement helicopters. AFSOCs plan would utilise a mixed fleet of CV-22Bs and HH-60s. The command claims that the move could save the USAF $3 billion between 2015 and 2025.

Whereas the active duty fleet would include a mix of the two aircraft, the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command rescue units would utilise HH-60s alone. Claiming the CV-22B is

better-suited for the mission in denied airspace, the AFSOC proposal would replace 31 of the 66 active-duty HH-60s with 18 new Ospreys, while 60 new HH-60s would replace the remainder of the aircraft assigned to the reserve units. Although senior Air Force leaders reportedly dismissed the AFSOC plan in May, the strategic planning directorate was subsequently asked to prepare a programme change request that includes the specifics of a possible transfer of the mission between ACC and AFSOC. It should be noted that the CSAR forces assigned to the Pacific Air Forces and US Air Forces Europe are under the operational control of those commands. Numerous lawmakers have already expressed their opposition to any move of the mission.

CV-22B serial 12-0057 receives fuel from a 7th Special Operations Squadron MC-130H o the coast of Greenland on 21 June. The aircraft was making the nal leg of its delivery ight to RAF Mildenhall. USAF

Predator newsGeneral Atomics revealed that the third jet-powered Predator C Avenger remotely piloted aircraft will enter flight-testing in July and assembly of a fourth is expected to be complete by spring 2014. The company is currently under contract to deliver a single Predator C to the USAF and is building the aircraft as part of a limited production run.

The contractor is also preparing to integrate the SYERS-3 multispectral sensor in the Predator C. Developed by UTC Aerospace Systems, the SYERS-3 will be carried in the aircrafts internal payload bay.

General Atomics is providing the USAF with a limited number of kits that will extend the flight endurance of the MQ-9A Predator B.

The kits two external fuel tanks increase the Reapers endurance by up to eight hours and allow the aircraft to remain airborne for up to 35 hours. Also included in the modification, which was first unveiled in April 2012, is a strengthened undercarriage. A second option adds extensions to the Reapers 66ft wings, increasing the span to 88ft. When combined with the external fuel tanks, endurance is further extended to 42 hours. The new landing gear increases the Reapers maximum take-off weight by approximately 12 per cent.


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United States

Sherpas retired A pair of Shorts C-23C Sherpas operated by the Rhode Island National Guard departed Quonset State Airport for the last time on 18 June en route to Henry Post Army Aireld at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where they were subsequently placed in semi-yable storage. Operated by D(-) Company, 126th Aviation (Theater Aviation), the aircraft were retired earlier than planned as a result of the ongoing sequestration budgetary issues.

A week later, two C-23Cs operated by the Georgia ANGs H Company, 171st Aviation departed the Clay National Guard Center at Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Marietta, for Fort Sill. On 9 July two C-23Ds assigned to Detachment 3, H Company, 171st Aviation were also retired. The Kentucky ANG unit was stationed at the Boone National Guard Center at Frankforts Capital City Airport. The Indiana ANGs Detachment 3, D Company, 126th Aviation retired its C-23C the following day at Indianapolis International Airport.

The US Army had planned a phased retirement for the Sherpa that ran until the end of 2014 but accelerated the schedule as a result of sequestration, claiming it would save $30 million.

Although the US Army is removing the majority of the National Guards Sherpas from service, the Fiscal 2013 National Defense Appropriation Act actually prohibits the service from using any of its funds for divesting the C-23s. As a result, 23 of them are being placed in semi-yable storage. Under the latest plans for the aircraft, two Sherpas will provide support to the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) on the Egyptian Sinai

Peninsula until the end of October 2013; aviators from the Virgin Islands Army National Guard are currently supporting that mission, which actually runs up to the end of October 2014. The US Army currently plans to replace the Sherpas assigned to the Sinai with C-12s. Two Sherpas also remain in service with the Alaska Army National Guard, and one is assigned to support each of the Theater Aviation Sustainment Maintenance Groups located in California, Missouri, Connecticut and Mississippi. The latter aircraft will be retained in service at least until the end of September.

Gunghters transition The 1st Battalion, 25th Aviation Regiment at Butts Army Aireld, Fort Carson, Colorado, received an initial pair of AH-64E Apache Guardians on 30 May. Known as the Gunghters, the attack reconnaissance battalion is a component of the 25th Infantry Divisions Combat Aviation Battalion at Wheeler Army Aireld, Hawaii.

In related news, the US Army has begun incorporating a new Modernized Day Sensor Assembly (M-DSA) in the Apache. Modernisation is being carried out in two phases and the Laser Rangender Designator (LRFD) is being replaced under Phase 1. Scheduled to begin elding in June and be completed by 2016, the new component is initially being retro-tted to the newly delivered AH-64E. Fielding will be based on rotational and deployment schedules. Under Phase 2, which is scheduled to begin in 2016, the system will receive a high-denition colour television sensor, laser pointer marker, upgraded laser spot tracker, and a new inertial measuring unit.

US ARMY AVIATION

The crew of C-23D serial 94-0309 get the signal to start engines in preparation for the Sherpas nal sortie at Frankfort, Kentuckys Capital City Airport. The Kentucky Air National Guards Detachment 3, H Company, 171st Aviation formally retired its two C-23Ds on 9 July. Kentucky Army National Guard via Tom Kaminski

Personnel assigned to the New York Air National Guards 107th Airlift Wing deployed to South-west Asia from their home base at Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station on 29 June. The units C-130H2 Hercules aircraft will be tasked with transporting personnel and cargo as well as medical evacuation missions in support of Operating Enduring Freedom. The unit replaced the Texas ANGs 136th Airlift Wing , which returned to its home base at NAS JRB Fort Worth. Also equipped with the C-130H2, the 136th AW had deployed in late February.

The South Dakota Air National Guards 114th Fighter Wing began a deployment to South-west Asia and departed from its home base at Joe Foss Field in Sioux Falls in early July. The deployment is part of the USAFs Air Expeditionary Force rotation plan and will support Operation Enduring Freedom.

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 772 (HMH-772(-)) departed JB McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, for a six-month deployment to MCAS Futenma, Japan, on 31 May. Known as the Hustlers, the Marine Corps Reserve unit is a component of the 4th Marine Aircraft Wings Marine Aircraft Group 49 (MAG-49). HMH-772 will be joined by a detachment of UH-1Y and AH-1W helicopters from Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167 (HMLA-167), which is normally assigned to MAG-29 at MCAS New River, North Carolina. The main body of HMLA-167 deployed to Afghanistan in May. The deployment marks the first time since 2003 that the helicopters have been assigned to the 1st MAWs MAG-36 in support of the III Marine Expeditionary Forces Unit Deployment Program (UDP). Although established in 1977, the UDP has not seen regular support since 2003 as a result of other commitments.

The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) Carrier Strike Group (CSG) completed a five-month deployment to the US 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility on 3 July, when the aircraft carrier returned to Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia. While deployed aboard the ship, the aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing 7 (CVW-7) flew 1,362 combat sorties totalling 8,033 flight hours over a period of 51 days in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

DEPLOYMENT NEWS


8-13 US News C.indd 13 19/07/2013 10:17

News United Kingdom


Third UK F-35BThe third F-35B short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) Lightning II for the UK has been delivered to Eglin AFB, Florida, to join Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 (VMFAT-501). BK-3, serial ZM137, will join the integrated training effort

at Eglin. Gp Capt Harv Smyth, the UK Joint Strike Fighter National Deputy, commented: With each passing day, our Lightning programme is maturing. In less than a year, we have taken ownership of our first three aircraft and begun both pilot and engineer training.

UK to launch RPAS studyThe UK Parliaments Defence Committee has announced plans to investigate the current and future use of Remotely Piloted Air Systems (RPAS) by the armed forces. The study will look at tasks performed by unmanned systems during operations in Afghanistan and possible future roles as that mission comes to an end.

The study, due to be completed in September, will probably feed into the 2015 Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR). Defence Secretary Philip Hammond has sought a clearer picture of all options regarding the structures of combat air and ISTAR forces, as the MoD looks towards planning under its Future Force 2020 programme.

Android PreferenceTyphoon Qualied Weapons Instructors on exercise

THE ROYAL AIR Force has completed the curiously-named exercise Android Preference, which concluded at RAF Coningsby on 5 July. It formed an

element of the Typhoon Qualified Weapons Instructor (QWI) course. The exercise included the single largest RAF Typhoon training mission and saw a total of 22 aircraft from five different squadrons taking part in a combat search and rescue (CSAR) scenario that also included RAF

Tornado GR4s, US Air Forces in Europe F-15C Eagles and Royal Danish Air Force F-16AMs, as well as support and attack helicopters from the RAF and British Army.

BAE Systems has given details of recent trials involving the Paveway IV precision-guided bomb on the Typhoon. The manufacturers single-seat instrumented production aircraft IPA6 has been testing the full range of capabilities offered by Paveway IV in advance of these becoming available as part of the forthcoming multi-

role Phase 1 Enhancement (P1E). Four of the weapons were carried during the trials activity, and the RAF expects to declare the weapon operational on the Typhoon shortly.

The RAF has also recently announced a revised service interval for the Typhoon, which is expected to save over 100 million over the life of the programme. Under a new maintenance agreement, RAF Typhoons will undergo scheduled servicing after every 500 flying hours, as opposed to the previous 400 hours.

Three Typhoons from No 29(R) Squadron deployed to RAF Lossiemouth from 17 June for a period of live bombing on the Cape Wrath ranges as part of the Typhoon QWI course. Crown Copyright

14 UK News C.indd 14 18/07/2013 11:32


15 Advertorial.indd 15 18/07/2013 10:25


News

Spanish Mirage F1 farewellRetirement after 38 years

ON 23 JUNE the Spanish Air Force hosted an open-house event at Albacete air base to commemorate the retirement of the Mirage F1 fleet after 38 years of service and more than 200,000 flying hours achieved by Alas 11, 14 and 46. Although the F1 has

been withdrawn from service, the last aircraft remaining

in an airworthy state will continue to be maintained in this condition pending the possible sale to Argentina of eight operational aircraft plus another four jets as a spare parts source. The last three operational Ala 14 Mirage F1s conducted a final flypast over Albacete together with three Ala 14 Typhoons and the Air Forces Patrulla guila team. Roberto Yez

Industry calls for new Euro MALE UAVThree of Europes biggest aerospace concerns have called for the launch of a new pan-European medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) drone programme. EADS Cassidian, Dassault Aviation and Finmeccanica Alenia Aermacchi made the announcement, providing joint backing for a programme that will support the capability needs of European armed forces while optimising the difficult budgetary situation through pooling of research and development funding. In order to avoid potential airspace integration difficulties, critical requirements for the certification of UAVs in European airspace

would be built into the programme from the outset.

Although BAE Systems signed a 2010 agreement with Dassault to work jointly on MALE UAV technologies, it is absent from this latest initiative. Indeed, France and the UK now seem to be looking further ahead, and will probably co-operate instead of development of unmanned combat air system (UCAS) technologies. Dassault and BAE are now working on the definition phase of a future UCAS demonstrator, drawing upon technologies from Dassaults Neuron and BAEs Taranis. Such a drone could fly before 2020.

The last Spanish Mirage F1 to touch down at Albacete on 23 June was C14-73/14-45, seen here with a laurel wreath to mark its withdrawal from service. Roberto Yez

Finnish F-18 MLU contractThe US Department of Defense notified Congress on 27 June of a possible Foreign Military Sale of follow-on equipment and support for Finlands F-18 Mid-Life Upgrade programme. The $170-million package of F-18C/D retrofit kits will include 69 Mode 5 Identification Friend or Foe systems, 69 AN/APX-11-30 combined interrogator/transponders, Multi-functional Information Distribution Systems, and 32 SUU-63 pylons.

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Europe

Georgia buys Bulgarian Su-25sBulgaria has sold 10 Su-25s to Georgia. The attack aircraft, which were withdrawn from use by the Bulgarian Air Force in summer 2012, were provided at a cost of around 4 million per airframe. The aircraft had reportedly reached the end of their operational life, but Georgia probably retains the infrastructure required to refurbish them for continued service. Thereafter, the jets which were originally built in Tbilisi may be sold to an African operator.

Luftwae Euroghter costs revealedAccording to reports in Der Spiegel, the cost of Germanys Euroghter order has risen signicantly. Berlin originally planned to spend 14.7 billion on 180 Euroghters. By the end of this year Germany expects to have paid 14.5 billion for 108 of the ghters, and by 2018 the bill will have risen to 16.8 billion, for a total eet that has now been reduced to 143 jets.

EC645 for German special forcesThe German Defence Ministry has signed a contract with Eurocopter for the supply of 15 EC645T2 Light Utility Helicopters (LUH). The helicopters will be used to equip Germanys Special Forces Command, or Kommando Spezialkrfte (KSK). The 194-million deal also includes related special operations mission

equipment. Deliveries will begin in late 2015 and will be completed by mid-2017.

New FLIR for German LynxSelex ES has been awarded a 5-million order for Titan turrets to equip the German Navys eet of Sea Lynx Mk88A helicopters. The Titan 385ES-HD (Enhanced Stability High Denition) turrets include a cooled, high-denition thermal imaging camera, an un-cooled thermal imaging camera and a low-level light camera, all integrated on a stabilised platform. First deliveries are expected later this year. The turret will be mounted on the nose of the Lynx to provide the pilot with a forward-looking infra-red capability. The new turret will replace the Selex Multi-Role Turret and the previous-generation Titan turret.

Germany

ICH-47F takes ightThe rst ICH-47F Chinook for the Italian Army completed its maiden ight on 24 June at AgustaWestlands Vergiate facility in Italy, where nal assembly was undertaken. CSX81778 (s/n M7801) is the rst of 16 such helicopters on order, plus four options. The aircraft ew for 15 minutes, and undertook basic handling tests and main systems checks. Delivery of the rst aircraft is expected in early 2014 with nal deliveries in 2017. The ICH-47Fs will be operated by Italian Army Aviations 1 Reggimento Aviazione dellEsercito Antares based in Viterbo, where they will replace around 21 CH-47Cs that have been in service since 1973.

Italy gets Osprey experienceDuring a visit to Taranto-Grottaglie naval air base in June, a US Marine Corps contingent provided the Italian Navy with a chance to become familiarised with a pair of MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotors. The opportunity came during a visit to Italy by the USMC Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response (SP-MAGTF Crisis Response). The leadership here seemed genuinely interested in the aircraft and impressed with its capabilities, said Capt Nicholas Arnold, an SP-MAGTF Crisis Response MV-22 pilot and weapons and tactics instructor.

Italy

The rst ICH-47F makes its maiden ight at AgustaWestlands Vergiate facility. AgustaWestland

Lasta back in the airThe Lasta primary trainer resumed flights on 17 May, following the fatal crash of a Serbian Air Force aircraft on 26 September 2012. The accident occurred during one of the last test flights before introduction to service with the Batajnica-based 252nd Training Squadron/204th Aviation Brigade, with experienced Flight Research Centre (TOC/CLI) test pilots at the controls. One pilot escaped with injuries while the other bailed out too late for his parachute to fully deploy and was killed. The cause of the crash was rudder jam attributed to design and production quality.

According to sources in Serbia, two prototypes (P1 and P2) were followed by 20 examples of the Lasta 95N (with analogue cockpit) delivered to the Iraqi Air Force, while eight out of 15 V-54 Lastas on order for Serbia (with Garmin 500 glass cockpits) are undergoing modifications. Despite the setback, interest has apparently been expressed by several African countries, likely to include Libya, Algeria and Angola, as well as further examples for Iraq. Igor Salinger

AgustaWestland and Eurocopter for Norway SAR bidNorways Ministry of Justice and Public Security has invited AgustaWestland and Eurocopter to conduct further negotiations for the replacement of the Royal Norwegian Air Forces current Sea King fleet. Norway plans to procure up to 16 new search and rescue helicopters, with an option for a further six. Oslo hopes to award a contract by the end of 2013 and phase out the last Sea King Mk43B by the end of 2020.



NewsAir Solution 2013Joint Romanian-Serbian exercise

THE ROMANIAN AIR Force (Forele Aeriene Romne, FAR) and Serbian Air Force (Vazduhoplovstvo i protivvazduhoplovna odbrana, ViPVO) recently

staged the latest edition of the biennial Air

Solution exercise. This saw a Romanian IAR-330M Puma conducting search and rescue missions alongside Serbian Mi-8Ts at Batajnica, Serbia, and over the enta range north of the base. Simultaneously, a similar mission was performed at Cmpia Turzii, Romania, involving a Serbian Mi-17 and

two Romanian Pumas. Altogether, the two-day exercise involved some 30 aircraft and 200 personnel, including ViPVO An-26s, helicopters, G-4 Super Galebs employed in a fighter-bomber role and MiG-21bis flying combat air patrols, and FAR MiG-21 LanceRs, C-27Js and IAR-330s. Igor Salinger

Among the fast jets involved in Air Solution 2013 was Forele Aeriene Romne LanceR C serial 6499. For more on Romanias MiG-21s, see the accompanying report in this issue. Igor Salinger

French Reaper package unveiledAs France moves closer to an order for MQ-9 Reapers, the US Defense Security Co-operation Agency notied Congress on 27 June of a possible package. Although this mentions the sale of 16 Reapers, France has an initial requirement for two used Block 1 remotely piloted aircraft by the end of 2013, to be followed by a maximum of 12 new drones. As outlined by the DSCA, the $1.5-billion package includes 16 MQ-9 Reaper RPAs, eight Mobile Ground Control Stations, 40 General Atomics Lynx Synthetic Aperture Radar/Ground Moving Target Indicator (SAR/GMTI) systems, 40 AN/DAS-1 Multi-Spectral

Targeting Systems (MTS) and various other items.

E-3F upgrade beginsActing as a sub-contractor to Boeing, Air France Industries has launched work on an upgrade for the French Air Force E-3F AWACS eet. The initial work addresses the electrical, mechanical and structural systems and mission hardware of the rst of four E-3Fs. Work on the initial E-3F at AFIs facility near Paris is scheduled to be completed in 2014. Based on the US Air Forces Block 40/45 standard, the $354-million mid-life upgrade is to be completed across the eet by 2016.

France Team pitches Predator to NetherlandsGeneral Atomics is to team with Fokker Technologies to offer the Predator B remotely piloted aircraft to the Royal Netherlands Air Force. A memorandum of understanding has been signed with a view to fulfilling a Dutch government requirement for a medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) unmanned aircraft system, together with related services such as maintenance and training. If selected for the RNLAF, Fokker will be responsible for adaptation of hardware to Dutch standards and will provide guidance and support for Dutch airworthiness certification requirements. Fokker will also provide the Electrical Wiring Interconnection system, engineering support related to landing and arresting gears, and in-service logistical, operational and maintenance support.



Europe

Romania lines up F-16 buyOn 12 June the Romanian government issued a rst ocial document relating to a nal decision to acquire second-hand F-16 Fighting Falcons in order to replace the Romanian Air Forces MiG-21 LanceR ghter eet. The document was signed by the Romanian prime minister and defence minister, and approves the F-16 acquisition under Operational Air Capability Phase 1.

ASW boost for Romanian PumasIn an eort to improve its anti-submarine warfare capability in the Black Sea, the Romanian Navy is to upgrade its IAR-330N Puma helicopters with sonobuoy processors. Romanian helicopter manufacturer IAR Brasov has selected Thales to supply its TMS 2000 sonobuoy processors, which will probably equip the Romanian Navys eet of three IAR-330Ns. The TMS 2000 already equips NH90s operated by the French, Norwegian and Swedish Navies, and Royal Navy Merlins.

RomaniaSerbian Gendarmerie on showThe Serbian MUP (Ministry of Interior) Gendarmerie paramilitary force took to the air in Belgrade on 27 June for a public display. Included was a short tactical demonstration that included a hostage scenario. The event provided evidence of the latest additions to the MUP eet, SA342 Gazelle YU-HFF (seen here) and AB212 YU-HCA. The latter helicopter was widely used for covert and special operations during the ghting in the former

Yugoslavia, most notable being the transport of former President Slobodan Miloevi on his way to stand trial in The Hague. Both helicopters wear the same camouage used while serving in the notorious JSO (Special Operations Unit) that was disbanded in 2003 following the murder of Serbias prime minister, in a mission orchestrated by the JSOs deputy commander in co-operation with organised criminals. Igor Salinger

Su-30SM completes ight testsIrkut and the Russian Defence Ministry have signed a preliminary conclusion on joint ight tests of the Su-30SM multi-role ghter. The signature took place on 28 June, following a test campaign at the State Flight Test Centre

at Akhtubinsk. A rst contract for 30 Su-30SM ghters was signed between the Defence Ministry and Irkut Corporation in March 2012. A rst ight followed on 21 September 2012.In related news, 9 July saw the latest batch of three Su-34 bombers being handed over to

the Russian Air Force at Sukhois Novosibirsk factory. Three previous aircraft were delivered in May under the 2013 delivery contract.

No Nitka carrier training in 2013The Russian Navy will not employ the carrier-deck training facility at the Nitka Naval Pilot Training Centre in Ukraine during 2013. Under a 1997 bilateral agreement, Russia makes use of the Nitka facility to train its carrier-based xed-wing pilots. Instead, the Russian Navy will conduct pilot training during the course of a Mediterranean deployment by the Admiral Kuznetsov, scheduled for December. In future, Russia plans to make use of its own naval pilot training facility, at Yeisk, on the Black Sea coast.

Russia seeks An-26 successorThe Russian Defence Ministry is examining options for the replacement of the An-26 transport. Two aircraft are under consideration, comprising the military version of the Antonov An-140 turboprop airliner built by Aviakor in Samara, or the Ilyushin Il-112V transport to be produced by the Voronezh aircraft plant. A handful of An-140-100s are already in service with the Russian Air Force.

RussiaA MiG ghter on the assembly line at the Lukhovitsy plant. According to MiG representatives, some of the ghters now on the production line will be MiG-35s. The MiG-29K/KUB, MiG-29M/M2 and MiG-35 all share the same fuselage and cockpit and can apparently be converted on the line. Sergey Aleksandrov

Russia closes in on MiG-35 purchaseAccording to Sergei Korotkov, RAC MiG general director, the Russian Defence Ministry is likely to be the launch customer for the MiG-35 multi-role ghter. RAC MiG and the Ministry are negotiating an initial order for 24 aircraft, with an option to increase this to 37. Contract documents are being prepared, and proposals and manufacturing cost calculations were submitted in June. RAC MiG previously received a contract for 24 MiG-29K/KUB carrier ghters for the Russian Navy, and four aircraft are to be delivered this year, with the remainder following in equal quantities in 2014 and 2015. As of June, the rst aircraft was complete and awaiting customer acceptance, while the second and third were in nal assembly.



News

Turkish NF-5s soldier on

LAST MONTH THE announcement of the retirement of the Turkish Air Forces (Trk Hava Kuvvetleri) remaining (N)F-5A-2000/(N)F-5B-

2000s with 133 Filo appeared in several publications. The phasing-out of the type was apparently set for July 2013. Pilots

and ground crew from the squadron confirmed the retirement of the jets, but two newsworthy facts have since become known. Firstly, the squadron was disbanded in May, and almost all the NF-5s are now stored elsewhere. Secondly, the THK is retaining 10 to 15 NF-5s at the 3 Ana Jet s (3rd Main Jet Base) at Konya so that a number of pilots can remain

current on type. The commander of the recent Anatolian Eagle exercise even mentioned that NF-5s are scheduled to act as opponents during the 2014 exercise. These operational NF-5s have now been transferred to a new sub-unit that will operate within 134 Akrotim Filo (Trk Yildizlari/Turkish Stars). Jan Kraak

After retirement from 133 Filo Pene (Claw), with whom the type was employed to provide combat readiness, weapons and tactics training, the Freedom Fighter now remains in service with 134 Akrotim Filo. Dr San Wilson

First ATR-72 TMUAThe two ATR-72-600 Turkish Maritime Utility Aircraft (TMUA) for the Turkish Navy (Trk Deniz Kuvvetleri) are now flying, and deliveries were expected in June and July 2013. The Turkish Navy ordered two ATR-72-600 TMUAs together with six ATR-72-600 Turkish Maritime Patrol Aircraft (TMPA), having modified a previous contract that was based on the now out-of-production -500 series. The two ATR-72-600 TMUAs were modified at Alenia Aermacchis plant in Naples-Capodichino and will be used for cargo and personnel transport by the Turkish Navy. Marco Rossi

The rst Turkish Navy ATR-72-600 TMUA, TCB 701 (CSX62290) lands at Torino-Caselle airport, the main Alenia Aermacchi facility, after a test ight. Marco Rossi



Europe

Gripen landmarksSaab has begun assembly of the first pre-production Gripen E fighter. The first of the next-generation Gripens, manufacturing of pre-production test aircraft 39-8 has started with the forward fuselage. In February, Saab signed an agreement with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) covering development and modification of 60 Gripen Es for Sweden during the period 2013-26, as well as a possible order for 22 new-build Gripen Es for Switzerland.

In late June a Gripen successfully conducted the first test firing of a Meteor air-to-air missile during a campaign conducted in co-operation with the FMV and missile manufacturer MBDA. The Gripen is the first fighter capable of deploying the beyond visual range weapon. The test saw the first two Meteors in mass-production configuration being fired at a remote-controlled target. Further tests will be conducted this autumn.

Looking further ahead, Saab is studying the development of an optionally-manned Gripen E. This is about finding a cost-effective solution to enable decisions regarding whether a plane should fly with or without a pilot on various missions, said Saab CEO Hkan Buskhe.

The initial Tigre HAD-E, HA28-07/ET-707 (c/n 10008) received new 1er Vuelo titles to commemorate its maiden ight on 26 June. Roberto Yez

First Spanish Tigre HAD fliesOn 26 June the first Spanish Army Tigre HAD-E built by Eurocopter Espaa in Albacete completed its maiden flight. The Spanish Army will receive a total of 18 examples of the type. Due to budgetary constraints the first six Tigre HAPs currently in service with BHELA I at the FAMETs Almagro base will not be converted to HAD standard as once planned, and will probably be sold so as to homogenise the fleet. FAMET expects to receive its first HAD-E in October. Roberto Yez

Spanish Typhoons at Leeming for Trial Mace exerciseThree Spanish Air Force Eurofighters deployed to RAF Leeming in North Yorkshire for Exercise Trial Mace. The Ala 11 aircraft comprised C16-40 (11-20), C16-35 (11-15) and C16-46 (11-26) and were supported by a C-295 from Ala 35 (T21-04/35-42). Deploying to Leeming on 5 July, the aircraft were joined by three Polish Air Force F-16C/Ds and three F-16AMs of the Belgian Air Component. Trial Mace focuses on electronic warfare at the nearby RAF Spadeadam range. Nicholas Hoenich


22 www.combataircraft.net August 2013

22-25 Phantom Special Report C.indd 22 18/07/2013 11:32

SPECIAL REPORT

Following on from our souvenir German Phantom issue last month, Combat Aircraft reports from the ocial decommissioning ceremony of the Luftwae F-4F.

report and photos: Jamie Hunter

ON 29 JUNE the Luftwaffe bade farewell to the F-4F Phantom II in style, at Wittmund in northern Germany. This event marked the official decommissioning of the F-4 in Luftwaffe service, as Jagdgeschwader

71 Richthofen wing commander Oberst Gerhard Roubal shook hands with Luftwaffe chief of staff Lt Gen Karl Mllner to signal the end of the Phantoms 40 years of duty.

The event looked likely to fall foul of the dismal weather that dogged northern Europe throughout June. But as the aircrews for the farewell four-ship formation flight walked out of the squadron building, the clouds parted and the sun shone. The four special jets were prepared for a final flight together. Sadly, however, the Norm 81 special, serial 38+33, went technical at the last minute, forcing a hurried change for its crew to the back-up aircraft, serial 38+28.

Led by Oberstleutnant Alexander Berk and Oberst Roubal in the electric blue 37+01, the four jets performed a number of formation flypasts, followed by some breathtaking beat-ups of the field. Berk and Roubal were the last to land, as 37+01 completed its final flight. This, the first F-4F delivered to the Luftwaffe, is now planned to go on display at Wittmund.

Following the public event, the last nine F-4s were ferried out to Jever for scrapping over the week of 1-5 July. The green and grey Norm 72 aircraft, serial 38+10 was procured at the last minute by Oberst Frank Grfe, wing commander of Jagdgeschwader 74 at Neuburg, Bavaria, where this aircraft will also go on display.

The final F-4 flight from Wittmund departed for nearby Jever on 5 July, as Oberstleutnants Berk and Radmann made their emotional last trip in 37+22.

Two Luftwaffe F-4Fs attached to the Manching-based test unit WTD 61 were scheduled to remain flying until the end of July, when the final curtain fell on the German F-4 force.

The Phinal crews: Oberst Roubal, Oberstleutnants Alex Berk, Goose Ganse, Holgi Radmann and Kid Rex, Maj Timo Jung, Hauptmann Seppl Fiedler and Dobby Schletz.

This photo: Oberstleutnant Ganse, at the controls of Norm 72-schemed F-4F 38+10, performs an impressive low pass at Wittmund on 29 June.

23www.combataircraft.net August 2013


Clockwise from above: F-4F 37+01 stops on its nal parking position in front of the adoring Phans!

With J79 engines in full reheat, 38+28 blasts out of Wittmund.

To mark the end of German Phantom operations, test unit WTD 61 applied these special colours to 38+13. This aircraft is likely to be the very last F-4F to y, remaining active until the end of July.

Oberstleutnant Thomas Kid Rex holds up the ight log for the 29 June event.

24 www.combataircraft.net August 2013


Right, top to bottom: The crews emerge from the 712 Stael building for the last ocial ight.

Engines running, the nal four Luftwae Phantoms prepare to taxi out for the Wittmund farewell.

The dirty pass, with undercarriage and arrestor hooks down.

The event at Wittmund included some impressive attention to detail, including special patches and helmet designs.

Specially-marked Euroghter 31+00 symbolises the new relationship between JaboG 31 Boelcke at Nrvenich and JG 71 Richthofen. The Euroghters now based at Wittmund assumed responsibility for the Quick Reaction Alert mission from 1 July.

www.combataircraft.net August 2013


News

Australian Seahawk fliesFirst new Sikorsky MH-60R for RAN

THE FIRST OF 24 MH-60Rs destined for service with the Royal Australian Navy completed its maiden test flight at Sikorsky Aircrafts Production Facility in

Bridgeport, Connecticut, on 26 June. During the flight, the Seahawks controllability, engine performance, vibration analysis and navigation systems were all evaluated as part of the Contractor Flight Acceptance. Australia is planning to replace its current

fleet of 16 SH-60Bs with the MH-60Rs at a cost of $2.7 billion. The acquisition will allow the RAN to simultaneously provide at least eight helicopters that will be embarked aboard its Anzac-class frigates and the new Hobart-class air warfare destroyers. Prior to its delivery to Australia, the Seahawk will undergo systems integration with Lockheed Martin at its facility in Owego, New York. Acceptance of the first two MH-60Rs is expected to occur in December. However, personnel from 725 Squadron are already undergoing training with the US Navy at NAS Jacksonville, Florida. Tom Kaminski

RAAF Hawk upgrade contract signed with BAE SystemsThe Australian Department of Defence has recently awarded a contract to BAE Systems for the upgrade of the Royal Australian Air Forces existing fleet of 33 examples of the BAE Hawk Mk127 trainer. The upgrade is based on the latest Hawk T2 standard as employed by the Royal Air Force. Including deep maintenance, engineering, full logistics and training systems support, the contract is worth up to AUS$435 million over the course of five years, and could in addition be extended further until 2026.

AARGM for RAAF GrowlersThe Australian government has signed a deal with the US Navy to provide Royal Australian Air Force Boeing EA-18G Growlers with the Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM). The agreement will also include provision of the High-Speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM) and associated training. The acquisition marks the first Foreign Military Sale involving the AARGM to date. The US Navy and Alliant Tech Systems plan to deliver the AARGM to Australia from 2015 onwards in order to support EA-18G flight-testing efforts.

Navy welcomes TaipanThe Royal Australian Navy has commissioned 808 Squadron as its rst operator of the MRH90 Taipan. The new helicopter was inducted at HMAS Albatross, near Nowra, New South Wales, on 11 July. This marks the culmination of three years of training, testing, development and trials with the MRH90. 808 Squadron was last active as a ghter squadron during the 1950s. The squadron will operate the Taipan from the RANs amphibious and aoat support ships including HMAS Success, Tobruk and Choules, as well as the future amphibious ships Canberra and Adelaide.

Australia


26-31 C.indd 26 19/07/2013 14:32

World

New missile on J-20The rst clear images showing the J-20s open main weapons bay appeared in early July, during the course of weapon tests. The photographs reveal a new air-to-air missile in the main bay, as well as revealing additional details of the ghter.

The new AAM sometimes known as the PL-X-15 was previously only seen under a J-11B operated by the Special Missile Test unit at Base 14 in Dingxing. The new weapon is generally understood to be an evolution of the PL-12, but with new ns to permit internal storage. However, based on the latest J-20 images, it is also possible that the AAM represents an all-new design, as it apparently features a much wider diameter and increased length compared to the PL-12.

Although only two missile racks are now installed in one weapons bay, the J-20 has at least four missile stations in each bay. Closer examination may even reveal another attachment point for a possible additional third missile between the other two. In the opinion of CAs China expert Andreas Rupprecht, each J-20

main bay is capable of carrying two of the PL-X-15s, or two of the standard wide-n PL-12s, but more likely up to three missiles with cropped or folding ns such as the rumoured PL-12C.

More new images from the China Flight Test Establishment at Xian-Yanliang in mid-June also revealed the prototype J-16 Red Eagle twin-seat strike ghter (the Chinese equivalent of the Su-30MKK) armed with the PLAs new short-range AAM. Interestingly, this appears somewhat dierent to the PL-10 previously seen in the J-20s side bays.

In other news from China, the original Y-8AEW testbed/prototype for the Pakistan Air Forces ZDK-03 has now been modied with a new xed radar array similar to that equipping the KJ-2000 Mainring. The new antenna appears notably wider than that of the ZDK-03. The radar is reportedly under development for a new medium airborne early warning aircraft designated as the KJ-300 or KJ-500.

J-15 certied on LiaoningAccording to reports in the Chinese media, multiple batches of J-15 ghters have recently conducted trials aboard the carrier Liaoning (CV 16). The intense period of activity took place in mid-June in the Bohai Sea. The latest manoeuvres saw the rst group of ve pilots and landing signal ocers receive their certications during a 25-day test and training mission. According to the Xinhua news agency, Liaoning is now considered capable of carrying carrier-borne jet ghters.

China

First JL-10 for PLAAFThe rst series-production Hongdu JL-10 (serial 10001) for the PLAAF performed its maiden ight on 1 July. It was preceded on 29 June by the initial ight of an L-15 for an export customer, almost certainly Zambia. via Chinese internet

MH-60R serial N48-001 (US Navy BuNo 168814) made its rst

ight from Sikorsky Aircrafts Bridgeport, Connecticut, facility

on 26 June. Australian DoD

via Chinese internet

In addition to increased activity aboard the Liaoning, the PLANAF is also conducting trials of the J-15 from the ski jump ramp at Huangdicun. Seen here is a launch by J-15 prototype serial 552. via Chinese internet

Argentina eyes Thunder co-productionOfficials from Argentinas Fabrica Argentina de Aviones (FAdeA) have revealed that the aerospace company is in discussions with China with a view to potential co-production of the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) FC-1/JF-17 Thunder fighter. Production of the Chinese fighter in Argentina would likely be complemented by collaboration on the SD-10 and CM-400AKG missile projects. However, following multiple discussions with Chinese officials, FAdeA has highlighted a number of potential pitfalls regarding technology transfer. Argentina is also examining Spains recently retired Mirage F1s to replace its ageing fighter fleet.


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News

Israel accepts C-130JLockheed Martin delivered the rst C-130J to Israel during a ceremony at Marietta, Georgia, on 26 June. The Israeli C-130Js will be known by the Hebrew name Shimshon, which translates to Samson in English. The aircraft is receiving post-delivery modications that include the installation of Israeli-unique systems. It is scheduled to be own to Israel for an in-country delivery in spring 2014. Three C-130Js are currently on order for the Israeli Air Force. Tom Kaminski

C-130J NEWS

Lockheed Martin

BOEING DELIVERED THE first CH-147F to the Royal Canadian Air Force on 21 June and it was formally accepted in Ottawa on 27 June. Escorted by a pair of

RCAF CH-146 helicopters, the aircraft arrived at CFB Petawawa, Ontario, later that day. 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, which is a component of 1 Wing at CFB Kingston, Ontario, will operate the 15 new helicopters. The first Canadian Chinook carried out its maiden

Israeli graduation ceremonyThe Israeli Air Force conducts two flying training courses per year. One of these graduates in the last week of June and the second in the last week of December. This June saw the graduation of Flight Course 166 from the Flight Academy, once again

providing the only opportunity for the Air Force to display its assets and capabilities to the general public, with the aid of live-fire demonstrations. Here, AH-64A Peten 910 releases flares during a simulated combat search and rescue mission. Ofer Zidon

Israel to be first JSF export operatorIsrael will be the first international customer to operate the F-35 Lightning II, Lockheed Martin has announced. Steve OBryan, the companys vice president for F-35 programme integration and business development, has said that the Israeli Air Forces first F-35I combat squadron will achieve initial operational capability in 2018. The first Israeli

pilots are scheduled to arrive at Eglin AFB, Florida, for training on the F-35A in early 2016. A first aircraft could be delivered to the IAF before the end of that year, and arrive in Israel in 2017. The 19 initial F-35Is will be built under Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) Lots 8, 9 and 10. A follow-on order for more F-35Is is likely in 2018.

Ofe

r Zid

on

UAE Typhoon deal back on?According to a new paper by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), the United Arab Emirates plans to replace its Mirage 2000-9 fighters with the Eurofighter Typhoon. The report identifies a potential $10-billion Typhoon deal with BAE Systems as a cornerstone of a bilateral relationship between the UAE and UK. The report also notes plans for an increased British presence in the Gulf from 2014 centred upon Minhad air base in Dubai. A possible Typhoon

deal would also likely include a research and development package for remotely piloted air system capabilities. In July, UAE officials resumed talks with EADS partners as part of the possible deal to buy 60 Typhoons. We have been in dialogue for several months with the UAE Air Force, said Tony Gilchrist, BAE Systems vice president for air programmes. Meanwhile, the French Defence Minister visited the UAE to lobby in favour of the Dassault Rafale.

Taiwan eyes Lightning IIDuring a visit to Washington, a delegation from Taiwans Legislature announced that the country wants to acquire the F-35 Lightning II. The delegation said Taiwan needs more advanced fighters, and will continue to push for the purchase of the F-35. At the same time, officials wish to acquire a reasonable number of F-16C/Ds to replace the Republic of China

Air Forces F-5s, which are due to be phased out in the next few years. Previously, the US had agreed to upgrade Taiwans current fleet of F-16A/Bs on the condition that it would prohibit a sale of F-35s. Should Taiwan succeed in its efforts, the defence ministry may favour the short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) F-35B version.


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World

flight at Boeings facility in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, on 24 June and subsequently several aircraft supported testing in Pennsylvania, Arizona and at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland. The Canadian examples feature several changes over the US Armys CH-47F including larger fuel tanks that

double the aircrafts range and endurance, a more comprehensive defensive suite and an improved electrical system. The RCAF will accept six additional aircraft this year and the remaining helicopters will be delivered at a rate of around one each month until June 2014. Tom Kaminski

Canadian helicopter plansCanadas Public Works and Government Services has issued a request for proposals for 16-20 light-lift helicopters that will replace the Coast Guards current eet of 14 Bo105s and three Bell 206L LongRangers. The project is initially worth around $200 million. Although AgustaWestland and Eurocopter were expected to respond to the RFP, both pulled out of the competition in early June, claiming that Bell Helicopter had been given an unfair advantage after it was granted a weight exemption by Transport Canada. The move leaves Bell as the only competitor and it appears as though the Canadian government will move forward with the purchase of the Bell 429. Tom Kaminski

Search continues for JSF alternativesAs part of its study of the potential benets of alternatives to the F-35 Lightning II, Canadas National Fighter Procurement Secretariat has issued the last of three questionnaires to industry. The rst questionnaire sought information on capabilities, production and supportability of alternative replacements for the Royal Canadian Air Force CF-188 eet; the second sought to obtain pricing information; and the nal survey is the industrial benets questionnaire.

More woes for CycloneCanadas eort to replace the Royal Canadian Air Forces Sea King eet has run into more trouble. The government has commissioned an independent study to ascertain whether Sikorsky is capable of delivering a Sea King replacement, in the form of 28 CH-148 Cyclones, as ordered in 2004 at a cost of $1.8 billion plus $3.2 billion for 20 years of maintenance and support. The Sikorsky aircraft was ordered after a planned procurement of 50 EH101 helicopters was cancelled in 1993. Although delivery of the CH-148 was planned for November 2008, it was agreed that Sikorsky would supply six interim helicopters before deliveries of fully compliant examples began in June 2012. To date, four interim aircraft have been delivered (albeit failing to meet the interim standards), and the latest reports indicate that the helicopters may not now be service-ready for another ve years. Due to the failings of the currently delivered aircraft, Canadas Public Works has apparently refused to allow RCAF acceptance of the four interim helicopters.

Canada

Korean Herc paintedThe rst C-130J for the Republic of Korea Air Force (RoKAF) was rolled out of Lockheed Martins paint hangar at its Marietta, Georgia, facility on 10 June. Lockheed Martin

Wearing a new two-tone camouage, the rst new

CH-147F for the Royal Canadian Air Force en route

to Ottawa International Airport on 25 June. The

Chinook ew directly to Canada from Boeings

facility in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Canada DND

Canadian Chinook deliveredFirst CH-147F for RCAF


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News

Colombian Air Force debuts at Maple FlagFAC contingent at Cold Lake

FOR THE FIRST time ever, the Colombian Air Force (Fuerza Area Colombiana, FAC) participated in Exercise Maple Flag, which was held from 27 May to 21 June at

4 Wing Cold Lake, Alberta. Altogether, the FAC brought six A-29 Super Tucanos

from Escuadrn de Combate 211 Grifos, and, from Escuadrn de Transporte 811, a C-130H Hercules and a Boeing 767-200ER multi-mission tanker transport.

During the first week of Exercise Maple Flag, the tanker was able to perform its first connection with a CF-188 as part of Royal Canadian Air Force fighter

pilot training. The FAC thus became the first Latin American air arm to execute this type of operation with the RCAF. The C-130H was used in concert with a group of special forces personnel from Colombias ACOEA (Aerial Special Officers Team). Col Maria Cecilia Silva Velasquez

The half-dozen FAC Super Tucanos arrived at Cold Lake after a journey that began on 12 May. The aircraft, accompanied by the Hercules with support personnel on board, took o from Barranquilla for a three-day trip via Kingston, Jamaica; Homestead, Florida; Maxwell, Alabama; Scott, Illinois; and Sioux Falls and Regina, Canada. Dean Sorochan

First PC-7 course for IAFOn 8 July the Indian Air Force launched its rst training course on the Pilatus PC-7 MkII. The landmark followed receipt of the IAFs 14th PC-7. The initial training syllabus involves over 80 cadets and Pilatus has meanwhile provided training for Indian instructor pilots and maintainers. The IAF Academy operates the basic trainer at Dundigal, Hyderabad. Delivery of the 75th and nal PC-7 to the IAF is due in 2015, after which India may receive a follow-on batch of 37 trainers.

FGFA delays revealedIndias Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) project is facing new challenges. The Times of India has quoted Defence Ministry sources that

reveal a delay in the signature of the contract for nal design and research and development. The ocials also state that Russia has increased its costs for the project. It had previously been hoped to sign the nal design contract in 2012. The $11-billion contract is now unlikely to be concluded in Fiscal Year 2013-14. Earlier plans to induct the FGFA from 2022 onwards, with the Indian Air Force receiving three Russian-built prototypes in 2014, 2017 and 2019, will be similarly revised. While the IAF initially requested 166 single-seat and 48 twin-seat FGFAs, it will now only take single-seaters.

Indian carrier progressIndias rst indigenous aircraft carrier, under construction at Cochin Shipyard, is due to be

launched on 12 August. After being oated out of the shipyard on that date, the hull will be taken to the repair dock, where remaining work will be carried out. Work on the hull is due to be completed in June 2014, after which sea trials can begin. The Indian Navy expects to induct the vessel to service by January 2018.

Meanwhile, the carrier Vikramaditya has set sail in Russia for its nal sea trials in the White Sea prior to hand-over to India in early December. The carrier is ve years behind schedule, and more than twice over budget. A mixed Russian-Indian crew is currently on board. The Vikramaditya was originally to have been handed over in December 2012, but sea trials last September revealed problems with the ships boilers.

India


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World

F-X Phase III hangs in balanceIn the wake of a series of failed rounds of bidding on its $7.3-billion F-X Phase III fighter competition, South Korea was set to re-consider the future of the programme as this magazine went to press. Seouls defence minister is to chair a meeting that will examine options including restarting the process afresh or pursuing a split purchase.

After further extending final bidding on the competition for at least one more week in late June, South Koreas Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) suspended the bidding altogether. Boeings F-15 Silent Eagle, Lockheed Martins F-35 Lightning II and Eurofighters Tranche 3 Typhoon participated in the bidding sessions from 18 June to 5 July. The extension had been made with the hope of further driving down costs after 55 separate price bids were tabled, and

all three participants various bids exceeded Seouls procurement budget. Selection of the F-X Phase III aircraft was originally planned for October 2012, but was delayed by a presidential election. Meanwhile, service entry has been pushed back from December 2016 to August 2017.

In related news, South Korea has confirmed plans to buy around 170 KEPD 350 missiles from Taurus Systems. The missile meets a long-standing requirement to equip Republic of Korea Air Force F-15K Slam Eagles with a stand-off cruise missile. However, both the Taurus buy and planned acquisition of the RQ-4 Global Hawk remotely piloted aircraft have come in for criticism from the National Assembly. This has advised a governmental review of both programmes on cost grounds.

UAE plans Predator purchaseThe United Arab Emirates is moving forward with plans to purchase ve Predator XP remotely piloted aircraft from General Atomics. The contractor, which plans to carry out the rst ight of the export version of the MQ-1B Predator A by the end of the year, is currently awaiting the approval of the sale by the US Department of State. Although the Predator XP features numerous enhancements including triple-redundant avionics it is not equipped with external pylons for weapons carriage. Tom Kaminski

Powers for MauritaniaThe Mauritanian Air Force has ordered an undisclosed number of AW109 Powers from AgustaWestland. The twin-engine helicopters will be used for reconnaissance and border patrol. Delivery of the aircraft will begin in mid-2014 in a multi-role homeland security conguration.

Q400 MPA oered to KoreaL-3 Communications is oering the Republic of Korea Navy a maritime version of the Bombardier Q400 turboprop airliner, the Q400 MPA. The company is bidding to win a 20-aircraft order for maritime patrol aircraft, and will probably face competition from the Boeing P-8 Poseidon, Lockheed Martin SC-130J Sea Hercules and Airbus Military C-295. Together with Korean Air, L-3 Communications is already in the process of upgrading eight RoKN P-3 Orions in a $400-million project due to be completed by 2018. Upgrade work on the P-3s, which are to be brought up to P-3CK standard, began in April. Should the Q400 be selected, L-3 will outt the aircraft with the same maritime warfare suite as the Orions.

Thailand requests Lakotas The Thai government has made a request to purchase six UH-72A Lakota helicopters via a Foreign Military Sale. The deal, which was announced on 7 June, could be worth $77 million and includes spare parts, logistical and other support.

In related news, the Thai cabinet has approved procurement of an Airbus ACJ320 VIP transport for the Royal Thai Air Force at a cost of $110 million. Tom Kaminski

Philippines reiterates ghter plansThe Philippine President Benigno Aquino has conrmed his countrys plans to acquire new ghters, air defence radar and other equipment within three years in order to revamp the Philippine Air Force. The President also noted plans for the introduction of new lead-in ghter trainers, long-range patrol aircraft, close air support aircraft, transport aircraft, and attack and multi-role helicopters. An aide to Aquino announced in January that Manila intends to buy 12 Korea Aerospace Industries FA-50 ghters.

IN BRIEF

Saudi Typhoon exports ramping upThe second pair of Eurofighter Typhoons from the second batch, which will comprise 48 aircraft, departed BAE Systems Warton, bound for Saudi Arabia on 27 June. The first batch of 24, out of a total order for 72 under the Salam contract, were delivered over 27 months, from June 2009 to September 2011. Following a decision that the second batch would be assembled in the UK, rather than in the

Kingdom as originally envisaged, there was an 18-month delay before the first pair from batch two were delivered in February this year. The 25th and 26th aircraft, in full Royal Saudi Air Force markings, carried three external fuel tanks for ferrying. With 719 Typhoons now under contract and 571 on order, and with the aircraft due to serve in seven air forces, production is currently assured until 2018. Neville Beckett

Sniper for SaudisThe Pentagon has announced the award of a contract to Lockheed Martin to supply Sniper advanced targeting pods to Saudi Arabia. The additional $21.39-million contract will provide 95 Sniper ATPs for the Royal Saudi Air Force, as well as 35 Compact Multiband Datalinks and 70 infra-red search and track (IRST) systems related to the acquisition of the F-15SA.

Serials 317 and 318 (ZK085 and ZK086), both two-seat Typhoon T3s, are the second pair of RSAF jets from the second batch of 48 aircraft. They departed Warton on 27 June. Neville Beckett

Saudi Apache contractsThe Pentagon has announced the award to Boeing of a $109.46-million contract modification in support of the Royal Saudi Land Force Aviation Command. The Foreign Military Sales contract is for the procurement of Apache Block III aircraft. The total contract value now stands at $394.9 million. Boeing has also been awarded a separate $15.4-million contract modification related to additional Saudi Apache Block III acquisition. This latter brings the total value of this deal to $50.5 million.


26-31 C.indd 31 19/07/2013 14:32


COMPARED TO CHINAS recent fighter developments, the situation as regards progress towards new ground-attack aircraft, strike aircraft and bombers is far less clear.

As such, this new model immediately led to some controversial discussions as to its true nature.

First of all and besides a configuration that is interesting in itself it is for now simply a model seen at a still unknown exhibition (which alone is suspicious). As such it could indeed be the product of a local hobby convention, as some commenters have joked. However, if one recalls the way the J-31 Gyrfalcon or the Sharp Sword UCAV were unveiled in 2011,

there might actually be something more behind this model. It also f

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Combat Aircraft Monthly - September 2013

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